Scotland: Lochs and Landscapes 2024
Scotland: Lochs and Landscapes 2024
Scotland: Lochs and Landscapes 2024
8 Days
Visiting: Glasgow, New Lanark, Isle of Arran, Oban, Glencoe, Luss, Edinburgh
Tour operator:
Tour code:
BTSEE4
Specialist Group:
Fifty+
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
7 - 18
Age range:
18-90
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Private Available:
Request A Private Tour
From:
$3378
$3226
Exclusive Tourhub Members Discount: -$152
NB: Prices correct on 21-May-2024 but subject to change.
Tour Overview
Enchanting lochs, haunting glens and soaring mountains: Scotland is home to many diverse treasures. On this tour of the historic western landscapes, we’ll discover some of the country’s most spectacular views, fascinating stories and long-standing traditions – all of which are to be found in lesser-visited locations off the beaten track. Ready to discover another side to Scotland? This is the tour for you.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Glasgow (Scotland)
Location: Glasgow
Accommodation: Malmaison Glasgow (or similar)
Meals Included: Dinner
A land of magnificent historical treasures and imagination-firing landscapes – we’ll meet in Bonnie Scotland’s splendid city of Glasgow. After settling into our hand-picked hotel, we’ll get to know one another better over a deliciously hearty welcome meal. Here’s to the incredible journey ahead!
Day 2: Glasgow – New Lanark – Arran
Location: Glasgow, New Lanark, Isle of Arran
Accommodation: Resort, Auchrannie Resort (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, the picturesque 18th century mill village of New Lanark awaits. Abundantly filled with remarkable intrigue, we’ll amble through the streets of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, discovering its tales along the way. A leisurely stroll along the picturesque River Clyde is a must! Then: take in the sights as we traverse Clyde Coast to meet the ferry. Its destination: the tranquil Isle of Arran, our home for the next two nights. Its vast green landscapes, idyllic waters and friendly charm will bask you in warmth (no matter the weather!). An afternoon of free time awaits. Explore the delightful area, get to know the locals, or sit back and relax, soaking up the ambience of this authentic adventure.
Day 3: Arran
Location: Isle of Arran
Accommodation: Auchrannie Resort (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
You may know The Big Five of the animal kingdom, but today we shall seek Arran’s Big Five on a unique safari experience with our local guide. Spot golden eagles, stags, otters, red squirrels and seals as we roam through the isle’s beautiful terrain, learning its unique history, culture and ecology along the way.
Day 4: Arran – Oban
Location: Isle of Arran, Oban
Accommodation: Hotel, Knipoch (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Ahoy, the mainland is calling! The first port of call upon our return: Kilmartin Glen. This rich landscape boasts 5,000 years of history and is considered to have one of the most important concentrations of Neolithic and Bronze Age remains in Scotland; some say, even Europe. Together, we will wander its lush ground, taking in the linear cairns, scattered standing stones and carved rocks. What’s more, our journey into the past will unearth ancient forts and castles which may or may not be filled with ghouls Scotland is famed for. Pack your wits, just in case! Onwards, our adventure takes us towards Oban, the seafood capital of Scotland, where we will exchange tales of the journey so far over a group dinner.
Day 5: Oban
Location: Oban
Accommodation: Knipoch Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Are you ready to awaken your senses? This morning, we’ll visit Arduaine Garden – a place filled with colour and fragrance. The garden first bloomed in 1898, during a time of curiosity and hunger for the exotic. From bold azaleas to magnificent magnolias and giant Himalayan lilies to lovely forget-me-nots, this scented world tour is a truly unforgettable experience. Following our visit, we journey on to Oban where our expert Tour Leader will give a short orientation tour – an opportunity to get your bearings. After lunch, the mighty Dunstaffnage Castle and Chapel awaits. Built before 1240, the stronghold is one of the oldest stone castles to exist in this glorious country, boasting centuries of treasured history.
Day 6: Oban – Glencoe – Luss
Location: Oban, Glencoe, Luss
Accommodation: Lodge, The Lodge on the Loch (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
More breathtaking scenery is on the cards today as we take a trip through the magnificent Glencoe valley. Sit back and enjoy the leisurely pace as we admire the towering mountain ranges formed by volcanic eruptions and glacial movement thousands of years ago. While we’re here, we’ll visit Glencoe Visitor Centre and learn the haunting story of the Glencoe Massacre of 1692. Afterwards, we’ll relish an afternoon of more fascinating landscapes as we journey through Loch Lomond and The Tossachs National Park, our Tour Leader will choose the finest viewpoints to stop at before we move on to our next destination: Luss.
Day 7: Luss
Location: Luss
Accommodation: The Lodge of Loch (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
After a leisurely morning, we’ll continue our discovery of Loch Lomond with a scenic cruise filled with stunning views of distant islands, majestic mountains and enchanting forests. Then, we’ll savour some free time in the picturesque village of Luss. For the history buffs, get lost in a world of medieval times. For those who wish for a peaceful haven, explore the 19th century parish church filled with staggering Victorian stained-glass windows. Tonight, we’ll join together for a farewell dinner where we shall toast to a cherished adventure filled with wonder and friendship.
