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12 Day Kaleidoscope of Scotland - Friday Departure

Operator
Gate1
Days
12
From
USD $2,999
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Dates & Prices

Please Note: Land Price does not include airfare, departure or arrival transfers, airline taxes and fuel surcharges.

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From
Friday,
May 03, 2024
To
Tuesday,
May 14, 2024
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From
Friday,
May 24, 2024
To
Tuesday,
Jun 04, 2024
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From
Friday,
May 31, 2024
To
Tuesday,
Jun 11, 2024
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From
Friday,
Jun 07, 2024
To
Tuesday,
Jun 18, 2024
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Jun 21, 2024
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Tuesday,
Jul 02, 2024
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From
Friday,
Jun 28, 2024
To
Tuesday,
Jul 09, 2024
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From
Friday,
Jul 05, 2024
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Tuesday,
Jul 16, 2024
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Friday,
Jul 26, 2024
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Aug 06, 2024
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Aug 02, 2024
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Aug 13, 2024
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Aug 09, 2024
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Aug 20, 2024
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Friday,
Aug 16, 2024
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Tuesday,
Aug 27, 2024
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Aug 23, 2024
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Tuesday,
Sep 03, 2024
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Aug 30, 2024
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Tuesday,
Sep 10, 2024
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Sep 06, 2024
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Sep 17, 2024
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Sep 13, 2024
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Tuesday,
Sep 24, 2024
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Sep 20, 2024
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Oct 01, 2024
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Sep 27, 2024
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Oct 08, 2024
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Oct 04, 2024
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Oct 15, 2024
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Exclusive, $600 Off England, Ireland and Scotland Escorted Tours

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Exclusive, $600 Off England, Ireland and Scotland Escorted Tours

Exclusive, $600 Off England, Ireland and Scotland Escorted Tours

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Book during our exclusive sale and save $600 per couple ($300 per person) on 2024/2025 England, Ireland or Scotland escorted tours. (Not all packages and/or dates may apply, contact your Travel Consultant for full details.)
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Gate 1 offers the flexibility of paying for your vacation by credit card or check. Choose check for your final payment to save 5% off of your remaining balance. Full details will be sent with your invoice.

Itinerary

Tour Itinerary

Countries Visited

Scotland

Cities Visited

Aviemore , Edinburgh , Glasgow

DAY 1, Friday - Depart for Scotland
Depart for Scotland

DAY 2, Saturday - Arrive in Edinburgh
Arrive in dramatic Edinburgh, Scotland's capital city with its stunning Georgian and Victorian architecture. The rest of the day is at leisure. Your tour will begin with an orientation meeting with your Tour Manager at approximately 6 PM, followed by a light dinner. We recommend that you select flights which no later than 4 PM
Overnight: Edinburgh
Meals: Dinner

