Simply Scotland: Edinburgh, Cairngorms National Park & Loch Lomond - 9 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Edinburgh, Explore Edinburgh Castle & Afternoon Tea 

Welcome to Scotland! You've landed in Edinburgh, the captivating Scottish capital known for its festivals, thriving arts scene, and friendly locals. On arrival, meet your private driver for a transfer to your hotel. En route, you might catch a glimpse of the mighty Edinburgh Castle, a huge fortress sitting atop an ancient volcanic hill and overlooking the Old and New Town centers. Drop your bags, refresh, and lace up your walking shoes.

Promenade through the cobbled streets, wynds, and closes of the world-famous Royal Mile until you reach Edinburgh Castle. Enter through the gates to discover the many battles and sieges fought over it. See the Great Hall of King James IV, lavish royal rooms, and the oldest crown jewels in Britain. After, sit down for an afternoon tea fit for royalty. Within the castle walls, you'll feast on three tiers of homemade cakes, sandwiches, savory bites, and freshly made scones with tea or coffee. A royal treat!

Day 4: Drive to Pitlochry via Stirling, Bannockburn Battlefield Tour

After breakfast, pick up your rental car and drive an hour north to Stirling, a city with a long history of kings, queens, and battles. On the edge of town, make a visit to the Bannockburn Battlefield, where Scottish leader Robert the Bruce defeated the English in a key clash during the Wars of Scottish Independence. Here a local historian will lead you on a guided walk, following the route taken by the Scots. Learn about the tactical decisions made by Scotland's greatest king, who won Scotland its freedom.

After, continue an hour north to the quaint Victorian town of Pitlochry. Take a walk down the charming main street, find a late lunch, and stretch your legs. Stop at the Queen's View just outside Pitlochry, which overlooks Loch Tummel—on a good day, you can see the mountains of Glen Coe in the distance. Return to town and make a reservation at a local restaurant.

Day 5: Cairngorms National Park Wildlife Tour, Blair Athol Distillery

Cairngorms National Park offers some of the best wildlife diversity in the United Kingdom. This pristine landscape is home to a quarter of the threatened species, and on today's full-day wildlife safari, you'll encounter the wilder side of the protected park. Explore expansive heather-clad moorlands, pass through towering Caledonian pine forests, admire imposing peaks, and see pristine lochs from the back of a 4WD Land Rover Discovery. Your knowledgeable guide will seek out wildlife, including red deer, golden eagles, and ospreys, and some light walking may be involved.

This is your opportunity to really explore the remote beauty of the Cairngorms and see the conservation efforts and commitment to preserving Scotland's natural heritage. After your safari adventure, continue to Blair Athol Distillery for a tasting tour. This distillery dates back to 1798 and draws its water from the ancient Alt Dour that flows from the heights of Ben Vrackie. This local pure mountain water contributes to the whiskey's mellow quality and smooth finish. After a behind-the-scenes exploration of the distillery, you'll get to sample a few golden drams.

Day 7: Drive to Loch Lomond & Alexandria, Canoe Tour in Trossachs National Park

Loch Lomond is an area of natural splendor where you can go boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding on the clear waters of the largest freshwater loch in Scotland. Make the two-hour drive southwest to the loch within Trossachs National Park, which also offers superb hiking and cycling trails. Over the next few days, you'll explore the wild beauty of this national park, full of mountains, lochs, forests, and glens, with breathtaking views wherever you go.

This afternoon you'll join a leisurely canoeing adventure on the serene waters of nearby Loch Lubnaig. Grab a paddle and set out to discover the scenic wonders along the shores. Besides the expansive views, you'll also play some fun water-based games, upskilling your talents on the water! Once you're done, drive to your accommodation in the nearby town of Alexandria and check in.

Day 8: Horse Trekking Near Loch Lomond

Picture yourself riding through the Scottish countryside on horseback because today, you'll jump in the saddle for an equine adventure. Witness some of the country's most beautiful landscapes with a light and easy trek through the hills and glens of Loch Lomond. A local equine guide will lead the way, showing you the beauty of the area with this one-of-a-kind experience. Together you'll explore the park, finishing with a climatic viewpoint of the banks.