Echoes of Scotland

Experience the ultimate luxury tour of Scotland, where history, breathtaking landscapes, and world-class hospitality come together. From the historic streets of Edinburgh to the majestic Highlands, this exclusive journey takes you through ancient castles, legendary battlefields, whisky distilleries, and stunning lochs. Stay in 5-star hotels and castles, dine at award-winning restaurants, and explore iconic landmarks like Stirling Castle, the Isle of Skye, Loch Ness, and the Glenfinnan Viaduct.

Whether you're uncovering Scotland’s royal heritage, indulging in Highland whisky tastings, or taking in the dramatic scenery of Glencoe and the Cairngorms, this handcrafted itinerary ensures an unforgettable Scottish adventure. With private chauffeurs, expert guides, and carefully curated experiences, you’ll immerse yourself in Scotland’s rich culture, history, and natural beauty, all while enjoying the finest in luxury travel.

Day 1

Arrival in Edinburgh: A Warm Scottish Welcome

Accommodation: The Caledonian Edinburgh (2 nights)
Transport: Executive Vehicle. Private Driver/Guide
Itinerary: Edinburgh Arrival, New Town Exploration, Scott Monument

Morning

Arriving at Edinburgh International Airport, you will be welcomed by your private chauffeur who will help with your luggage and transport you to the 5-star Caledonian Hotel found on Princess Street in the heart of the city. The hotel is famous for its elegant interiors and proximity to some of the city's best attractions. After a long day travelling, unwind and take a moment to refresh, then take a stroll along Princess Street to the Scott Monument. This Victorian Gothic monument to Scottish author Sir Walter Scott is the second-largest monument to a writer in the world after the José Martí monument in Havana.

The tower is 200 feet 6 inches (61.11 m) high and has viewing platforms, reached by a series of spiral staircases, giving panoramic views of central Edinburgh and its surroundings. The highest platform is reached by a total of 287 steps. It is built from Binny sandstone quarried near Ecclesmachan in West Lothian.

Afternoon

Your hotel is in the “New Town” which was built in stages between 1767 and around 1850. It retains much of its original neoclassical and Georgian period architecture. Its best known street is Princes Street, facing Edinburgh Castle. The Old Town is across the geological depression of the former Nor Loch. (Now Princess Street Gardens)Together with the West End and the New Town in 1995 they were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.Since you will be visiting the “Old Town” tomorrow the rest of your first day might be spent in the New Town.

Dinner

The Pompadour Scottish produce at its best you will be taken on a memorable culinary experience as you tuck into St Andrew’s Bay smoked lobster, grass fed beef cheek and many more exciting tastes. There is also full vegan menu including panko king oyster mushrooms, Thai red curry, and BBQ leek with wild garlic.

Day 2

Exploring Edinburgh’s Old Town: Castles, Closes, and Legends

Accommodation: The Caledonian Hotel, Edinburgh
Transport: Executive Vehicle. Private Driver/Guide
Itinerary: Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, Mary King’s Close

Morning

After breakfast you will meet your blue badge guide in the hotel reception. Your guide knows the city inside out so don’t be shy to ask questions. They will be on hand to take you on an exploration of Edinburgh’s Historic Old Town. You will travel from Holyrood Palace, climbing the Royal Mile and visiting St Giles Cathedral. And of course, no visit to Edinburgh is complete without visiting the legendary Edinburgh Castle. Parts of the castle date back to the 12th century and you will tour round the Great Hall, St Margaret’s Chapel, see the one o’clock gun and the Honours of Scotland.

For lunch there are a multitude of restaurants, cafes and bars to choose from, but you could try Greyfriars Bobby’s Bar next to Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery The cemetery is best known for Bobby, a Skye terrier belonging to John Gray who died and was buried in the graveyard in 1872. Bobby is said to have sat by the grave for 14 years and he was buried just inside the gate not far from his master’s grave.

The grave of interest to Harry Potter fans, for example, Tom Riddle can be reached by going behind the church and going towards the right as they lie in the back section behind what remains of the old and battered Flodden wall. JK Rowling lived nearby and was known to have spent time walking through the graveyard. Alternatively sample the delightful menu of Holyrood 9a, a cosy little pub offering a huge range of salads, burgers, steaks, venison and since you’re in Scotland, a haggis burger.

