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Scotland plays host to some of the world’s most stunning landscapes and it is the perfect choice for your next vacation. With mythical attributes, legend, and history, you’re sure to find something magical on your Scotland tour. Whether you choose to explore the wild, yet beautiful Scottish Highlands or seek Nessie along the banks of Loch Ness, our escorted tours will take you on a journey we know you’ll love. 

Take a look at our  2024 Scotland Tours ,  our 2025 Scotland Tours , or book a  Custom Tour of Scotland   tailored to your vision of your perfect holiday . We have a great variety of vacation packages to choose from and our friendly team are more than happy to have a chat to help you decide which tour is right for you.

Travel with Confidence

Begin your trip of a lifetime..

With over 20 years experience, Best Scottish Tours is a family business with a real passion for Scotland.

Our aim is to guide you through this wonderful country and show you roads less travelled.

We keep your interests and budget in mind to ensure you enjoy an escorted vacation that suits you. Reach out to chat more about our Scottish tours and together we can build your perfect all inclusive vacation package.  We can collect you from anywhere in Scotland, usually Edinburgh or Glasgow, so all you need to worry about is having a wonderful holiday.

Safe Bubble Tours.

For any groups of two or more we offer private tours to enable you to enjoy Scotland within your family or friend bubble. We can pick you up from the airport and drop you off again in your own private vehicle, meaning that you don't have to worry about using shared transport. You will have your own personal driver/guide for the duration of your escorted tour and your private vehicle will be thoroughly cleansed with a fog machine before your tour. Your vehicle will also be cleansed each day prior to touring, as well as at each stop.

All accommodation, meals and attraction bookings are included in your vacation package. We will make sure you only stay, eat in, and visit high-quality, authentic properties and attractions throughout your tour of Scotland.

Let us take the hassle out of organising your vacation. Your safety is always, our top priority. 

Find your tour.

It’s not just about the scenery. Best Scottish Tours provide you with inclusive tour options. Our drivers and guides bring a wealth of knowledge and passion for Scotland. Our hand-picked accommodations ensure you get to see just how great Scottish hospitality is. Our comprehensive tours take you on a journey through all areas of Scotland: from the Highlands and Lowlands, the Western Isles of Skye, Harris, Lewis, Mull and Iona, the famous Malt Whisky regions of Strathspey and Islay, the scattered islands of Orkney, and the scenic North Coast 500.

Where would you go? What would you see?

Choose from one of our popular Scottish tours or design your own custom tour.

Whatever you decide, Best Scottish Tours will take you on your perfect Scottish adventure.

Departing soon

4 Day Historic Castles, Highland Villages & East Neuk Mini Tour

10th september 2024.

Only 3 spaces remaining

£1670 per person (based on 2 sharing)

4 Day Iconic Scotland Tour

23rd september 2024.

Only 2 spaces remaining

£1772 per person (based on 2 sharing)

8 Day Best of Scotland with Jacobite Steam Train Tour

26th september 2024.

Only 1 spaces remaining

£3620 per person (based on 2 sharing)

Why choose best scottish tours.

Award-winning small group tours. Our standard tours have a maximum of 8 passengers per vehicle.

Tours ranging from 1 to 13 days.

Craft the journey that you want with a custom tour.

We include hand-picked accommodations as standard to ensure you get to see just how great Scottish hospitality is.

We keep your interests and budget in mind.

We’ve spent over 20 years providing visitors with unique tours of this stunning country.

Latest Reviews

I had such a terrific time on the tour. I cannot believe how much I was able to see and experience, from the beautiful lochs and picturesque landscapes to the unique small towns all over the country. Some personal favourites include the Quiraing on the Isle of Skye, driving through the Applecross Peninsula, the Glenfinnan Viaduct, and exploring Inverness... What really made the tour was our guide, Terry. Not only was he incredibly kind and fun to be around, he has such an immense wealth of knowledge. Terry is a natural storyteller; he spoke in a very engaging way about so many things, from history (neolithic, medieval, and modern) and culture to local trade and wildlife. He also made a huge effort to make sure we were enjoying ourselves and to show us some spectacular parts of the country we would never have known existed. He made the experience so special.

Our guide Alex, was wonderful, attentive, humorous, knowledgable, structured yet flexible and just a delight. The accommodations varied each time we changed, each was distinct in it's own way, but all were top notch. Our tour was filled with sights from the itinerary we were sent, and also with sights or attractions Alex thought we'd enjoy based on his experience of us. Again, all right on point. I had numerous very powerful, and at times emotional, learning experiences about my family of origin, a clan from Scotland - so much so that I bought a kilt and accessories, along with a scarf in our family tartan colors at Loch Carron Weavers as we were going to the Applecross Peninsula. The Western Highlands were magnificent, as were the castle tours and castle ruins we saw along the way. Thank you for a wonderful trip experience! It's obvious why you were voted the #1 Tour Company in Scotland last year. Well done!

My husband and I just completed our 8 day Best of Scotland Tour. Our guide, Tom, was outstanding! We couldn't have asked for a better guide to show us the beauty of Scotland!! Around every corner there was something beautiful or historical to see and learn about, or an experience to enjoy. Our accommodations and meals were all great and added local flavor to a trip we'll always remember.

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The 12 best scotland tours.

Explore castles, lakes, national parks and more on these multiday excursions.

The Best Scotland Tours

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Bagpipes, highland cows (or "coos"), tartans, castles, breathtaking landscapes – there's a lot to love about Scotland. Add in its famous whisky and legendary cities and you'll find plenty to do here. With so much to see, you'll need a few days – at minimum – to explore. Save yourself the hassle of planning outings, meals and transportation by signing up for a guided tour.

Using both expert opinion and traveler sentiment, U.S. News determined that these are the best tours of Scotland. To help you find the perfect trip for you, our editors found a range of trips of different durations that take travelers to must-see destinations like Edinburgh , Glasgow and the Scottish Highlands , but will also bring you to lesser-known destinations.

• Short tours: three to five days
• Medium tours: six to nine days

Long tours: 10 or more days

Short tours: three to five day trips.

Highland Explorer Tours – Isle of Skye & the Highlands

Price: Adults from $745; kids from $715 Duration: 3 days

This bus tour is a feast for the eyes as it takes you through the lush Scottish Highlands. You'll view Rannoch Moor, Glen Coe, Fort William, Dunvegan Castle, Loch Ness, Ben Nevis and the Isle of Sky (where you'll spend a full day). What's more, if you book the tour for sometime between April and October you'll get a chance to ride on the Jacobite Steam Train, famous for its appearance as the Hogwarts Express in the "Harry Potter" films. Travelers routinely praise the storytelling guides as well as the scenery that surrounds you for the trip.

The trip begins and ends in Edinburgh. The fee includes bed-and-breakfast accommodations, the ferry to Isle of Skye and entrance to Dunkeld Cathedral and the Dundreggan Rewilding Centre. Some activities (like the Jacobite Steam Train) cost extra, as do meals. Highland Explorer Tours also runs a wintertime version of this tour.

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Rabbie's – Speyside Whisky Trail

Price: From 195 pounds (around $250) Duration: 3 days

This tour for whisky-loving travelers stops at three distilleries where you can sample their tipples. You'll also visit Speyside, a region with 50 different distilleries, and Elgin, a town with a great whisky shop. If you depart on Monday or Wednesday, you'll also stop by a cooperage to see how barrels are made. In between tastings, you'll see Cairngorms National Park and Royal Deeside. Travelers applaud the attentive guides and note that if someone in your party isn't a whisky drinker, they'll still find plenty to do.

The tour does not include meals, tickets to attractions or accommodations so that you can customize the experience to your liking. However, you can have Rabbie's book hotel or B&B accommodations in Grantown-on-Spey, the town where you'll stay for two nights. Fees vary based on the number of occupants and accommodation type, but you can expect to pay 55 to 150 pounds (about $70 to $190) per night per person. Breakfast is typically included in your stay. Short on time? Try a one- or two-day whisky tour from the company.

Scottish Routes – Four-Day Islay Whisky Tour

Price: From 1,175 pounds (about $1,500) Duration: 4 days

Stop at around six different distilleries and warehouses for whisky tastings on this tour with Scottish Routes. The bulk of your stay is on Islay island, where you won't only get tours of local whisky establishments and tastings, but you'll also be able to explore the surrounding villages and sites. On the way back to Edinburgh, you'll also stop in Inveraray to grab lunch and visit the Loch Fyne Whisky Shop. Whisky lovers say the tour is excellent and praise the itinerary.

No more than 18 people will be on the tour and travelers must be at least 18 to participate. Transportation, B&B accommodation and whisky tours and tastings are included in the fee. There's also a five-day version of this tour.

HAGGiS Adventures – Puffin Island Hopper

Price: From $929 Duration: 4 days

If you're visiting Scotland in the summer, don't miss the chance to see nesting puffins. This trip focuses on the cute little birds as it travels to Mill Iona and Staffa islands. You could see more wildlife (think: seals and whales) during the included wildlife cruise. You'll also see Loch Lomond and Oban, and stop at a distillery for a tasting. Tourgoers say the guides are great and applaud the locations along the tour.

Overnight accommodations at three-star hotels, three breakfasts, ferry tickets, the distillery tour and the wildlife cruise are all included in the tour fee. Trips depart from and return to Edinburgh. Keep in mind the minimum age to take this tour is 18. Since HAGGiS Adventures is a sister company to Highland Explorer Tours, you may be traveling with tour-takers from that company.

Abercrombie & Kent – Scotland by Rail: Royal Scotsman, A Belmond Train, Scotland

Price: From $11,385 Duration: 5 days

Climb aboard an Edwardian train to see Scotland in style. During your trip aboard Royal Scotsman, A Belmond Train, you'll pass by incomparable landscapes in between stops. Stops include the towns Keith, Plockton and Garve, plus Ballindalloch Castle and Glamis Castle. Activities throughout the tour include guided walks, fishing, shopping, private tours of a whisky distillery and more. Tourgoers say A&K is well organized and appreciate the pacing of the trip.

Accommodations aboard the train, all meals, internet access and activities are included in your fare. In order to book this trip, you'll need to contact an A&K representative who will help customize your trip.

Medium tours: six to nine day trips

Culture Trip – Scotland by Train – London Start

Price: From $3,209 Duration: 7 days

If you're hoping to tack on a few days in London before your Scottish adventure, this tour is a great option. After departing London, you'll journey to Glasgow for a city tour and whisky tasting. You'll then venture through some high points of Scotland's landscape including the Isle of Skye and Cairngorms National Park. The trip's finale is in Edinburgh. Some of the included activities are guided walks, private museum tours, whisky tastings and a boat trip. Overall, tour-takers enjoyed their trips but some wished the hotels chosen were better quality.

Stays in three- or four-star hotels, daily breakfast and many activities are included in the tour fee. Keep in mind that you need to be in moderately good shape for this tour as there is a lot of walking (and some hiking) involved. Culture Trip offers tours around the world, including one to Italy.

Abercrombie & Kent – Scottish Highlander – Caledonian Canal & Loch Ness

Price: From $5,690 Duration: 7 days

This small tour (no more than eight participants) takes place on the Scottish Highlander boat. During the cruise, you'll make stops at Cawdor Castle, Loch Ness (where you'll get to cruise again), Urquhart Castle, Fort Augustus, Eilean Donan Castle, a whisky distillery and more. Onboard, you'll find a deck with radar and fish finder equipment, a lounge with a stereo and internet access. Tour-takers applaud the company's selection of stops, though some wish communication before and after the tour had been better.

The tour's price includes meals, beverages, onboard accommodations and activities. You will need to contact the company to book the cruise. A&K runs a similar Scotland tour where the grand finale is watching the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, a renowned music and cultural festival.

Firebird Tours – Best of Scotland

Price: From $3,745 Duration: 8 days

Get an overview of all Scotland has to offer with this train and car tour. Along this private tour, you'll explore Edinburgh, Inverness, Isle of Skye, Fort William, Loch Ness and Mallaig. You may have the chance to ride the Jacobite Steam Train to Mallaig (subject to availability). You'll have some time at each stop to explore on your own in addition to group activities like a tour of Edinburgh's Royal Mile and castle, a Loch Ness cruise, a wildlife cruise in Mallaig and more. Tourgoers appreciate the enthusiastic guides and the company's help in creating the perfect getaway.

Daily breakfasts, hotel accommodations, transportation, a customer support line and select activities are included in the tour price. You'll pay for lunches, dinners and snacks out of your own pocket. Firebird also runs Scotland tours that combine visits to Ireland or England.

Grand European Travel – Country Roads of Scotland

Price: From $4,125 Duration: 9 days

Throughout this coach journey, you'll have plenty of opportunities to soak in local culture, from afternoon teas to evenings of Gaelic stories and music to ecology and preservation walks. Many of these activities are included in the trip fee as well as select meals, tours, cruises, museum visits and much more. The trip begins in Edinburgh and travels through the Scottish countryside and island before concluding in Glasgow. Travelers say the trips are excellent, but that communication during the booking process can be somewhat lacking.

Six dinners, eight breakfasts and three- or four-star hotel accommodations are included. Select activities (such as the Gaelic storytelling evening) are an extra fee. You'll be responsible for your lunches, snacks and some dinners. Grand European Travel offers several other journeys through Scotland.

Luxury Scotland Tours – The Luxury Scotland Family Tour

Price: Varies Duration: 10 days

Take the family on a trip to remember to see Hagrid's Hut (of "Harry Potter"), the Hogwarts Express bridge (the Glenfinnan Viaduct), Byres Farm to feed livestock, dinosaur footprints in Staffin, Scottish Highlands cows in the countryside and much more. Of course, you and the kids will get plenty of history along the way with visits to castles, museums and historic sites. According to reviews, the company plans the trip perfectly and many recent tourgoers compliment the guides.

