Scotland Discovery Concierge Tour
Scotland Discovery Concierge Tour
A 13-Day Concierge Tour Itinerary
13 Days starting from $8,999
High-season (June – August) starting from $9,999
Price reflects full booking with 4 persons on the tour / per person based on double occupancy / not including airfare
Daily breakfast is included. To allow for maximum flexibility in your daily schedule entrances to attractions, meals (unless specified in the itinerary) ferries, and tips are not included. Costs are subject to price changes and availability until the tour deposit is completed.
Scotland Discovery Concierge Tour Itinerary At-A-Glance
Day 1
Arrive in Edinburgh
Day 2
Edinburgh City
Day 3
Edinburgh to Blair Atholl
Day 4
Inverness and Loch Ness
Day 5
Inverness East to “Bonnie Black Isle”
Day 6
North to John O’ Groats
Day 7
Orkney Islands
Day 8
Thurso to Lochinver
Day 9
Lochinver to Torridon
Day 10
Torridon to The Isle of Skye
Day 11
The Isle of Skye
Day 12
The Isle of Skye to Oban
Day 13
The Isle of Mull to Edinburgh
Itinerary Map
Day-By-Day Itinerary
This Itinerary can be Adjusted to Suit Your Interests
Day 1
Arrive in Edinburgh
We arrive mid-morning in Edinburgh and start our day with a bit of lunch and settling in at the hotel. In the evening we’ll explore some of the city’s rich history on a Ghost Tour through the ancient, narrow streets of Edinburgh’s old town.
Overnight Edinburgh
Day 2
Edinburgh City
Our day begins with breakfast at the hotel. Then we’re off on a city walking tour where we’ll visit Edinburgh Castle followed by shopping and exploring the famed Royal Mile and Prince’s Street.
Overnight Edinburgh
Day 3
Edinburgh to Blair Atholl
This morning we meet our Highlander Guide at the hotel and begin a day of spectacular options! From the showpiece palace of King James V at Linlithgow, the mighty Royal fortress of Stirling Castle and the Prince Regent’s home of Doune, we gather an understanding of how the past meets the present while visiting some of the film locations of “Outlander” and “Game of Thrones”. We’ll travel through four of the counties of Scotland (the Kingdom of Fife, Angus, Perth-shire and Inverness-shire) as we leave the Lowlands behind and climb into the Highlands proper. Driving along the River Tay from its Estuary at the old whaling city of Dundee, we’ll see Perth, one of the ancient capitals of Scotland. Tales of battles from the Jacobite rebellions and a visit to Blair Castle, home of Clan Murray, are also options for today. We’ll enjoy fine dining at our stay for the night in an elegant mansion in the heart of rural Highland Perthshire.
Overnight in Blair Atholl
Day 4
Inverness to Loch Ness
We begin today with a short tour of the Highland Capital’s landmarks, Inverness Castle, Flora MacDonald Statue, the River Ness and Saint Andrew’s Cathedral. Where historical fact meets modern fiction the “Outlander” connections are explained. A round trip of Loch Ness to facilitate some “monster hunting” is next. Learn how the Great Glen was fortified along its length and how our National Poet Robert Burns was moved to write a few verses about his visit to the cataract waterfall at Foyers village.
Overnight in Inverness
Day 5
Inverness East and the “Bonnie Black Isle”
Today we set out for a full day of touring in the stunning surrounds of Inverness and the Black Isle. The romantic but tragic events of Culloden in 1746, changed the Highland way of life forever. We visit the field of conflict. The Clava Stones and burial cairns are 4,000 years old. Built along lay lines, many visitors feel the energy from this “other-worldly” field of ceremonial. Fort George is a somber and formidable edifice built at a huge cost to keep Highland armies from “disturbing the peace” ever again. The afternoon is spent in the “Black Isle” across the Moray Firth. Dolphin spotting, Cathedral and Priory visits and a single malt whisky distillery tasting or tour are options.
Overnight in Inverness
Day 6
North to John O’ Groats
A day of contrasts today. From the rolling fields of Easter Ross and crossing no less than 3 Firths, we travel to the Northernmost point of the UK Mainland. Along the way, we visit a fairy tale Castle with a dark history, a Cathedral that is not a Cathedral, a site where a witch was burned, a championship Golf Course designed by Old Tom Morris and a nature and wildlife reserve. We then climb precariously into Caithness where the seascapes and rugged clifftops are spectacular and fishing villages are full of character.
