Country Roads of Scotland - Small Group
Country Roads of Scotland - Small Group
Country Roads of Scotland - Small Group
9 Days Starting in Edinburgh, Scotland and ending in Glasgow, Scotland
Visiting: Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland, St. Andrews, Thurso, Orkney Islands, Skye, Glencoe, Glasgow
Tour operator:
Tour code:
SB905ZN20
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
12 - 24
Age range:
6-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the scenic landscapes and rich history of Scotland with the "Country Roads of Scotland - Small Group" tour. This immersive experience begins in Edinburgh, where you'll enjoy a welcome dinner and explore iconic sites like Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Travel to St. Andrews, the birthplace of golf, and continue to the Highlands, visiting Culloden Moor and the legendary Loch Ness. Discover the Orkney Islands' ancient relics, the dramatic Isle of Skye, and the picturesque Eilean Donan Castle. Conclude your adventure in Glasgow, having experienced the best of Scottish culture, history, and natural beauty. Enjoy comfortable accommodations, expert guidance, and a seamless travel experience throughout this captivating tour.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To Edinburgh
Location: Edinburgh
Accommodation: Malmaison Hotel Edinburgh
Accommodation Name: Malmaison Hotel Edinburgh
Meals Included: Dinner
Join your Travel Director for dinner at a local restaurant. On select departures, during your time in Edinburgh you will also attend The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo — a colorful mix of pipes and drums, dance and display, set against the floodlit backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.
Day 2: Edinburgh, The Capital Of Culture
Location: Edinburgh, Scotland
Accommodation: Malmaison Hotel Edinburgh
Accommodation Name: Malmaison Hotel Edinburgh
Meals Included: Breakfast
Join a Local Expert to see the highlights of the city. In the Old Town, see the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official Scottish residence of the King. Drive along Princes Street to the ornate Scott Memorial, then see the 18th century New Town with its neoclassical Georgian facades. Venture up the Royal Mile to visit Edinburgh Castle, home of Mons Meg and Scotland’s Crown Jewels. The rest of the day is at leisure; why not visit the art treasures in the National Gallery?
Day 3: To St. Andrews And The Highland Capital Of Inverness
Location: St. Andrews
Accommodation: Kingsmills, Inverness
Accommodation Name: Kingsmills Hotel Inverness
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Cross the Firth of Forth into Fife and journey to St. Andrews, passing the Old Course, home of golf since its creation in the 15th century. Enjoy free time to explore. Perhaps stroll to West Sands Beach where the famous 'Chariots of Fire' scene was filmed? Alternatively, wander to St. Andrews University where the love story of Kate Middleton meeting her Prince Charming began. Continue via Blair Atholl and pass the Grampian Mountains on the way to the sparkling Spey Valley. Stop at Atholl Palace and Gardens for a delicious cream tea. Originally opened in Victorian times, the hotel retains many traditional features.
Day 4: Culloden, Loch Ness And Onto Thurso
Location: Thurso
Accommodation: The Pentland, Thurso
Accommodation Name: The Pentland Hotel Thurso
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Keep your eyes peeled for the Loch Ness monster this morning during a scenic drive along the legendary lake. See Culloden Battlefield in the morning, where Bonnie Prince Charlie’s Jacobite army was crushed in 1746. Visit the Culloden Visitor Center. Next, with Insight Choice discover the fishing port of Wick. Choose to visit the Old Pulteney Distillery to taste a wee dram of its award-winning whiskies. Alternatively, join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience with a visit to the highly rated Wick Heritage Museum and hear about the past of this once thriving fishing community.
Day 5: A Day In The Orkney Islands
Location: Orkney Islands
Accommodation: The Pentland, Thurso
Accommodation Name: The Pentland Hotel Thurso
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Start the day by boarding the ferry to the beautiful Orkney Islands where the countryside is breathtakingly majestic and the tranquillity supports a quieter pace of life. Here the hardy locals say they live ‘below the wind and above the water.’ Your Travel Director accompanies you as you visit the 5000-year-old village of Skara Brae, the old Norse Town of Kirkwall, the mysterious Ring of Brodgar, Kirkwall and the small chapel built by Italian prisoners during World War II.
