Scotland: Land of Lore & Legend featuring the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo - Alternative

Rolling landscapes of green hills and rocky coastlines. Lively cities of friendly locals and the renowned “water of life.” This is Scotland, where legends live long and storybook pages come to life.

Welcome to Glasgow, a cultural trove of art, music, and history. Get ready to experience the eclectic architecture, friendly locals (Glaswegians), and rich traditions that make this city such a fascinating place. As arrival times will vary, the day is yours to explore at your own pace — maybe visit one of the many museums or galleries or simply relax and take in the local scene. Settle into your hotel before joining your fellow travelers this evening for a welcome dinner.

Soak in the rich culture of Glasgow. Join a local guide on a walking and motorcoach tour that leads you through historic George Square and the beautiful Beaux-Arts style architecture that surrounds it; to Provand’s Lordship, the oldest surviving house in the city; the medieval Glasgow Cathedral; prestigious Blythswood Square; and the futuristic-looking Science Centre. After lunch on your own in central Glasgow, enjoy the rest of the day free to discover the city as you like.

Leave the city behind, traveling along sloping fields towards Loch Lomond. Visit a family-run farm with spectacular views of the lake and surrounding hills, see border collies in action during a traditional sheepdog demonstration, and enjoy Scottish snacks. Next, arrive in Luss and explore this quaint lakeside village of stone cottages and bright flowers, taking time for lunch on your own. Then, it’s off to Oban, where a local guide will lead you on a walking tour of this coastal town and important fishing port. Continue to Loch Melfort and settle into your hotel for the next two nights. Take in a stunning view of the ocean from the hotel before wandering the grounds, home to friendly Highland cows and neighboring the National Trust’s Arduaine Gardens.

It’s time to island hop! Setting off from Loch Melfort, take the ferry from Oban to the Isle of Mull, a picturesque island that is the largest of the Inner Hebridean Islands. Continue to the Isle of Iona, one of Western Europe’s oldest Christian religious centers. Journey to Iona Abbey on foot and enjoy free time to explore the tranquility of the grounds on your own before returning to Oban and back to your hotel in Loch Melfort.

Geological wonders await you in the Highlands. Head to the National Nature Reserve in Glencoe and stop at the visitor center to learn about the spectacular Glencoe mountain range, then walk the trails and experience this unique landscape for yourself. After lunch, continue on to Loch Ness. Wander the undulating ruins of legendary Urquhart Castle and imagine all that transpired inside the walls of this 13th-century medieval fortress. Afterwards, travel to Inverness, capital of the Highlands, to settle into your hotel for the night.

This morning, step back in time as you explore Cawdor Castle, a romantic 14th-century stronghold steeped in Shakespearean legend and Highland history. This afternoon, it’s your choice! Delve into the poignant history of the Jacobite uprising at Culloden Battlefield -OR- explore Inverness Castle, where an immersive experience brings Highland culture, heritage, and stories to life. After, the remainder of the day in Inverness is yours to soak in the atmosphere of this Highland hub.

Discover the story of the local pioneering women who created the ethical clothing company, Prickly Thistle, and learn the true story of tartan as told by a Highland woman. After, make your way to the picturesque town of Pitlochry, take some time for lunch on your own, and then board a high-speed train to finish your day in Scotland’s capital city, Edinburgh.

This morning, join a local expert for a three-hour walking tour of Edinburgh’s hilly Old Town and discover more about the lore and legends of the capital city. After your tour, the afternoon and evening are yours — perhaps take the opportunity to visit Edinburgh Castle, home to the Scottish Crown Jewels. This evening, take your seat at The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, one of Scotland’s greatest events.

The day is yours to explore as you wish. Perhaps you’ll take a stroll among the Georgian architecture of the New Town or journey to Leith for a visit to the royal yacht Britannia. Or you might take advantage of the optional excursion to Stirling Castle, an iconic landmark in Scotland’s history, followed by a brief stop at the Kelpies, the world’s largest equine sculptures. Gather in the evening for a whisky-inspired farewell dinner highlighting the flavors of Scotland and toast to your Scottish explorations.

Wish Scotland a fond farewell as you depart for home.