Small group tours of Scotland can often include experiences that are harder to arrange in a large group. A small group setting allows fellow travellers to more easily mingle and get comfortable with each other. If you're keen on an intimate Scotland vacation, the trip ideas discussed in this post will whet your appetite even more.
Edinburgh & the Countryside
Explore the charms of the Scottish capital, head out of the city to the setting of the Outlander series, and venture into the Highlands before returning to Edinburgh, in as few as six days. Visit the iconic Edinburgh Castle or Hollyroodhouse, the official residence of King Charles III in Scotland, soak in the enchanting atmosphere of the city, savour haggis, and listen to the bagpipes. The next leg of your trip is exciting as you will visit Culross, a picturesque 17th-century village where several Outlander episodes were shot. Stirling Castle, Wallace Monument, Doune Castle, Linlithgow Palace, Blackness Castle, and Midhope Castle are part of the itinerary. Journey on to the highlands, spending a day in Cairngorms National Park, sipping whisky at a distillery, and embarking on Loch Ness adventures, before concluding your trip in Edinburgh.
Islay & the Whisky Coast
If you're a whiskey aficionado, this small group tour is for you. Islay, known as the Queen of Hebrides, is famous for its whiskey and attractive country villages. Visit Kilchoman and Bowman Distilleries and roam beaches and harbour villages, where you may just encounter seals. Try stronger whiskeys at Laphroaig, Lagavulin and Ardbeg. Punctuate your whiskey adventures with a visit to ruined Kildalton church, returning to Kilmartin Glen, where you can immerse in Celtic history.
Edinburgh & Isle of Skye
This small group tour of Scotland departs from Edinburgh and takes you through historic regions such as Ullapool, Portree, and the beautiful Isle of Skye. From the stunning landscapes of Cairngorm National Park and a visit to iconic Loch Ness to the soaring mountain peaks of Ullapool and whale sightings at Achmelvich Bay, you're in the lap of nature. At the Isle of Skye, you can include Quiraing mountain pass, Kilt Rock, or Neist Point in your itinerary, visit Dunvegan Castle, the oldest inhabited castle in Scotland, or try single malt at Talisker Distillery. More inclusions are possible, including a visit to Eileen Donan Castle of Highlander fame, Ben Nevis mountain, and historic Glencoe.
Orkney & Scotland's Northern Coast
The fascinating history, Stone Age remains, and striking landscape of Orkney Islands makes it a great place for a short trip to Scotland. Combine it with the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands, and you have an itinerary that includes the boggy Rannoch Moor, iconic Loch Ness, historic Glencoe, and ancient sites and battlefields.
Scottish Highlands & the Isle of Skye
Immerse in highland beauty, visiting Ullapool, travelling past the stunning coastline of Loch Torridon to Plockton, boarding the ferry for the Isle of Skye and the town of Portree, known for its brightly coloured houses. This is a flexible itinerary, which may include a trip to all the beautiful natural wonders of the island or a visit to Dunvegan Castle and Talisker Distillery.
What do the experts say?
For somewhere a little lesser known, make sure to visit Dunfermline, the old capital of Scotland. Rich in history, it’s home to the impressive Dunfermline Abbey where many Scottish kings and queens are buried, including Robert the Bruce.
Many tourists don’t realize how diverse Scotland’s regions are, each area has its own distinct culture, accents, and traditions. For example, the Outer Hebrides have a strong Gaelic heritage that’s still thriving.. Also, Scotland has some of the most beautiful white sand beaches in Europe, especially on the west coast and islands.
Scotland hosts two amazing events - Edinburgh Tattoo in August, and Hogmanay (New Year’s Eve). Edinburgh hosts one of the world’s biggest and most iconic New Year’s celebrations!
The best times to visit Scotland are late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is generally milder, and the landscapes are especially beautiful
Unlock more by subscribing to our newsletter
With our newsletter, you’ll get access to regular communications that inspire you and help you explore the world your way