Arrival in Glasgow / Guided city tour / Independent exploration / Innis & Gunn Brew School

Morning:  Step off the plane and into a city that doesn’t whisper for your attention—it grabs it with both hands. Glasgow is all attitude, art, and unfiltered charm. We’ll begin our Scottish journey with a relaxed but revealing panoramic city tour. Glide through centuries of style as we take in the grand Victorian buildings of George Square, the dramatic Gothic spires of Glasgow Cathedral, and the hauntingly beautiful Necropolis rising above it. We’ll cruise through the leafy lanes of Kelvingrove Park, and pass by the storied towers of the University of Glasgow, a scene straight out of Hogwarts. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for the famous traffic-coned Duke of Wellington and the vibrant murals splashed across alley walls—this is a city that speaks through street art as much as stone.

Afternoon:  After the tour, the city is yours to discover. Wander through the buzz of the West End and grab lunch at a trendy café, or duck into the Gallery of Modern Art for a dose of contemporary creativity. Prefer a little people-watching? Head to Merchant City, where converted warehouses now house stylish shops, artisan coffee spots, and bustling bars. If you’re craving a taste of the local scene, chat up a Glaswegian—they’re never short on opinions or stories.

Evening:  We’ll gather again in the early evening for an unforgettable, hands-on session at Innis & Gunn Brew School. This is not your average brewery tour. You’ll don the apron, learn the brewing process from grain to glass, and craft your own brew under the guidance of passionate experts. Along the way, you’ll sample bold flavors—barrel-aged ales, citrusy IPAs, and maybe a few experimental pours—accompanied by that signature Glaswegian wit. Expect laughs, toasts, and a newfound appreciation for the art of craft beer. By the time we wrap up, the city’s magic will have worked its spell, and you'll feel like a local already.

Lodging: Voco Grand Central Hotel, Glasgow

Breakfast: On your own

Lunch: On your own

Dinner: On your own

Clydeside Distillery / Chocolate pairing / Loch Lomond and The Trossachs / Fyne Ales / Glasgow at night

Morning: We start our day in proper Scottish style—with whisky before noon (don’t worry, it's paired with chocolate, so it’s classy). At the stunning Clydeside Distillery, right on the banks of the River Clyde, we’ll enjoy a guided tasting where each dram is perfectly matched with artisan chocolates. As the copper stills gleam in the morning light, you’ll learn how tradition and innovation blend in every sip. It’s indulgent, informative, and a perfect start to the day.

From there, we’ll leave the city behind and head toward the Highlands, crossing into Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, Scotland’s first national park and a natural wonderland. The drive alone is worth the journey, with sweeping views of glistening lochs, pine-covered hills, and winding roads that seem to lead straight into a fairy tale.

Afternoon: We’ll weave through scenic villages like Balmaha and Arrochar—where the air is fresher, and the hills rise a little higher—and arrive at Fyne Ales, a rustic, family-run brewery nestled at the foot of a glen. Here, in a refurbished farmstead surrounded by grazing sheep and Highland backdrops, you’ll sample small-batch beers brewed with pure mountain water. From bold IPAs to rich dark ales, the flavors are as big as the landscape. This is Scottish hospitality at its most authentic.

Evening: As the sun dips behind the hills, we make our way back to Glasgow with full bellies, warm hearts, and perhaps a bottle or two tucked away for later. The evening is yours to enjoy—whether you find a cozy pub near the hotel, take a twilight stroll along the River Clyde, or simply relax and reflect on a day filled with Scotland’s finest flavors and landscapes.

Lodging: Voco Grand Central Hotel, Glasgow

Breakfast: Provided at the hotel
Lunch: On your own in the park or at a roadside stop (recommendations provided en route)
Dinner: On your own in Glasgow – suggestions will be offered

Stirling Castle / Perth / Cairngorms National Park / Dalwhinnie Distillery / Loch Ness / Urquhart Castle / Inverness

Morning: After breakfast, we bid farewell to Glasgow and begin our journey north into the Highlands—this isn’t just a travel day; it’s a deep dive into Scotland’s soul. Our first stop is the dramatic and storied Stirling Castle, perched atop a volcanic crag. Once the stronghold of Scottish kings and queens, this is where legends like William Wallace and Mary, Queen of Scots, made their mark. You’ll walk the ramparts, peer out over the historic fields of Bannockburn, and step into ornately restored royal halls that echo with centuries of intrigue.

From Stirling, we continue on toward Perth, a charming riverside city where you’ll have a little time to explore and grab lunch. Its quaint cafés and peaceful parks make for the perfect mid-day pause as we prepare to enter the Highlands proper.

Afternoon:  The landscapes begin to shift dramatically as we drive into Cairngorms National Park, where the air turns cooler and the hills more dramatic. We’ll wind through rugged glens to reach the Dalwhinnie Distillery, one of the highest distilleries in Scotland. Nestled in a remote glen beneath the mountains, Dalwhinnie produces a smooth, honeyed single malt that perfectly suits its cool Highland surroundings. We’ll enjoy a guided tasting—yes, again paired with chocolate—and soak in the quiet power of the setting.

