Scotland Highlights: Edinburgh, The Highlands, & the Isle of Mull
September 21-28, 2025
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Scotland's most iconic landscapes with our "Scotland Highlights: Edinburgh, The Highlands, & the Isle of Mull" tour. Begin your adventure in the historic capital of Edinburgh, exploring its rich heritage and vibrant culture. Then, traverse the breathtaking Highlands, where majestic mountains, serene lochs, and charming villages await. Finally, experience the rugged beauty of the Isle of Mull, with its stunning coastline and abundant wildlife.
This tour perfectly blends natural splendor and cultural immersion, ensuring an enriching and memorable Scottish experience.
-
September 21 - Arrive Edinburgh
Upon arrival in the enchanting city of Edinburgh, you'll be warmly welcomed by Chuck, Hilary, and your fellow travelers. After settling in, take the evening to relax and acquaint yourself with this historic city. The following day promises a captivating sightseeing adventure through Edinburgh, where you'll explore iconic landmarks, medieval streets, and the city's rich cultural tapestry. With a local expert guide, you'll uncover the hidden gems and storied past of Scotland's capital, setting the stage for an unforgettable journey.
Two nights at Dalhousie Castle
-
September 22 - Edinburgh City Walk
Discover the magic of Edinburgh with our expert local guide as you embark on a captivating tour of the city's most iconic sites. Marvel at the majestic Edinburgh Castle, perched high on its volcanic rock, and wander through the historic Royal Mile, where centuries of history come alive. Visit the elegant Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Queen's official Scottish residence, and explore the lush landscapes of Princes Street Gardens. Our guide’s deep knowledge and engaging storytelling will bring Edinburgh's rich heritage to life, ensuring a memorable and immersive experience in Scotland's vibrant capital.
Dalhousie Castle
-
September 23 - Stirling Castle & Bridge of Orchy
Our local guide, Andy Bunten, will join us this morning as we continue our adventure; we'll drive to the magnificent Stirling Castle, a historic fortress that has played a pivotal role in Scotland's history. Explore the grandeur of this iconic site, with its stunning architecture and captivating tales of royalty and battles. After a day of discovery, we'll travel to the charming village of Bridge of Orchy, nestled in the heart of the Highlands. Here, you'll unwind and enjoy the serene beauty of the Scottish countryside, staying overnight in comfortable accommodations that perfectly blend rustic charm and modern comforts.
Two nights at Bridge of Orchy Hotel
-
September 24 - Glencoe and Rannoch Moor
Prepare for an exhilarating hike from the dramatic landscapes of Glencoe to the vast expanse of Rannoch Moor. This journey will take you through some of Scotland's most breathtaking scenery, with towering mountains, serene valleys, and the tranquil beauty of moorland. As you traverse this stunning terrain, our knowledgeable guide will share the area's rich history and natural wonders, making for an unforgettable outdoor adventure. Enjoy the fresh air, awe-inspiring views, and a sense of accomplishment as you complete this remarkable hike.
The length of today’s hike is entirely up to you, whether it is a short out and back or a full day.
Bridge of Orchy Hotel
-
September 25 - Oban Ferry to Mull
Join us on an enchanting journey to Tobermory, starting with a scenic 1.5-hour drive to Oban, the gateway to the Isle of Mull. From Oban, board a regular ferry and enjoy a short 45-minute to 1-hour crossing, setting the perfect tone for a leisurely day ahead.
Upon arrival in Tobermory, immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the Tobermory lighthouse walk, which offers stunning coastal views and a serene escape into nature. Afterward, explore the quaint town of Tobermory, known for its vibrant harbor, charming shops, and excellent local aquarium.
Two nights at The Western Isles Hotel
-
September 26 - Birding on The Isle of Mull Walk
Led by our world-class birder guide, Andy Bunten, The Isle of Mull is a fantastic destination for birding enthusiasts. Known for its diverse habitats, including coastal cliffs, moorlands, and woodlands, Mull offers a rich variety of bird species. Notably, it is one of the best places in the UK to see white-tailed eagles, often referred to as "flying barn doors" due to their impressive wingspan.
In addition to white-tailed eagles, birders can spot golden eagles, hen harriers, and a variety of seabirds such as puffins, guillemots, and razorbills. The island’s coastline houses numerous wading birds, including oystercatchers, curlews, and redshanks.