Overnight in Caithness
Day 7
Orkney Islands
Orkney and Shetland, the Northern Isles, are very often shown on maps together, in an inset frame. They are in fact very far apart. Orkney is a short sea crossing from mainland Scotland and is very much worth a visit. Orkney is fiercely independent and clings to their Viking roots. The people are famed for their unique dialect and outstanding friendliness. Today, we take the short crossing to the Orkney archipelago where we will marvel over ancient standing stone circles and encounter Viking and Druid histories.
Overnight in Stromness
Day 8
Thurso To Lochinver
Today we cross the roof of Scotland driving through some of the most spectacular scenery the Highlands has to offer. Beautiful seascapes and deserted white sand beaches nestling in coves of sand dunes are alive with seabirds and wildlife. Our horizon changes dramatically from the high windswept rugged plains of Caithness to the moody and beautiful mountains of West Sutherland. No castles or battles today, just some of the most beautiful scenery in Europe, unspoiled and lovely.
Overnight in Lochinver
Day 9
Lochinver to Torridon
The singer/songwriter, Dave Goulder writes and records these words of this area, “and, if I had a hundred homes, and could stay in each a while, I’d build them all along the coast from Sandwood, down to Kyle.”
Yesterday, and for the next two or three days, we will be traveling in what is probably, the last great unspoiled area of Europe. Much of it is now Nature Reserve, but in fact, has looked this way for millions of years. Superlatives are, frankly, inadequate to describe the Glory of Wester Ross. Every turn of the winding roads exposes a new and different vista of breath-taking countryside.
Overnight in Torridon
Day 10
Torridon to Isle of Skye
Having been well-rested in the “serenity lane” that is Torridon, in the shadow of Liathach mountain, it is well worthwhile to take a morning drive to the village of Diabeg on the Atlantic shore of the Inner Minch. This is a virtual lunar landscape of breath-taking beauty. Torridon Sandstone is thought to be amongst the oldest rock formations in the world, at least 500 million years old. The whole of the Western Seaboard and the North East end of Skye encompass formations up to 1,650 million years old. For much of today, we hold to the coast of the Inner Minch until after reaching Applecross we climb to the heights and descend to Lochcarron. A visit to the world-famous Eilean Donan Castle completes the day.
Overnight in Linicro
Day 11
The Isle of Skye
Skye is breathtakingly beautiful. In any and all weather, it has a mystique that draws people from all over the world. It is an island of visual contrasts. From the domed mountains of the Red and Black Cuillins to the flat-topped MacLeod Tables and the ancient crags of the North End, the variety is as endless as it is timeless. Its people have known, through the ages, the hardships of famine and emigration, both voluntary and enforced. If it is true to say, as is often said, that Scotland’s greatest export has been its sons and daughters, then this is particularly true of the indomitable folk from Skye. Poets, politicians, clergymen, explorers and soldiers of distinction have all left their mark on the world in a measure that belies the size of the population.
Overnight in Oban
Day 12
The Isle of Skye to Oban
Today we depart the “Misty Isle” by way of the Armadale to Mallaig Ferry. Depending on the time and availability of the ferry crossing we have the opportunity of exploring the Ord/Tarskavaig loop on the Sleat peninsula. This is a one-hour drive of breath-taking beauty, taking a winding single-track road right into the depths of the island to little known, and less traveled areas. The Clan Donald Centre Gardens and Museum are also well worth a visit. The short ferry journey to Mallaig brings us back to the West Coast mainland and the fishing village of Mallaig. From here, there is an option of boarding the famous Jacobite Steam train for a “going back in time” journey to Fort William with a stop at Glenfinnan.
Next, we venture into the mighty Glencoe Valley. Created by ice flows millions of years ago, this rugged and lonely place is a “must-see” for anyone visiting the Western Highlands. The area is known for waterfalls and trails that climb to spectacular peaks. In the village, Glencoe Folk Museum occupies 18th-century thatched cottages, with local heritage displays. Abundant wildlife in the area includes red deer and golden eagles.
