Aberdeen to Inverness via Dunnottar Castle, Highland Cow Farm, and Balmoral Castle

Aberdeen - On Day 1, the journey begins in Aberdeen, heading towards the iconic Dunnottar and Crathes Castles, followed by an intriguing “up close” tour of a Highland Cow Farm. Here, participants will learn about Scotland’s native breed and enjoy a delightful “beef” lunch. Afterwards, there is an option to visit Balmoral Castle or the renowned Royal Lochnagar Distillery before proceeding to Inverness. Attractions may vary by season; please contact us for more information.

Dunnottar Castle - Dunnottar is one of Scotland’s and the world’s most breathtaking ruined castles, an ancient medieval fortress perched on a rocky headland near Stonehaven. The existing structures date from the 13th to the 16th centuries, though the site was originally fortified in the early Middle Ages. While entry to the castle grounds is free, internal tours require a fee.

Aberdeenshire Highland Beef - This is a fantastic opportunity to visit a working Highland cattle farm and meet Scotland’s native breed on a private tour. Participants can get up close, take photos or videos, learn about their history, and savor succulent premium Aberdeenshire Highland beef during lunch! The tour and lunch are included in the price.

Balmoral Castle - Visitors can choose to explore this iconic castle, the Scottish residence of the Royal Family since it was purchased for Queen Victoria by Prince Albert in 1852, or enjoy a tasting tour at the famous Royal Lochnagar Distillery. Balmoral Castle is a must-see for many visitors but is not open year-round. Please contact us for details. Entrance is included in the cost.

Royal Lochnagar Distillery - Alternatively, visitors may opt to explore the world-famous Royal Lochnagar distillery, established in 1845. This single-malt Scotch whisky producer is located near Balmoral Castle. Guests will learn about the whisky-making process and sample some drams. Advance booking is required, and availability is limited. Tasting tours are not included in the cost.

Cairngorms National Park - The journey continues through the majestic Cairngorm National Park from Royal Deeside to Inverness.

Inverness - Drop-off at the hotel.

Loch Ness and Culloden Battlefield Visitors Centre

Loch Ness - Today, participants will embark on a cruise down the impressive Loch Ness, with the chance to spot the legendary monster “Nessie,” and explore centuries of history at Castle Urquhart, which overlooks the water. The cruise is included in the cost.

Culloden Battlefield - This is the historic site of the final battle during the last Jacobite Rebellion in 1746. While the battlefield is free to visit, entry to the interactive visitors center and museum requires an additional fee.

Clava Cairns - The Clava Cairns are a well-preserved Bronze Age cemetery complex (4500 years old) featuring passage graves, ring cairns, and standing stones in a stunning setting, and they served as inspiration for the book/show “Outlander.”

Inverness - Drop-off at the Inverness hotel.

Inverness to Pitlochry via The Dalwhinnie Distillery, House of Bruar, and Blair Castle

Dalwhinnie Distillery - Located in the Cairngorm National Park at the heart of the Scottish Highlands in the village of Dalwhinnie, this distillery offers fantastic tasting tours.

The House of Bruar - The House of Bruar is a unique department store situated in the heart of beautiful Perthshire. It offers an impressive range of Scottish Country Clothes (expertly crafted luxury textiles including cashmere, merino, and lambswool), gifts, art, and many other selected products.

Blair Castle & Gardens - Blair Castle and Gardens are incredibly impressive and rich in history. Home to the Atholl family for over seven centuries, the castle has been expanded and adapted over time, witnessing tumultuous historical periods. It also serves as the garrison for Europe’s only legal private army. The gardens feature a nine-acre walled garden, an extensive wooded grove, a ruined Kirk, a red deer park, and a gothic folly. Highland cattle graze in the fields, the native red squirrel can often be seen among the branches of the garden’s tall trees, and peacocks roam freely. £18pp payable at the gate.

Pitlochry - Drop-off at the hotel in this charming, picturesque village in the heart of Perthshire, renowned for its dam and Salmon Leap.

Pitlochry to Aberdeen (or Edinburgh) via Scone Palace

Queen’s View - A breathtaking viewpoint overlooking Loch Tummel and extending to the iconic mountain, Schiehallion. Fit for a Queen and named after one.

Scone Palace - Scone Palace is a magnificent site in Perthshire, Scotland, with over 1,000 years of history. It was the original home of the Stone of Destiny and the crowning place of many kings over the centuries. £15pp payable at the gate.

Aberdeen - Drop-off at the hotel in Aberdeen.

Edinburgh - Drop-off at the hotel in Edinburgh. Additional charge.

• Private Tour for your group only
• 2 nights accommodation in 5* hotels
• Transport in Minivan and Guide
• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Pick up and drop off
• Most castles are free to see from outside but charge for internal tours
• Cost based on shared twin/double room per couple
• If your party is an odd number, cost is based on twin/double + single (group of 3 will get 2 rooms)

• Meals other than stated
• Internal Castle Entrance Fees unless stated
• Accommodation - We can advise and we have a hotel booking service. Please contact us.

The Best of Scotland Private Guided Tour truly lives up to its name.

Participants will explore the finest castles and palaces, encounter Highland Cows, savor the best whisky, admire breathtaking scenery, search for mythical creatures on an exceptional boat cruise, enjoy exquisite local cuisine, visit the premier Scottish shop, and hopefully observe abundant wildlife.

This exclusive tour, designed solely for your group, offers a unique chance to explore Scotland with the expert guidance of your driver/guide.

The itinerary and locations can be customized to your liking. Please share your preferences, and a personalized tour will be crafted for you.

Pick-up is available from the airport or hotel, ensuring a genuine Scottish experience with all arrangements made in advance.

Please note that some attractions may have seasonal availability.

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.