Day 6: Over The Sea To Skye
Location: Skye
Accommodation: The Dunollie, Broadford
Accommodation Name: The Dunollie Hotel Broadford
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Travel through stunning, pristine landscapes along the northern coast with its white sandy beaches, and further inland to misty valleys and glens, lochs and rushing waters. Then it’s ‘Over the Sea to Skye,’ the largest and most beautiful island of the Inner Hebrides. On the way to Broadford, hear romantic tales of how young Flora MacDonald helped rescue Bonnie Prince Charlie and see the dramatic Cuillin Hills.
Day 7: Through The Scottish Highlands To Glencoe Relaxed Start
Location: Glencoe
Accommodation: Ballachulish, Glencoe
Accommodation Name: Ballachulish Hotel Glencoe
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Take in this wild and beautiful landscape before crossing to the Kyle of Lochalsh. Stop for a photo at remote Eilean Donan Castle, which under a clear sky offers a perfect reflection in its loch. Move on to the WWII Commando Memorial where there is a fine view of Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain. Enjoy spectacular scenery en route to the Valley of Glencoe. Join a ranger for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, learn about the protection of this rare ecosystem and the important work reintroducing lost indigenous species to its flora and fauna. In the evening, enjoy market-fresh Scottish ingredients and wine, as you get together with your newfound friends for a sumptuous dinner. Don't be surprised if, by the end of the evening, you're 'Toasting to the Lassies' or singing 'Auld Lang Syne'.
Day 8: Along The Bonnie Banks Of Loch Lomond To Glasgow Relaxed Start
Location: Glasgow
Accommodation: Radisson Blu, Glasgow
Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu Hotel Glasgow
Meals Included: Breakfast
Spend time around peaceful Loch Lomond, ‘Queen of Scottish Lochs’ according to Sir Walter Scott and the largest in Great Britain. Perhaps experience the beauty and tranquillity of the loch with an optional cruise before continuing to Glasgow? An orientation drive through the city will show you the grand public buildings, including George Square and St. Mungo’s Cathedral. Then the rest of the afternoon is at your leisure.
Day 9: Depart Glasgow
Location: Glasgow
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, bid farewell to your journey along the country roads of Scotland as you transfer to the airport.
What's Included
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Meals
15 meals are included in the tour: 8 breakfasts, 6 dinners, and 1 afternoon tea.
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Transportation
Travel through Scotland with included transportation, featuring scenic drives, ferry rides to the Orkney Islands, and visits to iconic locations such as Edinburgh, Inverness, and Glasgow.
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Guided Tours
The tour includes a fully guided experience with a highly-skilled Travel Director.
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Sightseeing
Sightseeing and transportation as detailed, including visits to Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, St. Andrews, Loch Ness, Culloden Moor, the Orkney Islands, the Isle of Skye, Eilean Donan Castle, the Valley of Glencoe, Loch Lomond, and Glasgow.
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Local Experiences
Unique local experiences such as a visit to the Wick Heritage Museum, a whisky tasting with a master distiller, and a ranger-led tour in the Valley of Glencoe.
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Tips and Taxes
Hotel and restaurant tips are included, as well as all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
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Luggage Handling
Luggage handling is included, with bags delivered to your hotel door.
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Wi-Fi
Stay connected with complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
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Transfers
Transfers are available at scheduled times if your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates.
What's Not Included
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included.
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International Flights
International flights to and from the tour destination are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel through Scotland with included transportation, featuring scenic drives, ferry rides to the Orkney Islands, and visits to iconic locations such as Edinburgh, Inverness, and Glasgow.
Accommodation
Enjoy 8 nights of comfortable accommodation at various hotels including Malmaison Hotel Edinburgh, Kingsmills Hotel Inverness, The Pentland Hotel Thurso, The Dunollie Hotel Broadford, Ballachulish Hotel Glencoe, and Radisson Blu Hotel Glasgow.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of transportation is included in the tour?
The tour includes scenic drives, ferry rides to the Orkney Islands, and visits to iconic locations such as Edinburgh, Inverness, and Glasgow. You will travel in a luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and an onboard washroom. The coaches are sanitized before the start of the tour and maintained to very high standards, with physical distancing measures implemented.
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What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?
You will enjoy 8 nights of comfortable accommodation at various hotels including Malmaison Hotel Edinburgh, Kingsmills Hotel Inverness, The Pentland Hotel Thurso, The Dunollie Hotel Broadford, Ballachulish Hotel Glencoe, and Radisson Blu Hotel Glasgow.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, the tour includes 15 meals: 8 breakfasts, 6 dinners, and 1 afternoon tea.
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What kind of activities are included in the tour?
