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Eilean Donan
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4.7
Read 105 reviews

Find your castle in the sky 

Revisit the past on this leisurely Scottish tour filled with castle ruins, ancient battlefields, and colorful stories from the country's rich history.

Trip details

Tour start Glasgow

trip-destination

Tour end Edinburgh

10 icon

Days

9 icon

Nights

15 icon

Meals

Available Promotions for this Tour

Group Discount

Solo Traveler

Solo Travel

Highlights

Stirling Castle

Stirling Castle is one of Scotland’s grandest castles, with its imposing position and impressive architecture, and the scenery will take your breath away.

Dunvegan Castle

The oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland, it has been the ancestral home of Clan MacLeod for 800 years.

Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre

Explore the battlefield where the 1745 Jacobite Rising came to a tragic end.

Palace of Holyroodhouse

Explore the Palace's past with some of Scotland’s well-known historic figures, Mary Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie, and learn how it is used by The Queen when carrying out official engagements in Scotland.

Isle of Skye

Admire the rugged coastlines and ancient ruins of this Scottish island.

Eilean Donan Castle

Eilean Donan Castle

One of the most iconic images of Scotland, Eilean Donan Castle sits majestically on a small island at the point where three great sea lochs meet in the Highlands.

Scottish Sheepdog Demonstration

Scottish Sheepdog Demonstration

Watch highly experienced sheepdogs mind their flocks at a charming Scottish farm.

Fyvie Castle

Experience the allure of Fyvie Castle, a captivating Scottish treasure steeped in history, architectural beauty, and idyllic surroundings.

Edinburgh Castle

Uncover centuries of history and marvel at breathtaking views from Edinburgh Castle, a majestic fortress that stands as a symbol of Scotland's heritage and offers a truly unforgettable experience.

Highland Cows

Get captivated by Scotland's adorable Highland cows, as they roam amidst stunning landscapes, offering an unforgettable and charming glimpse into the country's natural wonders.

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Travelers on our July 30 – August 20 departures can watch kilt-clad corps perform with drums and pipes in military precision.

Glamis Castle

Marvel at the priceless artifacts and period furniture in Glamis Castle. Home to the Lyons family since the 14th century, this Scottish castle is famed as the setting of Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” and as the childhood home of the late Queen Mother.

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Itinerary

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slide Day 1Glasgow Panoramic Tour & Welcome Drink 

Your tour departs from your hotel at 2:30 PM for a panoramic tour of Glasgow, seeing sights like George Square, Kelvingrove Park, the cathedral and the university, all featured in the popular TV series “Outlander.” Enjoy a welcome drink with your group before a free evening to explore and dine as you wish.  
Visit Stirling Castle, a magnificent strong-hold that was the childhood home of many Scottish kings and queens, including Mary, Queen of Scots. Next, sample a dram at Glengoyne Distillery and learn about its two centuries of whisky making. Return to Glasgow for a free evening. (B) 
Journey into the majestic Highlands, along Loch Lomond, across Rannoch Moor and through Glencoe, often considered one of Scotland’s most spectacular places. Stop for photos along the way, then continue on to the romantic Eilean Donan Castle before arriving at your hotel on the shore of Loch Alsh. (B, D) 
Spend a full day exploring the Isle of Skye, a scenic island that was once a refuge for Bonnie Prince Charlie. Travel to Dunvegan Castle, the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland. Admire the Trotternish Peninsula as you travel to Kilt Rock, a 200-foot-high sea cliff with huge, vertical basalt columns. Visit Flora MacDonald’s grave in Kilmuir Graveyard and stop in Portree for free time. (B, D) 
Embark on a cruise of Loch Ness. The home of the legendary monster boasts splendid mountain scenery and lovely photo opportunities. Next, take in the beauty of your route as you drive along the edge of the Cairngorms National Park on your way to a farm for a demonstration by skilled sheepdogs working with the farmer to herd their flock. Dine at your hotel this evening. (B, D) 
Visit the Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre to discover how British government forces defeated the army of Bonnie Prince Charlie, to end the Jacobite Rising. Proceed to Aberdeenshire to visit Fyvie Castle, Garden and Estate. Discover 800 years of the castle’s history and see the extraordinary collection of art, arms, and armor gathered by a local man who made his fortune in the American steel industry. Dine at your manor-house hotel near Aberdeen this evening. (B, D)
Visit Aberdeenshire Highland Cattle to meet a farmer raising Highland cows. See and photograph these famously gentle, long-haired creatures up close. Next, tour Drum Castle, Garden and Estate and see its imposing medieval tower and impressive Victorian library. Return to your hotel to dine with your group. (B, D) 
Travel to Glamis Castle, the legendary setting of Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” and the childhood home of the late Queen Mother. This majestic building is filled with priceless artifacts and furnishings. Take a panoramic drive through the city of Dundee to see its transformed waterfront, with its impressive architecture and urban beach. Continue on to St Andrews, known as the home of golf and rich in medieval heritage. Take a panoramic drive and explore the city independently before departing for your hotel near Edinburgh. Your evening is free to dine independently. (B)
* In Edinburgh, see how the medieval townhouses along the Royal Mile in the heart of the Old Town stand in stark contrast to the Georgian mansions of the 200-year-old New Town. Tour the impressive Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official Scottish residence of the King, and walk through the majestically furnished chambers. Next, visit Edinburgh Castle to see the Scottish Crown Jewels and great views of the city. Enjoy a Scottish evening with a farewell dinner and traditional entertainment. July 30 – August 20 departures will instead dine independently and then attend The Royal Military Edinburgh Tattoo. (B, D*)
Your tour ends after breakfast.  (B) B: Breakfast; L: Lunch; D: Dinner>

