wHere will yOur jourNey take you?
On our 7-day self-drive Heritage Scotland self-drive tour, wind your way through Fife’s picturesque fishing villages and ancient towns, explore traditional Royal Deeside, scour the shores of Loch Ness and drink in the splendours of the glorious West Coast.
yoUr journey, your way
All Celtic Routes self-drive tours are unique, curated to suit you. Take a look at our sample itinerary as a starting point to begin planning your perfect trip.
day 1
day 2
day 3
day 4
day 5
day 6
day 7
heritage scotland
Progress – Day 1 of 7
priCing
The prices shown are indicative, per passenger, and adjust according to the number of guests you select above. Each bar is divided into three sections, representing different vehicle sizes – small, medium, and large. Prices for single occupants may incur a single supplement charge at hotels.
Please note: We can also accommodate groups larger than 4 passengers on request – get in touch with us for a tailored quote.
highLights of this tOur
st anDrews
As the hallowed home of golf, St Andrews needs little introduction with its manicured greens and prestigious Royal and Ancient clubhouse. Little wonder many make the journey here to swing a club, sprint Chariots of Fire-style along the stunning West Sands or potter amongst its historic cobbled ‘wynds’, unique cafes and student-frequented pubs. Its ancient university, the oldest in Scotland, sits centre stage and, with its royal endorsement, is where Prince William famously met Catherine!
day 1
St Andrews
rOyal deeside
Queen Victoria and Prince Albert definitely put this picturesque salmon fishing river valley on the map when they purchased Balmoral Estate in 1852. Nestled deep in the Cairngorm National Park, this is an area of exceptional beauty imbued with royal Victorian heritage and more than its fair share of Scottish tradition with kilts, bagpipes, castles and Highland games aplenty. Accommodation here is unsurprisingly ‘fit for a king’.
day 2
Royal Deeside
loch neSs
The enigmatic attraction of Britain’s most famous loch is an enduring source of fascination and a bucket list item for many on a trip to Scotland. Tourist magnet aside, this mysterious expanse of water is the ultimate hideout for camera-shy ‘Nessie’. Gorgeous wood-fringed beaches and scenic walks are overseen by Urquhart Castle, one of Scotland’s most photographed landmarks.
day 3
Loch Ness
cUstomise your tour
With Celtic Routes, every journey is designed around you. Our destination experts work closely with you to craft a personalised itinerary that reflects your interests and travel style. Whether that means spending more time in a place you love, adjusting the pace of your tour, or curating experiences unique to you, we’ll help shape a journey that feels entirely your own.
Explore our recommended customisations for this tour.
isle of skye
For a once in a lifetime trip to Scotland, Skye is a must. The largest and most famous of the Scottish Islands is characterised by dramatic brooding landscapes, pretty fishing villages and an intriguing web of myths, legends and folklore. Be sure to bag your room early, it’s a much sought after destination.
mull
Instantly recognisable by the cheerfully painted houses of the harbour town of Tobermory, Mull understandably draws attention. Diverse, culturally rich and picturesque, it’s easily accessible by boat from Oban and a jumping off point for a day trip to the Hebridean gems of hallowed Iona and Staffa and the fantastic Fingal’s Cave.
speyside
No need to be a malt whisky lover to divert along this gloriously verdant river valley and discover the ancient crafts alive and well in a rural Celtic enclave. However, if you are partial to a wee dram, strengthen the love affair with a distillery tour and tasting.
More than a place to slEep
A key part of your once-in-a-lifetime experience, our accommodation is carefully hand-picked and painstakingly scrutinised. From five-star castles to lochside lodges and cosy country inns, a warm and friendly welcome awaits you on your Scottish journey. On this tour, you could stay at one of these delightful destinations:
rufflets
Set within ten acres of beautifully landscaped gardens on the outskirts of St Andrews, Rufflets is one of Scotland’s most charming country house hotels. Combining timeless elegance with a warm, family-run atmosphere, this award-winning hotel offers a peaceful retreat just minutes from the historic heart of St Andrews and its world-famous golf courses.
the balmoral arms
Located in the heart of the picturesque village of Ballater, The Balmoral Arms offers a refined yet relaxed Highland retreat. Blending traditional Scottish charm with modern comfort, this elegant inn provides a warm welcome to all who come to explore Royal Deeside, a region beloved by generations of the Royal Family.
the lovat
Nestled in the picturesque village of Fort Augustus, overlooking the southern tip of Loch Ness, The Lovat offers a blend of contemporary luxury, warm Highland hospitality, and a deep respect for its stunning natural surroundings. This charming eco-conscious hotel provides the perfect base for exploring the dramatic landscapes of the Scottish Highlands.
rEviews
We’re trusted by clients across the world to make their Celtic adventure the trip of a lifetime. Hear what they have to say:
gAllery
enQuire about this Tour
experiences
what’s
inclUded?
Your Celtic Routes North Coast 500 package includes everything you need to enjoy your tour of Scotland to the fullest. From a spacious Land Rover suited to the wilder parts of your Celtic adventure, to a dedicated app featuring your itinerary, map and weather forecast, you can be safe in the knowledge we’re with you every step of the way.
Land Rover Hire
Full insurance for 2 people
Accommodation
Breakfast each day
Personalised handover and collection
Detailed personalised trip notes
Dedicated expert travel advisor
App navigation
Detailed day to day information
