Start Your Story in Scotland

Where history meets breathtaking beauty, and every visit feels like an escape.

Inspiration for your trip

Step into a land steeped in history and legend, explore our dramatic landscapes and uncover our ancient Celtic roots. Vast lochs, glens and Munros - easily accessible from our vibrant cities and towns - make Scotland the perfect place to lose yourself.

Discover unique experiences in Scotland

Discover hidden gems, plan your perfect trip, or find exactly what you need—from scenic hikes and cosy cottages to events and cultural experiences.

Discover Scotland's vibrant events and festivals

FIFA World Cup 2026

Cheer on Scotland at the FIFA World Cup 2026 and find information about fan zones in Scotland, stadium tours and more.

Highland games in Scotland

From the tug o' war to the caber toss, Scotland's Highland games are not to be missed.

Edinburgh Festivals

Discover Edinburgh's summer festivals, including the world-famous Edinburgh International Festival and Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

Events and festivals in Scotland

There's something happening in Scotland right now that the whole family will love.

Countdown to Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games

Less than 100 days to go until 11 days of world-class action across the city, bringing 3,000 athletes from 74 nations together to compete across 10 sports.

Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games

Start planning your summer break

Witness Scotland step into summer, with longer days and plenty of experiences to enjoy from coastal walks to fun exhibitions.

Summer holidays & breaks in Scotland

Find ideas and inspiration, from family days out to top camping spots, walks and outdoor activities.

Scotland's islands

Find out about the hundreds of islands in Scotland including Arran, Lewis, Skye, Outer Hebrides and Shetland. Plan the perfect island getaway today.

Scottish music festivals

Find out what’s happening in Scotland this year

The best tours of Scotland - luxury & scenic tours

Tour Scotland at your own pace with these fantastic ideas.

Your Scottish adventure starts here

Use our interactive map to explore wild landscapes, vibrant cities, rich culture, and hidden historic gems to craft your personal Scottish experience.

Map of Scotland

As seen on TV!

From Tara Lipinski and Johnny Weir's luxury Scotland itinerary to local suggestions on the highlights of Glasgow and Dumfries & Galloway, check out this top advice on trips across Scotland.

Tara & Johnny's luxury Scotland itinerary

Have you been inspired by Tara & Johnny's Scotland itinerary as seen on NBC's Extra Mile Club? Read on and plan your own Scottish adventure.

Channel 4's Where to next? Scotland itinerary

Follow in the footsteps of comedians Fatiha El-Ghorri and John Tothill on their unforgettable journey through Scotland.

Scotland trip itineraries

Plan your days in Scotland with the help of our suggested itineraries.

Your pictures of Scotland

Share your images by tagging @VisitScotland 

JavaScript needs to be enabled to see social media images for this place. You can turn this on in your browser settings.

Join our Newsletter Clan

Get Scotland inspiration direct to your inbox. Don't miss the inside track from our Scotland experts on exciting trip ideas, unique attractions and hidden gems loved by locals.

Get the Scotland newsletter

Dunnattor Castle

Royal Deeside

Journey through Scotland’s stunning landscapes, from historic castles and dramatic coastlines to serene highlands and royal estates. Discover tales of royalty, rebellion, and heritage while exploring charming towns and breathtaking viewpoints.

Day 1: Edinburgh to Banchory

Your journey begins in the vibrant city of Edinburgh, heading north towards the historic Glamis Castle. Nestled in the lush Angus countryside, Glamis Castle is a stunning example of Scottish baronial architecture. As you explore its grand rooms and beautiful gardens, you’ll uncover tales of royal connections and Shakespearean drama, as the castle is famously linked to “Macbeth.”

Leaving Glamis, you travel northeast towards the dramatic coastline where Dunnottar Castle awaits. Perched on a rocky headland, this fortress offers breathtaking views of the North Sea. The castle’s ruins tell stories of sieges and battles, including its role in hiding the Honours of Scotland from Oliver Cromwell’s forces.

A short drive brings you to Kinneff Kirk, a humble yet historically significant site. Here, the Honours of Scotland were secretly kept after being smuggled out of Dunnottar Castle. The kirk’s serene setting provides a moment of reflection on Scotland’s turbulent past.

Continuing your journey, you ascend to the Cairn O’Mount Viewpoint. This highland pass offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, a perfect spot for capturing the rugged beauty of Scotland.

Your day concludes in the charming town of Banchory, nestled in the heart of Royal Deeside. Enjoy a relaxing evening in this picturesque setting, surrounded by rolling hills and the tranquil River Dee.

Overnight Stay

Banchory offers a range of cozy accommodations, where you can unwind and savor local hospitality.

Day 2: Banchory to Edinburgh

Departing from Banchory, you drive through the quaint village of Ballater, known for its Victorian heritage and royal connections. The scenic route takes you through the heart of Royal Deeside, with its lush forests and sparkling rivers.

Next, you reach the Corgarff Viewpoint, offering stunning vistas of the Cairngorms National Park. This spot is perfect for appreciating the vast, untamed beauty of the Scottish Highlands.

