1-Day Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond and Whisky Tour

8:30am – We depart Edinburgh from the historic Royal Mile and make our way up the Forth Valley, past Linlithgow Palace, the birthplace of Mary ‘Queen of Scots’, towards Scotland’s ancient capital city of Stirling.

Our first stop of the day is at the Kelpies, Scotland’s largest public art installation, constructed at the entrance to the Forth and Clyde Canals as a tribute to Central Scotland’s industrial past. Once seen, you’ll understand why the Kelpies are fast becoming one of Scotland’s most popular landmarks, they are the perfect photo opportunity too.

Onwards to the magnificent Stirling Castle and the most important castle in Scottish history due to its strategic location as gateway between the Central Lowlands and the imposing Scottish Highlands to the North. Scottish (…and often English!) armies, occupied the castle throughout history in order to block rival advances from all directions. Hear tales of the famous battles fought at Stirling Bridge, Falkirk and Bannockburn during the ‘Wars of Independence’, as William Wallace and then Robert the Bruce led the Scottish forces to famous victories which inspired the movie ‘Braveheart’. Stirling Castle is one of Scotland’s most popular visitor attractions. The Castle’s 900 year history comes alive as you explore great halls, dungeons and narrow wynds. (Castle entry is optional – but recommended)

You’ll have 90 minutes to either tour the Castle or alternatively explore Stirling’s Old Town, before continuing north towards Loch Lomond and the Highlands.

You now have the option of visiting either an operational Whisky Distillery or nearby Doune Castle.

Option 1: You’ll arrive at Deanston Whisky Distillery, located on the banks of the beautiful River Teith. Take a tour of the working distillery, experience the whisky-making process from beginning to end and learn why Whisky is such a world-renowned spirit. The tour ends with a tasting session (£8.00 per adult).

Option 2: You can visit the nearby 14th century Doune Castle, a filming location for ‘Monty Python and the Holy Grail’, ‘Game of Thrones’ and ‘Outlander’ (Castle Leoch). You’ll have 45 minutes to explore the castle and hear its varied history. Audio-guides are available. (Castle entry £9.00 per adult/£5.40 per child)

We stop at the Highland village of Callander where there’s time for lunch and maybe a little gift shopping.

A short journey later we will arrive at Loch Achray in search of a photo opportunity with some Hairy Coos (Highland Cattle). These immense yak-like creatures are native to Scotland and they love to pose for selfies.

We then head into Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park to Balmaha. Take a leisurely stroll along the banks of Loch Lomond, considered by many to be the bonniest in Scotland.

6:15pm – You’ll arrive back in the centre of Edinburgh.