Central Highlands: Explore & Unwind

Day 1: Forth Bridge and Pitlochry

Individual arrival in Edinburgh. Crossing the Firth of Forth will allow fine views of the Forth Rail Bridge, a symbol of Scotland and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Travelling north, close to the geological Highland Boundary Fault, you will reach the historic town of Dunkeld, also known as the “Gateway to the Highlands”. Visit Dunkeld Cathedral and take a walk along the River Tay before continuing your journey north. Your home for the coming week is Pitlochry on the outskirts of the Cairngorms National Park. The popular tourist resort offers a variety of hill walking opportunities, with mountains like Ben Vrackie and Schiehallion close by. If you would rather take it easy, stroll through the extensive parks along the River Tummel or visit the Pitlochry Dam Visitor Center, with its famous Salmon Ladder and wonderful café. Distance: 70 miles Driving Time: about 1.5 hrs Accommodation: Pitlochry

Day 2: Blair Castle and Edradour Distillery

Edradour Whisky Distillery is one of the smallest and most picturesque distilleries in Scotland. Immerse yourself in the secrets of „aqua vitae“ – from the making to maturation techniques, followed by a dram full of character and flavours. In the neighbouring town visit the radiant Blair Castle, its history dating back to the 13th century, and have some lunch at the famous House of Bruar, before visiting the Falls of Bruar close by. Instead, you may choose to spend your day by taking a walk through Killiecrankie, a magnificent wooded river gorge, remembering on the way back to stop at Queen’s View, the place where Queen Victoria allegedly fell in love with Scotland. Enjoy the views over Schiehallion and Loch Tummel.  Accommodation: Pitlochry

Day 3: Cairngorm National Park, Inverness and Loch Ness

Today’s trip takes you into the Cairngorm National Park. The largest national park in the United Kingdom boasts a spectacular landscape and provides a unique habitat, home to many rare plants and animals. Driving north you will pass Dalwhinnie, where Scotland’s highest distillery is situated, before stopping at the tranquil Loch an Eilean to enjoy the fresh, clean air and beautiful mountain panoramas. In Inverness, you might want to take a stroll through the city and along the River Ness, or head south to the world-famous Loch Ness.  Nessie fans might want to take a boat trip or visit Urquhart Castle, a magnificent ruined castle with stunning views over Loch Ness. Accommodation: Pitlochry

Day 4: Glenshee, Royal Deeside and Balmoral Castle

En route to the Royal Deeside you will pass Scotland’s biggest ski resort, Glenshee. The surrounding mountains are home to large herds of red deer. Stop off in Braemar, home to the famous Highland Games, which are attended by members of the Royal Family each year and visit Balmoral Castle, the summer residence of the Royal Family. Across one of the highest mountain passes in Scotland, you will reach Corgarff Castle. Surrounded by moorland, the castle has withstood the regions infamous storms since the 16th century. The afternoon can be used exploring the Speyside whisky region, where more than half of all Scottish whisky is produced. Accommodation: Pitlochry

Day 5: St Andrews and the Kingdom of Fife

On today’s trip to the North Sea coast you will find many small, historic fishing villageswhere fresh lobster and crabs are landed daily. You continue your tour to St Andrews, one of the most famous historic towns in Britain. The noble university has welcomed many famous faces including Prince William and Kate Middleton, who met while studying there. The ruins of St Andrews Cathedral, which used to be one of the biggest churches in the country, and St Andrews Castle are well worth a visit, as is Jannettas Gelateria for world famous ice cream!!  The town has gorgeous sandy beaches and is a mecca for golf fans from all over the world, with a visit to the Old Course a must!  On your way back to Pitlochry, Falkland Palace is well worth a stop, or visit Tentsmuir Forest for a walk to the stunning beach there. Accommodation: Pitlochry

Day 6: The Capital Edinburgh

Edinburgh is said to have been built on seven hills, an allusion to the seven hills of Rome. Take a walk through the Old and New Town (UNESCO World Heritage Site) and enjoy the fabulous views over town from Carlton Hill. Discover Holyrood Palace, the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle, visit one of the many museums and galleries or head to Leith where the Royal Yacht Britannia is moored. In the evening, fantastic restaurants and cosy pubs invite you to linger and soak in the lively atmosphere. If you’re brave enough you can join one of the many ghost tours to discover Edinburgh’s dark past. Accommodation: Pitlochry

Day 7: Departure 

Today you have to say goodbye to a wonderful, welcoming country. You will head back to Edinburgh Airport, where you return the hire car and start your journey home.