Kat Beyond Borders

Ready to explore the rugged beauty and mystical charm of Scotland? From the winding, cobblestone streets of Edinburgh to the breathtaking vistas of the Isle of Skye, our ultimate Scottish itinerary packs in both iconic landmarks and hidden gems. Whether you’re gazing out from the ancient ramparts of Stirling Castle, sipping whisky beside the serene Loch Ness, or hiking the dramatic landscapes of the Quiraing, Scotland promises an adventure of a lifetime. Join us as we embark on a journey through misty mountains, historic castles, and vibrant cities—each day in Scotland is a page out of a storybook waiting to be discovered!

Edinburgh

Days 1-3

• Apex City Of Edinburgh Hotel: A centrally located hotel with comfortable accommodations and easy access to major attractions.
• Hop on/off bus: A convenient way to explore the city and see all the major sights without the hassle of navigating on your own.
• National Museum of Scotland: Offers a vast collection of artifacts that showcase Scotland’s history, culture, and people.
• Scott Monument: Climb this Victorian Gothic monument for panoramic views of Edinburgh.
• Coffee Mill Cafe: A quaint cafe to enjoy a fresh brew and some local pastries.
• La Barantine: Known for its authentic French pastries, perfect for a breakfast treat or afternoon snack.
• Vennel Viewpoint: Offers one of the best views of Edinburgh Castle, especially beautiful at sunset.
• Grassmarket: An historic market area with vibrant shops and pubs, often hosting live music and street performances.
• Victoria Street: Colorful and curved, this street is thought to have inspired Diagon Alley in Harry Potter.
• Royal Mile: The heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, lined with medieval buildings, souvenir shops, and historic sites.
• Divinity College Viewpoint: A lesser-known spot offering stunning views of the gothic architecture.
• St Giles Cathedral: An iconic part of the Edinburgh Royal Mile with beautiful stained glass windows.
• Old Town: Explore the winding streets and hidden closes of Edinburgh’s historic heart.
• Cockburn Street: A bustling and picturesque shopping street.
• Milkman: A popular coffee spot with delicious brews and a cozy atmosphere.
• Scran: A restaurant known for its modern Scottish cuisine.
• The Mitre: A historic pub with a great selection of beers and traditional Scottish fare.
• Bertie’s Proper Fish & Chips: A must-try for traditional British fish and chips.
• Greyfriars Kirkyard: The final resting place of the legendary Greyfriars Bobby.
• Real Mary King’s Close: An underground historical walking tour revealing the city’s hidden streets.
• Cask Smugglers Rooftop Bar and Grill: Enjoy drinks with a view on Princes Street.
• Pipers Rest: A lively venue for traditional Scottish music and pub meals.
• Scotsman Lounge: A cozy spot to enjoy a pint and local atmosphere.
• Holyrood Castle: Official residence of the British monarch in Scotland.
• Calton Hill: Offers one of the most picturesque views of the city, ideal for photos.
• Arthur’s Seat: A prominent hill in the heart of the city, providing extensive views of Edinburgh.
• Armchair Books: A charming bookstore filled with second-hand books.
• Deans Bridge & Village: A scenic area known for its quaint architecture and peaceful setting.
• Leith and Leith Walk to New Town: Explore this vibrant area known for its dining and cultural scene.
• Britannia Yacht: Tour the former royal yacht of the British monarch.
• Pitt Food Market: A local favorite for street food and live music.
• Tartan Weaving Mill: Experience traditional Scottish weaving and find authentic tartan products.
• Edinburgh Castle: Tour the historic fortress which dominates the skyline of the city.
• Tea at the Witchery by the Castle: Enjoy a luxurious afternoon tea in a Gothic dining room.
• Scotch Whiskey Experience: Learn about Scotland’s whisky heritage and sample some of the best.
• Makars Mash Bar: Offers traditional Scottish dishes with a modern twist.

Inverness

Days 3-4

• Tulloch Castle Hotel, Dingwall: A historic hotel offering luxury accommodations.
• Loch Ness/Urquhart Castle 2.5 hour Boat Tour: Explore the waters of Loch Ness and visit the ruins of Urquhart Castle.
• Drumbuie Farm: Known for its adorable Highland cows.
• Kiltmaker Visitor Centre: Learn about traditional Scottish kilt making.
• Victorian Market: Shop in a historic covered market featuring local crafts and goods.
• Ness Islands: Walk through these peaceful islands connected by Victorian bridges.
• Inverness Castle: Overlooking the River Ness, this castle offers beautiful city views.
• Inverness St Andrews Cathedral: A beautiful example of Gothic architecture.
• Falls of Foyers: Visit this impressive waterfall located on the south side of Loch Ness
• Stirling Castle: One of Scotland’s grandest castles, known for its architecture and turbulent history.
• Drive Black Isle (Glen Ord Distillery, Muir of Ord): Take a scenic drive around the Black Isle, known for its rich agriculture and beautiful seascapes. Stop at Glen Ord Distillery for a tour and tasting of their unique single malt scotch.
• Reelig Glen hike: Enjoy a tranquil hike through ancient woodland in Reelig Glen, famous for some of the tallest trees in Britain.
• Black Isle Bar: Visit this popular bar for a taste of locally brewed beers and a friendly atmosphere.
• Hootananny Inn: A lively spot for live traditional Scottish music and a great selection of drinks.
• Elgin Cathedral: Explore the ruins of this once magnificent cathedral, known as the ‘Lantern of the North’.
• Glenmorangie Distillery in Tain: Tour this renowned distillery to learn about the crafting of whisky and enjoy a sample of their fine single malt.

