Stunning Scotland

Join alumni and friends from August 17 to 26, 2024 and explore the inspiring history, exuberant culture, and fascinating sites of Scotland. From the bustling cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh, to the natural scenic beauty of the Highlands, experience the pure magic that is Scotland.  Cruise the infamous Loch Ness to Inverness, sampling heavenly spirits refined over centuries, and taking in the iconic music that illustrates the tales of this extraordinary land. Wander cobblestoned streets on panoramic city tours, explore fascinating castles, visit delightful shops to browse works crafted by skilled masters, and perhaps even try on a traditional tartan or two.

This journey provides access to Culloden Battlefield and behind-the-scenes access to Glamis Castle. An additional special inclusion features the electric atmosphere of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo—a thrilling, international performance of music, dance, and military artistry. Witness the spellbinding sights and sounds of global talent accompanied by special effects that bring Edinburgh Castle to life in a unique way.

While many travel destinations rightfully claim unique charm, how many share the unicorn as their national animal? Accommodations for this grand adventure offer welcoming properties dotting the countryside, each providing splendid Scottish hospitality and the comforts of home. Shared with participants from cosponsoring associations, space is sure to fill quickly. Request a reservation today, or please contact the Georgetown Travel Society at 866-525-8664 or GeorgetownTravelSociety@Georgetown.edu for more detail

Dates and Rates:

Trip Dates: August 17 – 26, 2024

Rates:

$6,295 per person double occupancy.

$8,695 per person single occupancy

Request your reservation online today

Contact: GeorgetownTravelSociety@Georgetown.edu or call us at 866-525-8664

https://orbridge.com/terms-conditions for complete terms and conditions.

Itinerary

Day 1: En Route from U.S.

Depart on independently arranged flights to Glasgow

Day 2: Arrive in Glasgow, Scotland
Fàilte gu Alba!  Welcome to Scotland! 

Today before gathering with fellow travelers, discover Glasgow’s landmarks and attractions during a self-guided, hop-on/hop-off bus tour, featuring stops at the Gallery of Modern Art, Glasgow Cathedral, St. Mungo Museum of Religious Life & Art, Merchant Square, Barras Market, the People’s Palace and Winter Gardens, and the Glasgow Science Centre, to name a few.
Tonight, enjoy a welcome dinner with fellow travelers to delight in convivial conversation about the adventure to come.

Overnight: Radisson Blu (D)

Day 3: Glasgow / New Lanark / Glasgow

In the morning after a hearty Scottish breakfast, take a guided tour of UNESCO World Heritage site New Lanark. This award-winning attraction, set in a picturesque Scottish landscape near the Falls of Clyde, brings a socially progressive story to life through an amazing set of beautifully restored buildings. Step in the past and learn about life in the village over the years and the Utopian vision that created it. During the afternoon, be treated to a group lunch and later enjoy free time to explore vibrant Glasgow. Perhaps grab a pint and meet the cheerful locals of this working-class city. With live music venues, elegant Victorian architecture, an illustrious past, and modern shopping outlets, there are many options to consider.

Overnight: Radisson Blu (B,L)

Day 4: Glasgow / Stirling / Glencoe


Continue the journey north to Stirling, where the Lowlands meet the Highlands, for a self-guided tour of stately Stirling Castle and its lovely gardens. Known as one of Scotland’s grandest castles, it looms over many of the most important battlefields in Scottish history. View Stirling Bridge—the site of William Wallace’s victory over the English in 1297. See Bannockburn, where Robert the Bruce defeated the same adversary in 1314.Often regarded as a symbol of Scottish independence and national pride, Stirling Castle has seen the life and death of almost every Scottish monarch up to the Union of the Crowns in 1603.  In the village of Killin, enjoy a special stop to a family-owned business. At the Falls of Dochart Smokehouse, there are two simple, guiding principles: “to produce and to serve the finest whisky smoked salmon.” Delight in a talk on the smoking process and learn about the local treasures of salmon, the countryside, and the River Tay system.
To produce their unique, subtle whisky taste, the Falls of Dochart Smokehouse sources the finest aged whisky casks and pounds them into dust. This dust creates an aromatic smoke, which gives the salmon a rich, full-bodied flavor. The small, local team passionately cares about every step of the process, from curing and smoking through to the slicing and packaging. All is done by hand and to order. Salmon are reared by ethical and sustainable suppliers in the waters of the Hebrides and the sheltered lochs of north east Scotland. Savor a selection of canopies featuring both whisky smoked hot and cold smoked salmon, plus whisky smoked pate and cheese with locally made chutney.  Later, return to your hotel for a tasty dinner and perhaps take a nature stroll on the beautiful hotel grounds at sunset.

