Highlights of Scotland

(20 reviews)

From:

CAD $4995

8 Days

Best Rate: Guarantee

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

Picture yourself standing before ancient castles that guard misty lochs and on stunning cliffs with waterfalls cascading down — this is Scotland.

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Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 05 Mar 2027

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Experience Overview

Cross Scotland by rail, road and loch on an eight-day journey, standing before ancient castles guarding misty lochs and feeling the energy of cultural capitals. Ride the famous West Highland Line to Fort William, where Ben Nevis and Glen Nevis vie for your camera’s attention. Listen to tales of battle and folklore in Glenfinnan, then imagine history playing out on the dramatic landscapes of the Isle of Skye. Cruise the waters of the mythological Loch Ness (keeping an eye out for the water’s famous resident!) and dig into the country’s Jacobite history at Culloden Battlefield. Explore Edinburgh with a local guide where the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town and neoclassical New Town sit in contrast. You’ll have plenty of free time throughout this captivating journey to explore independently, too, balanced with small-group adventure – and a dram or two of local whisky, if you wish!

Highlights

Walk the stone-arched bridge to the photogenic Eilean Donan Castle, perched at the entrance to Loch Duich on an evocative moss-draped inlet.
Discover Fort William, where you'll get outstanding views of Ben Nevis, the UK's highest peak. Then, maybe join your leader for a hike to the summit of Cow Hill for panoramic views of Glen Nevis.
Take a private tour of the captivating Trotternish Peninsula on the Isle of Skye, stopping at the pinnacle of the Old Man of Storr and Kilt Rock – a dramatic 90 m (295 ft) sea cliff with views of Mealt Falls.
Set out on a scenic boat excursion across the folklore-filled waters of Loch Ness, then travel north to Inverness – the cultural capital of the Highlands.
Walk through Edinburgh with a local guide from Invisible Cities – a social enterprise that provides employment to locals who have experienced homelessness.

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Trip Details

Product Code: 1687

Tour Type: Small Group

Accommodation: Moderate

Transport: Train, Private vehicle, Ferry, On foot

Guide Language: English

Travel Styles: Explorer, Rail & Cruises, Budget

Tour Operator: Intrepid Travel

Supplier Code: BWSS

Starts: Glasgow, United Kingdom

Finishes: Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Duration: 8 days

Departures: Not Guaranteed

Physical Rating: Light

Includes

Meals: Breakfasts (7),
Accommodation: Hotel (7 nights)

Price

Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $4995 ($624 /day)

Itinerary

Day 1: Glasgow

Welcome to Scotland! Your adventure begins in Glasgow – one of Europe's most vibrant and cosmopolitan cities – with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive early, why not get out and discover the city’s world-famous art collections, Victorian and Art Nouveau architecture or the West End’s Botanic Gardens. Maybe take a stroll along the River Clyde – once the heart of the city’s ship-building industry. After the meeting, perhaps get to know your new travel friends at a nearby restaurant or grab a ‘fish supper’ in the lively Merchant City. Known for its pedestrianised areas, outdoor dining and independent art spaces, this creative neighbourhood is a great area to experience Glasgow’s food scene and nightlife.

Optional Activities:

Glasgow - Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum - Free
Glasgow - City Centre Mural Trail - Free
Glasgow - Tennent's Brewery Tour (17 GBP)
Glasgow - Royal Botanic Gardens - Free
Glasgow - Britannia Panopticon (3 GBP)
Glasgow - Cathedral and Necropolis - Free
Glasgow - Hunterian Art Gallery - Free
Glasgow - Pollok Country Park & The Burrell Collection - Free
Glasgow - Afternoon Tea at the Willow Tea Rooms (from) (20 GBP)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Fort William

This morning, take a short walk to the train station to catch an early train – the world-famous West Highland Line. This captivating railway journey from Glasgow to Fort William takes you through some of Scotland's most breathtaking landscapes. Arrive in Fort William in the early afternoon and have time to explore this iconic town, home to the highest mountain in the UK – Ben Nevis. In the afternoon, weather permitting, you may like to join your leader on a hike into Glen Nevis, ascending to the summit of Cow Hill. Your efforts will be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of Glen Nevis, the surrounding peaks and across Fort William to Loch Linnhe and beyond. The rest of the day is free, so maybe hole up in one of the cosy local pubs for a hearty meal – ask your leader for all the best recommendations.

Included Activities:

Fort William - West Highland Railway Line train journey
Fort William - Leader led hike

Optional Activities:

Fort William - Nevis Range Gondola excluding local transport (28 GBP)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: Isle of Skye

After breakfast, head out for your private drive from Fort William to the gorgeous Isle of Skye. Along the way, stop at the viaduct viewpoint and keep an eye out for the ‘Hogwarts Express’ steam train chugging through, as well as the Glenfinnan memorial, erected in honour of the 1745 Jacobite Rising. After, stop at the World War II Commando Monument before arriving at the Dundreggan Rewilding Centre for a guided tour that shows the restoration of the ancient pinewood forest in action. Then, it’s on to the dramatic cliffs, rugged coastlines and rolling moorland of Skye. Settle into your hotel, then have some free time to relax and take in the surroundings.