Included in the tour fee are accommodations in four- and five-star properties, breakfasts, private chauffeurs, activities (and admission) and guides. Each tour can be customized to your family's preferences. You must contact the company for prices and to book.

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Kensington Tours – Castles of Scotland Signature

Price: From $12,770 per person Duration: 10 days

Travelers say the travel agents at Kensington Tours are top notch and take great care in planning an itinerary. And for those with an interest in Scotland's castles, it's hard to beat this tour. You'll visit Edinburgh, Blair, Cawdor, Inveraray and Crossbasket castles, with a sprinkling of other tours and activities in between. What's more, you'll be staying at Crossbasket Castle for two nights. The rest of the stay will be at four- and five-star properties.

While accommodations, tours, transportation and guides are all included, lunches, dinners and drinks are not (unless otherwise specified).

Rabbie's – Island Hopping Adventure

Price: From 1,577 pounds (about $2,017) Duration: 14 days

Scotland has hundreds of islands and this tour from Rabbie's will help you explore several of them. You'll visit the Isle of Mull, Isle of Skye, Iona, Staffa, the Orkney archipelago and Harris and Lewis. Other sites visited include Skara Brae (a prehistoric site), Loch Ness, Glencoe and a journey along the North Coast 500 to see stunning scenery. Visitors heap praise on Rabbie's because of the company's attentive guides, trip planning and gorgeous sights.

Your tour will have no more than 16 people. The tour includes your guide and all ferry tickets, except the ferry to Staffa, as that trip is optional. You will be responsible for attraction entry tickets, meals and accommodations. You can book accommodations yourself or have a Rabbie's representative book for you. Accommodations typically cost 55 to 150 pounds (about $70 to $190) per night, per person when there are at least two people in a room.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ideally, you'd want to take at least a week to see Scotland if it's your first time visiting so that you can experience its cities, culture and nature. However, if you are short on time, consider what's most important to you when you travel – such as exploring outside, local cuisine or history – and tailor a trip around that.

The best time to visit Scotland is in late spring, summer or early fall. While you could be contending with crowds and more rainy days, you'll be rewarded with wonderful temperatures. Plus, you'll have more opportunities to engage in activities, like riding the Jacobite Steam Train. Winter brings a biting cold, but could get you a deal on accommodations and discounted tour rates.

For most tours, tips are not included. Most companies do not require tipping, but drivers and guides will happily accept them. If you're not sure how much to tip, it's best to contact your chosen tour company for guidance.

What you include in your luggage will vary based on your tour itinerary, activities and weather. Additionally, your company might impose luggage restrictions, so check the policies before you leave.

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Find Your Tour

Official scotland tours from edinburgh, glasgow, inverness and london, top one day scotland tours, loch ness and the highlands.

Price from: £ 59.00 Departs from: Edinburgh

Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond and The Kelpies

Price from: £ 52.00 Departs from: Edinburgh

Loch Ness, Glencoe and the Highlands

Price from: £ 60.00 Departs from: Glasgow

The Ultimate Skye Tour

Price from: £ 125.00 Departs from: Inverness

Top Tours of Scotland and Scotland Vacations

Jacobite steam train, skye and the highlands.

Price from: £ 790.00 Departs from: Edinburgh

Skye and the Scottish Highlands

Price from: £ 400.00 Departs from: Edinburgh and Glasgow

Edinburgh, Loch Ness and the Highlands

Price from: £ 595.00 Departs from: London

Hebridean Explorer Small Group Tour

Price from: £ 850.00 Departs from: Edinburgh

Scottish Tours - The best choice for quality and value for over 100 years.

If you are planning to visit Scotland then you will find our range of one-day trips, short breaks and luxury escorted tours the best way to see the real Scotland - a land of fairytale castles , picturesque lochs and spectacular scenery   including the world famous Jacobite steam train used in the filming of Harry Potter.

Our city and Scotland tours depart from Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness and London. Our tours of Scotland are the perfect way to explore the real Scotland and convenient too with daily departures on the most popular Scottish Highland tours . We select the routes and tour guides.

With Scottish Tours you can choose to visit Loch Ness and Inverness or Stirling Castle and Loch Lomond - both popular one-day trips of Scotland. Or why not travel further afield, on one of our short break tours. The magical Isle of Skye and Eliean Donan Castle , the remote yet picturesque surroundings of the Applecross Peninsula and nature watching in a lonely Highland glen are just some of the delights that await you when you choose a short break tour with Scottish Tours.

Our extended range of sightseeing tours of Scotland is the most comprehensive available. You can select your Scottish Tour confident in the knowledge that the widest possible choice of tours of Scotland has to offer.

For a different Scotland tour experience check out our exciting range of Scottish train Tours . Speed comfortably from London by Express train to visit our great cities of Edinburgh or Glasgow. Then tour Scotland by luxury coach to visit Inverness, the Isle of Skye or even Scotland's Far North Coast! All in one convenient package.

Much of Scotland can be explored on a comfortable tour from Edinburgh or Glasgow. And there is only one way to see Scotland - with Scottish Tours.

Scotland's Must See Destinations

Isle of skye.

The Isle of Skye offers some of Scotland’s most spectacular scenery. See the Cullins and visit the fairy pools.

Scotland's largest expanse of water is shroud in the mystery of 'Nessie' - the Loch Ness monster.

Jacobite Steam Train

Travel aboard the real Hogwarts Express to see mountains, lochs and, of course, the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct.

Follow in Claire and Jamie’s time-travelling footsteps on our Outlander tours.

Scotch Whisky

Whisky (Whiskey) takes its name from the Gaelic for ‘water of life’. Malt or blended Scotch is the world leader. Visit distilleries in Islay and Speyside.

Scotland's Islands

Their natural beauty takes your breath away. Local prehistoric treasures and native wildlife are fascinating and rewarding.

Steeped in history and legend, the spectacular Highlands of Scotland, are one of the last unspoilt regions of Europe.

Scotland’s many historic castles and palaces are just waiting to be explored.

Harry Potter

Whether you’ve watched the entire series or are travelling with kids in tow, get to know the world’s favourite wizard on an exclusive tour. Go to famous filming locations with a Harry Potter day tour or extended Harry Potter tour from Edinburgh, Inverness, Glasgow and London.

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Quality Sightseeing since 1907

For over 100 years we've been making touring Scotland a quality experience for visitors from all over the World. Over the years our Scottish tours have been chosen by many thousands of travellers who want to tour Scotland in comfort and style.

Scottish Tours has a long and distinguished pedigree and we are proud to include the famed names of Scottish Motor Traction, Scottish Omnibuses and Eastern Scottish as part of our heritage.

Today we continue to offer our clients the highest standards of service and the very best value. You can tour Scotland with Scottish Tours confident in the knowledge that no one has more experience.

Tour Scotland with Scottish Tours. Discover the highlights of Scotland on a tour to Loch Ness, The Scottish Highlands, Skye and Loch Lomond.

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A tour on the Royal Mile, Edinburgh

Tours of Scotland

Uncover fascinating stories of famous Scots, get up close with curious wildlife or try out a new activity on one of our rivers. Tours are a brilliant way to see Scotland in a new way.

Find a friendly local expert guide, or make your own way along one of our suggested itineraries.

Get the most out your Scottish experience and book a tour of Scotland today.

Find tour experiences

Search a wide range of organised, bespoke tours, self guided tours and day trips.

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Explore Scottish Holidays and Tour Sites

No matter which kind of Scotland tour package you choose, you're never far from fantastic attractions, all set amongst some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in the world. Go island hopping and explore the island paradises off Scotland's coast, see if you can spot Nessie on a Loch Ness tour, take a day trip around world-famous historic attractions or book a multi-day tour to really get a feel for the country's beautiful scenery and rich culture.

Top Tour Ideas

Scotland’s UNESCO Trail

Scotland is the first country in the world to bring together 13 UNESCO sites into one trail.

Harry Potter film and book locations itinerary

Follow in the footsteps of Harry Potter with our 4-day itinerary travelling from Edinburgh to the Highlands.

Outlander Filming Locations

Step into the world of Claire and Jamie and discover standing stones, castles, kilts and more.

Speyside Malt Whisky Trail Itinerary

Follow this 3-day itinerary around some of Speyside's top whisky attractions in the north east of Scotland.

Scotland’s Castle Trail

Discover the most famous and dramatic castles in the north east with our incredible 6-day itinerary.

Scottish Islands & island hopping

Explore some of the 700+ islands off Scotland's coast and experience their unique cultures and stunning landscapes.

Scotland's Most Scenic Driving Routes

Experience some of Scotland’s most epic road trips, including stunning National Tourist Routes and the breath-taking North Coast 500.

Self-Guided Tours

The Ultimate Scotland itinerary

Venture around some of the most popular attractions and locations in this 14 day Ultimate Scotland Itinerary.

7 days in the West of Scotland

Follow this seven day itinerary through the west of Scotland to see iconic sights and attractions in Glasgow, Loch Lomond and more.

7 Days in the east of Scotland

Follow this itinerary to see the highlights of the east of Scotland including dramatic coastline, historic castles and awesome attractions!

48 hours in Glasgow

From museums and galleries to visiting the West End - explore with our 2-day Glasgow itinerary.

Highland castles itinerary

See some of Scotland's most amazing castles as you tour the Highlands over four great days.

5 Days in Scotland with an Electric Car

Take a road trip with information on charging points, accommodation, attractions, food and drink, and more.

All itineraries

Plan your days in Scotland with the help of our suggested itineraries.

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Highland Experience Tours

Day & multi day guided tours of scotland.

Experience the best of Scotland with Highland Experience’s expertly crafted tours. Our guided tours of Scotland offer an immersive journey through breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Discover hidden gems and iconic landmarks with our knowledgeable guides who provide deep insights beyond the typical tourist experience. Whether you’re interested in package tours of Scotland or private Scotland tours, our personalised itineraries ensure an unforgettable adventure tailored to your interests. Book your ultimate Scottish adventure today and explore Scotland like never before.

• Most popular tour!

From Edinburgh: 1-Day Loch Ness, Glen Coe & the Highlands Tour

Loch Ness, Glen Coe & the Highlands. On this tour, drive the full length of Loch Ness, get the opportunity to cruise on the loch and explore Urquhart Castle, and pass through Cairngorms National Park and the stunning Glen Coe.

• Calendar All year
• User 3+ years old, valid proof of age may be required
• Hour Glass 12.5 hrs
• Hour Glass 3 days

3-Day Ultimate Skye Experience Tour

Stay, explore and travel like a local in one of Scotland’s most scenic locations, the Isle of Skye, and see the spectacular Eilean Donan Castle. Book today!

• Hour Glass 9 hrs 45 min

From Edinburgh: 1-Day Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond & Whisky Tour

This is the Scottish experience ‘distilled’. It gives you a taste of three classic Scottish ingredients — castles, lochs and whisky. Book online today!

• Hour Glass 8.5 hrs

From Edinburgh: 1-Day Rosslyn Chapel, Stirling Castle & Dunfermline Abbey Tour

We take you behind the headlines of Dan Brown’s ‘Da Vinci Code’, explaining the background of one of the world’s most enduring mysteries. Book online today!

Why Choose Highland Experience Tours?

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5-Star Customer Service & Value

Award-Winning Local Guides

Comfort on Our Luxury Eco-Friendly Vehicles

Choices: Departure City, Accommodation, and More

• 1-day tours – 100% refund with 24 hours notice or more
• 2-3 day tours – 100% refund with 7 days notice or more
• 4-8 day tours – 100% refund with 14 days notice of more

This means you can book and be safe in the knowledge that if your plans change, we’ll change with you.

Experience Scotland with us!

As you might have noticed, we LOVE Scotland. From the challenging mountains to the glistening lochs and mysterious glens, the variety in its natural features is as striking as it is beautiful. But that’s not all; Scotland is also a nation boasting rich Scottish folklore and historical heritage. Clans, tartans, kilts and bagpipes are world-famous Scottish symbols, and so are our myths and historical figures. Are you curious about the origins of Nessie or want to learn about William Wallace or the battle of Culloden ? Scotland has an extensive history to be unearthed. With Highland Experience Tours, you enjoy world-famous Highland hospitality and experience all that Scotland has to offer. But don’t just take our word for it. Take a tour and experience it for yourself.

We hope to see you soon.

Award-Winning Guided Scotland Tours

Your Scotland experience starts here. From monsters and mountains , chapels and chieftains to castles and whisky , we want to give you the most authentic Scottish experience possible. From the comfort of our luxury bespoke vehicles to our legendary, fully qualified guides, we can’t wait to show you our stunning country.

We consider ourselves extremely lucky to have a job doing something we really enjoy; everyone at Highland Experience shares a passion for travel and helping other people discover Scotland’s Highlands.

Our love for real, sustainable and unique tour experiences makes us who we are.

Tours from Edinburgh

Tours from glasgow, tours from inverness.

10 Incredible Scotland Tours for 2024 

These standout scotland tours include luxury offerings, outlander-focused itineraries, budget options, and everything in between. .

The Scoop: What to Know About Trafalgar Tours

Scotland is an exceptional destination for culinary enthusiasts, nature lovers, and urban adventurers. Tours of Scotland deliver all this, plus a mix of sights like the Scottish Highlands, islands, cities, and coast. Whatever your specific travel needs and wants, there’s sure to be a great tour to fit your needs. Here are my favorite Scotland tours for 2024. 