DAY 3, Sunday - Edinburgh City Tour
This morning join a local guide for a city tour of historic Edinburgh. The route will take you past the Scottish Parliament, the Museum of Scotland, the Royal Mile, Georgian New Town and Princes Street. Also included is a visit to Edinburgh Castle where you can see the Crown Room and St. Margaret's Chapel. The balance of the day is at leisure, or join the optional Harry Potter Walking Tour. Begin in the Old Town, exploring areas associated with Harry Potter and other characters created by JK Rowling. Visit the famous graveyard of Greyfriars to view the grave of Tom Riddle and others. Discover the cafes in the university area where the early Harry Potter stories were written. Learn about J.K Rowling and how the city of Edinburgh inspired her to write. Tonight, perhaps attend the optional Scottish Dinner with Whisky Pairing
Optional: Harry Potter Walking Tour
Optional: Scottish Dinner with Whisky Pairing (PM)
Overnight: Edinburgh
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 4, Monday - St. Andrews, Sheepdog Demonstration, Whisky Distillery & Tasting, Aviemore
A day of outstanding scenery as you arrive in the charming town of St. Andrews, celebrated for its golf courses and internationally renowned St. Andrews University, where Prince William studied. Next travel to a working farm to participate in a typical day of a Highland shepherd and his dogs. Watch up to eight dogs working at the same time on the sheep and hear their individual whistle commands - a unique experience! Meet the friendly collie pups, and help shear a sheep. Next, tour a local distillery in the town of Newburgh, along with a lecture about whisky making and tasting of this Scottish delight. Continue the drive and admire the serene landscape on your way to the hotel in the resort town of Aviemore within magnificent Cairngorms National Park. Tonight, dinner is at the hotel
Overnight: Aviemore
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 5, Tuesday - Loch Ness, Culloden Battlefield
Morning travel to picturesque Loch Ness, immortalized by the Loch Ness Monster. Take a scenic boat ride past the ruins of iconic Urquhart Castle perched on the banks of the lake, one of the most striking sights in Scotland. Then a visit to the site of the Culloden Battlefield where Jacobite forces faced the British army in 1746, marking the collapse of the Jacobite uprising and beginning of the integration of the Highlands into the British Kingdom. Learn more about this famous battle through exhibitions at the Visitor Center. Afterward, The rest of the day is free
Overnight: Aviemore
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 6, Wednesday - Dunrobin Castle, Wick
This morning, depart Aviemore and travel to Dunrobin Castle, dating back to 1275, with over 190 rooms - the largest castle in northern Scotland. Tour the regal castle, its rooms with valuable artifacts and a library with over 10,000 volumes. In the castle gardens, see an interesting demonstration of falconry by these well-trained birds of prey. Afterward, drive to Wick, one of the most northerly towns in mainland Scotland. Arrive in the charming town, boasting a rich maritime history and spend time at leisure. Perhaps join the optional pub evening for a night of storytelling and traditional music. Tonight, dinner together caps a lovely day
Optional: Traditional Pub Gathering with Stories, Music & Song (PM)
Overnight: Wick
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 7, Thursday - Orkney Islands
Board a ferry this morning to the spellbinding Orkney Islands, an archipelago off the coast of Scotland with a unique culture and history. The islands encompass mysterious Neolithic sites, tall sandstone cliffs, and seal colonies. The first stop is to the ancient settlement of Skara Brae*, a 5000-year-old preserved village. Driving across the Churchill barriers created during WWII to deter submarines, view the ornate Italian Chapel, constructed by Italian prisoners of war during World War II. Return to Wick in time for dinner at the hotel*For May 17, Jun 21, Jul 26, Aug 9, & Sep 13 departures, Skara Brae will be switched with Broch of Gurness.
Overnight: Wick
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 8, Friday - Village of Ullapool, Fish and Chips Lunch, Isle of Skye
Depart Wick this morning, on a long and scenic drive towards Isle of Skye. Stop at the quaint fishing village of Ullapool in the North West Highlands - a perfect place to enjoy a fish and chips lunch! Then continue to the magical Isle of Skye. View the stunning landscapes along the way, including jagged mountains, sparkling lochs, delightful fishing villages and medieval castles. After this beautiful day, dinner awaits you at the hotel this evening
Overnight: Isle of Skye
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 9, Saturday - Skye Museum of Island Life, Flora MacDonald's Monument, Dunvegan Castle
Head to northern Skye's best attraction: The Skye Museum of Island Life. Go back in time and get an insight into island life in the late 1800s. After, walk behind the museum to Kilmuir Cemetery. Here, pay your respects to Flora MacDonald's Memorial, a woman famous for helping Bonnie Prince Charlie escape, after his defeat at the battle of Culloden in 1746. Continue to Portree, the main town of Skye with its picturesque harbor and brightly colored houses, for lunch on your own and some leisure time. Later, a visit to Dunvegan Castle, built in the 13th century, on a basalt rock in a bucolic loch side location. It is the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland and has been the ancestral home of the Chiefs of Clan MacLeod for 800 years. Have dinner at the hotel this evening
Overnight: Isle of Skye
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 10, Sunday - Eilean Donan Castle, Scenic Glencoe, Loch Lomond, Glasgow
Begin the day with a visit to the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, located on a small island and surrounded by rugged mountains serene lochs, and lush greenery. The castle dates back to the 13th century and had played a significant role in Scotland's past, witnessing battles and clan feuds. Tour the castle that was restored in the early 20th century and take a stroll around the grounds. Then, head south to Glencoe, Scotland's most scenic and most historic glen, site of the infamous massacre of the MacDonald clan in 1692 on the orders of King William. Glencoe is one of the places in the country that has been featured in many of the Harry Potter movies. Journey along the "bonnie banks" of Loch Lomond (immortalized by the song) with time for lunch on your own in these beautiful surroundings before arriving in the vibrant port city of Glasgow, famed for its Victorian and art nouveau architecture. This evening, opportunity to discover Glasgow's many lively pubs and restaurants on your own
Overnight: Glasgow
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 11, Monday - Tour Glasgow
In Glasgow, begin the day with views of the city's splendid architecture, magnificent George Square and the River Clyde, the centre of the city's shipbuilding industry. Stop at timeless St. Mungo's Cathedral, dedicated to the patron saint and founder of the city, before free time to stroll the lively streets. Later, visit the historically-important Stirling Castle, favored residence of the Stuart kings and queens. Knights, nobles and foreign ambassadors once flocked to Stirling Castle to revel in its grandeur with its superb sculptures and beautiful gardens. Tour the halls, chapels, and bedrooms of this imposing castle. Before returning to Glasgow, view the Wallace Monument from the castle walls, dedicated to Sir William Wallace. Tonight, bid a fond farewell to Scotland and your Tour Manager at dinner
Overnight: Glasgow
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 12, Tuesday - Depart Scotland
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight
Meals: Breakfast

