Country Roads of Scotland - Classic Group
Country Roads of Scotland - Classic Group
Country Roads of Scotland - Classic Group
9 Days Starting in Edinburgh, Scotland and ending in Glasgow, Scotland
Visiting: Edinburgh, St. Andrews, Thurso, Orkney Islands, Skye, Glencoe, Loch Lomond, Glasgow
Tour operator:
Tour code:
B905ZN20
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Country Roads of Scotland - Classic Group" tour, a captivating journey through the heart of Scotland and the United Kingdom. Begin in Edinburgh, where you'll explore the city's rich history and vibrant culture, including a visit to the iconic Edinburgh Castle. Travel through the picturesque landscapes of St. Andrews, Inverness, and the Highlands, with highlights such as the legendary Loch Ness and the historic Culloden Battlefield. Experience the enchanting Orkney Islands and the breathtaking Isle of Skye, with its dramatic Cuillin Hills. Enjoy authentic Scottish dining experiences, including a traditional afternoon tea at Atholl Palace and a delightful dinner in Glencoe. Conclude your adventure in Glasgow, where you'll discover the city's grand architecture and vibrant atmosphere. This tour offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration, natural beauty, and authentic experiences, making it an unforgettable journey through Scotland's most iconic destinations.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To Edinburgh
Location: Edinburgh
Accommodation: Malmaison Hotel Edinburgh.
Accommodation Name: Malmaison, 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
Accommodation: Malmaison Hotel Edinburgh.
Accommodation Name: Malmaison, 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 Hotel, Inverness.
Accommodation Name: Kingsmills, 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. Stop at Atholl Palace and Gardens for a delicious cream tea. Originally opened in Victorian times, the hotel retains many traditional features. Continue via Blair Atholl and pass the Grampian Mountains on the way to the sparkling Spey Valley.
Day 4: Culloden, Loch Ness And Onto Thurso
Location: Thurso
Accommodation: The Pentland Hotel, Thurso., The Norseman Hotel, Wick.
Accommodation Name: The Pentland, 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 Hotel, Thurso.
Accommodation Name: The Pentland, 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 Hotel, Broadford.
Accommodation Name: The Dunollie, 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 Hotel, Glencoe.
Accommodation Name: Ballachulish, Glencoe
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning explore this wild and beautiful island on your own, 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: Loch Lomond
Accommodation: Radisson Blu Hotel, Glasgow.
Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu, 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
-
Choice Highlights
Choose between two carefully selected activities in Wick: visit the Wick Heritage Museum or appreciate the flavors of whiskies with a master distiller.
-
Top Rated Highlights
Visit Edinburgh Castle, explore the city with a Local Expert, and see the River Ness and Inverness Castle.
-
Make Travel Matter
Join a ranger in the Valley of Glencoe to learn about the protection of the ecosystem and reintroduction of indigenous species.
-
Authentic Dining
Enjoy a relaxing dinner in Edinburgh, afternoon tea at Atholl Palace, and Highland hospitality in Glencoe.
-
Insight Choice
Visit the Wick Heritage Museum or enjoy a whisky tasting with a master distiller.
-
Dining Summary
Includes 6 dinners, 8 breakfasts, and 1 afternoon tea.
What's Not Included
Optional ActivitiesOptional cruise on Loch Lomond is not included.
Dining Summary
- 6 Dinner (D)
- 8 Breakfast (B)
- 1 Afternoon Tea (AT)
Mode of Transport
Travel through Scotland's stunning landscapes by coach, with scenic drives along the Firth of Forth, the northern coast, and the Isle of Skye. Enjoy a ferry ride to the Orkney Islands and explore the country roads with your Travel Director.
Accommodation
Stay in charming accommodations such as the Malmaison Hotel in Edinburgh, Kingsmills in Inverness, and The Pentland Hotel in Thurso. Enjoy the comfort of The Dunollie Hotel in Broadford and the Ballachulish Hotel in Glencoe, with a final stay at the Radisson Blu in Glasgow.
Check out our Q&As
-
What unique experiences are included in the tour of the Orkney Islands?
During the tour of the Orkney Islands, you will visit the 5000-year-old village of Skara Brae, explore the old Norse Town of Kirkwall, see the mysterious Ring of Brodgar, and visit a small chapel built by Italian prisoners during World War II.
-
What activities are available in Wick during the tour?
In Wick, you have the option to visit the Wick Heritage Museum to learn about the town's fishing history or enjoy a whisky tasting session with a master distiller at the Old Pulteney Distillery.
-
What can I expect during the visit to Glencoe?
