Day 1 Depart the USA
Depart your gateway city on an
overnight flight to Glasgow, Scotland.
Day 2 Glasgow, Scotland
Upon arrival, you'll be met
by a representative of Mayflower Cruises and Tours and
transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the afternoon is
at leisure to become acquainted with your new surroundings
until the welcome dinner at the hotel. Meal: D
Day 3 Glasgow - the Highlands
Your exploration begins
with a panoramic tour of Glasgow, Scotland's largest city
and 'capital of design'. Pass through George Square and
the Victorian District, and make a photo stop at St. Mungo's
Cathedral, the oldest building in the city. Depart the city and
journey to the Highlands as you travel through the picturesque
Trossachs with statuesque mountains, stunning scenery, and
peaceful lochs (lakes). This area has been recognized for
its exquisite beauty since Sir Walter Scott penned "Rob Roy"
and "The Lady of the Lake" in the 19th century. Sail on Loch
Katrine aboard the historic steamship Sir Walter Scott and
enjoy the serene area that reflected his spirits in verse. After
the cruise, continue to the hotel in Perthshire for dinner and an
evening at leisure. Meals: B, D
Day 4 Loch Tay
This morning, visit the Scottish Crannog
Center on the shores of Loch Tay, for a fascinating journey
into Scotland's history. Ancient loch-crannogs were built in the
water as defensive homesteads and symbols of wealth. Walk
in the footsteps of the original Crannog dwellers and immerse
yourself in village life with original artefacts and demonstrations
of ancient crafts and technology. This afternoon, discover the
art of whisky-making. Known for producing the world's greatest
whisky's, Scotland is split into five distinctive whisky-producing
regions, each with its own unique characteristics and colorful
history. Find out how water, wind and temperature impact the
production process as you tour a local distillery and enjoy a
sample of Scotland's favorite beverage. Meal: B
Day 5 Inverness and Loch Ness
Today's adventure begins as
you travel to Inverness, capital of the Highlands, for a visit to
a kiltmaker. Discover the history, tradition, and culture of the
kilt, meet the people who make them and see a handmade kilt
demonstration. Continue on to the ruins of Urquhart Castle,
formerly the greatest castle in the Highlands, to experience a
glimpse of medieval life. From this site, one can also enjoy the
magnificent scenery and stunning views over the Great Glen
and Loch Ness, a large, deep, freshwater loch. Keep an eye
out for Nessie! Return to the hotel for an evening at leisure.
Meal: B
Day 6 Highlands - Edinburgh:
It's time to make your way back
to the lowlands with touring enroute. In Stirling, a unique blend
of an historic town and contemporary university make it the
best small city in Scotland. Visit Stirling Castle, home of the
Stuart Kings and Mary Queen of Scots. Having undergone a
complete renovation, this royal palace has been returned to its
Renaissance splendor. Upon arrival in St. Andrews, home of
the famous golf course and the oldest university of Scotland,
visit the ruins of its impressive cathedral, overlooking the North
Sea. Arrive in Edinburgh for an evening at leisure and the final
three-nights' accommodation. Meal: B
Day 7 Edinburgh / Rosslyn Chapel
Welcome to Edinburgh, where centuries of history meet a vibrant, cosmopolitan city
with dramatic scenery and striking architecture. During the
panoramic city tour, see the historic Old Town and the elegant
Georgian New Town, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Visit the city's icon, Edinburgh Castle, perched high atop a
hill, offering panoramic views of stately mountains, rolling hills
and lovely countryside. Inside the castle, stand in awe of
the Scottish Crown Jewels, featuring the crown, sword, and
scepter, which are among the oldest regalia in Europe. After
free time for lunch on your own, depart for Roslin, a tiny village
outside Edinburgh, where you visit Rosslyn Chapel. This 15thcentury
church is famous for its decorative art and mysterious
associations with the Knights Templar and the Holy Grail. This
evening, dinner is included. Meals: B, D
Day 8 Edinburgh
Begin the final day with an excursion to
Abbotsford House, the beautifully restored home of one of
Scotland's literary heroes - Sir Walter Scott. Built over 200 years
ago, filled with tranquil gardens and lush grounds, it is a perfect
showcase for Scott's creative ambitions. Explore the historic
house that inspired Scott's greatest poems and novels. Return
to Edinburgh for the remainder of the day at leisure. Meal: B
Day 9 Edinburgh - USA
It's time to leave Scotland and
transfer to the Edinburgh airport for your flight home. Meal: B