Where you’ll stay

Sandman Signature Glasgow Hotel

Sandman Signature Glasgow Hotel Glasgow, Scotland

The Sandman Signature Hotel is a stunning hotel with 179 bedrooms in the center of vibrant Glasgow...
Balmacara Hotel Exterior

Balmacara Hotel Scottish Highlands, Scotland

This traditional Highland hotel is beautifully located on scenic Loch Alsh, with views of the Isle...

Courtyard by Marriott Inverness Airport Inverness, Scotland

At the Courtyard by Marriott Inverness Airport, comfort and convenience blend seamlessly to create...

Ardoe House Hotel and Spa Aberdeen, Scotland

This gracious 19th century manor house hotel is set in landscaped grounds and features period...
Doubletree by Hilton Queensferry Crossing restaurant

DoubleTree by Hilton Edinburgh - Queensferry Crossing Edinburgh, Scotland

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Inclusive package with no hidden extras

What's included?

  • Full daily breakfast and many meals*
  • An evening of Scottish entertainment
  • Transportation (Buses, shuttles & ferries)
  • Welcome drinks with your group
  • Free Wi-Fi on luxury coaches
  • All entrance fees to attractions
  • Comprehensive travel itinerary

 

*Breakfast is not included on Day 1

Our welcome gift to you

  • A travel backpack
  • Travel adapter
  • Rain poncho
  • Luggage strap and tags
  • Water flask

From our travelers

I had a magnificent journey through the lowlands and highlands of Scotland. Everything about this tour was top notch.

Robin Zonghi, Massachusetts
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See what people are saying about this trip

5
Catherine Evans
3 days 11 hours ago
Fantastic experience

Loved being on a large coach with only 18 people. And the knowledge and humor of Barry our guide. I loved the itinerary. Loved the Highlands, sheep herding and meeting highland cows. The whole trip was wonderful!!!

4
CIE Tours Customer
6 days ago
Pace

I loved seeing the country side and enjoyed getting to talk to local farmers.

5
Kevin Thomas
1 week ago
I ready to go back, naw, I want to move there.

I finally got to see where my ancestors came from. It was so beautiful, I wish I knew why they left.

5
Terry Lee Weems
6 months 1 week ago
Highly recommend!

Everything was fantastic! All the castles were great! Yes, had some issues with Storm Amy, but our guide, Di, made up for it. Everything was wonderful.

5
Martha Anne Lozier
8 months 1 week ago
Great tour company

A plus all the way…👍 lovely people and worry free trip.. Great third tour with CIE…. Tour guide was the best I have had on my tour. He worked through a problem we had with percussion and was very helpful. I will alway be thankful for that.
Will hope to tour again with CIE

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