Stirling Castle, Highland Lochs and Whisky

On our short journey to Stirling (travel time approximately 1 hour) we briefly pass Linlithgow Palace, birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots and one of several palaces built originally for Scotland’s Kings and Queens. Although only a quick glimpse it’s a fascinating reminder of Scotland’s past.

During the Wars of Independence Stirling Castle was seen as the ‘key’ to the Kingdom of Scotland and was home to the Scottish Royals until the early 17th century.

Plenty of photo stops

Lots of time off the bus

Stirling Castle

Arguably Scotland’s most important historic building, Stirling is undoubtedly a great castle. A recent survey rated it the UK’s favourite heritage attraction in terms of value for money, customer service and quality of information. It also featured in Lonely Planet’s recent list of Europe’s 40 “most amazing experiences”.

We stop here for at least 1 hour 15 minutes where you will have the option to tour the castle itself. For guaranteed entry please pre book tickets for 10:00 entry slot at www.stirlingcastle.scot. Alternatively, simply stroll around Old Stirling (ancient capital of Scotland). The view from Stirling Castle across the River Forth to the National Wallace Monument is inspiring.

The key to the Kingdom

Beautiful views

Scotland’s greatest patriot, Sir William Wallace, launched an attack on the occupying English forces from here and his spectacular success at the Battle of Stirling Bridge (September 11th, 1297) is the stuff of legend.

The Wee Red Bus on the Duke's Pass scenic drive

After departing Stirling Castle we’re soon face-to-face with our great friends, the hairy Highland cows, everyone’s favourite photo stop (April to October).

Our journey to Aberfoyle takes us along the banks of Lochs Venachar and Achray, through the beautiful Trossachs – the ‘Highlands in Miniature’ – and over the Duke’s Pass scenic drive, a stunning Highland landscape of lochs and mountains.

This is Rob Roy country, popularised by Sir Walter Scott’s books and poems. Legends and superstition of faeries or ‘wee people’ abound in these hills…

Highland cow at Loch Lomond

From Aberfoyle it’s only a short distance to Loch Lomond. We follow the Highland Boundary Fault as we go; a coast-to-coast geological rift which defines the landscape of this area. It is visible with the naked eye when we arrive at Balmaha, Loch Lomond.

Glengoyne Distillery

Loch Lomond nature walk and Highland viewpoint

Scotland’s geological definition between Highlands and Lowlands can be seen in all its glory from here! Loch Lomond and the Trossachs were designated Scotland’s first National Park in 2002 and it remains an extremely popular area with locals and visitors alike.

Here, by the famous ‘bonnie banks’, your guide will accompany you on a short nature walk, culminating in a superb Highland viewpoint and photo opportunity over Scotland’s largest lake and the Arrochar Alps mountain range.

We finish the day at Glengoyne Distillery, situated in a wooded valley in the southern Highlands. The distillery, which takes its name from ‘Glen Guin’ or Glen of the Wild Geese, has been producing a high quality single malt for nearly 200 years.

The Wee Red Bus at Glengoyne Distillery

Here you can enjoy a tutored tasting of two Glengoyne Highland Single Malt Whiskies and learn about the bold, complex flavours which have been matured in the finest casks (Heart of Scotland special 15% discounted rate – adults £15.50, under 18s free).