Today, we will walk to Calgary Bay, Mull's most renowned and arguably finest sandy beach. Adjacent to the bay is Calgary Wood, home to the enchanting 'Art in Nature' project. As we wander through the woods, we'll discover beautiful sculptures and artworks nestled among the trees. After our walk, we can relax and enjoy refreshments at the excellent tea room nearby. This outing promises a delightful mix of natural beauty and artistic charm.
The Western Isles Hotel
-
September 27 - Return to Edinburgh
Today, we journey back to Edinburgh for a final night near the airport, perfectly positioning us for a convenient departure. As we return to this historic city, please take the opportunity to reflect on the memorable experiences of our trip while enjoying the comforts and amenities of our accommodations. This last evening in Edinburgh offers a chance to unwind and savor the vibrant atmosphere of Scotland's capital one last time. Whether you're in the mood for a stroll, a delicious meal, or simply relaxing, this final night ensures a fitting and stress-free conclusion to our adventure.
Courtyard Marriott, Edinburgh West
-
September 28 - Departures
Please schedule your return home from Edinburgh Airport (EDI) today. Our hotel offers a shuttle service for easy and convenient transfers to the airport.
-
Good to Know
The provided itinerary and hotel arrangements are subject to change. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and availability of the listed accommodations and activities, unforeseen circumstances or events beyond our control may necessitate adjustments to the schedule. Rest assured, any modifications will be made with the utmost consideration for the comfort and enjoyment of our guests. We will do our best to communicate any changes promptly and provide suitable alternatives when needed. Flexibility is critical, and our team is dedicated to delivering an unforgettable travel experience, even in the face of unexpected changes. Your satisfaction and safety remain our top priorities throughout the journey. Thank you for being so understanding, and we look forward to creating beautiful memories together.
What’s included?
4-5 Star Luxury Hotel Accommodation throughout, breakfast included each morning.
Hikes with local expert guides and five packed lunches on trekking days in Bridge of Orchy and Isle of Mull
Private coach bus transportation throughout the tour
1 group dinner at The Bridge of Orchy Hotel
Tickets to sites listed on the itinerary in Edinburgh and Stirling Castle
Airport Transfers for guests arriving and departing on designated “arrival and departure” days
Dalhousie Castle
Just eight miles from Edinburgh but a million miles from the hustle and bustle of city life, our ancient fortress is the perfect spot to relax and unwind in blissful seclusion. Standing in eleven acres of private parkland and wooded valleys, it’s a place to make memories, bring 800 years of history to life, and enjoy the best of Scottish hospitality.
Immerse yourself in eight centuries’ of Scottish heritage, surrounded by eleven acres of countryside and wooded valleys. Dalhousie Castle embodies the timeless charm of a storybook fairytale. Whether you’re exploring our picturesque gardens, enjoying a candlelit dinner in the dungeon, or simply relaxing in your beautiful castle room, the romance of Scotland is just a booking away.
Bridge of Orchy Hotel
Activity and adventure breaks in Scotland were meant to happen here. The drama and serenity of the magnificent landscapes that await you add to the excitement and the evocative atmosphere.
The Bridge of Orchy Hotel has 32 well-appointed rooms altogether. These newly refurbished rooms are decorated in a traditional style and overlook the surrounding countryside.
The 21 rooms in the Annex buildings offer exceptional views and comfort, while the Orchy Cottage stands on its own.
The Western Isles Hotel
In an age of standardization and uniformity, The Western Isles stands out as a grand old lady looking out imperiously from her headland over Tobermory village, harbor, and bay to the Sound of Mull and mainland Scotland beyond, as she has done for nearly 150 years.
She has quite a history, having played an important role in the Second World War effort, becoming a Forties film star before returning to her true metier of making her guests welcome, comfortable, and happy. Under new local ownership, she combines classic charm with contemporary amenities, boasting modern en-suites in all rooms and the friendliest staff.
For those seeking a hotel of real character with spacious rooms, world-class views, elegance, comfort, and the best food that our amazing local larder can provide,
Olive Group Travel partners exclusively with Team Long Run (www.teamlongrun.org), a Maine-based 501 (c)(3) nonprofit that helps kids from challenging circumstances improve their futures through literacy and active play. We provide adventure travel opportunities that range from hiking remote glaciers in Iceland to strolling through the Latin Quarter in Paris. The trips are original, fun, safe, affordable, and memorable. We keep our groups small; half the fun is making life-long friends as we see the world. We offer a variety of destinations and itineraries, so please take a look and find the one that’s just right for you! As always, every penny from our profits goes toward Team Long Run’s programming, so this truly is “Philanthropic Travel.”