Edinburgh in the Autumn

Anthony and Linda Ferruolo

Wednesday 2nd October – Tuesday 8th October 2024

Number of Travellers: 2
Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights

Overview

On a carefully crafted trip just for you, discover the hidden secrets of Edinburgh, Scotland’s historic capital city. Explore the historic streets, including the Royal Mile and Dean Village, and visit the iconic Edinburgh Castle. Delve into the history at the Palace of Holyrood house or the Chambers Street Museum and spend time in nature as you explore the Royal Botanic Gardens, wander through diverse plant collections, and enjoy vibrant autumn displays. On day trips into the country, visit Rosslyn Chapel, Thirlestane Castle and the charming coastal town of North Berwick. As well as Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park for a taste of the Highlands. On a trip that combines Scotland’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and tranquil gardens, enjoy days uncovering Edinburgh and nights relaxing in the famed Scottish hospitality.

Itinerary at a Glance

Day 1 | Wednesday 2nd October | Arrive in Edinburgh | Overnight: Edinburgh

Day 2 | Thursday 3rd October | Guided City Tour and Edinburgh Castle | Overnight: Edinburgh

Day 3 | Friday 4th October | Roslin Chapel, Thirlestane Castle & North Berwick | Overnight: Edinburgh

Day 4 | Saturday 5th October | A Day to Explore Edinburgh at Your Own Pace | Overnight: Edinburgh

Day 5 | Sunday 6th October | Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park | Overnight: Edinburgh

Day 6 | Monday 7th October | Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh | Overnight: Edinburgh

Day 7 | Tuesday 8th October | Departure

Highlights

  • Exploring Edinburgh’s Historic Streets: Wander the Old Town, enjoy Princes Street Gardens, and take in panoramic views from Calton Hill.
  • Visit Edinburgh Castle: Tour the ancient rooms of the castle, see the Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny, and enjoy stunning city views.
  • Discovering Scenic and Historic Treasures: Visit the mystical Rosslyn Chapel, explore Thirlestane Castle, and stroll through North Berwick, enjoying traditional fish and chips by the sea.
  • Immersing in Natural Beauty: Explore Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, meet Highland cows in Callander, and marvel at the Falls of Dochart in Killin.

Day by Day

Day 1 - Wednesday 2nd October - Arrive in Edinburgh

Welcome to Scotland! Upon arriving in Edinburgh, check into your hotel and take a moment to unwind. Spend the afternoon exploring the historic streets of Edinburgh, immersing yourself in the city’s charm and character. Wander through the atmospheric alleyways of the Old Town, stroll through the elegant Princes Street Gardens, and enjoy the panoramic views from Carlton Hill, where the cityscape is beautifully framed by the golden hues of autumn.

Overnight: Edinburgh | Sheraton Grand
Meals Included: None

Day 2 - Thursday 3rd October - Guided City Tour and Edinburgh Castle

This morning head to Edinburgh Castle, perched high on Castle Rock with panoramic views over the city and surrounding hills, its mighty fortress still casts an imposing shadow. Join a 3o -minute guided tour, then spend the rest of the morning exploring on your own, visit St Margaret’s Chapel, the barracks and dungeons, as well as the illustrious Crown Jewels and the legendary Stone of Destiny, used to crown kings. After leaving the castle, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before meeting with a knowledgeable local guide; together, you’ll walk through the capital’s long history as you stroll through the winding streets and closes.

Overnight: Edinburgh | Sheraton Grand
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 3 - Friday 4th October - Roslin Chapel, Thirlestane Castle & North Berwick

Meet your Wilderness Scotland guide bright and early for a day of exploration, history, and natural beauty. Begin with a visit to the mystical Rosslyn Chapel, renowned for its intricate stone carvings and thought by some to be the final resting place of the Holy Grail. Continue your journey through the stunning autumn countryside to Thirlestane Castle, a magnificent 16th-century fortress. Enjoy a guided tour of its exquisite interiors and expansive gardens before indulging in a leisurely lunch sourced from local produce. In the afternoon, head to the charming coastal town of North Berwick. Here, you can explore the quirky shops and galleries and stroll along the sandy beaches, breathing in the crisp sea air. Enjoy a very British treat, traditional fish and chips on the shore front as the sun sets over the Firth of Forth. Return to Edinburgh this evening after a full day.

Overnight: Edinburgh | Sheraton Grand
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 - Saturday 5th October - A Day to Explore Edinburgh at Your Own Pace

Today is yours to explore Edinburgh at your own pace. Stroll through the serene Dean Village, delve into royal history at the Palace of Holyrood House, or immerse yourself in the fascinating exhibits at the Chambers Street Museum. Don’t miss the chance to visit the weekly Edinburgh Farmers Market where you can sample local produce. Head down to Leith and visit the Royal Yacht Britannia, the former yacht of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, before a delicious dinner in one of Edinburgh’s many exceptional restaurants.

Overnight: Edinburgh | Sheraton Grand
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 5 - Sunday 6th October - Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park

This morning, get ready for another adventure with your Wilderness Guide as you head north to the stunning Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. Our first stop is the delightful town of Callander for hot coffee and to meet the famous Highland cows. Then, we’ll travel on to Balquhidder for a short, scenic walk to the grave of the legendary Scottish outlaw, Rob Roy MacGregor. Later, we’ll head to the picturesque village of Killin, home to the spectacular Falls of Dochart and spectacular autumn colours. After a delicious lunch overlooking the river. Depending on the time this afternoon, you may want to visit Doune Castle or Stirling Castle or simply spend longer exploring the beautiful scenery of the National Park before returning to Edinburgh.

Overnight: Edinburgh | Sheraton Grand
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - Monday 7th October - Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

Today is another day to explore Edinburgh. Once option is to visit the tranquil Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. Home to a diverse collection of plants from across the world, spend the day wandering through the vast collection of flora. Visit the Victorian Palm House, Rock Garden, and Chinese Hillside, admiring the mosaic of vibrant autumn colours. Then, take time to relax in the garden’s charming café and enjoy seasonal cream tea amidst stunning surroundings. Head back to the comfort of your cosy accommodation for an early night.

Overnight: Edinburgh | Sheraton Grand
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 7 - Tuesday 8th October - Departure

Bid farewell to the enchanting landscapes and rich history of Scotland as you prepare for your journey home. Take with you cherished memories of autumnal vistas, historic explorations, and the warm Scottish hospitality you’ve enjoyed throughout your stay.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • All accommodation from day 1 to day 7
  • Breakfasts and lunch on day 3 and day 5
  • Services of an experienced and knowledgeable Wilderness guide on day 3 and day 5
  • Private car transfers on day 3 and day 5
  • Transfers to and from the airport
  • All guided activities mentioned in the itinerary, including:
    • Private 1/2 day experience with a local Edinburgh guide
    • Entry to Edinburgh Castle
    • Entry to Rosslyn Chapel
    • Entry to Thirlestane Castle
    • Entry to either Doune Castle or Stirling Castle
  • Personalised trip design and delivery
  • 24 hour in-country support from the Wilderness Team
Exclusions Read More
  • Flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Meals not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Activities and entrance fees not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Gratuities
Pricing Read More

The price of this trip is £4,865 per person and is based on availability at the time of booking.

Pay a 25% deposit

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Royal Britannia Ship

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Red Kite

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Geese

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Fish And Chips

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Virtuoso

Edinburgh in the Autumn

Wednesday 2nd October – Tuesday 8th October 2024