Afternoon

Mary King’s Close is a historic close located under the Edinburgh City Chambers building on the Royal Mile. It took its name from one Mary King, a merchant burgess who lived on the Close in the 17th century. The close was partially demolished and buried due to the building of the Royal Exchange in the year 1753 and later closed to the public for many years. The area became shrouded in myths and urban legends; tales of hauntings and murders abounded. In 1897, Andrew Chesney, the last resident remaining in Mary King's close, was given a compulsory purchase order for £400 and he left the close in 1902. The underground tour is fascinating.

Dinner

“The Dome” restaurant. The Dome was originally the site of the old Physicians’ Hall (1775), built and designed by James Craig the celebrated planner of Edinburgh’s New Town. Unfortunately for the College of Physicians the original estimate of £2,725 rose to £4,800 by completion, leaving the College approximately £1,000 in debt. Unsurprisingly after a short time the College looked for a purchaser and eventually in 1843 The Commercial Bank Of Scotland made an offer of £20,000 for the site and premises. The Dome became a restaurant in 1996.

Day 3

Regal Scotland: Scone Palace, Pitlochry, and Chocolate Indulgence

Accommodation: Fonab Castle, (1 Night)
Transport: Executive Vehicle. Private Driver/Guide
Itinerary: Scone Palace, Pitlochry, Iain Burnett Highland Chocolatier

Morning

After breakfast you will head to Perthshire and Scone Palace (pronounced Scoon), an elegant gothic residence which was the crowning place for Scottish Kings and Queens. They were crowned on The Stone of Destiny and that same stone was most recently used for the coronation of King Charles 111 in 2023 at Westminster Abbey. You can walk around the palace and explore the gardens which are home to some of the biggest and most beautiful oak trees in the UK, as well as the Murray Star Maze and a kitchen garden.

You will then travel to the town of Pitlochry for a chance to wander around and explore this charming spot which sits on the beautiful River Tummel. Here you will also stop for lunch in McKays Hotel where you can enjoy a range of traditional favourites such as haddock and chips, scampi in a basket, haggis, neeps, and tatties, and the Highland burger.

Afternoon

Master Chocolatier Iain Burnett is our next stop. Iain offers craft premium chocolates that you will not find anywhere else in the world. Only the finest and freshest natural ingredients are used, such as the single-origin cocoa sourced from São Tomé, an island in the South Atlantic. Here you will experience a guided tasting session which will teach you all about becoming a Master Chocolatier, how such premium chocolate is made, and, of course, sample some of Iain’s world-famous velvet truffles.

Our last stop will be Fonab Castle. This 5 star hotel and spa has been restored to the highest standards and enjoys picture perfect views across the Perthshire countryside and the river Tummel.

Dinner

Sandeman’s 3 AA Restaurant

Day 4

Highland Traditions: Cairngorms, Sheepdogs, and Cawdor Castle

Accommodation: Ness Walk Hotel (1 night)
Transport: Executive Vehicle. Private Driver/Guide
Itinerary: Cairngorms, Leault Farm, Cawdor Castle, Inverness.

Morning

Setting off after a hearty breakfast we head further North through the Cairngorms.

Our first stop is the Highland Folk Museum at Newtonmore. Here you can step back in time and experience life in the Highlands from 1700s to the 1950s.There are over 35 historical buildings onsite for you to explore and discover how people in the Highlands lived, worked, went to school and enjoyed their leisure time. For Outlander fans filming took place here. Season 1 episode 5 “Rent” Clare and Jamie visited here accompanied by Dougal. They were collecting rent.

Onward to Leault Farm. Here you will see sheepdog demonstrations lasting for 45 minutes and during this time you get to meet the dogs, learn about their training and gain an understanding about the commands used to control them. Neil Ross, the shepherd, uses a team of 10 sheepdogs and each dog has its own set of whistle commands so that they can be individually directed. It is quite a mind-boggling bit of multi-tasking.

If you want to get a bit more hands-on, you can take a shot at hand shearing a sheep the old-fashioned way with a large pair of shears. Depending on the season, you can also have some fun with hand-feeding the new lambs from baby bottles. This is an entertaining spectacle as the lambs' nudge and jostle with the sheepdog pups to get their share of the milk.