In Glencoe, you will join a ranger to learn about the protection of the rare ecosystem and the reintroduction of indigenous species. The visit supports conservation initiatives and offers insights into the area's biodiversity.
-
What is the significance of the Culloden Battlefield visit?
The visit to Culloden Battlefield is significant as it was the site where Bonnie Prince Charlie's Jacobite army was defeated in 1746, a battle that changed the Highland way of life forever. You will also visit the Culloden Visitor Center to learn more about this historical event.
-
What dining experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant in Edinburgh, afternoon tea at Atholl Palace in Pitlochry, and a dinner featuring market-fresh Scottish ingredients in Glencoe.
-
Can I join the tour once it has departed?
We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.
-
How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
-
What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.
-
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
-
Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.
-
What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
Reviews of this operator
Save on this tour
Request your exclusive discount code now and unlock savings for your next adventure!
Send me one now.1 Select your preferred date
Saturday - Sunday
May 17, 2025 - May 25, 2025Monday - Tuesday
May 26, 2025 - Jun 03, 2025Saturday - Sunday
May 31, 2025 - Jun 08, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Jun 14, 2025 - Jun 22, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Jun 28, 2025 - Jul 06, 2025Monday - Tuesday
Jul 07, 2025 - Jul 15, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Jul 12, 2025 - Jul 20, 2025Monday - Tuesday
Jul 21, 2025 - Jul 29, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Jul 26, 2025 - Aug 03, 2025Monday - Tuesday
Jul 28, 2025 - Aug 05, 2025Monday - Tuesday
Aug 11, 2025 - Aug 19, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Aug 16, 2025 - Aug 24, 2025Monday - Tuesday
Aug 18, 2025 - Aug 26, 2025Monday - Tuesday
Sep 01, 2025 - Sep 09, 2025Monday - Tuesday
Sep 15, 2025 - Sep 23, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Sep 20, 2025 - Sep 28, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Apr 11, 2026 - Apr 19, 2026Saturday - Sunday
Apr 18, 2026 - Apr 26, 2026Saturday - Sunday
Apr 25, 2026 - May 03, 2026Saturday - Sunday
May 09, 2026 - May 17, 2026Saturday - Sunday
May 16, 2026 - May 24, 2026Saturday - Sunday
May 23, 2026 - May 31, 2026Monday - Tuesday
May 25, 2026 - Jun 02, 2026Saturday - Sunday
May 30, 2026 - Jun 07, 2026Monday - Tuesday
Jun 08, 2026 - Jun 16, 2026Saturday - Sunday
Jun 13, 2026 - Jun 21, 2026Monday - Tuesday
Jun 22, 2026 - Jun 30, 2026Saturday - Sunday
Jun 27, 2026 - Jul 05, 2026Monday - Tuesday
Jul 06, 2026 - Jul 14, 2026Saturday - Sunday
Jul 11, 2026 - Jul 19, 2026Monday - Tuesday
Jul 20, 2026 - Jul 28, 2026Saturday - Sunday
Jul 25, 2026 - Aug 02, 2026Monday - Tuesday
Jul 27, 2026 - Aug 04, 2026Saturday - Sunday
Aug 01, 2026 - Aug 09, 2026Monday - Tuesday
Aug 03, 2026 - Aug 11, 2026Saturday - Sunday
Aug 08, 2026 - Aug 16, 2026Monday - Tuesday
Aug 10, 2026 - Aug 18, 2026Saturday - Sunday
Aug 15, 2026 - Aug 23, 2026Saturday - Sunday
Aug 22, 2026 - Aug 30, 2026Monday - Tuesday
Aug 31, 2026 - Sep 08, 2026Saturday - Sunday
Sep 05, 2026 - Sep 13, 2026Monday - Tuesday
Sep 14, 2026 - Sep 22, 2026Saturday - Sunday
Sep 19, 2026 - Sep 27, 2026Monday - Tuesday
Sep 21, 2026 - Sep 29, 2026Monday - Tuesday
Sep 28, 2026 - Oct 06, 2026Book with Confidence
-
Low Deposit
Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.
Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
-
Terms and Conditions
Why book with Barrhead?
Fully Protected
All our holidays are fully financially protected.
Your flight & hotel package is fully ATOL protected.
Range
Our bespoke holidays are tailor-made to suit your personal requirements.
We can book flights, rail journeys, accommodation, cruises, attraction tickets and much more.
Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.
Expert Knowledge
We know because we go – our Touring & Adventure specialists have travelled to over 55 countries.
Reliable & unbiased advice from our trusted travel experts.
Trusted Agent
Multi award-winning agency with almost 50 years experience.
Rated 4.9/5 on Trustpilot – the highest-rated high-street travel agent.
We look after you every step of the way.