Included Activities:

Jacobite memorial visit
Glenfinnan - Railway Viaduct visit
Dundreggan Rewilding Centre visit & guided tour

Accommodation:

Hotel or Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Isle of Skye

This morning, you’ll take a private tour to explore the Trotternish Peninsula – renowned for its dramatic landscapes, including the Quiraing with its distinct geological formations. You’ll also stop at the towering pinnacle of the Old Man of Storr and Kilt Rock – a sea cliff that overlooks the cascading Mealt Falls. Along the way, you might also stop at a local gallery or museum. After, return to your accommodation for a free evening. Perhaps pop into a local whisky distillery for a wee dram with some of your fellow travellers.

Included Activities:

Isle of Skye - private day tour

Accommodation:

Hotel or Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Inverness

Bid farewell to the Isle of Skye and board a private bus to travel over the iconic Skye Bridge and back to the mainland. Continue through picturesque landscapes until you reach Eileen Donan Castle, which you may recognise from its many features in movies. Take a walk across the stone-arched bridge to the moss-draped inlet, where the castle sits at the meeting point of three great lochs. After spending some time snapping photos and learning about the castle’s many iterations over the centuries, continue to the charming village of Fort Augustus, located on the southern edge of the legendary Loch Ness. Set out on a scenic boat cruise on these mysterious waters (see if you can spot the elusive monster deep below!). After, head north to Inverness – the vibrant capital of the Highlands, known for its rich history and lively culture.

Included Activities:

Fort Augustus - Loch Ness Boat Cruise
Eilean Donan Castle visit

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Inverness

Today, you’ll hop on a local bus to nearby Culloden Battlefield, located on the outskirts of Inverness. It was here that Bonnie Prince Charlie’s Jacobite rebellion came to an end in 1746. Visit the battlefield, then make your way to the city centre to take a walk along the River Ness. Weave over small islands in the river before crossing a graceful suspension bridge to complete the loop, ending near a local arts centre, looking up at Inverness Castle. The rest of the day is free for you to explore. Maybe visit the castle or seek out a local whisky store, catch a gig, do some souvenir shopping or, if you’re looking for a hidden local favourite, then Leakey’s Bookshop is a must-see.

Included Activities:

Inverness - Culloden Battlefield visit
Inverness - River Ness walk

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: Edinburgh

Take a morning train to Edinburgh, famous for its literary heritage, historic cobbled streets and striking architecture. The Old and New Towns of Edinburgh gained UNESCO World Heritage status in 1995, in recognition of the striking quality and contrast between each area’s architecture and streetscape. Check into your accommodation, then take an insightful walking tour of the city with Invisible Cities – a social enterprise that trains locals who have experienced homelessness to become tour guides. Hear your local guide’s personal experience of the city as your wind your way through the streets, hitting the highlights. The rest of the day is free for you to explore – maybe visit Edinburgh Castle or the National Museum of Scotland.

Included Activities:

Edinburgh - Invisible Cities guided walking tour

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: Edinburgh

With no activities planned for today, your adventure comes to an end after breakfast. If you wish to spend more time in enigmatic Edinburgh, and it’s highly recommended you do, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation.

Optional Activities:

Edinburgh - Castle Visit (24 GBP)
Edinburgh - National Museum of Scotland - Free
Edinburgh - The Scotch Whisky Experience Tour (24 GBP)
Edinburgh - Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh - Free
Edinburgh - The Queen’s Gallery at Holyroodhouse (11 GBP)

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Reviews

Declan - Traveled, November 2023

This tour was fantastic in all regards. I would highly recommend it. Our tour guide Craig was exceptional, second to none.

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/10/2023

Tara - Traveled, August 2023

Fantastic trip! I loved experiencing the Highlands & Skye. Our trip leader was phenomenal. The accommodations were top notch. Good mix of included activities & free time to explore. Great if you are looking for a fun short trip to experience Scotland

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/08/2023

Breanne - Traveled, August 2023

Had such a great time on this trip! Love the route and stops, as all the locations we visited were unique and surprising. The Isle of Skye and was definitely a highlight! We had plenty of rain even in August, but it felt like part of the overall Scotland experience. The food and drinks were also great (and nicely balanced with plenty of walking and exploring) and the guesthouses we stayed in were lovely. Rhys was an awesome guide and made things easy for us! Can’t wait to come back someday soon.