Overnight in Oban
Day 13
The Isle of Mull
Mull is the second-largest island of the Inner Hebrides and lies off the Argyll coast, a little under one hour sailing from Oban. Close to the landing Port of Craignure lies Duart Castle’s ancestral home of Clan MacLean. Whichever way we branch out from our landing stage this visit is a must. Steeped in the history of the Highlands the castle has also been a film venue. Having visited Duart our day can take us Northward through the Island to the picturesque main town of Tobermory with its painted houses around the Bay, much like Portree on Skye. The journey has wonderful views of the mainland across the Sound of Mull and passes through the villages of Salen and Aros. The other option is to continue South Westward on a somewhat longer trip to Fionnphort where a passenger ferry takes us on a short voyage to the sacred Isle of Iona and its ancient Abbey.
Return to Edinburgh
Depending on your flight preference, you can depart tonight or spend the night in Edinburgh and depart early the next morning. *Airport hotel is not included in this package.
Accommodations
Lodgings are dependent on your travel dates and hotel availability. Your stays will be comparable to the lodgings shown below.
Lodging for
Days 1 & 2
Albyn Townhouse
Edinburgh
Albyn Townhouse is a haven of calm, tucked in the highly desirable Bruntsfield neighborhood of Edinburgh. Beautifully designed and decorated by the resident owner, there are 8 comfortable bedrooms and a welcoming environment in a traditional historic Victorian Townhouse, formerly the St Oswalds Church Manse. This tasteful and comfortable home is a truly amazing building to stay in. Albyn Townhouse is a relaxing retreat just a short distance from Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Lodging for
Day 3
The Old Manse of Blair
Blair Atholl, Perthshire
The Old Manse of Blair, one of the most beautiful listed buildings in Highland Perthshire, is a gorgeous 200-year-old Highland Estate that combines traditional elegance with modern luxury. Each of the generous twenty-six rooms offers a unique stay, complete with sumptuous yet understated interiors. Relax and dine in the warm atmosphere of the 5-star rated restaurant, The Orangery, where guests enjoy locally sourced cuisine.
This premier Estate has been lovingly designed around the concept of a love of nature, inspired by its majestic surroundings of the Cairngorms National Park.
Lodging for
Days 4 & 5
Kingsmills Hotel
Inverness
Originally built in 1785, the historic Kingsmills Hotel retains its traditional 18th-century features, while introducing a range of state-of-the-art facilities. The exceptional luxury services offer the best in rest and relaxation including a world-class spa, indoor pool, fully equipped gym, concierge services, room service, sumptuous fine dining in two restaurants, the best-stocked whisky bar in Inverness, manicured gardens and 147 thoughtfully designed rooms for the modern traveler.
Kingsmills Hotel provides an elegant setting for a truly luxurious Highland retreat.
Lodging for
Day 6
Forss House Hotel
Caithness
Discover the hidden Highlands at Forss House. A traditional 1810 country house hotel delightfully nestled amid 20 acres of wonderful woodlands, below a waterfall, on the meandering River Forss. One of the wildest places in Britain, you’ll discover breathtaking landscapes, soaring sea cliffs and deserted stretches of coastline. During the spring months, watch the colonies of puffins that flock to the clifftops.
Experience genuine Highland warmth and hospitality in one of the 14 bedrooms. Each has been recently restored to its former, traditional glory. Beautifully furnished, the hues are restful, the bedding soft and the light exquisite. The restaurant at Forss House has a reputation as one of the finest in Northern Scotland. The chefs are lucky enough to have some of the finest produce to cook with, straight from the neighboring estates and seas that surround the hotel.
Lodging for
Day 7
The Standing Stones Hotel
Stenness, Orkney
The Standing Stones Hotel is a family-run hotel overlooking the Loch of Stenness. Located in the heart of Neolithic Orkney, the luxury hotel is the perfect starting point for exploring the whole of Orkney, with easy access to all of the UNESCO sites. Throughout its long history, the hotel has had many roles, including use by the Royal Air Force as an operations room in 1918 during World War I.
The Standing Stones Hotel offers comfort and convenience with 17 excellent well-appointed en-suite rooms bedrooms. The Stones Restaurant is the perfect place to enjoy great food prepared with the very best local produce and seafood.
Lodging for
Day 8
The Inver Lodge
Lochinver
From its hillside setting, the hotel looks down onto the quiet fishing village of Lochinver, and across the clear waters of the loch to the distant outline of the Western Isles. All 21 rooms of this graciously welcoming hotel experience the breathtaking vistas of the last great unspoiled wildernesses in Europe. Guests can view Atlantic seals in the harbor, golden eagles over the mountains, red deer on the moorland and leaping salmon and darting brown trout in the rivers and lochs surrounding the hotel.