As we travel deeper into Highland country, the road hugs the edges of Loch Ness, where myth meets mist. We’ll stop for a photo op at Urquhart Castle, a crumbled fortress that has guarded the loch for centuries. Whether or not Nessie appears, the views alone are legendary.

Evening:  We arrive in Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, by late afternoon. After check-in, the evening is yours to enjoy. Stroll along the River Ness, find a lively pub with traditional music, or simply relax at our elegant hotel. The pace slows here, but the magic lingers in the air.

Lodging: Kingsmills Hotel, Inverness

Breakfast: Provided at the hotel
Lunch: On your own in Perth (recommendations provided)
Dinner: On your own in Inverness – optional group meet-up possible

Independent exploration / River Ness / Culloden Battlefield / Group Dinner

Morning:  After a few active days on the road, today offers a breath of fresh Highland air—and the freedom to shape the day your way. Start slow if you’d like: enjoy a hearty breakfast, take a quiet stroll along the River Ness, or linger over a coffee while planning your perfect Inverness adventure.

For those staying in town, options abound. The peaceful Inverness Botanic Gardens offer a lush, tranquil escape with tropical plants and hidden benches ideal for a moment of reflection. Prefer a bit of history? Head to the Inverness Museum & Art Gallery, where ancient Pictish stones, Jacobite artifacts, and regional art tell the story of the Highlands. Or simply wander the Victorian Market, filled with quirky shops, friendly locals, and the smell of fresh pastries around every turn.

Afternoon:  If you're feeling curious—or adventurous—you might want to join an optional visit to the hauntingly beautiful Culloden Battlefield, where the Jacobite dream met its end in 1746. The museum and walking paths offer a sobering, unforgettable look at one of Scotland’s defining moments. Nearby, explore the enigmatic Clava Cairns, a Bronze Age burial site surrounded by standing stones that hum with ancient mystery. Outlander fans—you’ll recognize the vibe immediately.

Prefer nature over history? Take a scenic drive out to Glen Affric, often considered one of Scotland’s most beautiful glens, for walking trails, waterfalls, and postcard-perfect views. Or head to Cromarty, a coastal village steeped in maritime charm, and cap it off with a rustic tasting at Black Isle Brewery, where organic beers are brewed right on the farm.

Evening:  We’ll come together again for a laid-back group dinner at a local favorite—sharing laughs, stories, and highlights from the day. Whether you explored battlefields or botanical gardens, tracked down a Highland cow or a great single malt, tonight is about connection and celebration.

Lodging: Kingsmills Hotel, Inverness

Breakfast: Provided at the hotel
Lunch: On your own (whether in Inverness or out exploring)
Dinner: Included – Group dinner at a local Highland restaurant

Speyside whisky region / Cairngorms National Park / Pitlochry / The Hermitage / Black Linn Falls / Edinburgh

Morning: Today, we trade the quiet calm of the Highlands for the cultural heartbeat of Scotland’s capital—but not before squeezing in one more unforgettable Highland morning. After breakfast, we set off through the Speyside whisky region, home to the world’s most famous single malts. Our featured stop is a surprise—but rest assured, it’s one of the big names, known for rich, honeyed drams and world-class storytelling. The setting is storybook: copper stills gleam, aging barrels whisper secrets, and the tasting is nothing short of spectacular. Yes, there will be time for the gift shop.

As we head south through the Cairngorms National Park, the landscape rolls out like a Scottish epic—moorlands, ancient forests, and maybe a glimpse of a red deer or a Highland cow watching from a distance.

Afternoon:  We’ll stop in Pitlochry, one of Scotland’s most charming Highland towns. With its stone cottages, bustling high street, and lovely riverside walks, it’s a perfect place to stretch your legs and grab lunch. From there, we make a short journey to The Hermitage, a peaceful woodland retreat once designed for 18th-century dukes. You’ll stroll through towering Douglas firs along the River Braan and reach the dramatic Black Linn Falls, a hidden gem that feels a world away from city life.

As we approach Edinburgh, the skyline rises into view and the city begins to glow—spires, steeples, and slate rooftops against the evening light.

Evening:  We’ll arrive in Edinburgh by late afternoon and check into our well-situated hotel. The rest of the evening is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Wander the cobbled lanes of the Old Town, grab a bite near Grassmarket or Victoria Street, or hike up Calton Hill for a panoramic sunset over one of Europe’s most captivating cities.

Lodging: DoubleTree by Hilton, Edinburgh

Breakfast: Provided at the hotel
Lunch: On your own in Pitlochry

Dinner: On your own in Edinburgh – curated restaurant list available upon request

Edinburgh Castle / Afternoon exploration / Leith / Pilot Brewery / Port of Leith Distillery / Ghost and Underground tour 

Morning:  Wake up in the heart of one of Europe’s most iconic cities, where every cobbled street tells a tale and history hangs thick in the air. After breakfast, we begin with a guided tour of Edinburgh Castle, perched atop volcanic Castle Rock. Inside these weathered walls, you’ll uncover the epic saga of Scotland’s royal past—from the Honours of Scotland (the Crown Jewels) to the ancient Stone of Destiny. You’ll stand beside Mons Meg, the giant medieval cannon, and gaze out over the entire city skyline from the castle’s battlements. It’s a perfect launchpad for understanding the power, drama, and resilience of this magnificent city.