Afternoon

Lunch today will be at the Sun Dancer in Nairn. You will have no doubt worked up an appetite by now so you will be delighted to choose from seafood chowder, Isle of Barra king scallops, or opt for something from the recently launched Street Food menu.

Your next stop will be at Cawdor Castle. This enchanting castle was built in the 15th century and has strong connections to Shakespeare’s Macbeth. You will tour round the castle where there is so much to see, from its drawing rooms to the Old Kitchen which has still been unchanged since the 19th century.

From here we travel the 30 minutes to the 5-star Ness Walk Hotel, which sits right on the banks of the River Ness. The hotel has beautiful period features to deliver an ambiance that oozes sophistication.

Dinner

Torrish Restaurant Try some Isle of Lewis mussels, Orkney hand-dived scallops, Speyside lamb, as well as many other delicious dishes.

Day 5

Into the Wild: Loch Ness, Eilean Donan, and the Isle of Skye

Accommodation: Kinloch Lodge, Isle of Skye (2 Nights)
Transport: Executive Vehicle. Private Driver/Guide
Itinerary: Executive Vehicle & Private Driver

Morning

You’re adventure continues with your first stop being Loch Ness, home to the mythical “Loch Ness Monster”. You will weave round this beautiful loch and your private driver will make sure you visit the best photo stops. You will then make your way to the village of Drumnadrochit, on the shores of Loch Ness. Here you will join your private boat, the “Cluaran Dubh”, meet your skipper Gordon, and embark on your Private Boat Tour which lasts for around an hour. You will enjoy stunning views of Loch Ness, The Great Glen, and Urquhart Castle.

Gordon was born, raised, and still lives on the Loch Ness shores. He will regale you with stories of witches casting spells to protect Nessie. You will enjoy a fun and interesting hour with magnificent views of Urquhart Castle which we can also visit, time permitting. Lunch will be at Fidlers in Drumnadrochit.

After lunch our next stop will be Eilean Donan Castle. This ancient castle was built in the 13th century and survives remarkably well to this day. The tiny bridge across the water to its own little island really gets your imagination running wild as to what it must have been like living there all those hundreds of years ago. You will also be able to enjoy some stunning views out over Loch Duich. A coffee and gift shop are also available. Eilean Donan is widely considered as the most beautiful castle in Scotland, due to the idyllic setting at the confluence of three lochs (Loch Long, Loch Duich, and Loch Alsh).

Afternoon

Leaving Eilean Donnan we will visit Plocton village known as “the jewel of the highlands”. Enjoy a peaceful walk around the bay, looking out over the views of Loch Carron and beyond.

After leaving Plockton, you will travel over the engineering masterpiece that is the gently curving Skye Bridge and onto Skye where you will make your way to your luxury accommodation for the night, Kinloch Lodge Hotel.

Dinner

you will have a reservation in the hotel restaurant where the kitchen staff really go the extra mile to provide you with the very best local produce Scotland has to offer.

Day 6

Skye’s Natural Wonders: Fairy Pools, Castles, and Coastal Views

Accommodation: Accommodation Kinloch Lodg, Isle of Skye
Transport: Executive Vehicle. Private Driver/Guide
Itinerary: Isle of Skye

Morning

Today you will have a tour of the Isle of Skye. You will visit The Fairy Pools, The Old Man of Storr, Dunvegan Castle & Gardens and Portree. There will be plenty of stops with, if you wish, some mild walking/hiking. Ensure you have packed and dressed for the many weather conditions which can come over the Isle of Skye throughout a day

First stop is Glenbrittle and the magical Fairy Pools. With their crystal clear waters and beautiful waterfalls, it is easy to see the attraction. You will walk 20 minutes to the fairy pools themselves, an easy hike, allowing you to soak in the magnificent scenery all around you. Ancient folklore says that fairies swim in these pools and if you are feeling brave, you may wish to do so as well but be warned, it will be cold!!

You will then head to Dunvegan Castle which dates back to the 13th century. The castle has had many additions over the centuries and is a registered category A listed building. There are also five acres of gardens for you to explore, including the Water Garden, Rose Garden and Walled Garden, as well as woodland walks and nearby waterfalls.