10 Great Scotland Tours for 2024 

These 10 great Scotland tours hit the highlights in as many as a few days or up to a few weeks. All accommodations, activities, transport, and most meals are handled on these tours, all with a local guide to lead the way. Simply show up with an open mind and get set to enjoy all that Scotland has to offer visitors. 

Brendan Vacations: Best of Scotland 

Brendan Vacation’s Best of Scotland (offered in both summer and winter ) itinerary is a year-round offering, but is especially lovely in sweet summertime. Travelers looking to hit many of Scotland’s rugged, beautiful highlights in a short amount of time will appreciate this compact seven-day trip.

Your first nights are in the walkable capital city of Edinburgh, exploring its famed castle and Royal Mile. If dates coincide properly, enjoy a Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo performance as well. On day three, venture north to the Scottish Highlands, stopping at the birthplace of golf, St. Andrews, along the way.

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From Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, explore Loch Ness, Culloden, and the Isle of Skye on a day trip. Then, journey back south to spend two additional nights in Scotland’s largest city, Glasgow. A few sights and stops along the way, including the tragic and scenic “Glen of Weeping”, the UK’s highest peak (Ben Nevis), and a wildlife cruise on Loch Lomond help break up the journey.

A classic distillery tour, a visit to stunning Stirling Castle, and a local farm farewell dinner (complete with traditional music and storytelling) round out this great itinerary. For a discounted price, consider the best of Scotland winter timeframe , for November through March departures. 

• Length: 7 Days
• Starting price: $2,246
• Group size: Custom tour for your group

CIE Tours: Scottish Daytripper

CIE Tours ’ specialty is Ireland (the company is partially owned by the Irish government’s national transport company), but it also has some great tours of Scotland, including the company’s Scottish Daytripper tour. The tour is unique because it uses a single city—Glasgow—as the home base so you only have to unpack once. 

And though you sleep in the same hotel (the Glasgow Grosvenor Hotel) every night during the six-day, five-night tour, you get to see a lot of Scotland on day trips to spots including the Isle of Arran, Loch Lomond, Edinburgh, and in the Scottish Borders region. 

• Length: 6 Days
• Starting price: $1,695
• Group size: Usually around 35 people

Abercrombie & Kent: Cruising the British Isles

Abercrombie and Kent’s luxury expedition cruise Cruising the British Isles is an autumnal offering that features the best of Scotland, as well as Ireland and England, all in a two-week window. Begin this all-inclusive voyage in storied Edinburgh with a stay at the luxurious, centrally-located Balmoral Hotel.

You’ll then board Le Dumont d’Urville for a sail through the Firth of Forth with views of Bass Rock, home to the world’s largest gannet (seabird) colony. Then, enjoy perfectly-tailored excursions in the Scottish Highlands before exploring a pair of famed archipelagos: the Orkneys and the Hebrides. Think sea caves, the highest cliffs in Britain, Stone Age settlements, and windswept beaches. The rest of the itinerary offers highlights of Ireland and England before adjourning in London. 

Pro Tip: book early to save $2,000 per person on all stateroom categories and suites. Additionally, for even more time in Scotland, there’s a pre-trip add-on for four extra nights in Edinburgh. 

• Length: 14 Days
• Starting price: $19,495
• Group size: limited to 148 passengers

Contiki: Scotland

Contiki’s six-day Scotland adventure is a popular trip for younger travelers that starts in Edinburgh and ends in Glasgow, and includes a day in the Scottish Highlands. Begin with two nights in Edinburgh, and a visit to the castle, before spending one night in Inverness and two additional nights in Glasgow.

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Travelers get to explore the birthplace of golf, hunt for Nessie on a Loch Ness cruise, see the William Wallace Monument, and sip their way through a whisky tasting. Other highlights include the Glenfinnan Viaduct (yer a wizard, Harry), a curling lesson, live music, and local food experiences. Winter departures are the most affordable. 

• Starting price: $972
• Group size: Average of 38 people

Bonus: Contiki also offers an end-of-year trip over Scotland’s Hogmanay also known as New Year’s Eve, from Dec. 29 to Jan 2. Travelers can revel for four days in Edinburgh to celebrate the new year. Highlights include a night street party, bagpipe performance, tour of the castle, and whisky tasting.

Intrepid: Scotland’s Orkney Islands

This cool tour from Intrepid Travel offers something special: A chance to go beyond the highlights of Scotland and dig a little deeper into the Orkney Islands . This northern archipelago is teeming with Viking history, Stone Age relics, and natural beauty.

Activities include a coastal walking tour, a trip to a small town pub, and a refined whisky tasting as you island hop. Begin by meeting your group in Inverness before taking a train north to Thurso and then hopping on a ferry to the Orkneys.

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On the ferry ride, don’t miss the Old Man of Hoy, the UK’s tallest sea stack. Get settled, then explore highlights like prehistoric Skara Brae, northern Europe’s best preserved Neolithic village. Check out the Ring of Brodgar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After a few days of touring, head back to Inverness with your group. Please note, this itinerary is only offered from April through October. 

• Length: 5 days
• Starting price: $2,265
• Group size: Minimum 1, Maximum 12

Costsaver: Majestic Scotland 

Costsaver’s Majestic Scotland itinerary kicks off in Glasgow with a feast for the senses as you experience the city’s food and drink scene. Your time in Glasgow also includes a walking tour to learn about the history of the area.

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Then, head north to the Highlands, with optional add-ons like a Loch Lomond cruise and farm experience. Check out Culloden battlefield, Loch Ness, Eileen Donan Castle, and the Isle of Skye on the action-packed tour. Finish in Edinburgh, the stately capital city of Scotland, where you’ll visit Georgian New Town and the Palace of Holyroodhouse before departing. 

• Length: 7 days
• Group size: Private tours for up to 12; group trips average 40 or 45

Brendan Vacations: Highland Trail inspired by Outlander 

This 13-day itinerary embraces a major recent driver for Scottish tourism, the television series Outlander. The Highland Trail trip will be offered with select departures in May, June, July, August, and September of 2024.

Centered around famous filming locations for the show, this itinerary also offers a great look at major Scottish highlights from Edinburgh to Glasgow. Begin with three nights in the capital city of Edinburgh before spending nights in Dundee, Inverness, and Thurso, stopping at historic sites and walking in Claire and Jamie’s footsteps.

Next, go “over the Sea to Skye” for a night on the island before overnighting in Pitlochry and Glasgow for two nights each. The TV settings for Fort William, Cranesmuir, the standing stones, Castle Leoch, 1940s Inverness, and the moors of Culloden are just some of the amazing filming locations covered on this sweeping itinerary. 

• Length: 13 days
• Starting price: $4,332

Insight Vacations: Country Roads of Scotland

On Insight Vacations’ curated nine-day Country Roads of Scotland tour, visitors grow to love Scotland as they visit the cities of Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Thurso, along with the wilds of the Scottish Highlands. Begin with a castle tour in the capital city of Edinburgh before heading to St. Andrews and Inverness for golf and Loch Ness lore. Learn about fishing traditions and sample whisky in Thurso before taking a ferry to the Orkney Islands.

From there, the tour guide brings guests to the Isle of Skye for an overnight complete with views of the rugged Cuillin Hills. The tour ends with a journey south to Glasgow, with a stop at Loch Lomond on the way. Insight Vacations’ Country Roads label promises hidden adventures, local flavor, and unexpected retreats. 

• Length: 9 days
• Starting price: $3,803
• Group size: Classic group tours average 33 guests 

Trafalgar: Amazing Britain

While not strictly a Scotland tour, Trafalgar’s Amazing Britain tour spends a lot of quality time in Scotland, and includes England and Wales as well on the whirlwind 10-day itinerary. It’s a good fit for travelers who want to get an overview of Britain and go deep on Scottish destinations including major cities, lochs and castles, and the Scottish Highlands, and who want to have plenty of good times along the way.

The tour begins and ends in London (which offers the benefit of plenty of flight options, a boon if you’re booking your own flights), but spends half of the tour days in Scotland. The itinerary includes two nights in Edinburgh, a night in the Scottish Highlands, and a overnight in Glasgow. Activities are a mix of included outings like city tours of Edinburgh and Glasgow (the perfect places to get hands-on lessons about the history of Scotland) plus optional paid add-ons like a Loch Lomond boat trip and a trip to a small village for a tour and dinner. 

The trip’s non-Scotland stops include the Lake District, Liverpool, York, Bristol, and Stratford-upon-Avon. 

• Length: 10 days
• Starting price: $2,895
• Group size: Average of 40 to 45 guests

Windstar: Gaelic Explorers

With two summer 2024 departures (July 5th or August 22nd) a small ship cruise around Scotland with Windstar offers the best of Scotland’s land and waters. This journey from Dublin to Edinburgh is described as “the land of good golf and great Scotch” and includes stops in Tobermory, Portree (on the Isle of Skye), Kirkwall, Invergordon, and Leith (the port of Edinburgh).

Highlights of this highly recommended tour include Dunvegan Castle on Skye, the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland; and a Royal Mile tour in Edinburgh. Optional excursions in every port help guests perfectly tailor this luxe cruise for a land-meets-the-sea look at Scotland. 

• Starting price: $4,499
• Group size: 312 guests onboard 

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Amazing Britain

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Discover Amazing Britain on this unforgettable trip. Explore Shakespeare’s theatrical roots, the mystique of Stonehenge, and the fresh air and rugged landscapes of the Scottish Highlands. There, you’ll visit a traditional whisky distillery and learn about the locals’ favorite drink.

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Best of Scotland

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Experience the Best of Scotland from Edinburgh Castle to the eclectic streets of Glasgow. Revel in the romance and history of the Scottish Highlands and contemplate the mysterious depths of Loch Ness, before toasting bonnie Scotland’s lochs, glens and legendary locals.

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Best of Ireland and Scotland

21 Locations

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Travel to see the very Best of Ireland and Scotland, from delicate Waterford Crystal to the golfing greats of St. Andrews. Kiss the Blarney Stone and you’ll be sharing tales from Giant’s Causeway, the Ring of Kerry and the Scottish Highlands for years to come.

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Short on travel time but want to see all the Britain and Ireland highlights? This trip delivers the genius of Shakespeare, Waterford crystal creations in Ireland and a hearty Welsh dinner at a local vineyard, with a side of ancient history, in just 10 days.

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With breathtaking scenery, hearty cuisine and ancient history and culture, it's easy to fall in love with Scotland. Join your expert Trafalgar Travel Director and roam the wild Highlands, misty glens, medieval cities and majestic castles in this land of Vikings, Romans and royalty.

Ramble up the Royal Mile in Edinburgh

Follow in the footsteps of kings and queens from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to Edinburgh Castle. As we wander the once processional route, you will sample Scottish specialties and glimpse the city’s medieval past. Scotland’s authentic charm fills Edinburgh’s narrow closes and wynds.

Journey through Scottish Highlands

Wind north through sweeping glens, and you will understand this ancient land. On your Scottish Highlands tour, you will appreciate the waterfalls and haunted past of Glencoe Valley, the mythical monster of Loch Ness and the medieval ruins of Urquhart Castle.

View Arthur's Seat

Not far from Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, you’ll find a taste of Scotland's wild countryside. Hike up windswept hills alive with heather flower in bloom, and sit atop an ancient volcano watching the sprawling city below.

Hear the story of the Royal Yacht Britannia

Step aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia and discover what royal glamor looks like at sea. The British Monarch’s boat for over 40 years, this extravagant watercraft is now permanently docked in Edinburgh. Spend a few hours exploring the vessel to see where the Princes spent their summers and world leaders and celebrities were once entertained.

Watch a Highland dance or two

There’s nothing quaint about the Scottish pastime of a Highlands dance. Walk into a pub and be enlivened by the many folk musicians playing fiddles, flutes, drums and accordions all around the Isles. You can watch with your pint or let the driving rhythms take you dancing. Either way, you’ll feel connected to the true spirit of Scotland.

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You'll uncover plenty of natural beauty and human history on our vibrant trips to Scotland. Stroll Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile, climb the rugged hills of Arthur's Seat and journey through the Highland wilderness.

Edinburgh Castle

The ancient walls of Edinburgh Castle have been touched by soldiers, kings, queens and even the odd pirate. Immerse yourself in Scottish history, gazing at crown jewels worn by Mary Queen of Scots and wooden doors vandalized by prisoners of war. Don’t miss the 1 o'clock gun that rings out over Edinburgh.

National Museum of Scotland

This unassuming Victorian building is brimming with history of Scotland and the world. Discover the wonders of nature, art, design, science and technology through this diverse collection. Spend a day wandering from room to room, never running short of things to learn.

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

Enjoy a captivating lesson in life and expression at Kelvingrove. Delve into natural history, arms and armor, fine art and everything between. From the Spitfire plane hanging from the ceiling of the west court to the collections of the Glasgow Boys and Salvador Dali in the east, this space will leave you spellbound.

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Spend hours and days fascinated by the stories held in the museums of Scotland. Trafalgar's picks will prove these enthralling institutions shouldn't be saved for a cloudy day.

Originally served as a hearty meal to Scots on long journeys across Highland hills and heather-clad moors, the nation still loves Haggis. And with its rustic flavor and peppery kick, you will too. Have a taste and wash it down with a wee dram.

Cullen Skink

Hailing from the town of Cullen, this soup was made to warm the cockles of weary fishermen. Hence it’s made thick, creamy and comforting. With chunks of velvety leeks, potato and smoked fish, this smooth and flavorful meal is not to be missed.

Scottish Whisky

The Scottish isles are home to one of the world's most revered spirits - whisky. Speyside malts, smokey Islay drams and smooth blends can all be found here. Try it in a local pub or an award winning distillery. Either way, there's nothing quite like the taste of Scotch in the land where it was made.

