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Scottish History and Mystery Car Tour (7 nts) |
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Arrive in Pitlochry, a town in a beautiful setting, which became a famous resort in the 19th century, and perfect for exploring the outstanding scenery of the Central Highlands. A little further to the south, near Perth, is Scone Palace, where Scottish kings traditionally were crowned. On the way back to Pitlochry, you may wish to visit the charming town of Dunkeld, with its grand old cathedral by the Tay, and fine 19th century bridge.
Overnight in Pitlochry area |
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As you leave Pithlochry en route to Inverness, you should drive through the Pass of Killiecrankie (an old Jacobite battlefield), with marked trails to enable you to explore the beautiful gorge and woods. Continue onwards to visit Blair Castle, a 13th century white-walled castle in the rugged Atholl hills. Here, if you are feeling energetic, is a three-mile track leading to the gorge and bridges at the poet Robert Burns’ favourite Falls of Bruar.
Overnight Inverness in area |
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Inverness is the capital of the Highlands. A few minutes walk from the town and the bustle of the main street you will find anglers casting for salmon and trout. With its strategic position at the head of the Great Glen, Inverness has a fascinating history with many famous castles and battlefields nearby, such as Culloden, site of the last battle fought on British soil, and 14th century Cawdor Castle. From here, drive east to Elgin and its cathedral known as ‘the Lantern of the North’. You are now in the heart of the lovely Spey Valley, where you should visit one of the many whisky distilleries.
Overnight in Inverness area |
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Drive along the western shore of Loch Ness, stopping at Urquhart Castle, just outside Dromnadrochit. This ruined castle is one of the best places for viewing Loch Ness, the largest loch in Scotland, and home, some say, to the Loch Ness Monster. This delightful drive continues to Fort William, standing in the shadow of Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain (1347m). Visit the West Highland Museum in the town, which provides a good introduction to the area. It houses many highlights of the Jacobite rebellions in 1715 & 1745, including a bed in which Bonnie Prince Charlie is said to have slept.
Overnight in Fort William area. |
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Drive west on the ‘Road to the Isles’, past the Glenfinnan Monument, a memorial to Bonnie Prince Charlie, to the coastal villages of Arisaig and finally Mallaig, from which ferries cross to Skye. The glorious scenery will be familiar to those who have seen the film ‘Local Hero’. On arrival on Skye visit the MacDonald clan museum at Armadale.
Overnight on Skye |
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Tour this pretty island, taking time to sample the whisky at the Talisker distillery before visiting the MacLeod clan home of Dunvegan castle. Tour the north of the island to visit the Skye Museum of life and the nearby grave of Flora MacDonald. The island capital of Portree boasts a pretty harbour.
Overnight on Skye. |
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Drive south through glorious mountain and woodland scenery, perhaps breaking your journey at Stirling, to admire its splendid castle, which had a great strategic importance guarding the routes between the Highlands and Lowlands of Scotland.
Continue to Edinburgh, the historic capital city of Scotland. Its principal sights are located within easy walking distance of each other. Edinburgh Castle dominates the city from a great crag, offering magnificent views of the city. The Royal Mile has many fine houses and museums to visit, on its course from the castle to the Palace of Holy Roodhouse, the Queen’s residence when she visits Edinburgh. Princes Street, which runs parallel to the Royal Mile, is the main shopping area, which is very stylish and perhaps where you may wish to pick up some souvenirs of your visit to Britain. Edinburgh has many fine buildings - contrast the cobbled streets and narrow alleys of the Old Town with the elegance of the 18th century ‘New Town’.
Overnight in Edinburgh area.. |
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Commence your journey home. |
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A magnificent and grand tour discovering the landscape beauty, history and pageantry of Scotland. Castles, whisky, palaces, islands and historic cities all feature on this inclusive tour. In just six days of leisurely driving through stunning scenery you will see and experience the real flavour and culture of Scotland … more |
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A real Irish treat with welcomes at every turn, capturing the unique spirit or Ireland. Historic castles, legendary cities and wonderful scenery make for a perfect 7 day tour. As leisurely days unfold you will explore the real highlights of this beautiful “Emerald Isle” … more |
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