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Christmas in the Glens – A Festive Scottish Adventure

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7 days From £1,695 per person

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A wonderful Christmas escape which includes stays in the magnificent city of Edinburgh and peaceful setting of Fort William

2024 Tour code: SWX25

About the tour

Experience a cosy festive holiday in picturesque Edinburgh and the beautiful Scottish Highlands. With Christmas lights and decorations illuminating the city, soak up the enchanting atmosphere of Edinburgh.

We discover the captivating Kelpies, visit the impressive Falkirk Wheel, and enjoy the tranquil setting of Fort William, before visiting the legendary and mysterious Loch Ness on Christmas Eve. Spend Christmas Day relaxing in the Scottish Highlands, indulging in festive treats and creating wonderful festive memories.

Highlights

What’s included

Itinerary

Day 1 – The festivities begin in Edinburgh

Our festive holiday begins as we meet at our luxury hotel in Edinburgh today. After checking in, there's time at leisure to explore the enchanting atmosphere of the city, all lit up with Christmas lights and decorations.

You could stroll through the Edinburgh Christmas markets to indulge in some last-minute Christmas shopping and treat yourself to a mulled wine or hot chocolate. For the brave and adventurous, maybe take a ride on the giant wheel and marvel at the amazing views of Edinburgh, illuminated in all its festive glory. Or head to The Dome on George Street to enjoy a festive tipple next to the magnificent Christmas tree before walking back to our hotel for our first dinner together, and festive drinks.

Includes
  • Dinner
Day 2 - The inspiring Kelpies and idyllic Fort William

After breakfast, we say goodbye to Edinburgh and set off to see the magnificent Kelpies by coach. These towering sculptures were designed by the talented Glasgow-based artist, Andy Scott to pay homage to the hardworking horses of Scotland that once pulled barges along the canals and worked in the fields of this region.

After our visit we continue on our journey to Fort William, making our way to Glasgow to board the train on the iconic West Highland Line. This celebrated route takes us through some of Scotland's most beautiful scenery. On arrival in Fort William, we check into our hotel where we're treated to delicious afternoon tea and cakes. We end our day with dinner and entertainment.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
Day 3 – Historic Urquhart Castle and mysterious Loch Ness

Following breakfast this morning, we head to the mysterious Loch Ness for a wonderful Christmas Eve experience. As we journey through the majestic wilds of Scotland, we stop to visit Fort Augustus, a charming village with a delightful blend of stunning natural scenery, fascinating history, and warm hospitality. Here, we can see the Caledonian Canal, which connects the Scottish east coast with the west. The canal is a bustling hub of activity, with boats and yachts gliding through the waterway. You can take a leisurely stroll along the canal's towpath, watch the boats pass by, and soak up the peaceful atmosphere.

Our next stop is the delightful ruins of Urquhart Castle, on the shores of the legendary Loch Ness. Urquhart has witnessed centuries of conflict and played a pivotal role in the Wars of Independence. Remember to keep a look out for Nessie as we explore the ramparts and keep. After our visit to the castle, we enjoy lunch at the charming Loch Ness Drumnadrochit Hotel before making our way back to Fort William. This evening our dinner at the hotel is accompanied by sparkling wine - the ideal way to end a memorable Christmas Eve.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4 – A wonderful Christmas Day in Fort William

It's Christmas day! Relax, unwind, and be joyous and merry as we take care of you throughout the day. After breakfast, you could stroll around the hotel's picturesque grounds or venture down to the Ballachulish viewpoint to take in the majesty of Loch Leven.

Once you've worked up an appetite, it's time for the main event! We sit down to Christmas Dinner with all the trimmings and raise a glass of wine. After lunch, you can explore some more, take a Christmas afternoon nap or simply relax and watch the King's speech. This evening we indulge in a Christmas buffet and another night of entertainment.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5 – Boxing Day trip to the Glenfinnan Viaduct and dramatic Neptune’s Staircase

After breakfast this morning, it's time to do some more exploring. Our coach takes us to the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, recognisable as the bridge used for the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films. We admire this marvel of Victorian engineering, from the viewing area which showcases the stunning bridge and surrounding landscape - the perfect picture moment.

After we have taken photos, we drive to Neptune's Staircase - the longest staircase lock in Britain. This impressive structure allows boats to travel up and down the lochs. From here, we visit the canal side bistro, The Moorings Fort William, and enjoy a traditional afternoon tea overlooking Neptune's Staircase. Our coach then departs for the scenic drive back to our hotel where we have some time at leisure before dinner this evening.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Afternoon Tea and Dinner
Day 6 – Return journey through the Cairngorms to inspiring Edinburgh

After breakfast today we board a train back to Edinburgh, travelling through the spectacular scenery of the Cairngorms once again. After checking into our lovely hotel again, you have free time to go sightseeing, discovering famed attractions still decked out in their festive regalia or enjoy a walk through the streets of the Georgian New Town.

Afterwards, you could enjoy a warming drink in a traditional pub. Our last evening together is a fabulous occasion. We are treated to a Great Scots dinner, accompanied by traditional Scottish piping, dancers and storytelling, a wonderful end to our Scottish Christmas holiday.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
Day 7 – Homeward bound

This morning, after a relaxing breakfast, it's time to say goodbye as our Christmas holiday reaches its end. We bid farewell to our Tour Manager and new friends as we head home with wonderful memories of an unforgettable Christmas in the Scottish Glens.

Includes
  • Breakfast

Additional information

Departure times

Provisional departure and return times, where available, can be found together with our dates and prices by clicking on the 'Prices & Availability' button. We write to all booked customers approximately 10 weeks prior to the start of their tour to advise the exact departure and return time for their particular group.

Mobility information

Due to the nature of our tours they are generally unsuitable for those with restricted mobility. If you’d like to discuss any particular holiday with us in this respect, then please don’t hesitate to call us.

Hotels

The Isles of Glencoe Hotel, Ballachulish

The Isles of Glencoe Hotel, Ballachulish

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Radisson Collection, Edinburgh

Radisson Collection, Edinburgh

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Train

West Highland Line

Enhance your holiday

Upgrades

UK Rail Connections
Extending your holiday in Edinburgh
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