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If it seems like Scottish cuisine is designed to warm your insides, that’s because it is. Come sunshine or rain, the dishes you'll enjoy on our trips are just another reason to love Scotland.

What to pack for Scotland

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Something comfortable and flat, with grip. There's a lot of exploring to do and the hills of Scotland are just as abundant in the cities as they are in the countryside.

Something warm

Even in the height of summer the Scottish night air has a bite. To make the most of your Scotland adventure, bring along a quality coat or jacket.

Woollen socks

A couple of pairs of woollen socks will serve you well in Scotland. They're warm and thick but surprisingly light to carry, perfect for protecting feet from long walks or the country’s beloved cold stone floors.

Prepare to sample the finest whisky distilleries around with hydralytes. Enjoy a tipple or two or three and you will still be fresh for adventures the following morning.

When planning a trip to Scotland, plan to pack less. Leave some space to bring home some of their specialties like shortbread for friends and cashmere for yourself.

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The 7 Best Scotland Tours For Unforgettable Adventures That Are Achievable & Affordable

Posted on Last updated: October 13, 2023

Categories Tours , Scotland

Expert travel storyteller Jordan Adkins, founder of InspiredByMaps.com, brings a decade of adventures across 101 countries and 450+ UNESCO sites into rich, off-the-beaten-path narratives, melding ecological expertise with genuine, seasoned travel insights. His full bio can be found here.

Welcome to Scotland, a country known for its untamed lands, historic forts, and lively traditions. Scotland, a country in the northern part of the United Kingdom, charms tourists with its majestic highlands, lovely lochs, and ancient cities.

Let’s explore the enthralling country of Scotland through the best Scotland tours, where the elements of history, pristine nature, and kind people come together.

In Scotland, multi-day tours are common and draw a sizable number of tourists each year. Scotland is the perfect location for immersive experiences because of its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and cultural heritage. The comfort of having transportation, lodging, and itinerary preparation taken care of on a multi-day tour frees travelers from the responsibility of having to plan everything themselves.

These best Scotland tours frequently visit well-known locations like Edinburgh, Glasgow, Loch Ness, the Scottish Highlands, Isle of Skye, and the North Coast 500 route. They offer the chance to explore ancient castles, learn about Scottish folklore, take in stunning vistas, and become fully immersed in local music and culture.

Scotland offers multi-day trips to suit a variety of interests and tastes. Some excursions concentrate on a particular theme, such as whisky tasting, where visitors can tour renowned distilleries and see how whisky is produced.

Others emphasize outdoor activities, including excursions such as hiking, wildlife watching, and discovering isolated islands. Furthermore, Scotland’s small size, which enables visitors to enjoy a variety of sights in a relatively short amount of time, contributes to the appeal of multi-day excursions.

Multi-day excursions in Scotland provide a practical and immersive approach to discovering the nation’s stunning landscapes, extensive past, and dynamic culture. Whether it’s a picturesque Highland tour or a whisky-tasting excursion, these tours offer visitors a unique experience.

In conclusion, Scotland entices travelers with its stunning scenery, fascinating past, and lively culture. Scotland has something to offer any traveler, whether looking for natural beauty, cultural heritage, delicious foods, or outdoor experiences. A multi-day tour offers an outstanding chance to explore the nation’s riches and make lifelong memories, whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor. Here are the top six best tours in Scotland.

Page Contents

5 Day Skye & Highland Fling

Country roads of scotland (classic, 9 days), highlights of scotland, scotland’s orkney islands, discover scotland (glasgow to edinburgh), best of scotland (winter, 7 days), treasures of scotland, macbackpackers.

Your five-day award-winning trip will involve castle storming, whisky drinking, ceilidh dancing, and monster hunting. Our guides will take you through the best of Scotland as you meander across the Highlands, guaranteeing an unforgettable experience.

The overnight stays include Inverness, two nights on the Isle of Skye, and either Oban (April to October) or Fort William (November to March). This tour starts and ends in Edinburgh. You have five days to discover the highlands of Scotland while also visiting 15 Scottish cities. An expert guide, transportation, and accommodation are included in the cost of this tour. Here is a look at your full itinerary. 

Day One: cross the iconic Forth Bridges before heading into the highlands. You have the option to swim in Loch Ness before heading into Inverness. 

Day Two: The voyage continues as we head west, crossing the Corrieshalloch Gorge and admiring Torridon’s breathtaking beauty and historic mountains before heading across the river to the Isle of Skye!

Day Three: A full day on Skye! Hike up to one of the island’s more distinctive rock formations. 

Day Four: Waving goodbye to Skye, we take the ferry off the island and visit the Glenfinnan viaduct, the Bonnie Prince Charlie monument, and  Glen Coe before heading to Oban.

Day Five: On our final day, we make our way through Argyll and into the Trossachs National Park. You’ll also visit  St. Conan’s Kirk. Kilchurn Castle (Summer months only). Callander, Doune Castle, Wallace Monument or. Bannockburn Battlefield. 

Spend five full days experiencing Scotland and its stunning highlands. You’ll witness firsthand the Scottish way of life and the intriguing wonders that make this place their home. This tour is offered by Macbackpacker a platinum tour operator. For almost 20 years, MacBackpackers has organized enjoyable, fully guided excursions around Scotland.

Their excursions provided a fun, interesting, and completely different perspective of Scotland and were designed for young travelers and backpackers between the ages of 18 and 39. As you travel along some of Scotland’s most picturesque routes, your guides, who are passionate about their country and its history, will introduce you to this wonderful nation while weaving together the rich tapestry of Scottish history and culture.

Overall you can expect to have a fantastic time as you tour Scotland. This tour has an overall rating of 4.8 stars and is remarked as one of the best tours of Scotland. 

Insight Vacations

Discover Glasgow’s opulent Georgian architecture, the Military Tattoo’s birthplace in Edinburgh, and the Isle of Skye, the most picturesque island in the Inner Hebrides, by taking a cruise. As you pass by Britain’s most northern point at John O’Groats and take a ferry to the Orkney Islands, join Local Experts on this great Gaelic tour.

On these serene isles, take advantage of a slower pace of life as you explore Skara Brae, a town that is 5,000 years old, and the enigmatic Ring of Brodgar. On this tour, visit the intriguing Heritage Museum or sip a small dram of whisky at the Old Pulteney Distillery in Wick. Take afternoon tea at Blair Castle, which has been the Atholl family’s ancestral home for more than seven centuries, after touring St. Andrews’ lovely cobbled alleys.

You’ll Begin your journey in Edinburgh and finish in Glasgow! Your 9-day tour takes you through Edinburgh, Scotland, and 8 other locations in Scotland. This tour also includes lodging in a hotel and a knowledgeable guide, meals, transportation, and other amenities. Here is your full itinerary.

Day One: Arrive in Edinburgh.

Day Two: Take a day tour of the highlights of Edinburgh.

Day Three: To St. Andrews and the Highland Capital of Inverness

Day Four: Culloden, Loch Ness, and onto Thurso

Day Five:  A Day in the Orkney Islands

Day Six:  Over the Sea to Skye

Day Seven: Pass Through the Scottish Highlands to Glencoe Relaxed Start

Day Eight: Along the Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond to Glasgow Relaxed Start

Day Nine: The Tour Ends Here. 

Explore Scotland’s true winding country roads on this detailed nine day across the country. You’ll meet friendly locals, learn about ancient Scottish traditions and immerse yourself in Scotland’s intense beauty. Insight Vacations operate this tour. Each moment is extraordinary when you travel with Insight Vacations. You’ll meet, feel, and taste a place in addition to seeing it.

Travel in style and stay in the best accommodations possible when you book with Insight Vacations. With real eating experiences that transport you to a location’s core, learn about new cultures and people with one of the best tour operators. Overall this tour has a high rating of 4.3 out of five stars, and it is considered one of the best in Scotland. 

G Adventures

For historians or perhaps those seeking to learn more about their Scottish ancestry, Scotland is an attractive destination thanks to its rich folklore and breathtaking landscapes.

This seven-day journey takes you to all the best cultural highlights, stopping at significant Jacobite sites like Culloden Moor in Inverness, charming locations like the Glenfinnan Viaduct, and giving you time to take in the country’s breathtaking natural beauty in Cairngorms National Park.

In between, you’ll have the chance to sample authentic Scottish cuisine and discover how whisky is manufactured through a tour and tasting excursion. It’s the finest way to simultaneously satisfy your inner whisky connoisseur and history buff.

Your tour starts in Edinburgh and ends in Glasgow. You have seven days to explore 4 destinations in Scotland. Accommodation, an expert guide, meals, and transportation are all included in this tour. Here is your full itinerary. 

Day One: Arrive in Edinburgh at any time.

Day Two: Enjoy an orientation walk of Edinburgh ending in the heart of the city

Day Three: This morning, opt to visit Cairngorms National Park and enjoy a CEO-led hike in Glenmore Forest, ending in Loch Morlich Beach. Or, consider a kayaking excursion or a visit to a reindeer farm with a ranger. After lunch, board a cruise toward Loch Ness.

Day Four: Discover the Isle of Skye with a scenic drive to the Isle, stopping at the Eilean Castle while en route for a snap of the old fortress. You’ll also visit Sligachan and Head north to visit Dunvegan Castle and its Gardens.

Day Five: Visit the Glenfinnan Viaduct, made famous by Harry Potter. Enjoy a forest walk in Ben Nevis, followed by a distillery tour and whisky tasting at Ben Nevis Distillery. Continue to explore Glencoe and learn about this key valley and its importance in Scotland’s history.

Day Six: Enjoy some free time to explore Glasgow. 

Day Seven: Departure at any time.

Spend a full week discovering the beauty of the Scottish highlands and the chance to discover the biggest cities within the country. With a good amount of free time to explore on your own accord and a mix of guided activities for you to choose from, you’ll have the best of both worlds and never be bored. G-Adventures officially operate this tour.

Discover new and exciting locations with G-Adventures! With a large selection of destinations and departure dates, many different trips are available to suit different tastes. Overall this Scottish highlights tour offered by G-Adventures can easily be considered one of the best tours in Scotland. 

Intrepid Travel

Off the northern coast of Scotland lie the Orkney Islands, which are full of secrets and history that can be explored by land and sea. Using Kirkwall as your base, spend five days exploring the best of the Orkney Islands, beginning in the highlands capital of Inverness.

Admire the Neolithic village of Skara Brae, which dates back to before Stonehenge, venture off the beaten path on a leisurely coastal stroll on Shapinsay Island, and round off your days with live music and whisky tastings at neighborhood pubs.

This period of European history has never been more alluring, thanks to a knowledgeable local leader and a group of learners who share your enthusiasm. This adventure starts and ends in Inverness. You’ll experience three Scottish cities over five days. Accommodation, transportation, excursions, meals, and an expert guide are all complimentary on this tour. Here is what the full itinerary for this tour would entail. 

Day One: Meet your tour guide, and then from here, take a train to Thurso, and on arrival, transfer to the nearby port of Scrabster to board a ferry over to Orkney. Then catch a local bus with your group to Kirkwall.

Day Two: Go on a walking tour of Kirkwall with free time in the afternoon.

Day Three: Head off with your travel crew in a private vehicle toward some of the islands’ most historic sites. Start by visiting the Italian chapel. Continue west to the prehistoric village of Skara Brae. Pop into an old schoolhouse building for a picnic lunch of local Orkney produce. 

Day Four: walk down to the harbor to board a ferry bound for the island of Shapinsay. Set off on a coastal walk past Balfour Castle and along the western coastline. Spend the afternoon at leisure. 

Day Five: make your way back to Inverness and depart anytime.

This year’s itinerary is brand-new and improved to give travelers the best possible experience, but please note there are a few things you need to know about this tour. You should bring fall or winter clothing from September through May, as it can get chilly in Scotland. It’s also important to note that the accommodation provided is shared and if you’d prefer private accommodation it is available but at an additional cost. 

This tour offers five days to truly discover the islands of Scotland. It is truly a gift to have the opportunity to make it out to the islands, as few tourists venture out that far. It is truly a remarkable experience you don’t want to miss. That makes this tour unique and one of the best in Scotland. 

Collette Tours

Scotland calls you in with its untamed, sea-sprayed islands and elegant, historically rich castles. At the farm-to-table restaurant of the National Piping Centre, you may learn how to play the bagpipes while having dinner. On a tour of a distillery, sample Scotch whiskey or Admire Isle of Skye’s breathtaking beauty.

Visit the renowned Loch Ness via boat. Explore Skara Brae, a historic site in the Orkney Islands. Contemplate Dunrobin Castle. Meet the sheepdogs of a local family by visiting their farm. Spend some time at leisure in the Victorian city of Pitlochry.

Discover Edinburgh, a majestic city. During an interactive cooking lesson, give Scottish cuisine a contemporary spin. Learn about the friendly sheepdogs, lush, rolling Highlands, and delicious Scotch whiskey of this region.

This tour starts in Glasgow and ends in Edinburgh. With this package, you’ll have 10 days to discover eleven different Scottish cities. Transportation, meals, excursions, an expert guide, and much more are included in the cost of the tour. Here is your full itinerary. 

Day One: Arrive in Scotland.

Day Two: visit the National Piping Centre. After a demonstration and lesson with a renowned piper, it’s your chance to give it a go! Then, join your fellow travelers for a lively welcome dinner at the Centre’s farm-to-table restaurant. 

Day Three:  travel to the Highlands, passing by the beautiful scenery of Loch Lomond. This afternoon, stop by one of Scotland’s whisky distilleries. 

