Heritage Tour of Scotland
7 Days
from
approx. $5,245 per person based on2 people, and $3,995 per person based on 4 people(depending on seasonality).*
Highlights:
Scotland
(Edinburgh, Oban, Inverness, Aberdeen)
,
Isle of Mull
(Tobermory)
Trip Start/End:
Edinburgh
/
Aberdeen
Spend time in the mythical land of Scotland! From the cosmopolitan city of Edinburgh with its majestic castle, wide boulevards and stately buildings, to the wilds of the Inner Hebrides with sweeping seascapes, historical sites and quaint fishing villages to the northern cities of Aberdeen and Inverness, this private guided itinerary will enable you to see many of the country's highlights. In the company of a knowledgeable Driver-Guide, you'll get to explore this ancient land, experience the rugged beauty of the western islands, learn the secrets of whiskey making as you sip on a wee dram, and relax in luxurious accommodations throughout. Visit some of the more well known castles as well as some lesser known gems that dot the countryside, travel back in time taking an scenic paddle steamer along Loch Katine, explore the historic Abbey on Iona island, and soak in the atmosphere at the historic site of Culloden Battlefield and the garrison fortress of Fort George, dating back to 1746. There are lots of additional options to choose from - one thing is certain, you're sure to come away from your vacation with a greater appreciation and sense of awe of the rich heritage of Scotland.
Overview
| Day | Activities | Hotel |
- Day 1
- Edinburgh
| - Transfer - Private - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
- Optional Activity - Panoramic city tour (2-4hrs)
- Driver-Guide for Multi-Day Scottish Circuit
- Lunch (not included)
- At Leisure
- Optional Evening Underground tour of Edinburgh
- Optional Dinner Reservation at The Witchery Restaurant
| Hotel du Vin (4*) (B) (Standard ) |
- Day 2
- Edinburgh
| - Private - Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood House, National Gallery & Botanical Gardens (8 hrs) - Vehicle/Driver-Guide
- Lunch (not included)
- Continuation of day tour
- Optional: Hopetoun House & Scottish National Archives
- Dinner (not included)
| Hotel du Vin (4*) (B) (Standard ) |
- Day 3
- Edinburgh - Stirling - Oban - Tobermory
| - Transfer - Private - Edinburgh - Oban [via Stirling and Scenic Paddle Steamer on Loch Katrine (8 hrs) ] - Vehicle/Driver-Guide
- Optional: Bike ride along banks of Loch Katrine or Tour of Oban Distillery
- Lunch (not included)
- Boat - Oban - Isle of Mull [Approx 45 mins] - with Vehicle/Driver
- Transfer to Highland Cottage
- Dinner (not included)
- Drivers Overnight Cost
| Western Isles (3*)
Harbour View (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
Alt: Isle of Eriska Hotel, Spa and Golf (5*) (Standard)
|
- Day 4
- Tobermory - Oban
| - Driver-Guide Services (8 hrs) - Vehicle/Driver-Guide
- Private - Ferry to Isle of Iona & Visit of Staffa Isle
- Lunch (not included)
- Ferry back to mainland
- Optional: Private Tour at Duart Castle
- Drivers Overnight Cost
- Dinner (not included)
| Isle of Eriska Hotel, Spa and Golf (5*)
Standard (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 5
- Tobermory - Inverness
| - Transfer - Private - Tobermory - Inverness [Ferry to Mainland & Visit of Urqhuart Castle Ruins (8hrs)] - Vehicle/Driver-Guide
- Lunch (not included)
- Afternoon Visit of Culloden Battlefield & Fortress of Fort George
- Optional: Beauly town & Art Galleries or Private boat ride on Loch Ness
- Dinner (not included)
- Drivers Overnight Cost
| Glenmoriston Town House (4*)
Classic (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
Alt: Inverlochy Castle (5*) (Standard)
|
- Day 6
- Inverness - Aberdeen
| - Transfer - Private - Inverness - Aberdeen [via Cawdor Castle, Shopping & Cardhu Distillery (8 hrs)] - Vehicle/Driver-Guide
- Lunch (not included)
- Continuation of day tour
- Optional: Scenic Helicopter flight or Bottle engraving at Cardhu Distillery
- Dinner (not included)
| Mercure Aberdeen Ardoe House (4*)
Standard (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 7
- Aberdeen
| - Transfer - Private - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
| Depart (Int`l Airport)
|
| B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, 1/2d = Half Day, Al = All Inclusive |
Trip Itinerary
Edinburgh
Blue Himalayan Poppy at Royal Botanic Gardens
Arthur's Seat viewed from Blackford Hil
Hotel du Vin
Day 1: Edinburgh
Meet your driver for your private airport transfer today. Please note that this service includes up to 3 hours of service.
