Scottish Highlands Post-Voyage Extension

Extraordinary experiences in a beautiful land with rich history

From the ancient castle and historic houses of the Royal Mile to the elegant Georgian terraces and crescents of the New Town, Edinburgh embodies much of Scotland’s history and culture. In the words of the historian Murdo Macdonald, “Edinburgh is a city that makes you think about what a city should be." Visit the ancient Edinburgh Castle and see the Stone of Destiny—an oblong block of red sandstone used for centuries in the coronation of monarchs of Scotland. If you are on a departure that coincides with the Edinburgh Military Tattoo, you will enjoy an evening at this celebration of music and culture. At other times, you'll enjoy a wonderful experience at a traditional dinner aboard an elegant and historic long ship. You’ll also see the Scottish Crown Jewels, the Palace of Holyrood House and The Royal Yacht Britannia, and you'll also have time to explore on your own.

Day 1 - Disembark / Edinburgh, Scotland

Welcome to Edinburgh, the Scottish capital! Disembark the ship and take the group transfer to your hotel in the heart of the city. Enjoy free time at the hotel or explore at your leisure. This evening, meet your tour guide and fellow guests for a welcome dinner. (D)

Day 2 - Edinburgh

Stretching from Holyrood Palace to Edinburgh Castle, the cobbled Royal Mile runs through the heart of Old Town Edinburgh. Stoll along this festive thoroughfare, lined with quirky shops and street performers, and stop at St. Giles Cathedral before continuing to Edinburgh Castle, the hulking and ancient fortification that dominates the city skyline. Examine the castle’s many architectural styles, reflecting its importance throughout Scottish history, and view the Crown Jewels of Scotland and the sacred Stone of Destiny, used at the inauguration for Scotland’s kings and queens. Enjoy lunch and a Scottish Whiskey tasting before stepping aboard The Royal Yacht Britannia, Queen Elizabeth II’s floating palace for over 40 years. (B,L,D)

Day 3 - Scottish Highlands

This morning, venture to Stirling, the original Capital of Scotland. From its spectacular setting, high on a volcanic rock above the River Forth, Stirling Castle has controlled one of the main routes between the Scottish Highlands and the Lowlands for centuries. After exploring the castle, enjoy lunch at Kingshouse Hotel on the edge of Rannoch Moor, one of the last remaining wildernesses in Europe—and a film set location for the James Bond movie, Skyfall. Continue to Glencoe and marvel at the iconic mountain range known as The Three Sisters, then transfer to Fort William. After a short ride to the Nevis Range, take the gondola up to the slopes of Aonach Mor. Here you can enjoy a walk along gentle mountain trails and take in the scenery of the dramatic Scottish Highlands, including Ben Nevis on a clear day. Check into your hotel and enjoy time to relax before dinner. (B,L,D)

Day 4 - Scottish Highlands

Continue your journey through the magnificent Highlands to Neptune’s Staircase, a remarkable ladder of eight locks that marks the entrance to the Caledonian Canal, then head to the famous Loch Ness. Perched along the shores of the lake is Urquhart Castle, a critical strategic stronghold in the Highlands that met a dramatic end in 1692, when the castle was blown up to stop it falling into Jacobite hands. We’ll tour the impressive ruins before enjoying lunch at a highland cattle farm. Later, visit the Culloden Heritage Centre and historic battlefield, site of the last battle fought on British soil—the bloody 1746 Battle of Culloden between Bonnie Prince Charlie and the Duke of Cumberland. Check into the Kingsmills Hotel (or similar) before joining your group for a farewell dinner. (B,L,D)

Day 5 - Inverness

Enjoy breakfast before transferring to the airport for your flight home. (B)

Costs & What's Included

Occupancy

Double Occupancy

Single Occupancy

Cost Includes:

Ship and airport transfers; accommodation, meals, excursions and entrance fees as indicated; local guides on all excursions; tips to local guides, porters and service staff for included meals.