Day Four: Take a stunning drive along the “Road to the Isles” and over to the Isle of Skye. Visit Armadale Castle & Gardens* and the Museum of the Isles to learn about island life and the history of Skye. 

Day Five: Travel through the Great Glen for a Visit to the striking ruins of Urquhart Castle before enjoying a cruise on Loch Ness.

Day Six: visit the Orkney Islands as well as Skara Brae and discover the remains of a Neolithic village.

Day Seven:   visit Culloden Battlefield. You’ll also stop at the majestic Dunrobin Castle with free time in the afternoon.

Day Eight: visit a family-run farm set in the heart of the Highlands. Continue to the vibrant Victorian town of Pitlochry for some time at leisure. End your day in Scotland’s capital city of Edinburgh.

Day Nine: Enjoy a free day in the capital of Scotland!

Day Ten: Departure at any time. 

Experience the true beauty of Scotland over ten days on this exciting tour! You’ll see the top tourist sites and a unique look into life in Scotland. Oh, and don’t worry, you will get to see lots of stunning castles!

Collette Tours offers this tour. Since 1918, Collette has established a name for itself as a travel agency that provides exceptional experiences, outstanding customer service, and a broad range of appeal. Benefits that elevate the guided travel experience are available when using Collette as your travel companion.

In addition to giving you better value for your money, their all-inclusive excursions guarantee that every component meets their high standards. Overall this tour operator is also considered “Gold” for its dedication to travelers. This can be said to be one of the best tours in Scotland. 

Trafalgar Tours

Discover the best of Scotland, from Glasgow’s unique alleys to Edinburgh Castle. Enjoy the romance and history of the Scottish Highlands and consider the enigmatic depths of Loch Ness before toasting the beautiful lochs, glens, and fabled locals of Bonnie, Scotland.

Start your journey in Edinburgh and finish in Glasgow. Beginning in Edinburgh, finishing in Glasgow! This tour includes a 7-day tour itinerary that visits Edinburgh, Scotland, and 7 other locations in Scotland. This tour package also includes hotel accommodations, a knowledgeable time, meals, transportation, and more. Here is a look at your full itinerary for this tour. 

Day One: Arrive at any time.

Day Two: Discover Enchanting Edinburgh

Day Three: Venture into the Scottish Highlands

Day Four: Explore Culloden, Loch Ness, and the Isle of Skye

Day Five: Journey to Thriving Glasgow

Day Six: Walk the Walls of Stirling Castle, Connect with Locals, Dive Into Culture

Day Seven: End in Glasgow. A full week to truly discover Scotland and all of its four corners. This tour is operated by Trafalgar Tours, known for its well-put-together European itineraries! 

For almost 70 years, Trafalgar has been handcrafting distinctive guided vacations. They were the first to introduce tourists to the local way of life, and they still do so today by offering carefully chosen insider experiences that bring destinations to life.

They open the way by featuring locals who share their lore, culture, and cuisine. Every year, Trafalgar introduces new travel options with more than 230 vacations in Europe, North, Central & South America, Australia, New Zealand, and Asia.

Select from 11 travel types designed to delight even the most experienced traveler. Therefore, Trafalgar offers the ideal selection of tours tailored to your preferences, whether you want to travel with your complete family or discover less-traveled locations in a small group. Overall, count this tour as one of the best in Scotland. 

Blue-Roads Touring

Scotland is home to a wide variety of beauties, including alluring lochs, eerie glens, and towering mountains. We’ll see some of the nation’s most breathtaking landscapes, intriguing tales, and enduring customs on this trip of the historic Borders and picturesque Central Belt, many of which may be discovered in less-traveled areas off the beaten path.

Are you willing to learn more about Scotland? You should take this journey. Starting and finishing in Edinburgh! You can take a 7-day travel package through Edinburgh, Scotland, and 5 other Scottish locations with the In-depth Cultural Tour Treasures of Scotland. Treasures of Scotland offers lodging, a knowledgeable guide, meals, transportation, and more. Here is your full itinerary for this tour. 

Day One: Meet in Bonnie, Scotland’s picturesque capital. 

Day Two: board the mini-coach and make your way to Doune. Travel through the spellbinding Sma’ Glen en route to Perthshire.

Day Three: set off to explore the vastness of the highlands with a kilted safari ranger with a visit to  the Red Deer Centre 

Day Four: Enjoy a whisky-tasting session to look forward to at the postcard-perfect Glengoyne Distillery. End the day along the western shore of Loch Lomond.

Day Five: take a day trip through the magnificent Glencoe Valley. Visit Glencoe Visitor Centre before returning to Luss. 

Day Six: round off your visit to Loch Lomond with a scenic loch cruise. Make a stop in New Lanark to discover the city. 

Day Seven: you will make a couple of historical stops before the tour ends then your tour will end.

Explore and get to know the true Scotland on this one-week tour. Experience the true Scottish culture and the beauty of Scotland’s nature on this tour. This tour offers a busy itinerary perfect for those looking to take the ultimate adventure. Your tour continues even on your departure day! 

Blue-Roads Touring offers this tour. Imagine a deeper-dived vacation that includes being taken off the beaten path to view each location through the eyes of the residents who call it home rather than just passing through famous landmarks and significant cities.

Blue-Roads has spent more than 30 years designing small group trips that expose you to real encounters and sights you’ll never forget, all while offering the convenience, security, and knowledge that come with a luxury mini-coach tour. This tour has an overall rating of 4,4 out of five stars and is considered one of the best tours of Scotland. 

In conclusion, Scotland is home to a fantastic selection of excursions highlighting the nation’s stunning natural surroundings, extensive history, and dynamic culture. These top six tours in Scotland offer remarkable encounters and a thorough immersion into this incredible nation. These itineraries provide something for every tourist, from the enchanting Scottish Highlands to the historic beauty of Edinburgh and the legendary attraction of Loch Ness. These tours are a terrific option for experiencing Scotland because of their expertly designed itineraries, expert guides, and stress-free approach. You are invited to begin a captivating journey of magnificent Scotland. Your Scottish experience is waiting for you! 

If none of these tours work for you in Scotland, please do not worry. There is a wide variety of tour options in the country, and we are confident that there will be something that fits your needs and interests.

Take a look at all the group tours in S c o t l a n d now , which you can sort by private or group, maximum sizing, budget, dates, and much (much more). The team at TourRadar is also always more than happy to answer any questions, provide further information or assist in any way in finding the perfect tour for you.

9 Best Scotland Small Group Tours You Need To Book

Posted by Francesca Brooking | Scotland | 8

Scotland is a dream destination for nature and adventure lovers. 

Castles nestle in rugged landscapes, mirror-like lochs contain mysteries of monsters within their bowels, islands have some of the most dramatic geological formations in the world, plus so much more waiting to be discovered.  

If you’ve never been to Scotland, it may be overwhelming trying to plan a trip with so much to see and do. Enter small group Scotland tours – the best, most flexible to book and hassle-free way to explore the country. 

The beauty of a small group tour is that you can stick to the main travel route or go as intrepid as you like. It just comes down to the one you choose. 

So, with so many tour options out there, which one should you pick? 

To make it easier, I’ve rounded up the best small-group tours of Scotland. I’ve chosen each one based on my own experience, the reviews, the company and of course, the itinerary. 

All tours featured are eco-certified which means they have a positive impact on the environment and help you travel sustainably too. It’s a win-win!

Quick answer: best Scotland small group tours 

Highlights of scotland , scotland’s orkney islands .

• Loch Ness, Glencoe and the Highlands 
• St Andrews & Fife Fishing Village
• Outlander Day Tour 
• Rosslyn Chapel & Hadrian’s Wall
• Isle of Skye 3-Day Tour
• Lewis, Harris and the Outer Hebrides
• Isle of Skye & Jacobite Steam Train 

Why book a small group tour of Scotland 

Scotland is well-known for its rugged scenery and jaw-dropping views around every corner. If you’re planning a trip, it can be overwhelming to know where to start and what you want to include in your itinerary. 

Tours do the hard work for you by fitting in all the best highlights that guarantee a rewarding trip. 

Plus, you don’t need to worry about the logistics of transport in Scotland or hotel bookings either. This is vital at a time when travel is so precarious and restrictions change at a moment’s notice. 

The best tours are flexible and have less complicated moving parts, giving you peace of mind if you do have to postpone or cancel. 

What’s more, doing a group tour of Scotland is a great way to get a more in-depth understanding of the history and culture as they’re run by local guides. 

You’ll get insider information and recommendations. Plus, activities and experiences you might not have come across otherwise. 

You’ll also get a chance to meet like-minded people. Small group tours rarely go above a dozen people to keep them intimate and personalised. 

Who knows, you could be swapping stories with your new best friend over a dram in a cosy pub in Orkney!

Read More: 11 of the Best Responsible Tour Operators in the World

Best small group tours of Scotland 

Here’s a round-up of some of the best Scotland small group tours that highlight the very best of the country from its rugged highlands, remote islands, scenic castles, mysterious lochs, history, fishing villages and more. 

Whether you have a week or a day, there’s a tour to suit every schedule. 

• Length: 7 days
• Start & Finish: Edinburgh – Glasgow
• Highlights: Edinburgh Castle, Loch Ness, Culloden Moor, Isle of Skye, Eileen Donan Castle, watching the Jacobite Steam Train cross Glenfinnan Viaduct. 

This Highlights of Scotland tour is exactly that, giving you a snapshot of the very best the country has to offer within a week. 

It starts in Edinburgh and you have the option to do guided or self-guided tours of the city before being whisked to Inverness in the heart of the highlands. 

From there, you’ll discover the mystery of “Nessie” on a boat cruise of Loch Ness and see Culloden Moor where the Jacobite Rising was defeated in 1746. 

Other exciting highlights of the tour include the Isle of Skye, the chance to see the famous Jacobite Steam Train cross Glenfinnan Viaduct and a whisky tasting at Ben Nevis Distillery before finishing in Glasgow, the cultural capital of Scotland. 

This guided tour is best for those who are short on time but want to see as many Scotland highlights as possible. You travel mainly by private vehicle with an average group of 12 people and a friendly local guide with you the whole way. 

I recommend this tour because it’s a great balance of comfort and adventure. You stay in cosy accommodation but you also get to explore the wilds of the Scottish Highlands through hikes, kayaking, cycling and even visiting a reindeer farm (all optional)! 

That’s exactly what the best Scottish tours should be like. 

Photo credit: Canva.com

• Length: 5 days 
• Start & Finish: Inverness
• Highlights: Neolithic town of Skara Brae, coastal walk on Shapinsay Island, live music and whisky tastings.

This five-star rated tour takes you up to the Orkney Islands on the northeastern coast of Scotland. 

Perfect for ancient history lovers, the tour starts in Inverness where you’ll meet your local guide before taking a scenic train journey to Thurso, transfer to the port of Scrabster and catch the ferry to Kirkwall in Orkney. 

Here, you’ll spend the next 4 days exploring the Neolithic Skara Brae, the historic Ring of Brodgar and 12th-century St Magnus Cathedral. You also have plenty of coastal sea walks, whisky tastings, live music and pubs galore against a wild, scenic backdrop. 

The maximum number of people on this tour is 12 and you get around using a mix of private and public transport. Your group leader stays with you for the duration of the trip too. 

I recommend this tour because it gives you the chance to explore lesser-travelled areas of Scotland. 

Although you’re with a group, you can easily split off and do your own thing too. Plus the use of public transport allows you to experience the local culture up close!

Loch Ness, Glencoe and the Highlands Small Group Day Tour from Edinburgh

• Length: 12 hours approx.
• Start & Finish: Edinburgh
• Highlights: Loch Ness boat trip, Glencoe and Cairngorms National Park. 

If you’re looking for a small group tour of Scotland that covers the best of the highlands in a day then this one’s for you. 

During this one-day excursion, you’ll head straight up to Glencoe passing Stirling Castle, the Wallace Monument and Linlithgow Palace along the way.

You’ll then journey onwards to Fort William, soon reaching the shores of Loch Ness where you can take a boat cruise on the water. After lunch, it’s another drive to the breathtaking Cairngorms National Park before heading back to Edinburgh. 

The small group tour has a maximum of 16 travellers and transport is a comfy Mercedes minibus. Your driver guide will also give you some insightful commentary during your trip. 

My favourite thing about this tour is that even though it’s a busy schedule there are plenty of breaks along the way so you’re not constantly on the road. 

Departing from Edinburgh, it also brings some of the most remote Scottish landmarks within reach. Don’t just take my word for it, it’s highly rated too!

St Andrews & the Fishing Villages of Fife Small Group Day Tour from Edinburgh

Photo credit: Unsplash.com

• Length: 8.5 hours approx. 
• Highlights: The Forth Road Bridge, fishing villages of East Neuk, St Andrews, Falkland Palace and Gardens. 

If you like the idea of exploring more of the east coast (Scotland’s west coast already gets a LOT of love), then this St Andrews & Fishing Villages of Fife tour is the perfect option for you. 

The day trip starts by crossing over the famous Forth Bridge where you’ll get a chance to see the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Forth Rail Bridge. 

Journey onwards to Fife, a peninsula bordered by the North Sea where you’ll stop to explore the traditional fishing village of Anstruther. 

Soon, you’ll arrive in St Andrews where you’ll have free time to enjoy its 1000 years of history and its accolade as the birthplace of golf! 

The last stop on the tour is Falkland Palace and Garden, a gorgeous fairytale palace that was once home to the Stewarts (Scottish Royal Family). Explore the palace or the town of Falkland, an Outlander filming location!

