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Legendary Scottish Isles, Edinburgh & Glasgow
Eastbound
Tour Description:
There's no better way to explore all the natural and cultural riches that Scotland and its islands have to offer – from treasured tartans and traditions of the clans, to the wonders of single malt whiskies at a distillery in the Highlands to the distinctive folkways of the captivating Scottish Isles...
Our 11-day trip includes a 7-night cruise aboard the luxury small ship Le Laperouse, plus a choice of hotel stays in Glasgow and Edinburgh. Cruise to the celebrated Orkney and Shetland Islands, and the remote isles of Mull, Skye and Lewis; explore eclectic Edinburgh, the traditions of Scottish music and dance, and the Highlands' incredible scenery, with a visit to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, a sea safari, and more.
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Destination & Sightseeing
Destination & Sightseeing
There's no better way to explore all the natural and cultural riches that Scotland and its islands have to offer – from treasured tartans and traditions of the clans, to the wonders of single malt whiskies at a distillery in the Highlands to the distinctive folkways of the captivating Scottish Isles...
Our 11-day trip includes a 7-night cruise aboard the luxury small ship Le Laperouse, plus a choice of hotel stays in Glasgow and Edinburgh. Cruise to the celebrated Orkney and Shetland Islands, and the remote isles of Mull, Skye and Lewis; explore eclectic Edinburgh, the traditions of Scottish music and dance, and the Highlands' incredible scenery, with a visit to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, a sea safari, and more.
Highlights
Visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh, joining a local guide for a tour through the historic official residence of the monarch in Scotland
Visits to Skara Brae, a Neolithic settlement, and Gerrannean Blackhouse Village, a living museum, on Orkney Mainland
Tauck Exclusive private reception and dinner aboard The Royal Yacht Britannia in Edinburgh
All gratuities to Tauck Director, ship staff and local guides
Glasgow and Edinburgh city sightseeing on hotel stays in the heart of the cities – 1 night in Glasgow, 2 nights in Edinburgh
Highlights
Visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh, joining a local guide for a tour through the historic official residence of the monarch in Scotland
Visits to Skara Brae, a Neolithic settlement, and Gerrannean Blackhouse Village, a living museum, on Orkney Mainland
Tauck Exclusive private reception and dinner aboard The Royal Yacht Britannia in Edinburgh
All gratuities to Tauck Director, ship staff and local guides
Glasgow and Edinburgh city sightseeing on hotel stays in the heart of the cities – 1 night in Glasgow, 2 nights in Edinburgh
ITINERARY
ITINERARYArrive Glasgow
Tour begins 6:00 PM. A transfer is included from Glasgow International Airport to Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel, Glasgow or voco Grand Hotel Glasgow, each centrally located near must-see sights. Join us this evening for a welcome reception and dinner at the voco Grand Hotel Glasgow.
Explore Glasgow and embark your ship as your cruise begins
A tour of city sights includes George's Square, Buchanan Street, and Princes Square. Visit Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, one of the city's most popular attractions, featuring a wide-ranging collection of art and artifacts of cultural history, ancient history, natural history, and more; you'll also visit Glasgow Cathedral and the Glasgow Necropolis. Drive to Greenock and embark your ship, your home for the next seven nights. Tonight you sail for the Isle of Mull in the Inner Hebrides.
The Isle of Mull
Sail to the Isle of Mull, a popular destination for naturalists and photographers in search of Britain's more elusive birds and wildlife. Anchor in Tobermory on a morning arrival for a choice of excursions. Drive along the scenic coastline to Duart Castle, a medieval landmark on the sea cliffs, home of the Maclean Clan – restored in the 20th century – a rare opportunity to visit a clan seat that is still owned by its members; or enjoy a short but scenic drive to Aros Park* for a guided nature hike. This evening, join us aboard ship for the Captain's welcome reception followed by dinner as you sail for the Isle of Skye.
Skye castles and storybook landscapes
Known in Gaelic as "Isle of Mist," Skye is steeped in Celtic and Norse legend, a land of faerie glens, storybook mountains, and otherworldly landscapes that seem to spring from Tolkien's Middle Earth. At Portree, a fishing town in a harbor sheltered by cliffs, take your choice of shore excursions. Take a cruise around Portree Bay and the Sound of Raasay on a wildlife safari which may include seals, otters, dolphins, and sea eagles along with enchanting coastal views. Alternatively, travel to Kintail where iconic Eilean Donan Castle stands on a small tidal island; destroyed in 1719 and restored in 1932, it is the most photographed castle in Scotland, and you can explore it while learning its turbulent history. Your third choice is a visit to medieval Dunvegan Castle, the seat of the MacLeod Clan, rising four stories high on a promontory overlooking Loch Dunvegan and the sea. The fourth choice takes you on a guided tour of a working Croft. Your final choice is a visit and tasting at the Talisker Distillery. Late afternoon, see Skye through the lens of a local photographer" Join Simon Larsen as he takes you on a visual journey around Skye with his stunning photography. Set sail this evening for the Isle of Lewis.