Afternoon:  The afternoon is yours to shape. If you're feeling curious, wander the historic Royal Mile, popping into shops, hidden closes, and centuries-old pubs. Visit the National Museum of Scotland, where natural wonders, Scottish innovation, and ancient relics come together under one vast roof. For something a bit more photogenic, take a walk through the dreamy enclave of Dean Village, where flower boxes and quiet lanes make you feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook.

And if you haven’t yet tracked down your perfect plate of haggis, fear not—your guide will point you toward the best bites in town, whether you want it traditional or with a modern twist.

Evening:  In the late afternoon, we head to the city’s buzzing port district of Leith for a flavor-filled double feature. First, we visit Pilot Brewery, a small-but-mighty craft brewery known for pushing boundaries and brewing bold, experimental beers. The team here doesn’t take themselves too seriously—but their flavor game is strong. Expect surprising pairings, creative styles, and a tour filled with personality.

Then it’s on to the strikingly modern Port of Leith Distillery—Scotland’s first vertical distillery, where heritage meets cutting-edge design. You’ll ascend to the top-floor tasting room for a breathtaking view over the harbor as you sample spirits crafted with obsessive attention to detail. Sleek, stylish, and totally unique—this is modern Scottish distilling at its finest.

Optional Activity:  If you’re up for a final bit of mischief, join an underground walking tour into Edinburgh’s darker corners. From ghost stories and haunted vaults to tales of treachery and mystery, it’s a thrilling (and theatrical) way to end the day. (Additional cost, pre-booking advised)

Lodging: DoubleTree by Hilton, Edinburgh

Breakfast: Provided at the hotel
Lunch: On your own in Edinburgh – we’ll offer plenty of local favorites
Dinner: On your own in Leith or the city – recommendations included

Rosslyn Chapel / Glenkinchie Distillery / Belhaven Brewery / Farewell Dinner / The Hanging Bat

Morning:  Our final day begins with a short journey just outside Edinburgh to the beautifully mysterious Rosslyn Chapel—a 15th-century masterpiece carved with such intricate detail it practically whispers secrets. Whether you’re drawn by its spiritual symbolism, its connection to the Knights Templar, or just because of The Da Vinci Code, Rosslyn is the kind of place that lingers in your memory long after you leave. Take your time wandering through the chapel, soaking in its artistry, history, and myth.

Afternoon:  Next, we make our way into the rolling green hills of East Lothian for one last taste—literally—of Scotland’s spirited traditions. First up is Glenkinchie Distillery, a classic Lowland malt producer with a softer, floral profile that stands in contrast to the big Highland flavors we’ve enjoyed earlier in the trip. You’ll explore their lovingly restored distillery, learn how terroir and climate shape the dram, and raise a glass in one final guided tasting.

We’ll round out our afternoon at Belhaven Brewery, Scotland’s oldest working brewery (est. 1719). Here, tradition is alive and well in every sip. You’ll experience time-tested brewing techniques, taste a range of signature ales, and hear a few tall tales that only centuries of history (and beer) can produce.

If time allows, we may sneak in one or two last scenic surprises before heading back into the city.

Evening: Back in Edinburgh, we regroup for a memorable farewell dinner—a final chance to laugh, toast, and relive the highlights of our week together. Whether you bonded over brewing, braved a Highland breeze, or discovered a newfound love for whisky, tonight is about sharing the journey with the friends you’ve made along the way.

And if you're still thirsty for one last nightcap? There’s no better place to end your evening than The Hanging Bat, Evan's favorite local craft bar with a killer beer list, cozy vibes, and just the right dose of Edinburgh edge.

Lodging: DoubleTree by Hilton, Edinburgh

Breakfast: Provided at the hotel
Lunch: On your own
Dinner: Included – Group farewell dinner at a local Edinburgh restaurant

Morning:  All good things must come to an end—but not without one last leisurely Scottish morning. Enjoy breakfast at your own pace, take in the final views of Edinburgh’s rooftops, and perhaps sneak in a quiet stroll around the neighborhood for one last breath of crisp Highland air.

Your transfer to Edinburgh Airport will be coordinated based on your individual flight schedule. Our team will be on hand to assist with logistics, luggage, and final goodbyes. Whether you’re heading home or continuing your travels, we’ll make sure your departure is as smooth and stress-free as the rest of your journey.

Afternoon:  Depending on flight times, some guests may have extra time to explore a final museum, grab a last-minute souvenir, or sip a farewell cappuccino in one of Edinburgh’s elegant cafés. For those with later departures, we’re happy to offer optional suggestions for a short self-guided wander or a quiet corner to relax.

Evening:  For our guests catching evening flights or extending their stay, additional support is available upon request. Whether you’re continuing the adventure or beginning your journey home, you leave with unforgettable memories, new friendships, and a deeper connection to Scotland’s spirit, story, and scenery.