Consider a panoramic city tour of Edinburgh to see all of the main sites of the city. Please speak to your Sales Advisor if you are interested in adding this to your itineray. Places of interest on the panoramic tour include Old Town & New Town, Royal Botanic Gardens, Arthurs Seat, Royal Mile.
You will have a Driver-Guide with you for the duration of your multi-day Scottish adventure. Our Driver-Guides are all experienced drivers, are very personable, and extremely knowledgeable about the general history and culture of Scotland. Our Driver Guides tend to have 10 to 30 years experience conducting tours around Scotland. They are knowledgeable about the country and can provide plenty of suggestions for visits in your programme and including where to stop for lunches etc. Please note that they are not Certifiied Blue Badge Guides - where necessary an additional Guide will be incuded in your program for a specific cultural site. They are exceptionally personable and intuitive and much more than just a driver so you can rest assured that you are in great hands!
Enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or relax at your hotel.
This evening consider an underground tour of Edinburgh exploring the labyrinth of corridors and chambers beneath the Royal Mile which remain unchanged from two hundred years ago. Please speak to your Sales Advisor if you would like to include this in your itinerary.
The Witchery Restaurant located on the Royal Mile is a great place for dinner. The 16th century building located close to the Castle is lit exclusively by candlelight. The tapestry-draped main dining room is an ode to opulence: the seats are a rich red leather, the ceiling is gilded, and the walls are covered with oak panels salvaged from an old cathedral. The Secret Garden annex, meanwhile, is full of brass candlesticks and stone statues, and displays a series of painted doors that tell the story of Edinburgh's wine trade with France. The menu is equally sumptuous, offering dishes such as melt-in-your-mouth steak tartare, rabbit wrapped in Parma ham with tea-soaked prunes, and loin of roe deer with an earthy black pudding. But be sure to save room for the desserts — from the chocolate torte to the bramble, sherry and mascarpone trifle, they make a wickedly decadent end to the meal. Please speak to your Sales Advisor if you would like to have a reservation made for you.
Accommodation: Hotel du Vin (4*) Hotel du Vin Edinburgh is a luxury, 4 star boutique hotel nestled deep in Edinburgh's Old Town and only a short walk from the historic Royal Mile. Neighbouring the famous Bedlam theatre. This hotel has 47 timelessly furnished rooms and stunning suites featuring monsoon showers, luxurious Egyptian cotton sheets, plasma TVs, DVDs and air conditioning.
Edinburgh Castle
Forth Road Bridge
Day 2: Edinburgh
After breakfast you will be taken on a private tour of the city in the company of a driver-guide and private vehicle. You’ll have the opportunity to visit some the most outstanding attractions including Edinburgh Castle, at the top of the Royal Mile, Holyrood house, the Queen’s official home when she visits Edinburgh (subject to closure when Her Majesty is in residence). You will also visit one of the National Galleries as well as the beautiful Royal Botanic Gardens. There are optional visits to Hopetoun House, situated just outside Edinburgh, and the Scottish National Archives where you may like to investigate your family history.
Consider an optional visit to Hopetoun House, situated just outside Edinburgh, for a tour of this magnificent house overlooking the Firth of Forth. The Scottish National Archives may be of interest to you if you have Scottish heritage - as you may like to investigate your family history.
Accommodation: Hotel du Vin (4*) 
Sailing on Loch Katrine
The Western Isles
Day 3: Edinburgh - Stirling - Oban - Tobermory
Leaving Edinburgh this morning you will drive north to Stirling to visit the magnificent Castle perched majestically above the city. You then travel back in time taking the scenic paddle steamer along Loch Katine, undoutably one of the most picturesque boat journeys in Scotland. After time at leisure for lunch, your journey will continue to the stunning west coast of Scotland.
If you feel like being active this afternoon, why not consider a bike ride along the banks of Loch Katrine. Alternatively, you could take a tour of the Oban Distillery. Please let your Sales Advisor know if you are interested in either of these options.
Take a scenic ferry journey from Oban to the magical Isle of Mull, the second largest of the Inner Hebrides and the fourth largest Scottish island.
Once on Mull you will travel to the pictureque village of Tobermory where you stay in the Highland Cottage.
Accommodation: Western Isles (3*) The Western Isles Hotel (3*) offers you the perfect base for your West Coast holiday, giving you the opportunity to sample the unspoilt nature of the island. Overlooking the harbour of Tobermory and facing out to Calve Island and the Sound of Mull, you’ll be treated to picturesque views from their harbour- and sea-facing rooms, as well as from the Conservatory Bar. And as well as comfortable accommodation, you’ll enjoy fine cuisine in our restaurant, prepared from the best locally sourced ingredients to make your stay even more memorable.