Lunch will be at The Old School Restaurant in Dunvegan. This family run business is bursting with charm and has established itself as a firm favourite in Skye.Built in the 1870s as Duirinish School in 1985 it opened its doors as a restaurant.

Afternoon

Next stop, The Fairy Glen, on the west side of Trotternish. An out of this world experience awaits as you approach this supernatural looking landscape. A short hike from the road, these rich and vibrant colours and fairy-tale views all around are a photographer’s dream.

Continuing, we move on to the most northerly point of the Trotternish ridge, The Quiraing. As the ancient landscapes begin to unfold before your eyes, your driver will take you on a stunning drive down the narrow road and hairpin bends where sheep roam free.With rolling hills and cliffs surrounding you, there are opportunities here for a brief walk or hike. Be sure to have your camera ready to snap the gigantic pinnacles of rock.

The Old Man of Storr is next, a monumental rock pinnacle that can be seen from far and wide. A staggering sight to behold you can view from the car park or the hike there and back takes around 1 hour 15 minutes with no stops. The distance is about 2.5 miles.

A final stop will be at Portree, the islands capital. With local craft shops and a bustling fishing port, you will have the opportunity to interact with friendly locals and experience Portree’s thriving culture. If candles are your thing then visit The Isle of Skye Candle Company.

Dinner

Kinloch Lodge Restaurant

Day 7

West Coast Magic: Glenfinnan, Ben Nevis, and Glencoe’s Grandeur

Accommodation: Isle of Eriska, Nr Oban (1Night)
Transport: Executive Vehicle. Private Driver/Guide
Itinerary: Armadale to Mallaig Ferry, Glenfinnan Viaduct & Monument, Fort William, Mountain Gondola, Glencoe, Castle Stalker

Morning

Today your first expedition will be a short ferry trip from Armadale to Mallaig, before heading to the remarkable Glenfinnan. Harry Potter fans will be excited to get the chance to see the Glenfinnan Viaduct, the bridge that carries the Hogwarts Express on its way to that world-famous school of witchcraft and wizardry. The steam train passes over twice a day.There is also the Glenfinnan Monument, a tower overlooking Loch Shiel which stands in memory of those who died for the Jacobite cause.

Your next stop will be in Fort William, a charming highland town which sits in the shadow of BenNevis, the highest mountain in the UK. While you won’t have time to climb it, simply witnessing the majesty of this imposing mountain is enough to put a smile on your face.

For lunch today you will be savouring the delights at Crannog Seafood Restaurant, a pretty,red-roofed seafood restaurant serving fresh seafood and allowing views over Loch Linnhe.

Your next stop will be the Nevis Range Mountain Gondola. This impressive feat of engineering transports you 650 metres up the side of Aonach Mòr, the 8th highest mountain in the UK, all the while enjoying the unbeatable scenery of the Scottish Highlands. On top, you can spend some time taking in the views and enjoying some of the scenic walks.

Afternoon

Back down the mountain, your driver will take you to Glencoe which really defies adequate description. Words simply cannot do justice to how impressive Glencoe is. If you drive through it at any time of year, the car parks will always be full of tourists soaking up the curious mix of feelings of magnificent grandeur and peaceful tranquillity that washes over you as you stand within the massive Glencoe admiring the 3 sisters.

But before then you will make a stop to see the stunning Castle Stalker. The viewpoints here offer panoramic views of Castle Stalker, Mull, and Loch Linnhe. Castle Stalker, much in its present form, was built by the then Lord of Lorn, Sir John Stewart, who had an illegitimate son in 1446, and it is reasonable to suppose that he built and occupied the Castle about that time. In 1463 Sir John Stewart was keen to legitimise his son by getting married to his Mother, a MacLaren, at Dunstaffnage when he was murdered outside the church by Alan MacCoul, a renegade MacDougall, although he survived long enough to complete the marriage and legitimise his son.

Dinner

Your driver will then take you to the five star Isle of Eriska Hotel which sits at the start of Loch Creran and boasts views over the Morvern Mountains. Here you can relax for the evening, making use of the fantastic spa facilities before enjoying some fine dining in the hotel restaurant where more of Scotland’s finest fish are on offer, such as Loch Melfort Steelhead Trout.

