Worldwide Quest - A Scottish Adventure

Day 1 - Arrive in Edinburgh

As you arrive in the picturesque city of Edinburgh, take your time settling into your hotel. Depending on your time of arrival you may wish to step out and explore the city’s charms at your own pace. Perhaps a wander through the historic Royal Mile, where ancient stories come alive, or a meander along the vibrant Grassmarket area, filled with cosy cafes and intriguing shops. A peaceful stroll through the scenic Dean Village or indulge in local Scottish treats. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and let Edinburgh’s rich history and beauty unfold gently, ensuring a laid-back and enjoyable start to your trip.

Overnight: Edinburgh | Apex Grassmarket
Meals Included: None

Day 2 - Edinburgh's Art

Today is a free day for you to explore at your own pace, one on which you may wish to discover Edinburgh’s cultural treasures at the National Portrait Gallery and National Museum. Admire historical portraits at the Portrait Gallery, depicting Scotland’s vibrant past. Then, dive into the varied exhibits at the National Museum, delving deeper into Scotland’s rich heritage and diverse history. Engage with captivating displays that showcase the nation’s cultural tapestry, offering an immersive journey through Scotland’s compelling legacy.

Overnight: Edinburgh | Apex Grassmarket
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 3 - Mystic Whisky and a Ghost Tour

Delve into the essence of Scotland with some whisky tasting and a haunting ghost tour at St. Mary’s Close. Explore the rich flavours of Scotland’s finest whiskies, broadening your knowledge of the whisky distilling process and experience the thrilling blend of whisky appreciation and spine-tingling encounters, creating an unforgettable day in Edinburgh’s mystique. As dusk falls, join a chilling ghost tour through the atmospheric lanes of St. Mary’s Close, where tales of the past and eerie legends intertwine.

Overnight: Edinburgh | Apex Grassmarket
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 4 - Guided Walking Tour in Edinburgh

Overnight: Edinburgh | Apex Grassmarket
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 5 - North to Glencoe

Overnight: Glencoe | Kingshouse Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - The Lost Valley of Glencoe

Experience the untamed beauty of Glencoe with a captivating walk through the Lost Valley. Traverse this stunning landscape, enveloped by towering peaks and lush greenery, as you explore the mysterious allure of the Lost Valley’s dramatic terrain. Immerse yourself in nature while discovering the valley’s dark history and gory folklore. Later, visit the Glencoe Visitor Centre, where history comes alive through interactive exhibits and insightful information about the region’s geology, wildlife, and captivating tales.

Overnight: Glencoe | Kingshouse Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 7 - All aboard the Jacobite Steam Train

Overnight: Fort Augustus | The Lovat Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 8 - Loch Ness Boat Trip

Indulge in a leisurely breakfast before embarking a boat excursion along Loch Ness. Experience nature’s beauty from the water, offering a fresh perspective on the surrounding landscape. Glide along the loch, embracing a completely different vantage point, allowing you to immerse yourself in the stunning natural surroundings and perhaps catch a glimpse of the Loch Ness mysteries from a unique viewpoint. After lunch, head out on a shorter walk around Glen Affric. Discover the ancient woodlands and solitude of Glen Affric. There are several options for stunning walks – perhaps circumnavigating Loch Affric or following a route through the ancient forest of the great wood of Caledon to explore the flora and fauna of this wonderful glen.

Overnight: Fort Augustus | The Lovat Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 9 - Urquhart Castle and Inverness

Set off on a journey towards Inverness, following a picturesque route that winds past Loch Ness and the iconic Urquhart Castle. Traverse alongside the shores of the legendary Loch Ness, captivated by its mysterious allure and scenic beauty. Take a moment to visit the atmospheric ruins of Urquhart Castle, strategically positioned by the loch. Explore the castle’s remnants, delving into its captivating history and enjoying panoramic vistas that stretch across the vast waters of Loch Ness. Immerse yourself in this historical site, enriching your journey through Scotland’s captivating landscapes and storied past.

Overnight: Dornoch | Dornoch Castle Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 10 - Embo Sands and the Fyrish Monument

Rise to a hearty breakfast this morning before leaving your accommodation to explore the pristine beauty of Embo Sands, where the golden beach stretches along the coastline, inviting tranquil walks and serene moments. Wander to the Duke of Sutherland monument, standing proudly amidst the landscape, offering a glimpse into the area’s heritage. Continue your journey to Fyrish, where the Fyrish Monument sits atop a hill, commanding sweeping views of the surrounding countryside.

Overnight: Dornoch | Dornoch Castle Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 11 - Orkney and the Italian Chapel

Depart from Dornoch, heading northward through the picturesque landscapes of the Scottish Highlands. Reach the port of Scrabster near Thurso, where a ferry service operates to Orkney. Board the ferry, sailing across the Pentland Firth, enjoying panoramic views of the sea and the Orkney archipelago. Upon arrival at the port in Orkney,  head to the Italian Chapel to get a taste of the captivating history of these islands before making your way to your accommodation and winding down in preparation for an unforgettable exploration of Orkney’s rich heritage and natural wonders.

Overnight: Kirkwall | The Storehouse Restaurant & Rooms
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 12 - Visiting Skara Brae and a Whisky Distillery Tour

This morning, visit the fascinating Stone Age village of Skara Brae. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this Neolithic semi-subterranean settlement was uncovered by a winter storm in 1850 and gives a remarkable picture of what life would have been like on the island over 5000 years ago. After lunch, enjoy a walk from the RSPB Reserve Marwick Head to the unique tidal island of Brough of Birsay. Later, enjoy a tour of Highland Park Distillery and learn about its history before sampling some signature single malts. Dinner at your hotel this evening will be a celebratory experience as you enjoy your final night on the salt-soaked shores of this beautiful island.

Overnight: Kirkwall | The Storehouse Restaurant & Rooms
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 13 - The Heart of Neolithic Orkney

Enjoy learning more about Orkney’s fascinating history this morning as you visit some of its most treasured ancient sites. Start your day with a wander around Kirkwall and visit the beautiful St Magnus Cathedral. A short drive will take you to the beautiful and mysterious Ring of Brodgar (Scotland’s largest Neolithic stone circle), the Stones of Stenness and Maeshowe Chambered Cairn. After lunch, join your guide for a lovely circular walk along an easy coastal path to Warbeth Beach. Enjoy the spectacular views across the tempestuous Hoy Sound and the twin peaks of Cuilags and Ward Hill. Arrive back in the pretty stone village of Kirkwall and pop into a couple of artisanal shops before returning to your hotel for dinner.

Overnight: Kirkwall | The Storehouse Restaurant & Rooms
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 14 - A Coastal Farewell

Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch