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The Scottish Highlands Essential Experience Tour

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  • The Scottish Highlands Essential Experience Tour
  • The Scottish Highlands Essential Experience Tour
  • The Scottish Highlands Essential Experience Tour
  • The Scottish Highlands Essential Experience Tour
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    - Minimum age 5
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  • Tour ID:
    1094
  • Tour theme:
    Group Sightseeing Tours (Multi-days),
  • Duration:
    5 Days / 4 Nights
  • Starts from:
    Edinburgh, Glasgow
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  • The Scottish Highlands Essential Experience Tour
  • The Scottish Highlands Essential Experience Tour
  • The Scottish Highlands Essential Experience Tour
  • The Scottish Highlands Essential Experience Tour

Tour Description

The Highland Experience’s Scottish Choice tour gives you the opportunity to explore the beauty of Scotland with the best local guides. On this tour, you will discover the diverse landscape of the Highlands, enjoy the wonderful coastal scenery, fall in love with the magical Isle of Skye, and, of course, experience an absolute bucket list activity in Scotland, cruise on Loch Ness. After the tour, you will understand why our wee country has been officially voted the most beautiful country in the world!

Day 1
Through the Trossachs to Oban…

We’ll pick you up from Edinburgh’s high street before we make our way to Glasgow – Scotland’s biggest city and industrial capital – where we will meet the rest of your group. Our wide-ranging tour starts by heading west through the beautiful scenery of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. Loch Lomond is one of the top nature attractions in Scotland, surrounded by beautiful villages and stunning landscapes, it’s an absolute paradise for those who want to experience Scottish nature.

Next, we will stop at Kilmartin Glen, famous for its rich archaeological legacy. With over 5,000 years of history laid out before us, we will walk in the footsteps of the first Scots and decipher the mysteries of an area soaked in history. Take a big step back in time and stroll through Dunadd Hill Fort and the Temple Wood Stone Circle or uncover some extraordinary Neolithic rock art at Achnabreck.

Then, we will have a scenic journey to the picturesque seaside town of Oban, home to Scotland’s best seafood! As we drive through it, your guide will provide you with an overview of the history of the town and its most famous sights. On our first evening, you have the opportunity to take part in a traditional Scottish Ceilidh!

Overnight: Oban

Day 2
Explore the Gruesome history of our Glens…

Day two takes you over the Connel Bridge through Appin to the haunting landscape of Glen Coe (scene of the terrible massacre of the MacDonald Clan). We’ll stop in Fort William; a town dominated by Ben Nevis—the UK’s tallest peak.

We will drive part of the route of one of the most fantastic train journeys in the entire world. We will stop to view the Glenfinnan Viaduct, made famous by the Harry Potter films, and hopefully, get a chance to see the steam train cross it. We will also be able to see Glenfinnan Monument – and the gorgeous scenery that surrounds it!

Overnight: Isle of Skye

Day 3
A whole day to explore Skye…

You’ll have the whole of the third day to explore Skye’s mysteries and landscape with your knowledgeable driver-guide, who will ensure you get the most out of your time on the island based on the weather and group. Stops often include the likes of Cuillin Mountains, Dun Beag Broch, the Black Houses, the Kilt Rock Waterfall, The Old Man of Storr and the Trotternish Peninsula, and of course the capital of the island, Portree. It’s the perfect Scottish experience giving you a chance to visit waterfalls, springs, historic sights and walk through some of the most beautiful landscapes.

Overnight: Isle of Skye

Day 4
Beautiful Castles, Mysterious Lochs, and Monster Hunting…

We’ll leave Skye and head straight to one of Scotland’s most photographed castles, Eilean Donan* which you’ll have ample time to explore. Eilean Donan is one of the greatest medieval castles in Scotland. With a history that dates back to the 13th century, this fortress will take you back in time to the bloodiest times of our past.

Our route then takes you over to the pretty Lochside village of Drumnadrochit for lunch. Here, you can choose between navigating the world-famous Loch Ness or enjoying some time to explore the surroundings. Our tour includes a visit to Urquhart Castle and cruise on Loch Ness, an opportunity to catch a glimpse of our famous Loch Ness monster, and immerse yourself in the history of the area. We’ll then head to Inverness, the capital of the Highlands for your overnight stop

Overnight: Inverness

Day 5
Historic Battlefields and the Journey Home…

Today you’ll head to visit the battlefield of Culloden* the site of the defeat of the Jacobite forces. We’ll also have time to explore the nearby Clava Cairns, a group of Prehistoric Burial Cairns – fans of Outlander will love this location due to its similarity to the fictitious stone circle, Craigh na Dun. Then you’ll pass the stunning Cairngorm Mountains. On your way south you may have the opportunity to enjoy a wee dram at a local whisky distillery* or explore the picturesque town of Pitlochry before arriving back in Edinburgh*.

*You may be provided with a complimentary train ticket for return to Glasgow

*May - September departures will include a 1-way journey on the Jacobite Steam Train.* This will be confirmed by end of Dec 2022.

*April/October departures will include a 1 hour cruise on Loch Ness and tour of Urquhart Castle

Prices & Dates

Departs Edinburgh 08:30am  Glasgow 09:45am
Returns Edinburgh 19.00pm  Glasgow 20.00pm (via train)

Edinburgh Departure Point: Caffe Nero, 1 Parliament Square, High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1RE
Glasgow Departure Point: 266 George Street, Glasgow ( between North Frederick Street and John Street)

Departs:
Mon 3rd Apr – 16th Oct; Thurs 4th May - 14th Sept

May - September departures will include a 1-way journey on the Jacobite Steam Train.* This will be confirmed by end of Dec 2022.

April/October departures will include a 1 hour cruise on Loch Ness and tour of Urquhart Castle


Prices Per Person (including accommodation)


Click Book This Tour to find pricing on specific dates

**children under 5 years of age are not accepted. See below for more price notes
** note: ensuite rooms guaranteed with Hotel and Superior b&b option

On the Isle of Skye, hotel accommodation will be replaced by superior B&B and prices have been adjusted to reflect this change. We would recommend bringing suitable shoes and clothes for walking, as there will be opportunities for short walks throughout the tour. Some accommodation is located a short walk away from restaurants - please let us know if you have any mobility issues when you book

What's Included

Sorry this tour does not accept children age 3 and under
 
 
The tour price includes...
 - the services of a highly qualified driver guide that are passionate about Scotland eager to show off this beautiful country
 - 3 Star Accommodation based on the type that you select
 - Breakfast is only included with B&B and Hotel (Hostel does not include breakfast)
 
 Not included...
 - Lunch, Dinner, snacks, coffee or tea during duration of tour (there will be plenty of stops along the way, the guide will recommend restaurants, cafe, shops, etc...)
 - Admission to the monuments, attractions, distilleries and cruises
 - Transfer to the departure point from place of accommodation or airport in Edinburgh

The type of vehicle employed on our tours varies depending on the number of passengers travelling on a particular departure. Generally tours are operated by 16 or 19 seat minibuses and 29 & 33 seat luxury mini-coaches. All vehicles are modern and specially built for comfortable touring. All vehicles have either forced-air ventilation or air-conditioning plus large panoramic windows to ensure the very best views. ABS, secondary breaking systems and a host of other safety features will ensure a safe trip.

Luggage Limit is Size: 55x40x20cm, Weight: 15kg
Whilst we are fully aware that guests may have larger items we will only be able to accept larger items subject to space available. Guests should check with their overnight accommodation provider who may be able to store luggage till their return. Alternatively there are left luggage facilities at Waverley Train Station and Edinburgh Bus Station. In Glasgow there are facilities at Queen Street Train Station and Buchanan Street Bus Station. In Inverness there are facilities at Inverness Train Station and also at Farraline Park Bus Station.
 
 Notes...
 - pick up from Edinburgh, drop off in Glasgow, or vise versa is possible. Just let us know at the time of booking in the comments section.
 - there is not discount for child staying in room with adult
 - it is advised to bring a comfortable pair of walking shoes, a jumper in case of chilly weather, and rain jacket/umbrella in case it rains. Weather in Scotland can be unpredictable, especially in the highlands, so it is wise to come prepared
 - don't forget your camera and a smile!!

CANCELLATION AND REFUNDS FOR SCHEDULED TOURS
When a passenger wishes to make a cancellation of a multi day tour the following charges apply:
- Within 7 days of the tour departure, no refund will be given.
- 7-14 days before the tour departure, a 50% refund of the tour price will be given.
- 14 days or more before the tour departure, a 90% refund of the tour price will be given.

Departure & Map

Leaving From Edinburgh
Caffe Nero, 1 Parliament Square, High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1REX
Leaving From Glasgow
204 George Street, Glasgow (between Montrose Street and John Street).

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Terms & Conditions

Cancellation and Refunds for scheduled tours

When a passenger wishes to make a cancellation of a 1-day scheduled tour the following charges apply:

  • Within 48 hours of the tour departure, no refund will be given.
  • 48-72 hours before the tour departure, a 50% refund of the tour price will be given.
  • 72 hours or more before the tour departure, a full refund of the tour price will be given. 
When a passenger wishes to make a cancellation of a multi-day scheduled tour the following charges apply:
  • Within 7 days of the tour departure, no refund will be given.
  • 7-14 days before the tour departure, a 50% refund of the tour price will be given.
  • 14 days or more before the tour departure, a 90% refund of the tour price will be given.
 

We reserve the right to cancel trips under exceptional circumstances such as those out with of our control. In such cases clients will be promptly informed and offered:

  • Transfer to a substitute trip or tour, or an alternative trip or if the tour is a lower cash value clients will receive a cash adjustment refund; or a total refund of all prepaid monies.

Cancellation and Refunds for unique tours

  • Due to the unique nature of our specialized tours i.e. X-mas & New Year tours a specific cancellation charge applies to this product - up to 7 days prior to departure 50% refund. Within 7 days - no refund)
  • Due to the fact that we use 3 star accommodation for our X-Mas & New Year tours all prices are based on two sharing a room.

General Guidelines for all tours

Children policy: We do accept children of 3 years old and above on all tours, providing a valid proof of age, such as passport or birth certificate. We do accept infants under 3 on the Multi-Lingual Highland Adventure and they will travel at the appropriate infant rate.

luggage policy: Maximum weight:  15kg. Maximum size: 55 x 40 x 20 per person. Left luggage offices available in Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness.

Due to the size of our vehicles, on our multi-day tours, we guarantee to carry one piece of luggage per passenger of 55cm x 40cm x 20cm, with a maximum of 15kg. This is equivalent to hand luggage allowed in an aircraft cabin.

Should you have larger suitcases or luggage, there are left luggage offices at the train and bus stations in Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness.

If you are wishing to bring your luggage with you on a one-day tour, please contact us for further arrangements.

Any personal property should be carried at the travellers responsibility

We reserve the right to change the tour itinerary at any time due to weather, acts of God and events out without our control.

Unless stated otherwise, food, attractions and accommodation is not included in the tour price however; clients may be eligible for a discount when mentioning Highland Experience.

Smoking is not permitted on any of our vehicles.

The operator recommends all passengers take our suitable travel, medical and cancellation insurance.

Driver tips are not included in the tour price but if deserved, greatly appreciated.

Please note that we operate with a minimum number of 5 passengers on all tours except private tours.
 

Accommodation for extended 

Clients booking ' TOUR ONLY' option should follow this information as NO accommodation is included in the price.

Guest will be dropped in a central point in each location.

Please contact us for details of locations,

You will need to make your own way to your accommodation.

You will also need to make your way back to the drop point the following day to be collected.

You must inform Highland Experience at least 2 days in advance of your tour departure where you have booked your accommodation.

Please contact us after booking and we can inform you of the locations to book.

Should you experience any difficulties please contact us where we will be happy to help.
 

Timekeeping

It is the responsibility of the Passenger to ensure that they are at the departure point in good time and that they adhere to the departure times given in the Company''s publicity and by its representatives. Coaches will not be held for Passengers who are late. In such cases full cancellation charges will apply and the Company shall have no further liability to that Passenger.

Alterations by the company

Whilst the Company shall use its reasonable endeavours to provide the tour as planned, the Company reserves the right to alter itineraries in any way, and for whatever reason, or to vary hotel accommodation. In the case of hotel accommodation alternative accommodation of a similar standard will be obtained.

Suppliers of service

Tickets for steamships, aircraft, trains or other carriers which are obtained by the Company on behalf of the Passenger are subject to the conditions of carriage of the individual carrier. The Company undertakes to select hotels, restaurants and coach companies which have a good reputation. The company will not accept or have any liability for the acts of omissions whether negligent or otherwise, of ferry companies, coach operators, hotels or any other person providing services in connection with the arrangements of the group/ individual(s) unless such a person is employed by the Company or subject to the Company''s direct control. The Company is dedicated to providing Passengers with a reliable and fault free service. In the unlikely event that a Passenger wishes to raise any queries or complaints with the Company, such query or complaint should be raised in the first instance with the tour guide, who will endeavour to resolve the situation to the Passenger''s satisfaction. If any complaint cannot be resolved by the tour guide, Passengers must address their complaints in writing to the Company within one month from the last day of the tour provided by the Company.

Force Majeure

The Company does not accept any liability for any loss, inconvenience or damage caused by war, threat of war riot or civil strife, terrorist activity, industrial disputes, natural disaster, fires, sickness, weather conditions, airport regulations, temporary, technical, mechanical or electrical breakdown of transport or any facilities contained within advertised accommodation, explosion of any nuclear plant or part thereof or radioactivity/contamination arising from such plant or events beyond the reasonable control of the Company.







 

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Operated by: Highland Experience
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