Castles, Coastlines & Royalty
Overview
Embark on a private journey along Scotland's enchanting east coast, explore Edinburg's cobbled lanes and royal landmark's before heading north to highland castles, distilleries, and sweeping scenery. Visit Balmoral and Glamis, dine in Aberdeenshire and follow the dramatic shoreline from Dunnottar Castle to Dundee - an impression in warm hospitality, rich traditions, and timeless beauty.Private Touring
- Flexible Dates
- 24-Hour Local Assistance
- Flexible Itinerary
- Upgrade Accommodation
- Local Guide Service
- Modern Airconditioned Vehicle
Itinerary
Your adventure in Scotland's capital starts! Meet your private driver and assistant who will transfer you from the airport to the hotel for check in. Once settled, join your private guide for an immersive afternoon walking tour through Edinburgh’s cobbled streets and winding closes. Stroll along the historic Royal Mile, where tales of monarchs, poets, and philosophers echo through the centuries, and admire the city’s striking contrasts, from the looming grandeur of Edinburgh Castle to the elegant Georgian architecture of the New Town. Along the way, discover hidden courtyards, charming boutiques, and panoramic viewpoints that capture the spirit of this UNESCO World Heritage city. After the tour, why not finish your day with a traditional Scottish haggis in one of the cosy pubs along the Royal Mile!
Overnight in Edinburgh.
Meal Plan: No Meal
Today with your private driver-guide you will start your adventure north from Edinburgh to Braemar, commencing with a scenic drive across the iconic UNESCO Forth Bridges, spanning 300 years of history and offering breathtaking views of the Firth of Forth. Enroute, stop at the historic Scone Palace, nestled amidst lush greenery, where Scottish kings were once crowned, before continuing to the magnificent Glamis Castle, childhood home of the Queen Mother and steeped in legend and royal heritage. Explore its grand halls and gardens, then journey onward through the stunning Scottish countryside, where the rugged beauty of the Highlands unfolds in rolling hills and charming villages. Finally, arrive in Braemar, a quaint town within the Cairngorms National Park, to unwind amidst serene natural landscapes. Overnight in Braemar.
Meal Plan: Breakfast
After a hearty breakfast in Braemar, meet your private driver and guide for a full-day exploration of the surrounding Highlands. Begin the morning with a private foraging experience, venturing into the wild landscape to discover seasonal herbs, mushrooms, and edible plants under the guidance of an expert local forager. Learn about traditional uses and sustainable harvesting techniques while connecting with the tranquil natural surroundings. Continue to Royal Loch Nagar Distillery to take part in the “Expression Tour, an in-depth experience offering insight into the craft of whisky-making, from the malted barley to the final pour, complemented by a guided tasting of their finest drams. The afternoon allows time for leisurely stops to capture the scenic beauty of Deeside and explore charming Highland villages at your own pace. Later, return to Braemar and unwind with an optional open-fire dining experience at the Clunie Dining Room, before settling in for a restful evening amidst the serenity of the Cairngorms. Overnight in Braemar.
Meal Plan: Breakfast
Today with your private driver-guide you will continue on your delightful journey from Braemar to Aberdeen, beginning with a visit to the majestic Balmoral Castle, the beloved royal residence set against the backdrop of the stunning Cairngorms National Park. Explore the grandeur of its grounds and learn about its royal heritage before setting off towards Aberdeen. Along the way, you will stop at the enchanting Crathes Castle Estate to enjoy a ranger-led private walk, immersing yourself in the tranquility of its woodlands, gardens, and picturesque landscapes. For your last leg of the day, absorb in the beauty of the Dee Valley as you make your way towards Aberdeen, a vibrant city renowned for its historic and granite architecture, cultural attractions, and bustling harbour. Once settled in your hotel, you will be treated to private templars dinner evening, where you will have the opportunity to "dine like a Nobel".
Overnight in Aberdeenshire.
Meal Plan: Breakfast and Dinner
After a leisurely breakfast, meet your private driver and guide for a day exploring the scenic landscapes of Aberdeenshire. Begin with a visit to Kincaidian Castle, where you will enjoy an exclusive meet-and-greet with the Lord and Lady of the estate, gaining insight into the castle’s history, architecture, and the life of a working Scottish estate. Continue your journey east through rolling farmland and picturesque villages, with stops to enjoy sweeping views over Royal Deeside and the River Dee. Enroute, visit an Aberdeenshire Farm-to-Fork experience, where you’ll meet some of Scotland's Famous Highland Coos and gain an introduction to sustainable farming and taste locally produced beef fresh from the source. Your journey then continues toward the Granite City of Aberdeen, offering a glimpse of its coastal charm and grand granite architecture. With opportunities for scenic photography and relaxed exploration along the way, this day beautifully combines history, local flavour, and the diverse landscapes of northeast Scotland. Overnight in Aberdeen.
Meal Plan: Breakfast
Today marks the penultimate day of your Scottish adventure, as your driver-guide takes you south on a picturesque journey from Aberdeenshire to Edinburgh, tracing the stunning coastline of eastern Scotland. Follow the scenic coastal route with panoramic views of rugged cliffs, sweeping dunes, and the North Sea’s glimmering expanse. Stop at the dramatic Dunnottar Castle, a clifftop fortress steeped in history and legend, before continuing south to Dundee, a city rich in maritime heritage and creative energy. Here, enjoy the Wardroom Dining Experience at Discovery Point, an exclusive lunch inspired by Captain Scott’s RRS Discovery, celebrating local produce and seafaring tradition. Afterwards, stroll along the revitalized waterfront and explore the V&A Dundee before continuing south toward Edinburgh. As the scenery shifts from coastal vistas to rolling Lowland hills, arrive in the capital’s elegant embrace for your final overnight stay in Scotland.
Overnight in Edinburgh.
Meal Plan: Breakfast
Take a final walk and capture your farewell photos of the Scottish capital. Then it's a fond farewell and your private transfer will be ready when you are to take you to Edinburgh airport for your return flight.
Meal Plan: Breakfast
Inclusions
Private return airport Transfer: EDI - Hotel - EDI with meet & greet on arrival.
Half day private walking tour in Edinburgh
Five days private touring with driver guide & vehicle (Mercedes Viano or similar) with overnight stays in Braemar & Aberdeenshire
Entrance to Scone Palace
Entrance to Glamis Castle
Private morning foraging tour
Royal Loch Nagar distillery “Expression Tour’
Entrance to Balmoral Castle
Private ranger led walk on Crathes Castle Estate
Private evening templars dinner at hotel private "dine like a Nobel"
Kincardine Castle meet the Lord & Lady Aberdeenshire Farm to Fork experience
Entrance to Dunnottar Castle
Captain Scott’s RRS Discovery
Wardroom dining experience
Entrance to V&A Dundee Museum
Private airport transfer: Hotel – EDI
1 night’ accommodation at the Balmoral - 5*
2 nights’ accommodation at the Fife Arms - 5*
2 nights’ accommodation at Mary Cutler House - 4*
1 night’ accommodation at the Caledonian Edinburgh - 5*
Breakfast daily
Exclusions
Items not mentioned in the Inclusions.
Notes
Rate mentioned are “starting from” rates and may change based on the actual travel dates and due to the increase in fuel rates, entrance fees as well as cost of meals at restaurants.