Your journey continues to Balmoral Castle, the Scottish residence of the Royal Family. While the castle itself may not be open to the public outside of April to July, the surrounding estate offers picturesque views and a sense of royal grandeur.

Heading south, you arrive at Scone Palace, the crowning place of Scottish kings. The palace’s rich history is complemented by its beautiful gardens and grounds, where you can enjoy a leisurely lunch and explore the historic site.

Finally, you make your way back to Edinburgh, reflecting on the diverse landscapes and rich history you’ve experienced over the past two days. From the dramatic coastlines and historic castles to the serene highlands and royal estates, this journey offers a captivating glimpse into Scotland’s heritage and natural beauty.

Price on Request

Departure days

  • Monday
  • Tuesday
  • Wednesday
  • Thursday
  • Friday
  • Saturday
  • Sunday

March — October

Book now

Contact details

First Escapes Scotland

44 Cowdenhead Crescent
West Lothian
Scotland
EH48 4EE
View tour provider details

Tour information

Starting

  • Edinburgh
  • Edinburgh - City Centre
  • Edinburgh Airport

Length

2 Days

Transport

  • Driver guide

Type

  • Bespoke
  • Private

Languages

  • English

Themes

  • Architecture
  • Castles
  • History
  • Landscapes

Tour Stops

Tour gallery

First Escapes Scotland

Tour company information

First Escapes Scotland

At First Escapes Scotland, we’re a small, family-run business dedicated to crafting unforgettable journeys into the heart of Scotland. Each of our tours is carefully designed to immerse you in the spirit of this remarkable land, from misty highlands and rugged coastlines, to ancient castles steeped in legend, and the timeless echoes of old clan tales. Our offerings range from pre-booked tours that highlight Scotland’s must-see destinations to bespoke, customisable experiences, tailored to create a truly unique adventure.

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Visit First Escapes Scotland

Opening times

Monday - Saturday
08:30 - 16:30

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Start Your Story in Scotland

Where history meets breathtaking beauty, and every visit feels like an escape.

Inspiration for your trip

Step into a land steeped in history and legend, explore our dramatic landscapes and uncover our ancient Celtic roots. Vast lochs, glens and Munros - easily accessible from our vibrant cities and towns - make Scotland the perfect place to lose yourself.

Discover unique experiences in Scotland

Discover hidden gems, plan your perfect trip, or find exactly what you need—from scenic hikes and cosy cottages to events and cultural experiences.

Discover Scotland's vibrant events and festivals

FIFA World Cup 2026

Cheer on Scotland at the FIFA World Cup 2026 and find information about fan zones in Scotland, stadium tours and more.

Highland games in Scotland

From the tug o' war to the caber toss, Scotland's Highland games are not to be missed.

Edinburgh Festivals

Discover Edinburgh's summer festivals, including the world-famous Edinburgh International Festival and Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

Events and festivals in Scotland

There's something happening in Scotland right now that the whole family will love.

Countdown to Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games

Less than 100 days to go until 11 days of world-class action across the city, bringing 3,000 athletes from 74 nations together to compete across 10 sports.

Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games

Start planning your summer break

Witness Scotland step into summer, with longer days and plenty of experiences to enjoy from coastal walks to fun exhibitions.

Summer holidays & breaks in Scotland

Find ideas and inspiration, from family days out to top camping spots, walks and outdoor activities.

Scotland's islands

Find out about the hundreds of islands in Scotland including Arran, Lewis, Skye, Outer Hebrides and Shetland. Plan the perfect island getaway today.

Scottish music festivals

Find out what’s happening in Scotland this year

The best tours of Scotland - luxury & scenic tours

Tour Scotland at your own pace with these fantastic ideas.

Your Scottish adventure starts here

Use our interactive map to explore wild landscapes, vibrant cities, rich culture, and hidden historic gems to craft your personal Scottish experience.

Map of Scotland

As seen on TV!

From Tara Lipinski and Johnny Weir's luxury Scotland itinerary to local suggestions on the highlights of Glasgow and Dumfries & Galloway, check out this top advice on trips across Scotland.

Tara & Johnny's luxury Scotland itinerary

Have you been inspired by Tara & Johnny's Scotland itinerary as seen on NBC's Extra Mile Club? Read on and plan your own Scottish adventure.

Channel 4's Where to next? Scotland itinerary

Follow in the footsteps of comedians Fatiha El-Ghorri and John Tothill on their unforgettable journey through Scotland.

Scotland trip itineraries

Plan your days in Scotland with the help of our suggested itineraries.

Your pictures of Scotland

Share your images by tagging @VisitScotland 

JavaScript needs to be enabled to see social media images for this place. You can turn this on in your browser settings.

Join our Newsletter Clan

Get Scotland inspiration direct to your inbox. Don't miss the inside track from our Scotland experts on exciting trip ideas, unique attractions and hidden gems loved by locals.

Get the Scotland newsletter