Overnight: Kingshouse Hotel (B,D)

Day 5: Glencoe / The Scottish Highlands

Today, we visit Inverarary Castle, located on the western edge of Loch Fyne in Argyll. Its gardens include approximately two acres of formal lawns and a stunning collection of flowers. Guests enjoy the many fine tree specimens planted throughout, including Cedrus Deodars and Sequoiadendron Wellingtonia. The castle is a magnificent, towered mansion and the ancestral home of the Duke of Argyll, Chief of the Clan Campbell. The structure houses many interesting and lavishly decorated rooms, with collections of tapestries and paintings, and superb displays of weapons. Rob Roy MacGregor’s sporran and dirk handle are on display. Enjoy a brief stroll through the picturesque town of Luss. Famous for its quaint slate cottages with decorative hanging flower baskets, the village also boasts panoramic views of Loch Lomond.  At Loch Lomond, sit back and relax on a cruise. It is the largest expanse of fresh water in Great Britain and is Scotland’s third deepest loch. While cruising the waters, take in the landscape of the magnificient Ben Lomond, stately homes and castles dotting the shoreline, close-ups of several islands, and chances to spot wildlife. In 1999, Loch Lomond and the surrounding area were given the distinction of becoming Scotland’s first national park. Today concludes with a lovely dinner at the hotel followed by a restful evening.

Overnight: Kingshouse Hotel (B,D)

Day 6: Loch Ness / Inverness


After breakfast, continue farther north to the famous Loch Ness to visit Urquhart Castle nestled on shore. Urquhart Castle was once regarded as one of the greatest in all of the Highlands, having borne witness to some of Scotland’s most dramatic historical moments. Control over the medieval fortress passed back and forth between the Scots and the English during the Wars of Independence. As those forces departed, the last government troops who occupied the castle destroyed it during the Jacobite Risings, leaving behind the ruins that stand today. Peer into medieval life—learning of the area’s history from nearly 1,000 years ago—while observing a full-size trebuchet and a prison cell that is thought to have held the Gaelic bard, Dòmhall Donn.
Embark upon a serene, narrated cruise exploring the deep, mysterious waters of Loch Ness, which holds more fresh water than all of the lakes in England and Wales combined.
Later arrive to the idyllic city of Inverness on Scotland’s northeast coast for brief leisure time in town. Many know Inverness as the capital of the Highlands, though it doesn’t officially hold this title. Inverness has only been considered a city since 2000. The name comes from the Gaelic “Inbhir Nis,” which means “Mouth of the River Ness.” Inverness Castle is the site where Macbeth murdered King Duncan in Shakespeare’s play. After an enriching day of exploration, enjoy a relaxing dinner and a peaceful slumber at River Ness Hotel.

Overnight: River Ness Hotel (B,D)

Day 7: Inverness / Aberdeen

This morning, experience Culloden Battlefield—the site of the final Jacobite Rising. One of the most harrowing battles in Scottish history, the Battle of Culloden only lasted an hour but would change Scotland and Highland culture forever. Inside the Culloden Visitor Centre, learn more about the conflict from both sides through interactive displays and artifacts before walking the actual battlefield. Reflect on this rebellious event while viewing the headstones of clansmen who gave their lives for the Jacobite cause.
Following lunch, journey to a Scottish distillery. Did you know? According to the Scotch Whisky Association, Scotland is home to more than 130 malt and grain distilleries, making it the greatest concentration of whisky production in the world. Discover the environment of a distillery with a warm welcome from some of the people who bring this iconic product to life.
Retreat to Norwood Hall Hotel for dinner and this evening’s stay.

