A Week In... Scotland

Tour begins: 5:00 PM, The Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel. A transfer is included from Glasgow International Airport to The Principal Blythswood Square Hotel, a historic landmark property in the heart of Glasgow. Optional city sightseeing excursions are available; please join us for a welcome cocktail reception followed by dinner at the hotel this evening. Stay Two Nights: The Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel (D)

Visit Stirling Castle, an example of Scottish Renaissance architecture and a town that developed around the castle. At the historic Glenturret Distillery, a tour takes you behind the scenes in the Highlands' oldest single malt distillery; witness the art of whisky making and enjoy a tasting. Attend a falconry presentation before journeying into the wilderness of the Trossachs, also known as Rob Roy country; return to your hotel for dinner at your leisure this evening. (B/L/D)

First up today, a cruise on Loch Lomond. The traditional Scottish folk song "Loch Lomond" is known by many; today you'll discover what inspired the "bonnie bonnie banks." A scenic journey across moor and mountain takes you through Glencoe and Loch Lochy; arrive late afternoon in Inverness, capital of the Highlands.

Tonight, learn about the history of clan tartans and Scottish kilts during a festive Scottish evening complete with bagpipers and Highland dancers. Stay Two Nights: The Kingsmills Hotel (B/L/D)

Accompanied by a local guide, explore centuries of Scottish history today starting with a visit to the medieval, slate-roofed Cawdor Castle, with its magnificent gardens, woods and connections to Shakespeare's tragedy of Scottish kings, Macbeth. Drive to Culloden early this afternoon for a visit to the famous fields where the pivotal 1746 Battle of Culloden was fought, dividing families and clans. Return to your hotel in Inverness for dinner. (B/L/D)

Visit a country farm today for a sheepdog demonstration then travel Tauck's Yellow Roads through the huge granite Cairngorm mountains and the soaring peaks of the Grampian range to Blair Atholl, the site of majestic Blair Castle. History comes alive on your visit, as you imagine the life of the noble class in 16th-century Scotland; some 30 rooms contain relics of that age.

Head south to Edinburgh; your hotel for the next three nights is truly one of the city's grand hotels, since 1881, nestled in the UNESCO World Heritage area of the beautiful and cultured city – a collection of fine Georgian townhouses. Stay Three Nights: InterContinental Edinburgh The George (B/L/D)

Drive along the Royal Mile this morning to the Palace of Holyroodhouse for a private visit – the home of Mary, Queen of Scots and the King's official residence when in Edinburgh (subject to closure). City sightseeing continues on a visit to the medieval fortress of Edinburgh Castle, a witness to many defining moments in Scottish history including the "Stone of Destiny" on which Scottish kings were crowned.

A special Tauck highlight for July 30 through August 20 departures - attend the world-famous Edinburgh Military Tattoo, performed by Scottish military units against the magical backdrop of Edinburgh Castle tonight or on the evening of day 5. (B)

You have a choice today of remaining in Edinburgh for a day spent exploring more of the city's treasure trove of historic sites, museums, galleries and gardens on your own. Or join us for a trip to lovely St. Andrews; for passionate golfers, this beautiful city by the sea is an almost-holy place – but it will come as no surprise that this historic town has much more than just golfing history to offer. Share memories of your remarkable Scotland tour with your traveling companions at this evening's farewell cocktail reception and dinner. (B/D)

Tour ends: Edinburgh. Fly home anytime. A transfer is included from InterContinental Edinburgh The George to Edinburgh Airport – allow at least 3 hours for flight check-in. (B)