Isle of Skye

Days 5-8

• Highland Cows: Visit Duirinish and Plockton to see these iconic Scottish animals in picturesque settings.
• Castle Maol: Discover the ruins of this historic castle with views over the Skye coastline.
• Church of Kilchrist: Explore the remains of this medieval church, offering a glimpse into Skye’s religious past.
• Torrin and Eas a’ Bhradain Falls: Enjoy the natural beauty of these waterfalls, perfect for scenic photographs.
• Sligachan Old Bridge: Visit this historic bridge, offering stunning views of the Cuillin Hills and a favorite spot for photographers.
• The Royal Hotel, Portree: Stay in Portree’s central hotel, ideal for exploring the town and enjoying local cuisine.
• Old Man of Storr: The Old Man of Storr is one of the most photographed landscapes in Scotland. This striking rock formation is part of the Trotternish ridge and was formed by a massive ancient landslide. The name “Storr” itself loosely translates to “Great Man” in Old Norse, reflecting the area’s Viking history. The hike to the Old Man offers breathtaking views of the Isle of Skye and the surrounding waters.
• Lealt Falls: Lealt Falls is a stunning waterfall located in the northeastern part of Skye. Accessible via a well-maintained viewing platform, the falls cascade down into a gorge, with the rugged coastline as a backdrop. The area around Lealt Falls is rich in history, once home to thriving diatomite industry, remnants of which can still be explored nearby.
• Kilt Rock Waterfall: Kilt Rock, named for its striking resemblance to a pleated kilt, features a dramatic 90-meter drop directly into the sea. The viewpoint also offers a view of Mealt Falls, where water from the nearby Loch Mealt tumbles down beside Kilt Rock. This site combines geological wonder with stunning sea views, making it a popular spot for photographers.
• Mealt Falls: Adjacent to Kilt Rock, Mealt Falls is fed by the waters of Loch Mealt. This waterfall is unique as it plunges directly into the Sound of Raasay, often creating rainbows on sunny days with its mist. The sound of the water and the dramatic cliff views make this location particularly memorable.
• Quiraing Hill: The Quiraing is a landslip on the northernmost summit of the Trotternish on the Isle of Skye. The area offers some of the most stunning hiking trails on the island, featuring high cliffs, hidden plateaus, and pinnacles of rock which create a surreal landscape. It’s a favorite for photographers due to its dramatic vistas and ever-changing light conditions.
• Fairy Glen: Fairy Glen is a quaint, lesser-known spot near Uig, resembling a miniature Highland landscape. Its small grassy hills with scattered ponds and waterfalls give it an otherworldly feel, as if fairies might emerge. The landscape here is softer and more rolling compared to the rugged terrain elsewhere on Skye, giving it a mystical charm.
• Dunvegan Castle & Gardens: Dunvegan Castle is the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland and has been the ancestral home of the Chiefs of Clan MacLeod for 800 years. Visitors can explore historic artifacts inside the castle and wander through its extensive gardens, which offer a mix of formal and woodland settings.
• Fairy Pools: Located at the foot of the Black Cuillins near Glenbrittle, the Fairy Pools are beautifully crystal-clear blue pools on the River Brittle. These famous pools attract visitors from all over the world, who come to admire their natural beauty, take photographs, and even swim in the chilly waters
• Talisker Distillery on Loch Harport: Discover the production of Talisker’s famed single malt whisky with a tour and tasting.
• Neist Point Lighthouse: Check if open; even if closed, the area is worth visiting for its dramatic sea cliffs and potential whale sightings.
• Eilean Donan Castle: Visit one of Scotland’s most iconic and picturesque castles, located on a small tidal island where three sea lochs meet.

Glencoe

Days 8-10

• Cluanie Inn, Loch Cluanie: Enjoy the remote beauty of Loch Cluanie, staying at the inn known for its hospitality and scenic views.
• Glengarry Castle Hotel: Experience staying in a historic castle hotel, offering a luxurious base to explore the Highlands.
• Jacobite train (Ft William): Take a ride on this famous steam train, known for its route featured in the Harry Potter films.
• Invergarry Castle Ruins: Visit the ruins of this historic castle, offering insights into the local history and picturesque views of the surrounding landscape.
• Glencoe Lochan Woodland Trails: Hike through serene trails around Glencoe Lochan, designed to resemble a North American forest.
• Old Inverlochy Castle: Tour the ruins of this important historical castle, which played a significant role in Scottish history.
• Three Sisters of Glencoe: Marvel at these three steeply-sided ridges in the Glencoe Valley, a highlight for photographers and hikers.
• Loch Achtriochtan car park: Use this car park as a starting point for walks and hikes in the Glencoe area, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
• Three Waters Meet: Where the rivers of Glencoe converge, offering beautiful water views framed by dramatic highland scenery.
• Kilchurn Castle: Explore the ruins of this 15th and 17th-century structure on the northeastern end of Loch Awe.
• Falls of Falloch: A scenic waterfall near the village of Crianlarich, perfect for a short walk and picnic.
• Loch Lomond: Enjoy activities like boating, hiking, and scenic drives around the largest inland stretch of water in Great Britain by surface area.
• Buchanan Castle: Explore the ruins of this 19th-century mansion, offering a hauntingly beautiful glimpse into Scotland’s past.

This comprehensive itinerary through Scotland brings together the best of historic sites, natural beauty, and local culture, ensuring a memorable travel experience.