The tour includes a variety of activities such as visiting the Palace of Holyroodhouse and Edinburgh Castle, exploring St. Andrews and the Old Course, a scenic drive along Loch Ness, a ferry ride to the Orkney Islands, and a visit to Skara Brae and the Ring of Brodgar. You will also travel to the Isle of Skye, see the Cuillin Hills, and have a photo stop at Eilean Donan Castle. Additionally, you will visit the Valley of Glencoe, spend time around Loch Lomond, and explore Glasgow.
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Is there any special experience related to whisky tasting?
Yes, in Wick, you will have the opportunity to share a wee dram with a master distiller who will impart age-old techniques of whisky making.
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What kind of support can I expect from the Travel Director?
Your highly-skilled Travel Director will ensure your journey is seamless, serving as your expert guide, consummate organizer, and friend overseas. They will also delight you with a Brendan Flourish from time to time, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
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Are tips and taxes included in the tour price?
Yes, hotel and restaurant tips are included, so you won't have to worry about how much to give or search for foreign currency. All taxes and porterage charges at hotels are also included.
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Is there Wi-Fi available during the tour?
Yes, you can stay connected with friends and family with complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi, where available.
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What kind of cultural experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes several cultural experiences such as attending The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, visiting the Wick Heritage Museum, and joining a ranger in the Valley of Glencoe to learn about the protection of the rare ecosystem and the important work reintroducing lost indigenous species.
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Are airport transfers included in the tour package?
If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights' accommodation with the tour provider, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
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Is there seat rotation on the coach?
Yes, your Travel Director will implement a seat rotation system, whereby all guests will rotate their seats on the coach daily. This allows for everyone to experience the spectacular views from different seats, and you’ll have a better opportunity to get to know your fellow travelers.
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Is luggage handling provided?
On Guided Vacations and Private Chauffeur Vacations, all luggage handling is provided at no extra charge. One suitcase per person will be brought to your hotel room.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes! Our hotels are personally selected by Managing Director Catherine Reilly and personally known for their quality, impeccable service and comfort, with the majority of them having air-conditioning. Note: A few hotels may not have air conditioning due to the colder climate.
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What are the coaches like?
We pride ourselves on having the finest fleet of fuel-efficient, fully air-conditioned coaches – all with reclining seats and on-board restrooms. The high vantage point from your coach’s window means you can take in all the glorious scenery, whether it’s a vast rural landscape or an urban city center. We also have on board WiFi.
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Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?
Brendan Vacations is an active supporter of the Treadright® Foundation, a not-for-profit organization established in 2008. So far, the charity has donated more than $2 million to help underprivileged communities and support sustainable tourism around the world.
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How many people will be on my trip?
You’ll find an average of 40 to 45 guests on trips throughout Europe.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
The beauty of taking a guided vacation with us is you’ll have the opportunity to meet and travel with people from all over the globe.
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Will I have free time?
Each itinerary offers the perfect balance of downtime and discoveries. We also give you the opportunity to tailor your trip with Optional Experiences.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Yes. If you are travelling solo but would be happy to share your rook with another traveller of the same gender, we offer 'Twin-share' pricing on our trips. However, if you prefer the privacy of your own room, you can opt for our single supplement. The cost will depend on your trip and can be found in the pricing section of the itinerary.
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How much luggage can I bring?
On Guided Vacations, you can bring one suitcase per person with the dimensions of 76cm x 46cm x 25cm (30" x 18" x 10") and weight not exceeding 23kg (50 lbs) due to the limited space on the coach. You can also bring one piece of hand luggage, provided it is small enough to take on the coach and does not have telescopic handles.
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What is a Travel Director?
Our Travel Directors come from a variety of backgrounds, but they all share a passion for travel and their homelands. These experienced professionals show you what the guidebooks can't - a true insider's perspective of Ireland and Scotland. Each Travel Director has been through a bespoke training program, and many have at least five years' experience under their belt.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Travel documents (important information, itinerary and any relevant vouchers) will be provided 7-10 days prior to your trip's departure.
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What if I have special dietary requirements?
We can accommodate guests who are vegetarian and can assist with diabetic, gluten-free and other medically-recommended diets. Please advise us at time of booking. Unfortunately, we're unable to supply meals in accordance with strict religious requirements. We cannot provide salt-free, Kosher, Halal, requests for specific dietary supplements such as soy milk, and high protein or low-carb meals.
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Aug 30, 2025 - Sep 07, 2025Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Brendan Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 200 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of brendan vacations charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.