Please Note: Land Price does not include airfare, departure or arrival transfers, airline taxes and fuel surcharges.

OR Call Us For a Free Quote 1-800-935-2620

Inclusions

Please Note: Land Price does not include airfare, departure or arrival transfers, airline taxes and fuel surcharges.

Escorted Package Includes

  • Flights New York-Edinburgh, Glasgow-New York
    Other departure cities available.
  • Airline taxes & fuel surcharges
  • 10 nights accommodations
  • 2 nights Edinburgh
  • 2 nights Aviemore
  • 2 nights Wick or Thurso
  • 2 nights Isle of Skye or Gairloch
  • 2 nights Glasgow
  • Hotel taxes, fees & service charges
  • Hotel porterage
  • All transfers included only with airfare purchase on package arrival & departure dates†
  • 18 meals: 10 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 7 dinners with wine
  • Sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned motor coach
  • Services of English-speaking tour manager throughout
  • Comfortable wireless earphones for enhanced touring
  •  

    Special Features

  • View Scotland's crown jewels on a tour of stately Edinburgh Castle, perched high above the city
  • At a working farm, participate in a typical day of a Highland shepherd and his dogs
  • Learn the art of Scotch whisky making, at a whisky distillery and enjoy a tour and tasting
  • Visit the Culloden Moor Battlefield where the Jacobite forces faced the British army in 1746
  • Take a boat ride past Urquhart Castle on the banks of Loch Ness
  • Travel to Dunrobin Castle, that resembles a French chateau, dating back to 1275
  • Ferry to the spellbinding Orkney Islands with its mysterious Neolithic sites and tall sandstone cliffs
  • Travel to the magical Isle of Skye, with its jagged mountains, sparkling lochs, medieval castles
  • Tour historically important Stirling Castle, favored residence of the Stuart kings and queens
  • †Transfers are available for purchase for land only or on alternative flight dates

    Not Included:
    Optional tours and gratuities.


    Additional Information:
    Land only price does not include arrival/departure transfers.


    Accommodation Details:
    Triple rooms not available.

    Novotel Edinburgh Centre offers a double room only, twin rooms will be accommodated as double bed plus sofa bed.

    Hilton Glasgow, Norseman Hotel and Morlich Hotel at Macdonald Aviemore Resort triples rooms will be accommodated as a twin and a single room.

