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 A Highland Dream: My Scottish Adventure with CIE Tours

Scotland had long lived on my travel bucket list—a land of rugged beauty, storied history, and irresistible charm. In July, I finally made the journey with a handful of travel companions through CIE Tours’ “Scottish Dream” small group itinerary, and I can confidently say it exceeded every expectation. With just 13 in my group and 23 of us on the bus, we experienced the perfect balance of structure, discovery, and personal connection that can only happen in a small group setting.

Our journey started in Glasgow, Scotland’s vibrant cultural hub. We wandered through the striking Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, an eclectic space nestled in Glasgow’s leafy West End. The museum offered everything from Renaissance paintings to natural history exhibits, setting a thoughtful tone for the days ahead.

From city sights, we journeyed into nature. The stunning Loch Lomond offered one of the first true moments of awe on our trip. A breezy cruise across its calm waters gave us a fresh perspective on the storied Scottish Highlands, where myths linger in the mist and every glen tells a tale. Not far from there, Inveraray Castle stood proudly—a stately home with centuries of heritage and Gatsby-level interiors. We even met the Duke and Duchess of Argyll who are the current heirs residing in Inveraray Castle - a stronghold for Clan Campbell for centuries. 

It was on the Isle of Skye that Scotland’s wild beauty showed its full magic. As we crossed into the island, dramatic cliffs, emerald moors, and cascading waterfalls greeted us at every turn through the mists. Our fabulous guide, John, filled the bus with local legends—some whimsical, some haunting—and suddenly landscapes seemed to take on personalities of their own. We wandered the beautiful, romantic, and somewhat desolate grounds of Armadale Castle - the seat of the very prominent Clan Donald. In contrast, tranquil Loch Ness (yes, we scanned the water for Nessie!) offered serene surroundings and the ruins of Urquhart Castle, standing sentinel on its shores.

Our time at Culloden Battlefield was sobering. This was one of my favorite stops as I've always been a reader of history of the British Isles and was a big item on my bucket list. Standing on the windswept moor where the last battle on British soil was fought in 1746, we felt history reach out from the stones beneath our feet. The grave markers of the various clans who lost so many on the fateful day were a stark reminder of the battle and how it changed history for Scotland.  The visitor center offered immersive storytelling that deepened our understanding of Scotland’s complex past and Bonnie Prince Charlie's ambitious but ill-planned undertaking. 

A favorite highlight with the group was watching an authentic sheepdog demonstration near Aviemore. With the Highlands rising in the background, we stood captivated as a skilled shepherd (one of two remaining in Scotland still practicing the traditional sheepherding) and his remarkably intelligent dogs moved sheep with uncanny precision. It was a charming—yet powerful—glimpse into the bond between tradition and nature.

Our taste buds got a treat in Pitlochry, a picturesque Victorian village nestled in Perthshire. After exploring its winding streets and quaint shops, we made our way to the Blair Athol Distillery. The tour gave an intimate look at the craftsmanship behind each bottle before we sampled a rich, peaty "wee dram" that warmed us from the inside out. That day also included a visit to Blair Castle—stunning in white and filled with centuries' worth of Highland pride.

As we approached the end of our journey, we visited Glamis Castle, said to be the inspiration for Shakespeare’s Macbeth and the childhood home of the Queen Mother. Its turrets and tapestries told stories of royalty and mystery. That same day, we paid a visit to the university town of St. Andrews, with its crumbling cathedral, seaside golf courses, and youthful energy. Several golfers in our group even got to hit a few balls on the practice mounds!

Our trip culminated in Edinburgh, where we enjoyed a guided tour of Edinburgh Castle, sat high above the city on Castle Rock. From the Crown Jewels to panoramic views over the New Town, the experience was unforgettable. We then had two days to explore the capital on our own—wandered the medieval closes of the Old Town, visited Holyrood Palace, toured the Royal Britannia Yacht, strolled the boutique-lined Royal Mile, and even climbed Arthur’s Seat for sunset views over the Firth of Forth. of course, there was lots of shopping and some afternoon teas!

What made this trip truly special was our group. Traveling with a small group meant we got to know one another quickly. There was always someone to share a laugh with, swap stories, and sit beside during a scenic drive. It's why I LOVE escorting groups! Our CIE guide, John and driver Johnny, was more than just knowledgeable; their passion for Scotland brought every castle, coastline, and countryside hamlet to life.

There’s something irreplaceable about a small group experience—the flexibility, the camaraderie, and the ability to explore without feeling rushed or lost among a crowd. On narrow Highland roads and tucked-away village paths, our compact group allowed for accessibility that big tours just couldn’t offer.

Scotland, with its heart-stirring vistas and rich tapestry of stories, stole a piece of my heart. And thanks to CIE’s thoughtful itinerary and the intimate nature of our group, the journey felt as personal as it was adventurous. Whether you're a fan of history, nature, whisky, or simply a beautiful landscape, Scotland delivers it all—and with CIE, those experiences become unforgettable.

Until next time, Alba gu bràth—Scotland Forever!