Overnight: Norwood Hall Hotel (B,L,D)

Day 8: Aberdeen / St. Andrews / Edinburgh

Today visit Glamis Castle—a living, breathing monument to Scottish heritage. Here at the family home of the Earls of Strathmore and Kinghorne, an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour awaits. Enjoy refreshments in the 16th-century kitchen. See why Glamis Castle, a stunning architectural treasure, is rich with colorful vitality—from remarkable paintings to unique furniture pieces and precise architectural details. This castle was gifted by Robert the Bruce to the Bowes-Lyon family in 1372 and was originally a royal hunting lodge. It’s perhaps best known as the childhood home of the Queen Mother, the birthplace of Princess Margaret, and the setting of Shakespeare’s Macbeth. Visitors are impressed with the estate, comprising more than 13,500 acres and are intrigued by the mysterious, strange, and ghostly tales attached to it. Secret chambers have always been associated with Glamis. It’s said if one counts the windows on the outside and compares that number with the windows counted on the inside, there are two windows missing, indicating at least one secret room.   Later, at charming St. Andrews, drive by the Old Course and explore the local cafés and boutique shops during leisure time. Admire the medieval architecture of the university and marvel at the perfectly manicured golf courses here, at what is considered to be the birthplace of golf. Gazing towards the water, notice an iconic piece of Scottish landscape—the West Sands—famous for the opening sequence of Chariots of Fire.  This evening presents an unforgettable performance of one of the most iconic events on this city’s calendar—the Edinburgh Military Tattoo—as the sun sets against the backdrop of Edinburgh’s grand castle. The Tattoo has a proud Scottish history, stretching back almost seven decades and initially inspired by a simple show called “Something About a Soldier” performed in 1949 at the Ross Bandstand, which is still located in Princess Street Gardens just below the Castle. This event celebrates the skills of military bands and display teams from the British Armed Forces, the Commonwealth, and military teams throughout the world. Prepare for goosebumps as the strains of bagpipes fill the night air along the beating of drums. Lit torches, flying flags, an impressive light display, dancing, colorful dress, and intricate marching formations complete the emotionally stirring pageantry. The Top Secret Drum Corps of Switzerland is a spectator favorite. Their talent and precision is a marvel to behold and must be seen to be appreciated. In a previous performance, the Corps’ drumsticks also served as flutes! Cheer and clap along with the crowd at this first-class synchronized and entertaining show. Be sure to dress in layers for the outdoors as the seating in the esplanade is uncovered.

Overnight: Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel (B)

Day 9: Edinburgh 


This morning, after a hearty breakfast, join a guided panoramic city tour of Edinburgh—Scotland’s beloved capital since the 15th century—through its Old and New Towns. This UNESCO World Heritage Site teems with remarkable architecture, medieval fixtures, and Georgian-inspired buildings, all converging at Princes Street with a unique view of Edinburgh Castle. Visit the National Monument of Scotland on Calton Hill. Its design was inspired by the Pantheon, giving Edinburgh the nickname, “Athens of the North.”
Afterward, visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the previous residence of Mary, Queen of Scots, that was founded as a monastery in 1128. This property once hosted other royalty, including the Bonnie Prince Charlie and the late Queen of England, Elizabeth II. Tour the 14 historic state apartments and imagine life of yesteryear while marveling at the intricate drapery, old wood paneling, and ornately designed ceilings. The Queen’s Gallery at the Palace of Holyroodhouse hosts a program of changing exhibitions from the Royal Collection. Behold the natural beauty of the palace gardens’ rolling lush green pastures, vibrant flowers, and Wentworth Elm trees, which were previously thought to have been extinct.
Enjoy free time to shop and sightsee before this grand adventure concludes with a special farewell dinner to reminisce over the past week’s travels and bid soraidh (“farewell” in Gaelic) to Scotland.

Overnight: Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel (B,D)

Day 10: Edinburgh / Depart for U.S.


After breakfast, guests departing during the suggested times take the complimentary transfer to Edinburgh Airport for flights home. (B)

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
(Itinerary subject to change.)

Program Highlights

• Discover Glasgow at leisure during a hop-on/hop-off bus excursion, including points of interest such as the Gallery of Modern Art, Glasgow Cathedral, and Barras Market.
• Visit a local distillery to learn about whisky making from professionally trained guides followed by a tasting of their creations.
• Explore impressive Stirling Castle, situated on a volcanic outcrop on the River Forth, and hear of the castle’s turbulent history, featuring great figures from Scotland’s past, such as William Wallace, Robert the Bruce, and Mary, Queen of Scots.
• Learn about the history of the bagpipes and the tradition they served for battle and the clans.
• Behold Inveraray Castle, home of the Duke and Duchess of Argyll and their young family. It’s the ancestral home of Clan Campbell.
• Enjoy a relaxing excursion cruising the infamous Loch Ness.
• Stroll through the ruins of Urquhart Castle—an iconic structure rich with over 1,000 years of dramatic history.
• See Culloden Battlefield, which was the site of the final battle of the Jacobite Rising.
• Visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse—the official residence in Scotland of the late Queen Elizabeth II. Founded as a monastery in 1128, this property was once the home of Mary, Queen of Scots, from 1561 to 1567.
• Experience a special welcoming followed by an exclusive, behind-the-scenes tour at breathtaking Glamis Castle. This castle is the legendary setting for Shakespeare’s Macbeth, the childhood home of the late Queen Elizabeth’s mother, and the birthplace of Princess Margaret.
• Embrace the charming town of St. Andrews—home to Scotland’s oldest and most prestigious university and the birthplace of golf, first played 600 years ago.
• Witness the impressive showcase of military pipes and drums, Highland dancers, and marching formations of the celebrated Edinburgh Tattoo.

