8.15am: Leave the historic Edinburgh and travel west, past the iconic Stirling Castle, to Doune Castle.
Over 600 years old and still in great condition. Explore the history and the many secrets of Doune Castle, including why the castle is missing its south and west ranges of buildings, and its time as a royal retreat. Stand in the exact spot as the cast of Monty Python did in their sketch of the “Holy Grail” or venture into the world of Colum Mackenzie and his clan from Outlander, with the castle playing a prominent part in the show.
Continue your Scottish adventure as you venture to Callander and cross the Highland Boundary Fault Line leaving behind the rolling hills and farmland for the wild but stunning mountains and forests of the Highlands.
You will make a short stop at Loch Lubnaig (a small but spectacular location nonetheless, located stretch of freshwater nestling between two striking mountains, Ben Ledi and Benvane to the south – west and Ben Vorloch to the north –east. Get your camera ready!)
You will then continue over the Braes of Balquhidder.
From Balquhidder, you will wind your way through the tough know of mountains known as Breadalbane (the “high country of Scotland”).
Before you break for lunch, you will stop to see the “awe – inspiring” Kilchurn Castle, the magnificent ruin situated on the edge of Loch Awe and the former home of the Campbells of Breadalbane.
Continue along the banks of Loch Awe through Campbell country to the picturesque Inveraray on the shores of Loch Fyne. Here you will have time to explore the 18th century castle, the chocolate box town and even head to the Old Jail!
Leaving Inveraray, take a drive up through the steep – sided mountains known as the Arrochar Alps to the great viewpoint at “Rest and Be Thankful”. This is the perfect opportunity to rest and reflect on all that you have seen on your trip so far, from the stunning views to the Scottish history, and the memories that you have made. Be sure to have enough space on your camera though as this spot holds some cracking photo opportunities!
From here you skirt around Loch Long and down to the “Bonnie, Bonnie Banks” of one of Scotland’s most iconic places, Loch Lomond. Make a short stop at the conservation village of Luss and wander around, taking in the quaint houses and incredible views of the Loch.
All good things must come to an end. You will be back in Edinburgh for approximately 6.30pm, with a short photo opportunity underneath the iconic Stirling Castle.