The tour has a maximum of 16 travellers and you travel in comfort in a Mercedes minibus. The tour guides are highly knowledgeable and the local area too. 

It’s a fantastic way to get a snapshot of Scotland’s east coast!

Discover more Edinburgh day trips here.

Outlander Day Tour from Glasgow or Edinburgh

• Length: 8-10 hours approx. 
• Start & Finish: Glasgow or Edinburgh depending on the option picked 
• Highlights: Filming locations from Outlander including Midhope Castle (Lallybroch), Blackness Castle (Fort William), Culross (Crainsmuir) and Doune Castle (Castle Leoch). 

Are you an Outlander lover? If so, this tour is a must-do! 

Follow in the footsteps of Claire and Jamie on this full-day tour from Glasgow of all the major filming locations of this television series. 

The tour starts with a drive to Doune Castle which you might recognise as Castle Leoch and Winterfell from Game of Thrones (quite the film star!). 

Then you’ll journey to Falkland, the filming location for Inverness in the 1940s before arriving at my personal favourite, Midhope Castle (Lallybroch).

Look out for the Royal Burgh of Culross too which was the filming location for Crainesmuir where Geillis Duncan lived. 

The last stop is the imposing Blackness Castle used in some of the scenes for Fort William and Wentworth. 

I recommend this five-star rated tour because it’s perfect for Outlander buffs but those who are keen to discover Scottish history and culture will love it too. 

Enjoy dramatic countryside views, a dram or two of whisky and a knowledgeable local guide giving you all the insider info on Outlander. 

This small group guided Scotland tour is a private minibus with max 8 people so it’s nice and intimate. You have the flexibility to start from either Glasgow or Edinburgh too. 

Editor’s tip: You can also do a two-day Outlander tour that covers the Clava Cairns (the inspiration behind Craigh na Dun) and Culloden Moor. Check it out here.

Rosslyn Chapel and Hadrian’s Wall Small Group Day Tour from Edinburgh

• Length: 10.5 hours approx. 
• Highlights: Rosslyn Chapel (featured in the Da Vinci Code), Melrose Abbey, English border and Hadrian’s Wall. 

No trip to Scotland is complete without visiting the borders. This small group day tour takes you there and beyond to Northern England where you can walk part of the way along the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Hadrian’s Wall. 

Ideal for history lovers, this small group tour combines history with architectural intrigue against the stunning backdrop of the Scottish and English border. 

The first stop is the mysterious Rosslyn Chapel which gained international fame after featuring in The Da Vinci Code. 

Next, it’s a visit to the ruins of Melrose Abbey wherein lies the final resting place of King Robert the Bruce’s heart. Then it’s time to cross the English border to reach Housesteads Fort, the best-preserved section of Hadrian’s Wall which was built 1900 years ago by the Roman Empire. 

The last stop is Jedburgh, a pretty market town in the Scottish Borders as you head back north to Edinburgh. 

I recommend this tour because it’s got a bit of everything – including two countries! Although it’s a bestseller, tour groups are kept to 16 people max so you can make the most of your knowledgeable guide. 

Read More: No-Fly Holidays: The BEST Train from London to Edinburgh (Review)

Isle of Skye Small Group 3-Day Tour from Edinburgh

• Length: 3 days
• Highlights: Glencoe, 5 Sisters of Kintail, Eilean Donan Castle, Isle of Skye and Loch Ness. 

If you’re keen to see the highlights of Scotland but you don’t have a whole week to spare, this 3-day tour is a great choice. It gives you a snapshot of the highlands and islands. 

On the first day, you’ll go on a detour through the highlands to the Isle of Skye – passing Doune Castle, Glencoe and Fort William at the foot of Ben Nevis (Scotland’s highest peak). 

Then it’s a truly breathtaking drive ahead as you take the ‘road to the isles’ through the 5 Sisters of Kintail (my nose was practically glued to the window in awe!). 

The second day is all about Skye – as it should be! There’s some flexibility here but the Trotternish Peninsula is not to be missed. 

Home of the Quiraing, a famous landslide, it’s a jaw-dropping sight. Neist Point and the Old Man of Storr are worth seeing too. Make the most of your private vehicle because you won’t be able to see it all on foot!

On the third day, you’ll head back to the mainland to Loch Ness for lunch, and pass Loch Laggan, Dalwhinnie and Blair Castle before returning to Edinburgh. 

If you want to make the most of your time in Scotland but you only have a few days I highly recommend doing this tour. 

You get to see the very best of the Highlands and Skye. It’s just 16 people max so you don’t feel too crowded either. What’s more, the tour is operated by Rabbies, one of the best Scottish tour companies to book. 

Editor’s tip: If you would rather keep the tour to one day instead of three, this one is a great alternative.

Lewis, Harris, and Outer Hebrides Tour from Inverness

• Highlights: Ferry to the Isle of Lewis, Callanish Standing Stones, white sand beaches of Luskentyre on the Isle of Harris. 

Did you know Scotland is home to some of the best beaches in Europe? I’m talking soft white sand and striped turquoise waters that would almost make you think you’ve stumbled across a portal to the Caribbean. The only giveaway is the lack of palm trees… and the weather. 

If you’re keen to see the beauty of these beaches first-hand, this 3-day island hopping tour in the Outer Hebrides is a must! 

Starting from Inverness, you’ll head to Ullapool where you’ll catch the ferry to Stornoway on Lewis. Look out for dolphins and whales!  

On day two, you’ll venture to Harris with its striking mountains and unspoilt beaches. The one you’ve been waiting for is Luskentyre Beach which looks like the Caribbean on a good day. 

On day three, the tour will take you to the Lewis parish of Uig, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty where Vikings settled more than 800 years ago. Then you’ll visit the Callanish Standing Stones, 5000-year-old megaliths that are said to be once giants. 

With just 16 people maximum, this tour offers an amazing way to explore some of Scotland’s most remote and breathtaking islands on the west coast. It’s ideal for those who love wildlife, rugged isles, ancient history and beaches!

Find out more about how to get to Invernes s by road, rail or air.

Isle of Skye & Jacobite Steam Train 3-Day Highland Tour

• Highlights: Loch Ness, Isle of Skye, riding on the Jacobite Steam Train (from May – October) and Culloden Moor. 

If riding the Jacobite Steam Train is on your Scotland bucket list then this tour is a must. Similar to the other 3-day tour above, it focuses on the key highlights of the Highlands and Isle of Skye. 

The main difference is the third day. Instead of driving from Skye back to the mainland, you go down to the south of the island and take a short ferry ride to the fishing village of Mallaig (look out for dolphins on your way. One loved following our ferry!). 

From Mallaig, you have the option to ride the Jacobite Steam Train to Fort William and enjoy spectacular views as the train crosses Glenfinnan Viaduct (if you want a photo op, sit or stand on the right – trust me!). The train slows down over the viaduct so you can soak it all in. 

Once you arrive in Fort William , you follow the spectacular rugged route south through Glencoe and Rannoch Moor before reaching Edinburgh in the early evening. 

This tour is perfect for those who want to get all the highlights of Scotland – including the steam train – in just three days. 

Just make sure to book it between May and October otherwise the steam train is unavailable. It’s also important to book it in advance as tickets for the steam train sell out quickly!

Editor’s tip: Prefer to do Skye in a day? Do this tour instead!

What about self-guided tours? 

Want to have the structure and ease of a tour with the flexibility of travelling solo? I recommend Byway Travel. 

The travel company specialises in building bespoke no-fly travel itineraries based on your interests and budget. 

Although it’s a self-guided trip, Byway is with you every step of the way via Whatsapp and handles all the logistics so you can enjoy the travel part. It’s a great alternative to doing a guided tour of Scotland!

Looking for more Scotland travel tips? These articles can help!

• 10 Days in the Scottish Highlands: The Ultimate Itinerary
• How To Get To Glenfinnan Viaduct From Fort William (A Complete Guide For 2024)
• An Epic Rewilding Experience in Scotland with SCOTLAND: The Big Picture
• 15 Most Unique Eco-Friendly Getaways in Scotland
• Top 3 Reasons to Add Islay to Your Scotland Itinerary
• 20 Best Things To Do On The Isle Of Mull
• 12 BEST Day Hikes In Scotland You Need To Experience
• The Best Time To Visit The Isle Of Skye For The Perfect Trip

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About The Author

Francesca brooking.

Francesca Brooking is the Founder of Little Lost Travel. A travel expert with a passion for the planet, Francesca is on a mission to help you travel well. From Costa Rica to Jordan, she's travelled all over the world. When she's not off on an adventure, she's reviewing sustainable travel products and writing travel guides.

Such a thorough and helpful overview! Which ones to choose? They all look so great. I would probably start with the Outer Hebrides tour having read and really enjoyed Peter May’s Lewis Trilogy

Thank you! The Outer Hebrides tour is a great choice!

Great selection of tours! I would pick the ones visiting Isle of Skye, and Jacobite train, and would be nice to go on Outlander tour too.

Thank you! All good choices 🙂

Scotland might be my favorite country so all of these tours look amazing! I never got the chance to visit any of the islands so I’d love to go on the Orkney and Isle of Skye tours! As a solo traveler, tours are a great way to meet people and not feel alone.

I agree! Plus transport and accommodation sorted. Definitely worth heading back to see the islands!

Really useful, I don’t drive which restricts some of the places I can visit in Scotland. Will have to keep some of these in mind next time I’m up there 🙂

Me too! Yes, do.

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Last Updated on 25/05/2024

Scotland Tours

You're sipping a wee dram of smoky whisky as you gaze out over a glistening loch. You and your new friends compare the photos you took of the Highland Coos you just spotted in a heather-covered moor. And someone is daring you to try haggis for dinner tonight... This is Scotland. And you're on a Rabbie's tour. Maybe you’re on a 1 day tour out of Inverness, or perhaps you’ve decided to discover the Scottish islands on a 17-day’ adventure. The choice is yours. Which of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks call to you? Loch Ness and its enigmatic monster ? The endless epic views of the Highlands? The raw beauty and legends of Skye ? Let our driver-guides take you there and share stories that go deeper and connect you with the land you travel through, its history, music, and culture.

Explore Scotland Tours

Why you'll love Scotland

Epic tales and terrific traditions

Scotland is the birthplace of Sherlock Holmes, the television, and whisky. So, the culture is a mix of poetry, intellect, and fun. The locals also love showing visitors a good time. So don’t be surprised when you’re invited to a Highland dance or regaled with folk tales at the local pub.

Famed beauty

Scotland’s landscapes are more dramatic than a superhero movie, more beautiful than a three carat diamond, and older than any of your grandparents’ stories. From blonde beaches to serene mountains: you’ll discover the scenery lives up to its reputation.

A trove of secrets

It’s no secret Scotland has fascinating history. But what’s less known, is how much of it’s shrouded in mystery. There are unexplained standing stones, untranslatable hieroglyphics, and unbelievable myths. So, keep your eyes peeled, your mind open, and your imagination switched on.

Natural flavours

Everyone wants a slice of Scotland’s local larder. The seafood is exported to the best restaurants, Angus beef is enjoyed everywhere, and whisky is loved worldwide. And although these flavours travel far, there’s no place it tastes better than in Scotland.

Our Scotland Tours

Select by month

Loch Ness, Glencoe & the Highlands - 1 day tour

Monsters and mountains: this is the best way to see the best of Scotland, from Glencoe to Loch Ness.

Prices from £69.00

DEPARTING FROM: Edinburgh

St Andrews & the Fishing Villages of Fife - 1 day tour

An ancient university. Breathtaking ruins. Quaint coastal villages. This is the ancient Kingdom of Fife.

Prices from £57.00

Skye & Eilean Donan Castle - 1 day tour

Experience your own slice of heaven on Scotland's most famous island.

Prices from £68.00

DEPARTING FROM: Inverness

Outlander Adventure - 1 day tour

From iconic castles to picturesque villages, explores the sights and stories of Outlander.

Prices from £64.00

Loch Lomond National Park, Kelpies & Stirling Castle - 1 day tour

Step back in time and discover the legends, landscapes, and landmarks that defined Scottish history.

Oban, Glencoe, Highland Lochs & Castles - 1 day tour

Iconic castles. Tales of old clan rivalries. Brilliant mountain scenery. This is the Scottish Highlands.

Prices from £56.00

DEPARTING FROM: Glasgow

The Isle of Skye - 3 day tour

Roam the breathtaking Isle of Skye and its beautifully unique landscape that's something out of a dream.

Prices from £225.00

Prices from £67.00

West Highlands, Lochs & Castles - 1 day tour

Capture the spirit of the Western Highlands and explore Scotland's most atmospheric lochs and castles.

The Complete Loch Ness Experience - 1 day tour

Your ultimate Loch Ness adventure, from frothy waterfalls to cosy villages and maybe a monster or two.

Prices from £40.00

Hadrian's Wall, Roman Britain & the Scottish Borders - 1 day tour

Have you ever wanted to explore the incredible Hadrian's Wall & the Scottish Borders? Now's the time.

Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond & Cruise - 1 day tour

What do you love more? The grandeur of Stirling Castle or the beauty of Loch Lomond? We can't decide.

Prices from £49.00

Where to travel to?

Explore all tours

Classic Walks of Scotland

6 days | soak up the scenery on scotland’s best walks.

Sample some of Scotland’s most iconic walks like the West Highland Way and the Great Glen Way and conquer Ben Nevis - the highest peak in Scotland and the entire United Kingdom – with two expert guides by your side. Fort William, a charming town located on the shores of Loch Linnhe, is famous for being the gateway to Ben Nevis and will be your home away from home on this trip which takes you through an ever changing landscape that is famous for its Scottish culture, dramatic landscapes, and breathtaking natural scenery. Add a charming Scottish town and atmospheric pubs to enjoy at the end of each day and this walking trip has it all.

