Scottish Lochs & Castles With a Local

Spend four days in Scotland on a private tour with a local guide who can tell you about Scottish history and folk tales. The itinerary includes the capital city Edinburgh, and the Highlands, including iconic sites such as Loch Ness and Glen Coe. Your private guide will recommend and adjust stops along the way based on your interests.

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN EDINBURGH

Upon your arrival in Edinburgh, you will be greeted by a private driver who will take you to your hotel in the city centre. For those arriving early in the day, we recommend spending the afternoon walking through the city, strolling along the Royal Mile and exploring the Old Town and New Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are also plenty of museums and landmarks to visit within the city centre, including the majestic Edinburgh Castle.

Spend the night in Edinburgh.

DAY 2: INTO THE HIGHLANDS

Today your private tour guide will pick you up from your hotel in a comfortable vehicle. On the way you can stop at the charming village of Dunkeld and enjoy a walk at the picturesque Hermitage. We also recommend passing by the Highland Folk Museum in the Cairngorms National Park. Arriving near Inverness, you have the option to visit the Battlefield of Culloden Moor, to see where the last battle on British soil occurred in 1746, marking "the beginning of the end for the Highlands." Nearby you could also roam around Clava Cairns, a series of tombs and standing stones dating back roughly 4,000 years.

Spend the night in Inverness area.

Driving distance: 243 km / 151 miles

Average travel & exploring duration: estimated 9-10 hours

DAY 3: TRAVEL ALONG LOCH NESS AND BRAVEHEART COUNTRY

Today's drive takes you back to Edinburgh via Fort William. (You have the option to end your tour in Glasgow if you want to explore Scotland's largest city.) You'll first pass by the famous Loch Ness where you can choose to take a boat tour to admire the views of the loch or go explore the nearby Urquhart Castle ruins. Later, you can check out the views of Ben Nevis, the UK's tallest mountain, from the Spean Bridge Memorial before making the worthwhile detour past Scotland’s most famous valley, Glen Coe, which offers breathtaking scenery. Later on, drive through Callander and stop for a photo at Doune Castle, featured in many films and TV series.

Spend the night in Edinburgh.

Driving distance: 307 km / 191 miles  

Average travel & exploring duration: estimated 9-10 hours

DAY 4: DEPARTURE FROM SCOTLAND

On your day of departure, a private driver will pick you up from your hotel to take you directly to the airport. If your flight is in the afternoon, you may take your last few hours to do some last-minute shopping, visit one of Edinburgh’s many museums, or take one last stroll through the charming city centre.