Oban
Staffa Isle
Isle of Eriska
Day 4: Tobermory - Oban
Your Driver-Guide will accompany you today and provide necessary transportation as you explore the island and hinterlands.
Sightseeing today begins with a drive to the far South West point of the island where you take the short ferry trip across to the Isle of Iona to explore the historic Abbey. After time for lunch at leisure, take a boat ride out to the dramatic island of Staffa with it's famous cave composed entirely of basaltic pillars as high as the roof of a cathedral, which runs deep into the rock.
After this morning's activity, you'll take a ferry back to the mainland and continue on to your next hotel.
An optional activity while you are on the Isle of Mull is a Private Tour at Duart Castle.
Accommodation: Isle of Eriska Hotel, Spa and Golf (5*) The Eriska Hotel, Spa and Golf (5*) offers luxurious accommodation with a view to match. Enjoy a traditional Scottish breakfast, while taking in 300 acres of lush landscapes all from the comfort of your own bed. Carefully blending the old with the new their designer rooms & luxury suites offer the finest bed linen, rich fabrics, and warm, contemporary décor. They’ll anticipate your every need with a wide range of in-room facilities and guest services. Guests can also relax and enjoy a quiet reprieve with their favourite tipple next to the fireplace in the Hotel Lounge. Since 1997 the Restaurant at Eriska has held the award of 3 AA Rosettes and a mark in the Good Food Guide. In March this year they were delighted to be awarded the "Hotel Restaurant of The Year” at the Scottish Restaurant Awards and in 2010 they won the "Taste of Scotland Award" at the Scottish Thistle Awards. Their award-winning chef serves an impressively diverse selection of fresh and seasonal produce. As well as their AA wine list they are renowned for their famous Farmhouse Cheese Trolley which is a favourite with their guests.
Inverness
Glenmoriston House Hotel
Day 5: Tobermory - Inverness
Take the return ferry back to the mainland and continue your adventure as you leave the west coast of Scotland this morning and travel eastwards towards Loch Ness, possibly Scotland's most famous Loch, known for it's elusive monster. Visit the ruins of Urqhuart Castle in their dramatic position overlooking the Loch.
Following time for lunch at leisure, you will visit the historic site of Culloden Battlefield and the garrison fortress of Fort George, begun in the aftermath of the Battle of Culloden in 1746.
Optional activites today include visiting the small town of Beauly and the art galleries in the area, or enjoying a private boat ride on Loch Ness. Please speak to your Sales Advisor if you are interested in either option.
Accommodation: Glenmoriston Town House (4*) Glenmoriston Town House Hotel is an award winning 4 star hotel situated on the banks of the River Ness in the Scottish Highlands. The decor is warm, welcoming and elegant while the rooms are dedicated to comfort and relaxation. Guests can indulge in a delicious meal from the award winning restaurant, and take in all the sights that are situated nearby.
Please note that this hotel does not have an elevator. Please let your Sales Advisor know if you would like to arrange porterage service prior to your arrival.
Aberdeen
Mercure Aberdeen Ardoe House
Day 6: Inverness - Aberdeen
Enjoy a full day guided touring travelling in the stunning countryside between Inverness and Aberdeen. You will visit Cawdor castle, romantically linked by Shakespeare with Macbeth and a fantastic example of a fairy-tale Scottish castle steeped in history, as well as the famous Johnston's cashmere store in Elgin which boasts an incredible choice of luxurious cashmere goods - an ideal stop for a little holiday shopping. As you head into the famous whisky producing area of Speyside enjoy a tour of the Cardhu Distillery.
Take a scenic helicopter flight over Inverness and the Moray Firth.
Engraved bottles of Johnnie Walker Blue Whisky at Cardhu Distillery
Accommodation: Mercure Aberdeen Ardoe House (4*) Mercure Aberdeen Ardoe House Hotel and Spa (4*) is a 19th century mansion house set in 30 acres of tranquil countryside. Located 3 miles outside the city centre, the hotel has 109 traditionally decorated guest rooms with satellite TV and internet access throughout. Enjoy sophisticated dining in Blairs Restaurant or a nightcap in Soapie's Lounge Bar. The spa has luxurious treatment rooms as well as an indoor heated pool and fitness room.
Day 7: Aberdeen
Transfer to Aberdeen Airport this morning for your onward journey.
Accommodation: Depart (Int`l Airport)
Accommodations
Hotel du Vin (4*)
Hotel du Vin Edinburgh is a luxury, 4 star boutique hotel nestled deep in Edinburgh's Old Town and only a short walk from the historic Royal Mile. Neighbouring the famous Bedlam theatre. This hotel has 47 timelessly furnished rooms and stunning suites featuring monsoon showers, luxurious Egyptian cotton sheets, plasma TVs, DVDs and air conditioning.
