Edinburgh Tattoo and the Highlands

Our holiday begins today in the picturesque town of Dunblane. We meet our Tour Manager at our hotel this afternoon, and once we've checked in, there's time to get to know the town at leisure before dinner this evening. Our hotel is just a short walk from the Allan Water River, where you could enjoy a delightful riverside stroll. Next to the river, you'll discover an 11th-century cathedral standing among a cluster of old-world buildings, among them is Dean's House, a 17th-century structure that now hosts the cathedral museum, showcasing interesting exhibits on local history.

• Dinner

Travelling to Aviemore today, we join the nostalgic Strathspey Steam Railway for a trip through the stunning sights of Cairngorms National Park. The carriages are beautifully restored, with comfortable seats and large windows, which let us marvel at the breathtaking scenery.

Snaking our way alongside the River Spey, we enjoy views of rolling hills blanketed by purple heather, the craggy top of Cairngorm Mountain, and the thick pine forests and wooded glens which line the tracks.

Following a round trip on the railway, we rejoin our coach and set off to the Kinrara Distillery, on the edge of the Cairngorm National Park. In these beautiful surroundings, we indulge in a hosted tasting experience to learn about the local history and ingredients that have inspired the distillery's craft gins. In the late afternoon, we drive back to our hotel with time to relax before dinner this evening.

• Breakfast, Dinner

After a relaxing morning at leisure, our coach picks us up early this afternoon for another culture-packed day. Heading toward Edinburgh, we stop at the impressive Stirling castle for a guided tour and time to wander the Great Hall, Chapel Royal, the Great Kitchens and tapestry studio. There are also beautiful gardens to explore and a lovely cafe where you could enjoy a hot drink and a bite to eat. Alternatively, you could walk down the hill into the centre of Stirling for lunch. Here, you could explore more of the city's history by meandering through its charming Old Town and wandering over the Old Stirling Bridge where Wallace defeated the British army.

Later this afternoon, our coach continues to lively Edinburgh. You're at leisure in Scotland's capital to get some dinner and explore before our Edinburgh Military Tattoo experience. It's easy to find restaurants and pubs anywhere in the city centre, however, for the most interesting areas we recommend heading to the top of the Old Town's Royal Mile, or the charming Rose Street and Princes Street in the New Town. If there's a particular place you'd like to eat, we recommend booking in advance to avoid disappointment.

Meeting up with our group again this evening, we settle into our seats for the spectacular Edinburgh Military Tattoo. This remarkable event happens every year and brings together music, entertainment, and ceremonial performances. Watching in awe, we see the Scottish regiments' pipers and drummers performing together, the impressive Massed Bands of the Royal Marines, and a fantastic firework show - all with Edinburgh Castle magnificently illuminated behind them.

After an incredible spectacle, our coach takes us back to our hotel in Dunblane late this evening.

• Breakfast

It's time to say goodbye to our Scottish adventure today. After breakfast, our holiday comes to an end and you can make your way home, taking new, fantastic memories with you. Or, if you're not ready to leave Highland Perthshire behind just yet, you could continue exploring the dramatic landscapes, ancient castles, and unspoilt nature at your own pace.

• Breakfast