|
Day 1 Culross, Dunfermline, Loch Leven, Anstruther
On our first morning we depart Edinburgh and head first for Culross. Set in something of an industrial landscape, you will be amazed at the village and its beautifully-restored Palace - time seems to have stood still since the 16th century. Dunfermline, once the capital of Scotland and the birthplace of many kings, is our next port of call and we’ll see the Abbey, the burial place of Robert the Bruce. From here we head to Loch Leven, the largest loch in the Scottish Lowlands. Enchanting Loch Leven Castle, where Mary Queens of Scots was at one time imprisoned and from where she dramatically escaped, lies on a peaceful islet. Then, as we make our way to our overnight accommodation and base for the next three nights, we pass through St Andrews, the world-famous home of golf. (D)
Day 2 Edinburgh & Edinburgh Tattoo
Today is devoted to Edinburgh, Scotland’s famous capital. We’ll spend the morning exploring this fascinating city with its medieval and Georgian architecture and its imposing Castle sitting on top of a rugged mound. Edinburgh has much to offer, and you will have the afternoon at leisure to further explore or browse in the shops. You might want to grab an early-evening snack, and then it’s time to meet up for the Edinburgh Tattoo, the highlight of our trip. This spectacular show is a fabulous mix of music, dance and display from all over the world, set against the stunning backdrop of Edinburgh Castle. After the show we’ll head back to our hotel for a late soup and sandwich supper. (B,S)
Day 3 Balmoral, Braemar, Pitlochry & Perth
Today we head for the Highlands to explore the area around Balmoral, the Queen’s summer residence and Braemar, the highest and most mountainous parish in the British Isles, famous for its Highland Games and beautiful location. Then we’ll follow the road through Glenshee, surrounded as it is by majestic mountains and offering fabulous views, as we make our way to Pitlochry, a bustling and attractive town, which became well-known after Queen Victoria’s visit to nearby Blair Castle. As we make our way back, Perth is our final stop – an important trading and market town with fine Georgian facades, terraces and crescents. (B,D)
Day 4 Stirling & Bannockburn
Our final morning sees us on the road to Stirling, the scene of William Wallace’s great victory of 1296 in his fight against the English. Magnificent Stirling Castle, built high on volcanic rock, is visible for many miles around, and it is currently being carefully restored to its former glory. It played an important role in the life of Mary, Queen of Scots, and was the scene of her coronation. Not far away is Bannockburn where Robert the Bruce and his army, though heavily outnumbered, famously defeated Edward II of England. This battle, though not acknowledged by the English for some years, was decisive in establishing the independence of Scotland from England. Then sadly we must make our way back to Edinburgh where our tour ends. (B)
|
|