Day 8: Luss – Edinburgh – Glasgow
Location: Luss, Edinburgh, Glasgow
Meals Included: Breakfast
Before our tour comes to a close, we’ve got one last stop to make. A Scottish escape wouldn’t be the same without a visit to the beautiful capital, Edinburgh. Here, we’ll embark on a driving tour of the New Town and The Royal Mile, taking in the awe-inspiring architecture and diverse culture. The rest of the morning and early afternoon is yours to uncover this sublime city. Then: you can choose to depart the tour here or join the mini-coach back to magnificent Glasgow, where we’ll say our goodbyes.
What's Included
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Accommodation
As detailed in the itinerary
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Fully Guided
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Entrance Fees
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Free Wi-Fi at Accommodation
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Meals
As detailed in the itinerary
What's Not Included
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Country Entry Visas
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Airport Transfers at Destination
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International Travel
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Drinks with Meals
Check out our Q&As
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Is there a supplement for solo travellers?
A Small supplement, but dedicated allocation on every tour
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Are airport transfers included in this tour?
No they are not.
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Will passengers from another country be participating in the tour?
Guests from all over the world could be joining you
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Are flights included in this tour?
No they are not.
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Will I know the names and details of all the accommodation before I depart?
This will be provided on final documentation
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Is there a limit to luggage that can be brought on the tour?
Yes there is - 20kg and a max dimension of 158cm (W+D+L)
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What currencies are required for this tour?
Euro
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What is the maximum group size?
18 is the maximum on any tour
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Will there be an escort accompanying this tour?
A Tour Leader and separate driver will take you on your journey
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Are children permitted to take part in the tour?
From the Age of 13
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Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
Yes, All guides are English speaking
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What is the tipping policy?
At the discretion of the guest
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Are all entrance fees included in the price?
All Entrance fees listed are included
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Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?
Ample free time due to low drive days
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Can you assist with pre or post tour accommodation?
Yes, please request at time of booking
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Is the tour coach air conditioned?
Yes the Coach is air-conditioned
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What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?
Hand Picked and Boutique
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Are all the relevant entry visa’s included in the price of the tour?
Please see your local governments for rulings on destination Visa's
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
We have solo capacity, however no single share.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Upon final payments, we will distribute E-Documentation to all of our guests. Dont forget we also have our App to download as an added feature.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Like-minded travellers awaiting the opportunity to explore the less explored regions. Interests in food, wine, history, art as well as wartimes there will be a great mix of people to connect with on tour.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
We have our COVID Assurance Policy, Book now and relax knowing you are covered under our new COVID-19 Assurance Policy. At no additional cost to you, new bookings are now 100% refundable in the unfortunate event you are diagnosed with COVID-19 or unable to travel due to government-enforced lock downs prior to your scheduled departure date.
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What level of mobility do I need?
You need to be fit enough to get on and off the vehicle on a regular basis, and to walk both to attractions and around towns and villages. You also need to be able to walk up and down stairs in the hotels and use a shower over the bath. We frequently use traditional style hotels and the majority will not have lifts or ground floor rooms.
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Who goes on Back-Roads tours?
The majority of our guests come from Canada, the USA, the UK, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. All tour commentaries are in English. Our tours appeal to those looking for a more relaxing style of travel, and who enjoy culture, good food, meeting like-minded people and exploring destinations in depth.
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What is the minimum age for any Back-Roads Touring trip?
The minimum age on all of our trips is 18 years.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
All Hotels in line with protocols following the World Health Organisation meet and exceed requirements for all Touring with us.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Back-Roads Touring has been operating from the UK for over 30 years.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
Inline with our booking flexibility policy, you are able to make as many changes as required up to 60 days from departue - with 1 last included up until 30 days out.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
Generally no, but in extraordinary circumstances it can be looked at.
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1 Dates & Availability
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Wednesday - Wednesday
May 29, 2024 - Jun 05, 2024Wednesday - Wednesday
Jun 12, 2024 - Jun 19, 2024Wednesday - Wednesday
Jul 03, 2024 - Jul 10, 2024Wednesday - Wednesday
Sep 11, 2024 - Sep 18, 2024Wednesday - Wednesday
Sep 25, 2024 - Oct 02, 2024Wednesday - Wednesday
Apr 30, 2025 - May 07, 2025Wednesday - Wednesday
May 14, 2025 - May 21, 2025Wednesday - Wednesday
May 28, 2025 - Jun 04, 2025Wednesday - Wednesday
Jun 11, 2025 - Jun 18, 2025Wednesday - Wednesday
Jul 02, 2025 - Jul 09, 2025Wednesday - Wednesday
Jul 16, 2025 - Jul 23, 2025Wednesday - Wednesday
Aug 13, 2025 - Aug 20, 2025Wednesday - Wednesday
Aug 27, 2025 - Sep 03, 2025Wednesday - Wednesday
Sep 10, 2025 - Sep 17, 2025Wednesday - Wednesday
Sep 24, 2025 - Oct 01, 2025Book with Confidence
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Free Date Changes
Back-Roads Touring allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 60 days before the start of the tour.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Back-Roads Touring allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform back-roads touring, 60 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Back-Roads Touring requires a minimum deposit of 150 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of back-roads touring charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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