15 Days
Scotland is renowned across the world for its dramatic and brooding landscapes, rich cultural history and enduring traditions. This once in a lifetime journey will commence in the wilds of the Highlands, close to the country’s most famous glen before journeying across the sea to explore ethereal scenery and remote isles.
From magnificent castles to spectacular lochs, this destination showcase draws on incredible experiences to delve deep into Scotland’s past. Learn from experts and locals alike to get a true understanding of this amazing country and why it has forged such a strong cultural identity.
GET IN TOUCHDream Escape’s recommended programme could include the following experiences:
Your accommodation choice will be handpicked especially for you from the Dream Escape Accommodation Collection
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Scotland’s most famous glen. It is often considered one of the most spectacular and beautiful places in the country and certainly one of the most dramatic; thundering waterfalls tumble down the sides of mountains into sparkling lochs. Scenery and geology aside, the glen has its place firmly in the history books due to its savage history. It was the site of the infamous massacre of Clan Macdonald of Glencoe by government troops in 1692. Reserved privately, a local guide will take you on a guided walk.
Extending 23 miles, the loch provides spectacular views – the scenery is breath-taking regardless of the time of year.
Experience a day in the life of the Stuart monarchs at Falkland Palace, their country residence for 200 years – and a favourite place of Mary, Queen of Scots. Set in the heart of Falkland conservation village, and surrounded by extensive gardens, this Renaissance palace is partly in ruins but the original and reconstructed rooms are packed with 17th century Flemish tapestries, elaborate painted ceilings and antique furnishings.
For the first time since it was built more than 300 years ago, Broomhall House, the ancestral seat of the Earls of Elgin and the Fife home of the family of King Robert the Bruce has opened its doors.
A private guided tour conducted by Lord Bruce, the heir of the 11th Earl of Elgin will showcase this remarkable and fascinating property plus bring his extraordinary family history to life.
Edinburgh Castle, perched on ancient volcanic rock, has stood guard over the city for 900 years and is brimming with tales, from it near destruction on the order of King of Scots, Robert the Bruce to its role as a garrisoned fortress through the Glorious Revolution and the Jacobite Risings.
Enjoy a leisurely cruise to stunning Rona Harbour (Acarsaid Mhor), taking in views of the iconic Storr and Cuillins along the way. Wildlife spotting opportunities will be abundant; in particular, Rona has a resident seal colony – make sure to borrow a pair of binoculars to try to spot them basking on the rocks. Before stepping foot on Rona, tuck into a hearty lunch of fresh seafood onboard and soak up the beautiful views of the harbour. It is a truly special place.
A privately reserved local guide will take you foraging on the shores of Loch Na Dal. Against a beautiful backdrop, he’ll share both his local knowledge as you venture in search of wild treats; the crop very much depends on the season, but can include edible mushrooms, wild garlic and sorrel in the forest, and delicious seaweeds, mussels, samphire along the shoreline.
Clava Cairns is a Neolithic burial site and standing stones said to be one of Scotland’s most evocative sacred prehistoric sights, believed to be around 4000 years old. Fans of Diana Gabaldon’s Outlander series may recognise the site as the inspiration for the “Craigh na Dun” stone circle through which Claire Randall travels back in time in.
A winning blend of natural beauty and golfing adventure. Handicap not required on the King’s and Queen’s Courses.
The Highlands very much embody the romance of Scotland; they really are the Scotland of your imagination, a beautiful and inspiring region of ancient landscapes with a fascinating history. Spend the day exploring with your chauffeur-guide. There is a wealth of places to visit
Scotland’s historic capital city. Edinburgh, sometimes referred to as the “Athens of the North”, is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. It has two distinct areas: the Old Town, dominated by a medieval fortress; and the neo- classical New Town, dating from the 18th century. The harmonious connection of these two contrasting historic areas, each with many important buildings, is what gives the city its unique character and saw it awarded World Heritage Site status by UNESCO in 1995.
St Andrews is the undisputed home of golf. It has seven magnificent courses, including the world-renowned Old Course, which remains essentially unchanged from the days of Old Tom Morris in the mid-to-late 19th century. To play the hallowed grounds of the Old Course is often viewed as the pinnacle in any golfers’ history.
In the words of Sir Walter Scott, Perthshire is “the fairest portion of the northern kingdom“. Taking in the region’s beauty, from its serene glens and endless expanses of lush forest, to its bleakly beautiful moors, rushing rivers and tumbling waterfalls, it’s impossible to argue with him
Unquestionably the most popular isle of the Inner Hebrides. Voted by National Geographic as one of the world’s top five islands, it is rich in history and romance, famed for its natural beauty, traditional charm, breath-taking scenery and wildlife.
Royal Deeside is an area that is characterised by a blend of moody mountains, lofty crags, tumbling rivers and moors and forests. Nearly 160 years ago, it was an area that captivated Queen Victoria; she surely spoke for future generations of visitors when she wrote: “Every year my heart becomes more fixed on this dear paradise.”