Inclusions :
Famous cities, sights, historical locations, varying accents and dialects, stunning scenery, cosy pubs, haunting music, humorous and friendly locals - all accompanied by Scotlands gloriously unpredictable weather! This Scotland Off The Beaten Track itinerary is the perfect way to experience the cityscapes, history and scenic beauty.
LAND ONLY PACKAGE INCLUDES:
10 Nights stay in 3* Hotels OR Bed and Breakfast s
Breakfast daily
- 1 night in the area of Glasgow
- 2 nights on Isle of Bute
- 1 night in the area Loch Lomond/ Trossachs
- 2 nights in the area of Oban
- 1 night in the area Ayr/ Adrossan
- 2 nights in the area Dumfries
- 1 night in the area of Edinburgh
Unlimited mileage
All taxes & fees
1 Additional driver
Damage Waiver
* High Season rates may apply over certain dates - please request a quote based on your intended dates of travel.
Day 1 - Welcome Scotland
1 night Area Glasgow, journey to the hotel area Glasgow
Depending on time, we recommend visiting the biggest city in Scotland. Explore Glasgow Cathedral, Merchant City and Kelvingrove Art Gallery. For Whiskey Lovers we recommend visiting the Clydeside Distillery.
Day 2 - Isle of Bute
2 nights on Isle of Bute, journey to Isle of Bute, ca. 60km
Today you will be driving to the Isle of Bute. Make your way to Wemyss Bay where you will board the ferry to Rothesay. The Isle of Bute is a rather underrated island, very compact but full of varied landscapes.
Day 3 - Isle of Bute
The 23-mile loop will take you all the way around the island. Enjoy views over Kyles of Bute, Arran and beyond. For shorter rides we recommend the loop from Rothesay to Kingarth. Here you have the chance to visit Mount Stuart an extravagant mansion from the 19th century.
Day 4 - Loch Lomond
1 night Area Loch Lomond, journey to area Loch Lomond, ca. 80km
Make your way up North and take the ferry from Rhubodach to Colintraive. Tickets for this crossing can t be pre-booked as it is operated as turn up and go .
Drive towards Arrochar. We recommend a quick detour to Inveraray. A small town on the western shore of Loch Fyne. You also have the opportunity to visit Inveraray Castle - private residence of the Clan Campbell.
Day 5 - Oban
2 nights Area Oban, journey to Oban, ca. 100km
Your destination for the day will be Oban, a vibrant harbour town on the West Coast of Scotland. You can either take the more crowded road via Glencoe with breath-taking views or the quieter route via Tyndrum and Lochawe. If you go for the second option, we recommend to stop at Kilchurn Castle. It s a picturesque castle ruin on a small peninsula.
Day 6 - Isle of Mull - Isle of Ioana - Staffa
Today you take a day trip to the Isle of Mull, Iona and Staffa. The three islands tour will offer you an unforgettable journey through the stunning scenery of the Isle of Mull, delve into the ancient history of Iona then onto the unique Isle of Staffa to see the geological wonders of Fingal s Cave. Aboard the ferry in Oban to the Isle of Mull where you will be expected by a coach and English-speaking guide.
Day 7 - Isle of Arran - Ayr
1 night area Ayr/ Adrossan, journey to area Ayr via Isle of Arran, ca. 200km
Today you will have an early start. Drive South towards Claonaig where you can take the ferry to Lochranza on Isle of Arran. Similar to Bute, tickets for this crossing can t be pre-booked as it is operated as turn up and go . You can spend a full day on Isle of Arran. Some say that it s Scotland as miniature. You will have a stunning coastline, highlands, distilleries, and historic places such as Brodick Castle. Take the ferry from Brodick to Ardrossan in the early evening.
Day 8 - Dumfries
2 nights area Dumfries, journey to Dumfries, ca. 200km
Visit Culzean Castle on your way to Dumfries, Robert Adam s clifftop masterpiece.
Stop at Galloway Forest Park, often referred to as the Highlands of the Lowlands . It s a paradise for activities such as walking, cycling, and fishing. You can also visit some of the many small & friendly villages such as Whitthorn, Wigtown or Kirkcudbright. We also recommend a visit to Bladnoch Distillery, which is Scotland s most southerly distillery.
Day 9 - Scottish Borders - Gretna Green
We recommend going to the Scottish Borders today.
Start in Gretna Green, a small town that has become famous for its weddings. In the past, young couples in England and Wales were forbidden to marry without their parents consent. That s why some eloped to Scotland or Gretna Green to tie the knot there. Afterwards you can drive to Hadrian s Wall, an ancient Roman border fortification system of the British Limes. You can still see remains of the border wall today. You can also stop in Hawick for a visit the famous Johnstons of Elgin cashmere mill.
Day 10 - Edinburgh
Head back to the Edinburgh area today, ca. 140km. Walk along the Royal Mile to the Ediburgh castle or go shopping in New Town
Terms & Conditions : Prices are from a starting price per person sharing, subject to change, airfare increase, currency fluctuations and availability. Taxes are estimated and based on the current exchange rate and are subject to change. Please note that airport taxes, fuel levies & surcharges are approximate and subject to change, the exact amount will be confirmed at time of booking. Valid for dates as specified. Thompsons Standard Terms and Conditions may apply. For standard terms and conditions refer to www.gatewaytours.co.za E&OE
Exclusions
Flights, airport taxes, visas, travel or medical insurance, drinks and meals not mentioned and items of a personal nature.