Hairy Coos & Highland Views: A Short Escape from Edinburgh – Stirling, United Kingdom
Join a day tour from Edinburgh, exploring Scotland’s stunning landscapes and rich history. Choose between touring a whisky distillery, or explore Blackness Castle and its dramatic riverside setting.
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Departing from Edinburgh, we leave the bustle of the city behind and set off on a scenic day trip through Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes, rich history and heritage.
Early in the journey, you’ll see the spectacular Kelpies – the towering 30-metre sculptures celebrating Scotland’s mythical horses – and catch views of historic Stirling. Look out for the Wallace Monument and Stirling Castle, one of Scotland’s grandest and most significant strongholds.
Our first stop will be either Blackness Castle or Deanston Distillery, depending on the option you choose.
If you choose the Castle option, we’ll stop at Blackness Castle for an optional visit. Explore this mighty 15th-century fortress, dramatically perched on the Firth of Forth. Known as “the ship that never sailed” because of its distinctive shape, Blackness Castle has served as a royal residence, garrison fortress, and prison, and offers striking views across the water. You may also recognise it from the tv show “Outlander” where it featured as Fort William.
If you choose the Whisky Distillery option, we’ll head to Deanston Distillery, a former cotton mill turned renowned whisky produce. Join us on an optional guided tour revealing the time-honoured craft of whisky-making. Learn the fascinating history of this unique site and conclude with a tasting of Deanston’s signature single malts. You can also enjoy a relaxing stroll by the River Teith or unwind in the distillery’s cosy Coffee Bothy.
Then, we journey deeper into the heart of the Trossachs to Loch Katrine, a stunning freshwater loch famed for its tranquil beauty. Immortalised in Sir Walter Scott’s poem The Lady of the Lake, Loch Katrine is surrounded by forests and mountains, offering classic Highland scenery perfect for relaxation and photos.
We’ll also make make our way past Loch Achray, a smaller but equally picturesque loch nestled between Ben A’an and Ben Venue. This peaceful spot offers another chance to soak in the serene beauty of the Scottish Highlands.
No Scottish adventure is complete without meeting the iconic Hairy Coos – the legendary Highland cattle. Enjoy a photo stop with these shaggy, gentle creatures that have become synonymous with Scotland’s rural landscape.
On our return, we’ll pause briefly at Queensferry, a charming town on the Firth of Forth. Take in panoramic views of the famous bridges spanning the estuary, including the striking red Forth Rail Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Finally, we head back to Edinburgh, having experienced some of Scotland’s most famous landmarks, admired its spectacular countryside and perhaps sampled a taste of its finest whisky or explored a 15h century fortress – all in one unforgettable day. We aim to return to the capital by around 5 PM.
Enjoy a scenic sampling of Scotland’s nature, history and heritage!
Relax by the tranquil waters of Loch Katrine and take in the stunning scenery
Discover the charming town of Queensferry and its iconic Forth Bridges
Tour Deanston Distillery, enjoy a single malt whisky tasting (Distillery option)
Explore Blackness Castle and its stunning riverside views (Castle option)
Includes:
Experienced ‘Hairy Coo’ Driver Guide providing live commentary and storytelling throughout
Travel on one of our luxury, modern, air-conditioned coaches
Photo stops at iconic locations
Visit to Deanston Distillery (tour optional)
Scenic drive through the Scottish Highlands
Stop at Loch Katrine, in the heart of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Meals and drinks
Tips (optional)
Distillery Option only: Deanston Distillery (tickets purchasable on the day of tour)
Castle Option only: Blackness Castle (tickets purchasable on the day of tour)
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