Description

This tour is the Scottish experience 'distilled'. It will give you a taste of three classic Scottish ingredients . castles, lochs and whisky. Because we aren't venturing too far afield, it is the perfect trip for those who don't want to hurry, but want to really savour the rich flavours of this beautiful country.We will travel west from Edinburgh, our first stop of the tour is at one of Scotland's Scotch Whisky Distilleries. With 44 bottles of Scotch Whisky exported every second to markets all over the world, no visit to Scotland is complete without learning how they product this iconic drink. We will visit the Clydeside distillery in the city of Glasgow. Here you will learn the process of how they create the perfect dram, and you can taste a couple too! We will then make our way to our lunch stop for the day, which will either be in Aberfoyle or Balmaha. Aberfoyle is a small holiday village at the southern edge of the West Highland Fault and the heart of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. There are many varied things to explore here, so there is something for everyone. If you are interested in wildlife, why not watch a sheepdog demonstration, learn about the sheep in the area or witness duck herding? If you prefer, take the opportunity to explore the beautiful village. Wander around the shops and be sure to not miss the woollen mill. Finishing off our time in Loch Lomond, we visit the beautiful lochside village of Balmaha, where you can take a short but steep hike up to Craigie Fort to enjoy stunning views of the loch or enjoy the bonnie banks on flat ground. Remember to bring suitable shoes for walking so you do not miss out! Be sure to visit the information centre to learn more about the history of Balmaha and the surrounding area. Then, as you are travelling through Stirlingshire, your guide will bring to life the turbulent times of William Wallace, the famous Scottish knight, and as you pass the stunning scenery, your guide will explain his link to this area. You may recognise his story from the film Braveheart.Next, we'll stop at the beautiful city of Stirling for about two hours. Stirling is a historic market town and has a wealth of treasures to explore. You’ll have ample time to visit the stunning Stirling Castle*, one of the largest and most important castles in Scotland. Most notably, Mary Queen of Scots was coronated here. If you prefer something a little different, why not visit the new gin distillery or take a stroll through the beautiful and ancient streets that make up the medieval old town? As you discover this ancient town, learn why it is known proverbially as the Gateway to the Highlands.As you drive southeast out of Stirling, you can marvel as you pass the engineering feat that are The Kelpies, two 30-metre-high horse-head sculptures made by sculptor Andy Scott. These sculptures are based on the mythical shape-changing water creatures who disguise themselves as horses. Learn the rest of the story and why these sculptures are where they are today from your knowledgeable driver-guide. Castles, lochs and whisky,the recipe for a perfect Scottish Experience and a perfect day out!!! *Once you have booked the tour we will be in touch with the timings to book entrance into Stirling Castle & the Distillery, please do not book until we have confirmed the right time to do so. **Please note that on occasion this tour may operate in reverse order