Activity Level : Moderate
Activities are generally not very strenuous, but a fair amount of walking can be expected. It is our expectation that guests on this program are able to follow a guide through paved and unpaved streets of even and uneven terrain at an average pace for two hours. Guests should have the ability to walk up and down stairs without assistance. Due to the nature of some structures, handrails may not be present, and facilities for people with disabilities may be limited. Participation in itinerary activities is up to the individual.

What’s Included:
• 8 nights hotel accommodations
• 8 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 6 dinners, including a special welcome and farewell dinner
• Full guiding services of an Orbridge Travel Director and expert local guides
• Private motor coach transportation
• Admission to all locations listed on the 10-day itinerary, including the performance of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
• All ferry fees
• Gratuities to Orbridge Travel Director, local guides, drivers, porters (where available), and wait staff for included meals
• Airport transfers for guests arriving and departing during the suggested times

Accommodations:
Radisson Blu Hotel, Glasgow – Glasgow’s iconic Radisson Blu Hotel provides central access to shops and restaurants along with comfortable, modern rooms and wellness facilities. 

Room Amenities: Individual climate control, work desk and chair, flat-screen TV,  Wi-Fi, phone, coffee and tea maker, safe, and en suite bathroom with sundries and hair dryer.

Kingshouse Hotel – With panoramic views of the Highlands of Scotland, the iconic Kingshouse Hotel is surrounded by peaks, pools, and rivers. Guests of the property rave not only of the unrivalled views of Buchaille Etive Mor, Scotland’s most photographed mountain, but also about the comfy rooms and accommodating staff. 

Room Amenities: Flat-screen TV, writing desk and chair, WiFi availability, phone, coffee and tea maker, and en suite bathroom with sundries.

River Ness Hotel – The River Ness Hotel is conveniently located in the city center, minutes away from a walk to the River Ness, the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, and the Victorian Market. A member of the Radisson Hotels, the River Ness features modern guest rooms and an onsite fitness center, bar, and restaurant. 

Room Amenities: Individual climate control, work desk and chair, flat-screen TV,  Wi-Fi, phone, coffee and tea maker, mini-fridge, minibar, safe, iron and ironing board, and en suite bathroom with sundries and hair dryer.

Norwood Hall Hotel – Built in 1881 on the site of the 15th-century Pitfodels Castle, this magnificent Victorian mansion exudes character and charm, with roaring log fires, sweeping staircases, and classic décor.  Situated amongst seven acres of secluded gardens and expansive woods, the property offers modern amenities, award-winning facilities, and welcoming hospitality.
Room Amenities: TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, and en suite bathroom with sundries and hair dryer.
Note: This property does not have air conditioning.

Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel – Ideally located beside New Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this property—which features seven interconnected Georgian townhouses—overlooks one of Edinburgh’s prettiest private garden squares. Excellent service blends with a newly renovated interior of handsome woods, plush fabrics, and rich pops of color. During leisure time, take advantage of the indoor pool or well-equipped fitness room. Room Amenities: Individual climate control, TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, coffee maker, minibar, safe, and marble en suite bathroom with premium sundries and hair dryer.

(Accommodations subject to change.)

What’s not included:
Taxes; passport, visas and associated fees; personal expenses such as laundry and telephone calls; accident/sickness, trip cancellation, and baggage insurance;  baggage charges on aircraft;  airfare, transfers and baggage handling to/from hotel on day of arrival and/or departure if you are arriving earlier or later than and/or departing earlier or later than the scheduled group transfer(s); any overnight on land due to flight schedule(s); meals, alcoholic or other beverages and all other services not specifically mentioned in the “Included Features” section of the program brochure. https://orbridge.com/terms-conditions for complete terms and conditions.