Scotland

Experience romance and adventure on a luxury tour in Scotland

The magnificent scenery is one of Scotland’s biggest drawcards. Rocky peaks, deep valleys, sparkling lochs, native woodland, and surprisingly, long stretches of golden sand. The landscape is ripe for walks and treks. Bag a Munro. Kayak on glistening waterways. Ramble over peaty moors. Soak up the serenity of silence - broken only by the babble of brooks and the barking of deer.

Historic chronicles
Scotland has endured centuries of history. An unsuccessful Roman invasion. The arrival of the Vikings. The reign of Macbeth. A perennial fight for independence. William Wallace. Robert the Bruce. A child queen. Battles that changed the course of history. Significant transformations and tribulations are marked across the country in palaces, castles, abbeys, churches, standing stones, battlefields, and lost streets hidden beneath modern boulevards. Scotland’s history goes back as far as 10,000 BC, so there’s plenty to keep you captivated.

Tall Tales
Myths and legends are bound to enchanting landscapes in Scotland. Locals will tell you about Nessie - the much loved, eternal Loch Ness Monster. They’ll say that a haggis is a wild beast that roams the hillsides. And that Green Loch in Glenmore gets its deep jewel colouring from the fairies that wash their clothes in the emerald waters. Perhaps you might be lucky to spot one of Scotland’s mythical creatures on your journey. Either way, embellished tales add to the atmosphere of any Scottish adventure.

Culture
There are many cultural exports from Scotland that people enjoy around the world. Whisky for one. The work of Charles Rennie Macintosh. The poems of Robert Burns. The songs of Annie Lennox. And of course, Harry Potter. Perhaps it stems from all the rainy days that locals endure, but artistic blood runs through Scottish veins. The buskers in the street sound like world-class musicians. Those performing in music venues are even better. The Scots are down-to-earth and welcoming, so don’t be surprised if you get approached by strangers looking for nothing more than a friendly chinwag.

Nature’s larder
Although you may not expect it, Scottish food is some of the world’s best. Fresh seafood and shellfish are plucked from the Atlantic. While venison, grouse, rabbit and duck come from lush landscapes. With such short distances between farm and plate, you really can’t get any fresher. Foodies will be in culinary heaven on a Scottish tour. A hot plate of haggis, neeps and tatties with a whisky sauce is a must try after a brisk walk. Other delights include Aberdeen Angus Beef, smoked salmon, oysters, wild game, and a surprising but welcome amount of Indian food - brought to Scotland with waves of migration. Just loosen the belt buckle and dig in.

Scotland's Highlights

• Visit Glencoe, known as the site of treachery between the Campbell and MacDonald clans, it is also one of the most spectacular scenes in the Highlands
• Enjoy a private whisky tasting and tour of a whisky distillery
• Admire hauntingly beautiful lochs, castles, mountains and more
• Visit Clava Cairns near Inverness, a captivating prehistoric burial site
• Bring your hiking boots to take advantage of incredible walking opportunities
• Walk among whispers of history on battlefields that shaped the United Kingdom

Luxury accommodation in Scotland

A&K tours are accompanied by world-class accommodation. Whether shiny and new, like Edinburgh’s Glasshouse Hotel, or draped in antiquity, like Inverlochy Castle, luxury accommodation in Scotland is of historic proportions.

The Balmoral
Timeless elegance can be found at Edinburgh’s most prestigious address, No.1 Princes Street. Opened in 1902 as a Railway Hotel, the luxury five-star property is a landmark in the centre of the city. Spacious deluxe rooms come with the ultimate view of Edinburgh Castle and feature lavish marble bathrooms. The hotel’s restaurant is Michelin-starred and the spa, award-winning. The hotel is the perfect accompaniment to a Scottish sojourn.

Scottish Highlander
Climb aboard the boutique barge hotel for an iconic journey from Inverness to Glencoe. Cruise Loch Ness and the Caledonian Canal taking in historical points of interest along the way. The crew of four will look after your every whim, from excellent meals to guided tours. The Dutch barge has the comfort of a country house: decorated with rich wooden panelling, chesterfield sofas, landscape paintings and subtle tartan touches. Relax with a single malt whisky from a well-stocked bar while watching the majestic scenery unfold.

Royal Scotsman
Sit back and relax as Scotland’s cinematic scenery flickers past the window. The luxury train will guide you into the heart of Scotland, past soaring peaks and tranquil waters. Elegant cabins provide a sumptuous sanctuary after a day exploring the highlands. Rooms feature plush beds with Scottish wools and tartans, rich mahogany marquetry, and a large picture window for admiring the world outside. Meals celebrate exceptional Scottish produce and are matched with fine wines and whiskies. And the latest addition onboard, the serene spa is the perfect place to unwind.