Family-owned for generations, Inver Lodge prides itself on its genuinely warm hospitality, locally sourced cuisine, generous and beautifully appointed rooms and outstanding Highland scenery.
Lodging for
Day 9
The Torridon
Torridon
Awarded one of the best luxury hotels in Scotland, The Torridon is ideally set in 58 acres of parkland at the end of a magnificent sea loch, enjoying one of the most spectacular and idyllic locations in Scotland. William King-Noel, the first Earl of Lovelace, spent 20 years building this hunting lodge, completed in 1887. Lovelace was Lord Lieutenant of Surrey and a distinguished scientist. He was married to Lord Byron’s only legitimate daughter, Ada.
The resort offers something for everyone, from reviving outdoor escapes to pampered respites. The staff aims to deliver each guest their own unforgettable experience. The 18 individually designed bedrooms and suites blend Scottish heritage with Victorian-era features and splashes of flamboyance, offering beguiling views across Loch Torridon and the surrounding majestic mountains.
Lodging for
Day 10
Monkstadt 1745
Village of Linicro, Isle of Skye
The luxury lodge, Monkstadt 1745, is one of Skye’s most historic homes and the former seat of the Clan MacDonald. Located on the Northernmost Peninsula of the Isle of Skye, it is surrounded by sea and mountains.
All areas of the lodge have been tastefully designed with the history of the house in mind. The elegantly appointed five guest suites are grandly fitted with four-poster beds, large private baths and modern luxuries.
Discover the secrets that lie within Monkstadt 1745 whilst hunkering down by the fireside in the drawing-room. Sit in the seats of some of Scottish history’s greatest characters while enjoying breakfast in the dining room. Get your dose of sea air and explore the nearby Trotternish coastline where Bonnie Prince Charlie landed by boat with Flora MacDonald after the defeat at The Battle of Culloden…all of this and more await you at Monkstadt 1745.
Lodging for
Days 11 & 12
Isle of Eriksa Hotel & Spa
Isle of Eriksa, Oban
The Isle of Eriska is surrounded by stunning views overlooking Loch Linnhe and the Morvern Mountains. Stylish splendor. Michelin star meals. Cocktails with class. Fresh green air. You are invited to indulge in a world of true luxury.
The 16 designer rooms & luxury suites carefully blend the old with the new, including the finest bed linen, rich fabrics, and warm, contemporary décor. Your every need is anticipated with a wide range of in-room facilities and guest services.
Enjoy an oasis of tranquility in the luxury full-service spa and leisure facilities including a heated swimming pool, sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi and fully equipped gym. Treat yourself to fine dining, bespoke cocktails or traditional full afternoon tea in the Michelin-rated restaurant.
Ready to go?
Additional costs will include airfare, meals, additional attractions, tips for tour guides/hospitality staff, shopping, and any other additional expenses incurred by the client. Insurance is encouraged and will be available through a third party company. Cancelation fees will apply and will be determined at time and cancelation and insurance coverage.
Didn’t find what you’re looking for?
Let us create a custom itinerary exclusively for you!
What to Expect on Your Concierge Tour
We Take Care of Everything So You Can Simply Relax
White Glove Service
Your Concierge travels with your group each day, lending personal touches, recommendations and 24/7 availability during your tour. Our enthusiastic Concierges are passionate about ensuring you have the best trip possible. They expertly look after you on your entire journey, taking care of every detail.
Point-to-Point Care
On a Concierge Tour, our guests don’t have to think about a thing. From booking flights and navigating the airport to hotel check-ins and restaurant and activity reservations. Your Concierge also handles all the tickets and documents for your trip. With every detail managed, you can simply relax and focus on having fun.
It’s All About You
We happily accommodate every traveler’s needs, catering to all ages, interests and abilities. Your Concierge and Private Guide expertly fine-tune activities to incorporate clients’ specific needs. For example, if mobility is a concern, we make accessibility a priority and offer any support to meet your needs.
While on Tour
Your Travel Concierge and Private Guide work together to make each day special, adjusting activities based on your preferences. For example, your group might prefer an afternoon of shopping instead of a planned castle visit. No problem! There are no cookie-cutter days on our tours. You’ll enjoy complete freedom and flexibility.