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/01/2023

Caitlin - Traveled, August 2023

I had a fantastic time o my Intrepid Trip to Scotland! It's such a beautiful country and I got to meet and see it with amazing people.

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/18/2023

Greg Megan - Traveled, August 2023

This is a fantastic trip. This was our 7th Intrepid and we keep coming back. Forget the hassle of booking everything yourself and just wake up every morning and ask your guide about what we are doing today. So you can be surprised but you can count on a good day!!

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/15/2023

Emma - Traveled, August 2023

For anyone headed to Scotland for the first time, I cannot recommend this trip highly enough. You see just enough to get you hooked, and leaves you wanting more. "Highlights" is definitely right, as you get a perfect snapshot of the country in a perfect 8 day package.

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/03/2023

Kehlsey - Traveled, April 2023

This trip was an absolute blast! I loved the flexibility and opportunity to see so much. Our guide Keith was so fun! Definitely book if you want a flexible way to explore Scotland - it’s beautiful!

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/24/2023

Mark - Traveled, June 2024

The Highlights of Scotland was an enthralling and delightful adventure. There were many dramatic landscapes and ocean views to be had. The rail journeys were particularly interesting. Many picturesque short walks were most enjoyable. Highly recommend.

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/03/2024

Maya - Traveled, June 2024

Intrepid guides have been excellent, itineraries interesting, beautiful, offer some choice for daily activities, the small group size works very well to enhance the trip with personal interactions, caring, camaraderie.

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/24/2024

Millicent - Traveled, November 2023

The Highlights of Scotland trip was absolutely amazing and the scenery was breathtaking.This was my first intrepid trip and I had an incredible experience. Our guide Craig did an awesome job at providing the historical context of what shaped Scotland into what it is today. I gained a greater understanding and appreciation for the land and the people.

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/14/2023

Heidi - Traveled, October 2023

Wonderful trip and really great itinerary. Isle of Skye is such a great highlight and having extra time to explore on our own was great. Also, Aidan was the best guide!

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/25/2023

Georgina - Traveled, October 2023

A great itinerary, great group and great guide Aiden! The places visited were excellent especially the Isle of Skye! Highly recommend!

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/24/2023

Paula - Traveled, September 2023

This tour truly captures the highlights of beloved Scotland. The tour guide was very knowledgeable about the area, the rich history and what makes Scotland the breathtaking place it is today. I highly suggest researching the locations and booking activities in advance, especially on Isle of Skye and in Edinburgh. Note that as tours head into the fall, there was some significant weather to navigate but it was manageable nonetheless.

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/11/2023

Shelley - Traveled, September 2023

This was a trip well worth the money. The history, the culture, the beauty and the people of Scotland was outstanding and we will visit again. Our guide was well organized, knowledgeable and friendly. She went over the top to accommodate and make sure everyone had a good time.

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/01/2023

Shona - Traveled, July 2023

We have travelled with intrepid before and there were wonderful, this trip was a deplorable, buyer be warned, the description doesn’t match the activity, you spend most of your time waking to/from train stations in the rain to then have to try and book and get to your tour yourself, which will cost a fortune in taxi’s or spend all day waiting for one of the 2 buses. A real disappointment and the highlands are beautiful, a shame intrepid placed a black mark for Scotland.

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/05/2023

Amanda - Traveled, July 2023

· Traveled July 2023 I would never recommend this trip to anyone. The itinerary and the actual experience is completely different. My expectations for this trip was complete disappointment! I would say this experience is extremely expensive and not good value for money. Review submitted 02 Aug 2023

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/02/2023

Judy - Traveled, June 2023

This was our first experience in a tour like this! I do not regret booking it! It was the best vacation and experience we have ever had! We were able to completely immerse ourselves in Scotland's nature and culture! Our tour guide Sam was beyond amazing! We made so many memories and met so many people! Just over all a breath taking experience!

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/08/2023

Katja - Traveled, May 2023

Too many wonderful things to see and not enough time to see them all! Isle of Skye was my favorite part of this trip. Pack light--there are so many hills and stairs in Scotland! Read the itinerary - take it literally! You don’t go into any castles, just exterior photos.

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/12/2023

Linda - Traveled, May 2023

I wish I could rate this highly because Scotland is an amazing country and the people I traveled with were so friendly. The overall itinerary leaves a lot to be desired and there was no added cultural/historical context by Intrepid. I suggest adding an additional day in Skye, with a tour of the Island, booking the locomotive train over the Glenfinnan Viaduct to help counter cancellations (we were not able to do this part of the itinerary since our public train was cancelled), and adding the Cairngorms Park visit back to the itinerary, with less time in Inverness.

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/15/2023

Jennifer - Traveled, May 2023

Scotland was beautiful and the trip was good. Recommend packing light as there was a lot of hauling your own luggage (to/from the train station, to/from accommodations etc.)

Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/01/2023