- The Western Isles
Western Isles (3*) - Tobermory
The Western Isles Hotel (3*) offers you the perfect base for your West Coast holiday, giving you the opportunity to sample the unspoilt nature of the island. Overlooking the harbour of Tobermory and facing out to Calve Island and the Sound of Mull, you’ll be treated to picturesque views from their harbour- and sea-facing rooms, as well as from the Conservatory Bar. And as well as comfortable accommodation, you’ll enjoy fine cuisine in our restaurant, prepared from the best locally sourced ingredients to make your stay even more memorable.
- Isle of Eriska
Standard
Isle of Eriska Hotel, Spa and Golf (5*) - Oban
The Eriska Hotel, Spa and Golf (5*) offers luxurious accommodation with a view to match. Enjoy a traditional Scottish breakfast, while taking in 300 acres of lush landscapes all from the comfort of your own bed. Carefully blending the old with the new their designer rooms & luxury suites offer the finest bed linen, rich fabrics, and warm, contemporary décor. They’ll anticipate your every need with a wide range of in-room facilities and guest services. Guests can also relax and enjoy a quiet reprieve with their favourite tipple next to the fireplace in the Hotel Lounge. Since 1997 the Restaurant at Eriska has held the award of 3 AA Rosettes and a mark in the Good Food Guide. In March this year they were delighted to be awarded the "Hotel Restaurant of The Year” at the Scottish Restaurant Awards and in 2010 they won the "Taste of Scotland Award" at the Scottish Thistle Awards. Their award-winning chef serves an impressively diverse selection of fresh and seasonal produce. As well as their AA wine list they are renowned for their famous Farmhouse Cheese Trolley which is a favourite with their guests.
- Glenmoriston House Hotel
Glenmoriston Town House (4*) - Inverness
Glenmoriston Town House Hotel is an award winning 4 star hotel situated on the banks of the River Ness in the Scottish Highlands. The decor is warm, welcoming and elegant while the rooms are dedicated to comfort and relaxation. Guests can indulge in a delicious meal from the award winning restaurant, and take in all the sights that are situated nearby.
Please note that this hotel does not have an elevator. Please let your Sales Advisor know if you would like to arrange porterage service prior to your arrival.
- Mercure Aberdeen Ardoe House
Mercure Aberdeen Ardoe House (4*) - Aberdeen
Mercure Aberdeen Ardoe House Hotel and Spa (4*) is a 19th century mansion house set in 30 acres of tranquil countryside. Located 3 miles outside the city centre, the hotel has 109 traditionally decorated guest rooms with satellite TV and internet access throughout. Enjoy sophisticated dining in Blairs Restaurant or a nightcap in Soapie's Lounge Bar. The spa has luxurious treatment rooms as well as an indoor heated pool and fitness room.
Travel Info
Travel tips of Scotland
VISA/PASSPORT
There are no border controls when travelling within the United Kingdom including the land border with England. Scotland has the same immigration and visa requirements as the rest of the United Kingdom.
United Kingdom is a party to the Schengen Agreement. As such, U.S. citizens may enter for up to 90 days for tourist or business purposes without a visa. The passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay.
HEALTH
Health insurance is recommended. Medical facilities are good quality. We recommend that you see a health-care provider who specializes in Travel Medicine. The doctor or health-care provider will determine what vaccinations and medication you will need, depending on factors such as your health and immunization history, areas of the country you will be visiting, and planned activities. For more information on travel requirements, visit the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/united-kingdom.aspx
COUNTRY INFO
Capital: Edinburgh
Language: English & Gaelic in parts of Scotland
Religion: Predominantly Christian, with sizeable Muslim, Sikh, Jewish and Hindu minorities.
Time: GMT (GMT + 1 from last Sunday in March to last Sunday in October).
Electricity: 240 volts AC, 50Hz. Square three-pin plugs are standard.
Telephone: Country code +44.
Mobile Telephone: Roaming agreements exist with most international mobile phone operators. Coverage is mostly good, but can be patchy in rural areas.
Internet: There are Internet cafes and centers in most urban areas.
What's Included:
- Guaranteed departure - Accommodation, Activities, Transfers, Meals, Fees where indicated as per the itinerary - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services
What's not Included:
- Tips - Laundry - Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless explicitly noted - Optional activities/extras – Visas (unless noted) - Vacation insurance
Trip Terms & Conditions
- Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $350). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure.
- Cancellations of confirmed bookings 90 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 60-89 days will be subject to loss of 30% of program price. 30-59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to loss of 100% of program price.
- Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary
- Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.
- Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.
- Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out at www.kensingtontours.com/terms-and-conditions
- Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.
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