Scotland's Royal Retreats

We enjoy an en route visit to Stirling Castle, one of Scotland's historical treasures. The castle sits atop Castle Hill, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It has been the backdrop for numerous historical events, including the coronation of several Scottish kings and queens. We explore the castle's grand halls, royal chambers and beautifully restored gardens. Later, we check into our main hotel, the Angus Hotel in Blairgowrie, in time for our evening meal.

This morning, we partake in an immersive experience at Gin Bothy and explore the rich history and craftsmanship behind their gins. Learn more about the unique flavours and botanicals used in their distillation process on our guided tour and enjoy sampling a selection of their finest creations.

Later, we travel to the spectacular Glamis Castle, home to the Earls of Strathmore and Kinghorne. Childhood home of Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother and the birthplace of Princess Margaret, the original 14^th-century castle was extensively restored in the 17th and 18th centuries in an elaborate French château style with majestic turrets and towers.

This morning, we visit Scone Palace, the crowning place of Scottish kings, including Robert the Bruce and Charles II and the family home of the Earls of Mansfield. We have time to explore the palace with its fine collections of furniture, porcelain, ivories, clocks, paintings and other objets d'art.

We then enjoy some free time in the beautiful city of Perth. Due to its location on the banks of the River Tay, it is often referred to as the ‘Gateway to the Highlands'. Scotland’s ancient capital for five centuries, Perth is a compact and cosmopolitan city offering sprawling parks, elegant Georgian townhouses, cobbled streets, outstanding monuments, art galleries, museums, independent shops and award-winning eateries.

This morning, we visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official Scottish residence of the monarch, nestled at the foot of the Royal Mile. Walking through its grand halls and intimate chambers, we are immersed in centuries of royal history – from the turbulent times of Mary, Queen of Scots, to the elegant State Apartments still used by the King today. The ruins of the 12th-century Holyrood Abbey add a haunting beauty to the palace grounds, echoing the weight of time and tradition.

Later, we make our way to the Mercure Hotel for our overnight stay, stopping en route in Berwick-upon-Tweed, a charming coastal town, to admire the Elizabethan walls and enjoy the scenic beauty of the River Tweed.