Lochs, brochs and standing stones
The Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides offers a dreamlike landscape of windy rolling hills, moors, vivid colors, and dramatic, rugged shores. Dock in the town of Stornoway, founded by Vikings in the 9th century, and take your choice of excursions. Set off on a sea safari* to view marine life and some of the most magnificent coastline in Scotland; the coastal waters warmed by the Gulf Stream are known to draw porpoises, grey and common seals, basking sharks, and seabirds including puffins, gannets, fulmars, shearwaters, and petrels. Alternatively, explore the Victorian-era Lews Castle; or take a panoramic coach excursion that includes the Standing Stones of Callanish, Dun Carloway Broch, one of the best-preserved stone-built circular constructions, and Gearrannan Blackhouse Village situated in a beautiful secluded bay. Your final option is a stop at the Isle of Harris Distillery for a lesson in the history of whisky! Spend some time at leisure in Stornoway; your ship sails for the Orkney Islands this evening.
Orkney Islands & Stromness
The Orkney Archipelago belonged to Norway until 1468 when the king of Norway gave them to the king of Scotland as collateral for a loan. When Norway tried to repay the loan, Scotland wouldn't give the islands back... Arrive in Kirkwall on Orkney's Mainland. Tour historic Kirkwall, then you'll have a choice of shore excursions. Drive to Scapa Flow, where 52 German battleships sank in 1919, and savor a "taste" of Orkney life in the fishing village of Burray. Or, depart Kirkwall for the Brough of Deerness and Mull Head – for a hike* and visit to Deerness Gin Distillery. Alternatively, immerse in the heritage of the Orkneys and explore the Neolithic monuments at the Ring of Brodgar, Skara Brae and other sights. Enjoy some free time to explore Kirkwall and return to the ship late afternoon. Prior to dinner, join us onboard for the "Orkney Experience" featuring bagpipes, Highland Dancers and a Ceilidh Band.
Treasures of the Shetland Islands
Arrive in Lerwick for a choice of four ways to explore. Depart Lerwick, and head west to the picturesque harbor village of Hamnavoe, continuing through the Tingwall Valley before arriving at the "Keolka" croft - a beautiful Shetland croft nestled within the rugged heather hills, with stunning views across the water. Here you'll watch a local crofter execute precision herding maneuvers – without a single word – and meet some Shetland sheep and ponies. Ferry to the island of Mousa Broch*, hike across the island and visit its 2,000-year-old stone tower – 43 feet high, it is one of the best preserved in the world; explore its beehive-like chambers and climb the internal staircase to the top for panoramic views; explore Jarlshof, one of Europe's biggest and most complex archaeological sites; or travel to the islands' western villages to learn about daily life in a fishing community and visit a Shetland pony farm. Back aboard ship, attend a lecture on the "Shetland Bus," a World War II operation that smuggled people in and out of occupied Norway – or alternatively, a lecture on life in the remote Shetland Islands.
A Day at Sea
Your ship charts a course for Edinburgh today, affording you the opportunity to enjoy a relaxing day at sea. Onboard amenities include a spa and fitness center, outdoor pool, a library, lounges and a theatre that boasts cutting edge audio and lighting technology. Today you'll also have an opportunity for some time for a little relaxation.
Rosslyn Chapel & Edinburgh's Royal Mile
Under the watch of its lofty clifftop castle, Edinburgh rambles over rocky hills beside the sea, inviting you into its captivating maze of crooked medieval streets, cozy passages, avenues, shops, pubs, townhouses, and monumental palaces. Disembark and tour discover the mystery and artistry of Rosslyn Chapel, just outside Edinburgh. Famed for its intricate stone carvings and legendary connections, this 15th-century masterpiece invites exploration of its rich history and hidden symbolism. Then enjoy a guided walk along the Royal Mile, the cobbled main street lined with shops, pubs, museums, and intriguing alleyways called "closes" and "wynds," as well as churches, law courts, the Parliament house and St. Giles Cathedral.
Holyroodhouse and a day well spent in Edinburgh
Begin the day with a visit to Holyroodhouse, the King's official residence in Scotland where you'll explore the magnificent state apartments, the royal gardens, and the royal art collection. A guided walking tour introduces you to more Edinburgh city sights, including medieval Old Town with its enticing nooks and crannies; stately New Town with its wide streets and Georgian townhouses; the Royal Botanic Garden; see Robert Louis Stevenson's birthplace; Charlotte Square with its gracious Victorian mansions and park; Princes Street, the main shopping thoroughfare; and Inverleith Terrace, one of the city's most exclusive residential neighborhoods. The rest of the afternoon is yours to spend as you please. Join us tonight for a farewell reception and dinner at The Royal Yacht Britannia.
Journey Home
Tour ends: Edinburgh, Scotland. Fly home anytime. A transfer is included from the Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel or the InterContinental Edinburgh The George Hotel to Edinburgh Airport. Allow three hours for flight check-in.
