Day 1 to day 4

Day 1

Dunnotter Castle

We depart from our designated pick-up points and head to Dunnottar Castle, one of the most striking ruined castles to be found in Scotland. The dramatic location perched on the top of soaring sea cliffs and surrounded by the sea on three sides only adds to the mystical atmosphere. It has played a crucial role throughout Scottish history, but is originally known as a Pictish fortress. Meals Included Dinner

Day 2

Castle Fraser

We start at Castle Fraser, one of the grandest of the Scottish baronial tower houses. Built between 1575 and 1636 by the 6th laird, Michael Fraser, Castle Fraser is the most elaborate Z-plan castle in Scotland. One of the castle’s most evocative rooms is the strikingly simple Great Hall. The castle contains many Fraser family portraits, including one by Raeburn, and fine 18th- and 19th-century carpets, curtains, and bed hangings, and even Charles Mackenzie Fraser’s wooden leg! The estate contains a flight pond, mixed woodland, and open farmland, with two waymarked walks giving magnificent views of the local hills. The historic walled garden features shrubs, flowers, wall-trained fruit, and vegetables.

In the afternoon we visit Drum Castle. The sweep of 700 years of history is stamped into Drum’s stalwart battlements, medieval square tower, and sprawling extensions. The Royal Forest and Tower of Drum were given to the Irvine family by Robert the Bruce in 1323. Later a Jacobean mansion house was added, and in the Victorian era the lower hall was converted to a library. The beautiful Garden of Historic Roses is divided into quadrants that show how roses have been cultivated from the 17th to the 20th century. The ancient oak forest adjoins the castle, providing a sense of continuity through the centuries and a home for red kites, roe deer, red squirrels, and badgers.

Meals Included Breakfast and Dinner

Day 3

Crathes Castle

This morning, we visit Crathes Castle, set against a backdrop of rolling hills and within its glorious gardens. Crathes is every inch the classic Scottish tower house, with a labyrinth of cultural and family history. The castle is renowned for its magnificent painted ceilings, dating back to the 16th century, and its collection of antique furniture and artwork, which offers a glimpse into the lives of the Burnett family, who resided here for centuries. Afterwards, we enjoy a scenic tour of Royal Deeside. This picturesque region is celebrated for its rolling landscapes, sparkling rivers and historic villages. Known as the playground of royalty, Royal Deeside offers a glimpse into the natural beauty that has captivated monarchs for generations. We explore charming towns such as Ballater, famous for its royal connections, and admire breath-taking views along the River Dee.

Meals Included Breakfast and Dinner

Day 4

Balmoral

We begin our day at Balmoral, a renowned royal residence that requires little introduction. Constructed around 1854 for Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, it is relatively modern yet clearly styled as a Scottish castle. The estate covers over 50,000 acres and includes woodlands, lochs and mountains, providing a breathtaking natural setting. Balmoral’s interiors combine Victorian elegance with Scottish charm, featuring antique furniture, tartan décor, and artworks that reflect the royal family’s history and preferences. The stunning gardens, designed by Prince Albert, offer a mix of formal and informal landscaping. The castle itself stands as a symbol of the royal family’s deep-rooted connection to Scotland and its traditions. After our visit, we reboard the coach and return to our original pick-up points.

Meals Included Breakfast