    Health and Safety Protocols for Gate1 Tours

    At Gate 1 we take your safety and security very seriously. We have a strong network of tour managers, local offices, ground operators and colleagues which help us stay informed in all the destinations that we operate. We closely monitor local situations which enable us to make the operational decisions necessary to keep our tours running safely. Millions of people travel the world each year and experience enjoyable and safe trips but crimes against people and property are sadly a fact of life. It is very important to be aware of your surroundings and avoid drawing attention to yourself. Please remember that you have the same responsibility for your personal safety and possessions as you do at home. It is essential to prepare for a safe and healthy travel abroad. Therefore before you travel, we strongly recommend that you visit the website of the US Department of State at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel.html for up-to-date travel advice on the countries that you are visiting. The website provides useful information on subjects such as safety and security information, health precautions and medications, health insurance and additional tips for traveling abroad. If you do not reside in the United States, we recommend you check your government's travel advisory website for any country you will be visiting. We recommend that you review the safety guidance that may be provided by us, our agents or suppliers, either before you go or when you arrive in your destination. You can also find helpful tips on our website in the "Trip Preparation" tab of each of our tour packages. We do know that in-spite of careful planning, things can sometimes still go wrong, so rest assured, we will be there to help and support you.

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    Accommodations

    Novotel Edinburgh Centre
    This first class hotel is located in the heart of the city, a short walk from the Grassmarket area.

    AC by Marriott Inverness
    This first class hotel is centrally located in Inverness.

    Morlich Hotel at Macdonald Aviemore Resort
    This tourist class hotel is located a short ride away from the Aviemore railway station.

    Morlich Hotel at Macdonald Aviemore Resort
    This tourist class hotel is located a short ride away from the Aviemore railway station.

    Norseman Hotel
    This tourist class hotel overlooks the Wick River.

    The Kings Arms Hotel
    This tourist class hotel is located in the heart of a truly breathtaking Scottish isle.

    Hilton Glasgow
    This deluxe hotel is located in the heart of Glasgow's financial district.

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    Questions & Answers

    Question: How many suitcases can I take with me on my trip?

    Each person is allowed one "check-in," and one "carry-on." Remember to take all valuables with you as "carry-on", because electronic equipment, cameras, laptops, jewelry, business documents and money are not covered by the airlines' liability, so always carry them aboard with you.

    Question: Is Airfare Included in the Price?

    Airfare from your point of origin to and from the trip is not included in the land price.

    Gate1 Tours Customer Reviews

    Overall Rating
    4.3
    Accommodations
    4
    Itinerary
    4.4
    Professional Staff
    4.5
    Repeat with Operator
    4.4
    Value for Money
    4.2

    Ratings based off 6673 reviews about Gate1 Tours - currently showing 15 reviews with comments only

    I cannot say enough about Gate 1! Gate 1 is the only travel operator I travel with.

    The Radisson Hotel was way above expectations and all others were very nice. The bus with wifi and charging ability was very nice and allowed me to share the trip with others while traveling. The food was extremely good and many more choices than expected. All flights, pickups and delivery were accomplished on time and with ease. The bag handlers were always there and made everything run smoothly with little effort on my part.

    Gate1 trips match their advertisements Their Tour Managers are always very attentive and helpful.

    Gate 1 always provides a wonderful service. It is just as they say it will be. So much to see.

    I did not worry at all before and during my trip because I always have good experience both with Affordable tour and Gate 1.

    We love Gate 1 tours. Excellent quality and value. Perfect itineraries.

    I have found Gate1 to be very reliable and a company that offers a variety of itineraries.

    This is our 7th or 8th trip with Gate 1. We have never been disappointed. Our guide, itinerary and travel experiences are outstanding!

    Gate1 was exceptional in every way. From the itinerary to the tour Director, everything was exactly as advertised, or better. Would definitely go with Gate1 again and highly recommend.

    Best trip ever Gate 1 exceeded my expectations

    We have traveled with Gate One 8 times and always had a good experience.

    Terrific guide, wonderful itinerary, another reason we continue to book with Gate1.

    The Gate 1 Discovery tours are very good and well worth the extra cost. We had only 16 participants on the trip and everyone got along well. They used the large bus and everyone had their own seat if they wanted it. The hotels on trip were above average.

    Great trip for those that want to visit Normandie and the Mediterranean Coast of France. Plenty of time for lunches and shopping at most stops. Nice to have two nights at each stop.

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