Trip overview

• Located on the shores of Loch Linnhe, Fort William is a charming town that makes for the perfect base for your trip. Unpack once, settle in, and enjoy a warm welcome back at the end of each day.
• Safety always comes first – let your experienced and qualified leader show you the way as you take in spectacular scenery on some of Scotland’s best walks.
• Conquer Ben Nevis - the king of Scotland walks – with qualified mountain guides who will provide plenty of encouragement and help you scale the mountain at your own pace.
• Trek the West Highland Way and experience the best of it – Devil’s Staircase and the final stage leading you to Fort William – and enjoy a leisurely ramble along the Great Glen Way.
• This trip is as green as it gets. We only use public transport and our accommodation can be reached from major cities in the UK by train.
• This is a walking trip. Please carefully read descriptions of all the walks as you will need a good level of fitness to fully enjoy all the included hikes.
• Scottish weather can surprise – in good and bad way – so be prepared for lovely sunshine but also rain, wind, and lower temperatures. Please make sure you have good walking boots, rain gear, warm clothing, and sun protection for this trip.
• On day 5 we will climb Ben Nevis. While the group will be led by qualified guides, it is important you are aware that the trek will take almost the entire day.

View the itinerary for departures between 01 January 2023 - 31 December 2024

Welcome to the Highlands! Your adventure begins in Fort William, cradled amidst the captivating landscapes of the Scottish West Highlands. The town is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering exceptional hiking, climbing, winter and water sports opportunities. The imposing presence of Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest peak, looms large, making this town a mecca for those seeking Highland mountain adventures. With a rich history and friendly community, Fort William will be your home for the next five nights. After you’ve settled into your accommodation, meet your leader and the rest of your group at a welcome meeting, then enjoy an easy hike to stretch the legs, maybe to a ruined castle on a historic battle site.

• Guesthouse (1 night)

There are no meals included on this day.

• Fort William - Fort William Orientation Walk

It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting at 3pm today, as we will be checking insurance details and next of kin information at this time. Please familiarise yourself with the itinerary as now is the time to ask any important questions. Any dietaries or medicals not already disclosed, please let your leader know at the meeting. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent, the hotel reception or your group leader know.

This trip is highly environmentally conscious, striving for the greenest possible travel experience. We strongly encourage you to consider reaching Fort William by train or bus, as these options offer convenient and eco-friendly transportation from various destinations throughout England and Scotland.

Today’s walk is a gentle ramble with minimal elevation.

This morning, you’ll take the private transfer to nearby Glencoe, where you’ll hike the West Highland Way from Glencoe to Kinlochleven, over the famous Devil’s Staircase. As you ascend, you'll quickly understand why it's called the Devil's Staircase. The path climbs steeply, zigzagging its way up the mountainside. This section can be challenging but immensely rewarding, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the vast expanse of the region. Keep an eye out for deer as you take in the tranquil views on this occasionally challenging but rewarding hike. There’s no need to walk back to where you started on this point-to point walk as a short transfer will take you back to Fort William for a relaxing night.

• Fort William - West Highland Way Guided Hike (Glencoe to Kinlochleven Section including Devil’s Staircase)

Your travel time today will be approximately 1 hour. Your trekking time today will be approximately 5 to 6 hours or 16 km (10 miles) with 562 metres (1840 feet) elevation gain.

After a hearty breakfast, you’ll take another short transfer to the start of the hike in Kinlochleven, a scenic village located at the eastern end of Loch Leven. From here, hike the final stage of the West Highland Way, which will take you over the mountain pass and through the picturesque valley, on your way back to Fort William. This leg of the West Highland Way marks the official end of the famous trail, and serves as the starting point for the Great Glen Way, which you'll explore tomorrow. In the evening, there is the option to join your fellow travelers for dinner, to reflect on the day’s’ adventure.

• Fort William - West Highland Way Guided Hike (Final Stage)

Your travel time today will be approximately 45 minutes. Your trekking time today will be approximately 7 to 8 hours or 25 km (15 miles) with 800 metres (2660 feet) elevation gain.

Today is a bit of an easier day today, which could be considered as a rest day for tired legs! The Great Glen Way is a long-distance walking route that spans from Fort William to Inverness, following the picturesque Great Glen, which cuts through the Scottish Highlands. Today, you’ll hike the opening stage. Starting from the accommodation, the hike takes you from Fort William and follows the banks of the Caledonian Canal. Built in the 19th century, the Caledonian Canal is a man-made waterway that links east to west Scotland. Your route continues onto the small highland settlement of Gairloch. Follow a country lane to the nearby Commando Memorial which has amazing views across the Ben Nevis mountain range, before finishing in Spean Bridge.

• Fort William - Commando Memorial Visit
• Fort William - Great Glen Way Guided Hike via Caledonian Canal to Gairlochy

Your trekking time today will be approximately 4 to 6 hours or 19 km (12 miles) with 190 metres (620 feet) elevation gain.

Today marks the pinnacle of your Scottish walking adventure with the challenging ascent of Ben Nevis, the highest peak in Scotland (and in fact, the entire United Kingdom). The name Ben Nevis means 'mountain with its head in the clouds' in ancient Gaelic. This walk is considered a must do by hikers around the world. Starting at sea level, follow a rough trail to the summit at 1345 m. This is a challenging full day in the mountains, so you’ll need excellent physical preparation and determination to reach the summit. To assist on your ascent, the group will be accompanied by two seasoned guides who will provide expertise, support and motivation for a successful climb and descent. When you’ve accomplished this feat, a private transfer will take you back to the accommodation where you can unwind and relax with a sense of achievement.

• Fort William - Ben Nevis Guided Hike

Your trekking time today will be approximately 7 to 10 hours or 16 km (10 miles) with 1340 metres (4400 feet) elevation gain.

After breakfast, head out for a final hike with great views across Ben Nevis and the surrounding area, a celebratory victory walk after conquering the mighty peak. Starting directly from your accommodation, hike into Glen Nevis and head uphill to reach the summit of Cow Hill. Your efforts are rewarded with fantastic views of Glen Nevis and the many peaks which surround it, as well as across Fort William to Loch Linnhe and beyond. It’s a memorable place to finish the trip and reflect on an amazing week of hiking in Scotland. A short steep descent completes the circuit and takes you back into Fort William by lunchtime, giving you time to catch a bus to Inverness, or a train south to Glasgow. If you’d like extending your exploration of Scotland, consider joining one of our other adventures on Orkney or Shetland Islands. Just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.

• Fort William - Cow Hill Guided Hike
• Fort William - Glen Nevis Guided Hike

Your trekking time today will be approximately 3 hours or 10 km (6 miles) with 475 metres (1555 feet) elevation gain.

5 breakfasts

Walking, public bus, train, taxi

Guesthouse (5 nights)

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. 2. This trip starts at 3pm in Fort William on Day 1 and finishes at 1pm in Fort William on Day 6. Please book your onwards travels accordingly. 3. Fort William can be reached either by the sleeper train from London or by bus from Inverness (2 hours) or by a long but scenic train ride from Glasgow (5 hours). 4. Pre and post tour additional accommodation, arrival and departure transfers are available to book upon request, subject to availability. Please contact your Travel Consultant for more details. 5. If you’d like extending your exploration of Scotland, consider joining one of our other adventures on Orkney or Shetland Islands. Just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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Walking Holidays in Scotland | A Guide to Exploring a Wee Country’s Big Terrain

Discovering Scotland’s wild and varied landscape on foot is a simple way to access real adventure. Here, Scottish local, Amy Marwick, shares her favourite spots and top tips for Scottish walking holidays.

Scotland’s wilderness offers the enthusiastic walker an endless supply of terrain to explore from high mountains to rugged coastlines, to temperate rainforests, remote glens, and ancient forests – just don’t forget your waterproof jacket !

Thanks to Scotland’s fast changing weather however, you’re just as likely to enjoy some dry spells and amazing views whenever you decide to visit.

Scotland has two National Parks; the Cairngorm National Park (the largest in the UK and home to four of the five highest mountains in the UK), and Loch Lomond and the Trossachs (Scotland’s first national park), both of which are covered in this guide. However, Scotland’s wilderness extends far beyond the boundaries of these parks, with an extensive network of trails to explore, wildlife to see, and summits to climb on your next walking trip.

Why Choose Scotland for Your Walking Holiday?

• Cairngorms National Park
• Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park
• Kintyre Peninsula

Types of Walking Holidays in Scotland

Planning your walking holiday in scotland.

If you’re looking for untamed beauty and real adventure, Scotland’s backcountry is the place to be. Besides the awesome terrain and trails, Scotland’s land has a rich and varied history with fascinating folklore and culture to discover. Just make sure you’ve got all the right gear and an open mind when it comes to weather.

Scotland's wilderness is a treasure trove for walkers.

The sheer space, diverse terrain and spectacular scenery in Scotland provide a backdrop for unforgettable walking holidays. Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled by the chance to spot deer, otters, beavers, eagles, and even the Scottish wildcat (and mysterious wild Haggis). Our “right to roam” policy, enshrined in the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003, allows everyone to cross any land for recreational purposes (with some restrictions – check before you go). This means that you can wild camp and explore freely, truly adding to that sense of adventure (just make sure you adhere to the Scottish Access Outdoor Code.

Scotland’s summits rival any mountain range in the world.

Scotland's highest mountains, peaks over 3,000 feet, are known as “Munros”. There are 282 Munros in the Scottish Highlands, spread out over Grampian Mountains, the Northwest Highlands, and the islands off the west coast. While “Munro Bagging” (ticking off all 282 summits) is a popular past time with mountain hikers worldwide, summiting a few of them, or simply strolling amongst their towering peaks and hulking crags, is a great goal for any walking holiday in Scotland.  Varying in difficulty, these mountains offer everything from challenging ridge scrambles to cruisy plateau walks, each with magnificent views (if you time it right), and there are many options to link several summits in a single push.

Where are the Best Walking Holidays in Scotland?

This entirely depends on what kind of walker you are. Are you keen to clock some miles and vertical meters? Or are you ready to slow down the pace, enjoy the views and keep an eye open for wildlife? While we’ve covered five of our favourite areas in this guide, there are countless other areas in Scotland to explore from the Scottish Borders to the Outer Hebrides to the Shetland Isles. And don’t forget Scotland’s top four long-distance trails (the West Highland Way, Great Glen Way, Southern Upland Way, and Speyside Way). These stunning routes can be explored at your own pace and as such popular itineraries, there are excellent resources available to help you plan self guided walking holidays on them. But lets get on to our favourite walking holidays in Scotland.

Walking holidays in the Cairngorms: Exploring the UK’s largest National Park

The Cairngorm National Park is a haven for walkers. The mountains here are large and looming, with deep valleys, rolling summits, and sheer north faces where climbers from all over the globe come to test their skills. For walkers, there are trails for all levels at any distance. 

Head for Glen Feshie or Glenmore and slow down amongst the last remnants of the ancient Caledonian Forest. Home to whispering Scots pines, that at one point would have covered much of the Highlands, and some of the rarest wildlife in the UK, such as red squirrels, ospreys, and the elusive capercaillie. 

For those who seek a challenge, many of park’s summits are doable in a day, so long as you have basic equipment and navigation experience. The paths are exceptionally well maintained and once you get high enough, you can tick off several Munros without losing too much height.

 Insider tips for a walking holiday in the Cairngorms:     

 • The Cairngorm Mountain ski area car park sits at 600m, making it an excellent springboard for accessing the peaks beyond, whether you take a tour around the Northern Corries or commit to reaching Ben Macdui (the second highest mountain in Britain).

 • Weather on the Cairngorm plateau is changeable (at best), be prepared for all eventualities and if you are at all unsure, hire a local guide to help you navigate walking this wild terrain. Check out the  Mountain Weather Information Service for detailed forecasts.

 • There are 14  mountain bothies inside the National Park which make for great overnight stop offs for hikers (note that these simple cottage-like buildings are a far cry from an Alpine hut with few or no facilities, however their sturdy stone walls can be a welcome refuge from a Highland storm).

 • You can start the Speyside Way walk at the foot of the Cairngorms in Aviemore and follow the well-marked, undulating walking trail for 65 miles all the way to Buckie on the shore of the Moray Firth.

 • The Speyside area is world famous for whisky (and increasingly for gin), don’t forget to make a stop at one of the six distilleries within the National Park when you’re ready to rest weary feet.  

Walking holidays in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park: Scenic Lochside Walks, Mountain Hikes and Skinny Dipping

Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park is another prime destination for walking holidays in Scotland. While the Cairngorms is by far the more mountainous and rugged park, the Trossachs is the gateway to the Scottish Highlands and is still home to 21 Munros, as well 22 deep blue lochs fringed by lush forests.

Loch Lomond itself is the UK’s largest inland stretch of water and sits just 45 minutes north of Glasgow. At such proximity to Scotland’s biggest city, the shores of Loch Lomond can become hideously busy at holiday times and weekends. Follow one of the walking trails for just a kilometre or so into the foothills however, and you’ll be greeted by a sudden calm.

Walkers can jump onto the famous West Highland Way, which passes through the park, or take on the challenge of climbing Ben Lomond (Scotland’s most climbed Munro) for spectacular views of Loch Lomond and the surrounding area. The Trossachs offer gentler walks with equally impressive scenery, making it a perfect spot for walkers of all abilities.

Insider tips for a walking holiday in the Trossachs:

 • The Trossachs have long been inspiration for artists and poets and now there is an Art & Literature Trail along the shores of Loch Katrine – well worth a stroll if you’re in need of inspiration.