Day 8

Island Adventures: Oban, Corryvreckan, and the Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond

Accommodation: Cameron House, Loch Lomond (1Night)
Transport: Executive Vehicle. Private Driver/Guide
Itinerary: Oban, Corryvreckan Wildlife Boat Tour, McCaigs Tower, Loch Lomond.

Morning

After breakfast at Eriska it’s onwards to the seaside town of Oban (Gaelic for ‘little bay’). As you arrive in Oban you will not be able to help but notice McCaig’s Tower, standing tall and proud on the town’s skyline. The Colosseum-like Tower takes only 10 minutes to walk to from the town centre. (Mind you it’s all Uphill) Once there take in the spectacular views over Oban and the neighbouring islands.

Next up is a wildlife boat tour around the Gulf of Corryvreckan. On this two hour trip your experienced guide will be on hand to tell you all about the surrounding area and help you spot some incredible wildlife, including seals, dolphins, whales, eagles and many other sea birds. There will also be the chance to see the Corryvreckan Whirlpool, the third largest in the world.

Afternoon

On dry land once again you’re journey will continue until you reach Loch Lomond. Your driver will take you alongside the loch which is the largest in Scotland by area. Interestingly, the largest by water volume is Loch Ness which has more water than all the English lakes put together. The deepest is Loch Morar which is close to Mallaig.

Eventually you will find your way to the five star Cameron House Hotel, which sits right on the Bonnie Banks your accommodation for the evening. The second you step foot in Cameron House you know you’re in a luxurious spot.

Indeed, Cameron House is very often the destination of choice for celebrities when they visit Scotland, from sports stars to musicians. Taking huge pride in offering the very best in Scottish hospitality, the team here will ensure you enjoy a fantastic stay to remember.

Dinner

Cameron House’s Grill Restaurant. This cosy setting with glorious views offers the perfect atmosphere to enjoy the delicacies on offer such as west coast crab bisque, whole grilled Scottish lobster, Highland roe deer and, of course, a range of premium cuts from the grill.

Day 9

Final Highlights: Stirling Castle, Whisky, and Edinburgh’s Finest Dining

Accommodation: The Caledonian Hotel (1Night)
Transport: Executive Vehicle. Private Driver/Guide
Itinerary: Stirling Castle, Edinburgh, Johnnie Walker Journey of Flavour Tour

Morning

After breakfast, you will head to Stirling Castle, a remarkable site perched on the top of Castle Hill, a huge crag. As defensive castles go, this has to be one of the best as it is surrounded by steep cliffs on three sides. Any approaching army would have been filled with dread at the thought of trying to capture Stirling Castle. Though it did not only excel as a defensive structure, it was also a highly luxurious residence for many Scottish kings and queens. The most famous was Mary Queen of Scots and she was crowned here. On a guided tour you will get to learn all about the history of the castle.

Afternoon

For lunch today you will be dining in the Allanwater Café in Bridge of Allan for a traditional Scottish experience. This chip shop offers a range of deep-fried delights including haddock, smoked sausage, white and black pudding, king rib, and haggis.

From there you will travel to Edinburgh where you will embark on a fantastic tour of Johnnie Walker Princes Street. Experience a world of different flavours with a full sensory tour with tutored whisky tastings. This is a whisky tour like no other, using lights, music, and special effects to transport you on a fun-filled flavour journey.

Dinner

The Dome. Located on Edinburgh’s prestigious George Street, The Dome, which has previously been a bank and a physicians hall, now specialises in wowing everyone who steps foot inside. You will dine in the grill room where you can expect first class service and first class food, such as pan fried oWood Pigeon breast, seafood risotto, Glenfeshie Estate venison haunch, and smoked ham shank

Day 10

Farewell – Pick up & Drop Off

After what we hope has been a memorable trip, visiting dramatic castles and enjoying our wonderful scenery you will say a fond farewell to Scotland. Your private driver will escort you to Edinburgh Airport, help you with your bags, and wish you safe travels.

From all at DFH Scotland Tours

Haste ye Back

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Get in touch today — and let’s start planning something extraordinary.

Doug - 07565190416

David - 07707188941

doug@dfhchauffeurs.com