 • The West Highland Way was the first trail of its kind to open in Scotland. Meandering through much of the park, its 154km are a pilgrimage for walkers around the globe – a great walk for solo travellers who are keen to meet other doing the same thing.

 • Don’t forget to pack your swimmers (or not) – many of the loch shores are dotted with small, almost private, sandy beaches, perfect for cooling off after a hot summer hike.

Walking holidays on the Kintyre Peninsula: Island Hopping, Ancient Ruins, and Rainforest Trails 

On the southernmost tip of Argyll in the southwest of Scotland, the 45-mile-long Kintyre peninsula and its surrounding islands provide a unique walking experience. Perhaps best known these days thanks to Paul McCartney’s tribute song, “Mull of Kintyre”, the peninsula is enhanced by its remote location which keeps the crowds away. This special corner of Scotland features rugged coastlines, hilly terrain and dense foliage. Steeped in history, the area is dotted with Neolithic historic sites and storied crumbling castles, once home to Scottish clans or the site of Viking invasions.

Much of the woodland is classed as rare Temperate Atlantic Rainforest thanks to the mild climate and humid, damp conditions – but don’t be deterred! This makes for a beautiful, deep green landscape with a different feel to much of the West Highlands and a vast array of flora. Notable walking routes include the Kintyre Way, which spans 100 miles from Tarbert to Machrihanish, and the scenic coastal path from Campbeltown to Southend.

 Insider tips for a walking holiday on the Kintyre Peninsula:

 • For the historians amongst you… Take a walk around Kilmartin Glen to find ancient standing stone circles and burial cairns.

 • The Crinan Canal, known as "Britain's most beautiful shortcut," provides a picturesque backdrop for leisurely walks along its towpaths.    

 • The nearby islands of Islay and Jura to the west, and Arran to the east, are just a short ferry journey away. They offer spectacular mountain hikes and make great extra stops to round off your Scottish walking holiday.

Walking holidays in Glencoe: Mountain Turrets and Steep Ascents

Glencoe is renowned for its towering summits and dramatic views. This iconic glen offers some of the most challenging and rewarding walks in Scotland. The jagged peaks, deep valleys, and sea lochs beyond provide a stunning backdrop for hiking, reminiscent of Norwegian fjords.

Not for the faint hearted, much of the best walking in Glencoe starts with steep ascents straight from the car park.

If you’re happy with sustained climbs, narrow ridgelines, and scrambling terrain, then look no further, Glencoe offers these in abundance.

My favourite walking route has to be the loop around Bidean nam Bean, via Coire nan Lochan on the way up, and The Lost Valley on the way back down. Or for a challenging walk and airy ridgeline adventure, why not tackle the turrets and spines of the Aonach Eagach ridge.

Insider tips for walking holidays in Glencoe:  

 • Don’t leave Glencoe without a visit to the Clachaig Inn back bar for some well-deserved scran, and, if you’re lucky, live music, and a raucous party.   

 • If you’re in need of a cooling dip, there is a lagoon-like rock pool on the river Coe, tucked away behind Glencoe Village, complete with rock jumps.

Walking holidays in Assynt: Wilderness, Wildlife, and Serious Sunsets

Head further still up the west coast of Scotland, beyond Ullapool, and you will eventually hit Assynt. Remote, sparsely populated, and wild, it’s the perfect walking holiday destination if you’re in search of peace and isolation. Ridge after ridge of rocky mountains rise sharply from moorland carpeted with purple heather, ferns, and inhabited only by wildlife. An excellent spot for animal sightings and birdwatchers, Assynt offers one of your best chances of spotting Golden eagles soaring overhead and capering otters on the loch shores.

The area is small enough that you could easily tick off walking its main summits in a week, or simply enjoy exploring the caves, waterfalls, white sand beaches, and loch spattered moorland.

Insider tips for walking holidays in Assynt, North West Highlands:

 • Mountain trails in this area are much less frequented (or completely non-existent) so be prepared to negotiate rough, rocky and sometimes boggy terrain.

 • Get yourself to the summit of Cul Mor or Canisp for sunset and expect some seriously stunning views out towards the sea and of the spectacular turrets of Stac Pollaidh to the south.   

 • A visit to Assynt would not be complete without walking to its most western corner for views of the Old Man of Stoer, an impressive sea stack, and the best place for spotting coastal wildlife, whales, and dolphins.  

 • For those in search of a real walking adventure, why not try a hike, camp, and kayak combo? Try paddling from Elphin across Loch Veyatie, and onto Fionn Loch, before summiting Suilven. And for a further extension, portage your boat over to Loch Sionascaig, to follow up with topping out on Cul Mor and Stac Pollaidh. 

Self-Guided Walking Holidays: Explore at Your Own Pace

Scotland has a vast network of walking trails that are marked and maintained, making it easy to plan your own adventure. Resources like Walk Highlands provide extremely detailed information on routes, maps, and accommodation options and apps like Fatmap and All Trails rate, review and map out hikes suggested by others.

Guided Walking Holidays: Guided Tours and Mountain Guides

For those who prefer a more structured experience, guided walking holidays in Scotland offer the benefit of expert guides, local knowledge, and very little planning on your part. Companies like Wilderness Scotland offer group walking holidays that include everything from handpicked accommodation, luggage transfer, and meals, to a walking tour through some of the most beautiful and remote parts of the country. Alternatively, you could hire a mountain guide for a couple of days in the area you’d like to explore, and then get their advice on walking routes that would be suitable for you to tackle alone.

Choosing the Right Time to Visit

Scotland's weather is notoriously unpredictable, so choosing the right time to visit for a walking trip can be tricky. May and June are my favourite months to explore Scotland. The midges aren’t quite in full flow (especially on the west coast), the weather is generally more stable, and long stretches of hot (for Scotland) sunny weather are not unheard of (especially in a La Nina year).

July and August can be a stonking hit or a glaring miss, but if you’ve got the right gear, you’ll enjoy walking in Scotland no matter what (whilst wondering what everyone else is complaining about). September and October can be stormy or sunny, but at least a little quieter than the summer months with fewer midges and a beautiful change in the landscape. Winter walks are possible but require more preparation and experience due to significantly harsher conditions.

Packing Essentials 

When packing for a walking holiday in Scotland, it's essential to be prepared for all weather conditions, but perhaps most importantly – don’t forget your waterproofs.

 • If you’re walking in the summer you might just need a  lightweight waterproof jacket , but we’d recommend considering packing a robust waterproof jacket too, just in case the weather takes a turn, as well as waterproof trousers .

 • A midgey head net is essential (NB These have much finer mesh than mosquito nets!) and some midge spray, especially if you're doing any camping.

 • Walking boots or approach shoes .

 • A lightweight insulated jacket is useful for throwing on for chilly starts or on the summit. 

 • Hat and gloves - even in summer the temperatures can vary wildly from the valley floor to the Munro tops.

 • Walking poles are highly recommend, particularly if you plan to tackle the Munros. 

 • A flask for a hot drink can be a welcome treat on a blustery summit.

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Scotland Small Group Tours

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10 best Scotland small group tours

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2-day Outlander Tour (Small Group)

Highlights of scotland, scotland's orkney islands, 4-day islay & the whisky coast small-group tour from edinburgh including admissions, skye, the highlands & loch ness - from glasgow, 3-day lewis, harris and the outer hebrides small-group tour from inverness, loch ness, inverness & the highlands - from edinburgh, classic scotland self drive, 4 day islay whisky tour, loch ness, the jacobite and skye guided rail tour.

• In-depth Cultural
• Clava Cairns & Culloden Battlefield: Walk the historic battlefield and learn more about the Jacobite Rebellion.
• Black Ness Castle: The ship that never sailed, which featured in Outlander, standing in for Fort William
• Midhope Castle: Admire the ruins of this 15th-century castle, better known as Lallybroch

“I especially liked exploring the various old castles. A great experience!”

• Sightseeing
• Ferry to the Isle of Skye and explore its cliffs
• Tour the dramatic Trotternish Peninsula
• Explore Glasgow's vibrant art and architecture

“The country is beautiful, and the people are very friendly. We would go back to Scotland again and soon!”

• Tour the Scapa Flow Museum on Hoy
• Enjoy a whisky tasting in Kirkwall
• Visit Skara Brae's ancient village

“Either make the tour two full days or two full days with one full day free to make plans to go to Hoy or Rousay.”

• Coach / Bus
• Stroll along rugged beaches
• Discover seaside towns and local produce
• Travel through Loch Lomond National Park

“Amazing trip! We thoroughly enjoyed the experience.”

• Christmas & New Year
• Search for Nessie on a lunch break beside the Loch Ness
• Drive past Ben Nevis, Britain's highest mountain
• Admire dramatic Rannoch Moor and haunting Glencoe

“Every place in Scotland is beautiful and the people are wonderful. We also stayed at a perfect venue on Skye.”

• Catch a ferry from Ullapool to Stornoway
• Discover the Calanais Standing Stones
• Visit the Butt of Lewis lighthouse

“A skilled driver and knowledgeable guide. The traditional music added to the atmosphere of the whole experience.”

• Taste whiskey at the Tomatin Distillery
• Stroll through idyllic Scottish woodland
• Explore the Highlands' capital of Inverness

“We are happy we took this tour, we saw a lot and we had a realy great time.”

• Cruise Loch Lomond and admire the serene shores
• Take a ferry to the scenic Isle of Skye
• Drive to Stirling and explore its historic castle

“Accommodation was pretty good. Breakfasts were nourishing.”

• Go to delightful tastings
• Experience Islay's most famous export
• Enjoy great and authentic distilleries

“Very knowledgeable, fun and so considerate! We would definitely request him as our guide for another tour.”

• Train & Rail
• Dine with fellow travelers in Glasgow
• Ride the train around Loch Lomond
• Visit the historic Urquhart Castle ruins

“The places we stayed were very nice and the food was delicious.”

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Predicting Who Will Win the AIG Women’s Open

Up next on the epson tour: the final stretch.

• AIG Womens Open
• Tournament News

The number one skill needed to win at St. Andrews this week is creativity. The latest installment of the AIG Women’s Open returns to the Home of Golf. The Old Course at St Andrews has hosted this major championship on two previous occasions.

Lorena Ochoa walked across the Swilcan Bridge and won in 2007, and current U.S. Solheim Cup Captain Stacy Lewis did the same in 2013. One of the most unique layouts in major championship golf, players are tested more mentally than physically at this venue.

First impressions of The Old Course run the full spectrum, and history has shown us it takes an interpretive mind to tame this beast. As we prepare for the LPGA Tour’s fifth and final major of the 2024 season, the little details that make this course so brilliant are the same features that will help determine the eventual winner. All 25 of the top 25 athletes in the Rolex Women’s World Golf Rankings are in the field of 144 players. The top 65 and ties will play the weekend and compete for a share of a $9 million purse.

A large part of that competition will be determined by the weather. The forecast calls for four days in the low 60s, and rain is predicted for Thursday and Friday, along with substantial wind throughout all four rounds. St Andrews rests on a peninsula of land stretching out into the North Sea. Exposed to the elements, 25mph winds with gusts into the 30s will be the top defense of par this week. Coming off a challenging week on the west coast of Scotland at the ISPS Handa Women’s Scottish Open, these players are either prepared or ready to go home.

The Old Course will play to a par 72 at 6,784 yards, and infinite bunkering adds up to 116 sandy surfaces over 18 holes. Eighty of those bunkers sit alongside the fairways, but these landing areas are the largest on Tour. Give an edge to the longer players in the field. Our strokes gained leaders off the tee this week should increase their advantage on approach. Nelly Korda, Charley Hull, Linn Grant and Jennifer Kupcho are all long and accurate. They tend to surface in majors just for this reason.

The Old Course has a very interesting scorecard. There are two par 3s, two par 5s and 14 par 4s. We know Korda, Ayaka Furue and Lilia Vu are the best par-4 scorers in St Andrews, and those two extra par 4s over the next four days will add up. After all, a player only has to win by one stroke. This is probably the single best separating factor for this field. Both Stacy Lewis and Lorena Ochoa were world-class par-4 players, and it helped them immeasurably during the weeks they won.

Another unique feature rarely encountered are the Old Course's dual greens. Seven joined putting surfaces are design features with a very cool detail. Each of the pairs of joint holes add up to 18 (2-16, 3-15, 4-14, 5-13, 6-12, 7-11, 8-10). Abstract in style, hitting these 13,000 square-foot putting surfaces is not the test. Getting it close to the hole is. Strong approach players like Minjee Lee and Haeran Ryu are ranked inside the top 10 on the LPGA and will give themselves the best opportunity to score.

Not only that, but they will also have the best chance to avoid three-putting. Not many players have competed on courses where 70- and 80-foot putts are common. Throw in wet, windy conditions and slower-than-average green speeds, and only the best putters will contend. If you compare strokes gained putting, putts per green in regulation and putting average, the three standouts in this field are Yuka Saso, Hyo Joo Kim and Furue.

For the second time in three weeks, we are going to see the world’s best women compete on a course made familiar by the men. It led to an epic event at Le Golf National at the Paris Olympics, so expect similar entertainment in St Andrews.

Keep an eye on the common names above and see if you can find a champion golfer. Don’t forget to make a couple of picks of your own. It’s the fifth and final major of the season. What better time is there to pick a winner?

Keith Stewart is an award-winning PGA Professional. He covers the LPGA and PGA TOUR for Golf Digest, SportsGrid, The Sporting News, LPGA, and PGA TOUR. If you are looking to raise your golf acumen and love inside information about the game, check out his weekly newsletter called  Read The Line .

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