As a New Zealand-based guide, I spend much of my year introducing travellers to the mountains, coastlines and stories of Aotearoa. Recently, however, I swapped the Southern Cross for the Northern equivalent, spending a season guiding G Adventures’ Highlights of Scotland trip.
At first glance, the two countries have more in common than you might think. Both are home to around five million people, shaped by dramatic landscapes, changing weather and a love of the outdoors. But Scotland offers something New Zealand can’t compete with: thousands of years of recorded history.
Every castle and ‘glen’ (valley) has a story to tell, making this seven-day itinerary a fascinating introduction to one of Europe’s most captivating countries. Or, as the Scots might say, it’s a ’truly braw’ adventure.
Watching travellers gradually become fluent in Scottish jargon is a highlight. Scran. Haggis and neeps. Jacobites. Clans. Bonnie Prince Charlie. Culloden. Glens. Lochs. At first, it can feel like a lot to take in. As the journey unfolds, these pieces begin to connect, and suddenly the places you’re visiting tell a much bigger story.
Edinburgh: a city built on stories
The journey begins in Edinburgh, one of Europe’s most captivating capital cities. By the time the group gathers for the welcome meeting, many travellers have already spent a few hours exploring the Scottish capital. Perhaps wandering the Royal Mile, visiting Edinburgh Castle, discovering hidden closes or tackling Arthur’s Seat.
That evening, the group comes together over a traditional pub meal, sharing first impressions, getting to know one another and perhaps discovering a taste for whisky while hearing the word ‘wee’ more times than you can count.
The following morning begins atop Calton Hill, where panoramic views stretch across the Old Town, New Town and Edinburgh Castle. It’s the perfect place to appreciate how Edinburgh was shaped by its volcanic landscape, medieval origins and later Enlightenment-era expansion into the elegant Georgian New Town.
Into the Highlands
Leaving the capital behind, the scenery gradually begins to change. The first stop is the spectacular trio of Firth of Forth bridges lookout. Together they showcase more than a century of engineering, from the iconic red UNESCO-listed Forth Bridge to the modern Queensferry Crossing. Crossing the estuary also marks the transition from the Lowlands into the Highlands.
As the road heads north, rolling farmland gives way to rugged mountains and deep glens. In the Victorian town of Pitlochry, there’s time to explore colourful streets, enjoy lunch and, if you’re lucky, witness Atlantic salmon battling their way upstream through the famous salmon ladder to the rivers where they were born.
The scenery becomes even more dramatic in the Cairngorms National Park, the largest in the United Kingdom. A gentle walk beside Loch Morlich, surrounded by ancient Caledonian pine forest and mountain views, offers a glimpse into Scotland’s wild heart.
By evening, the group arrives at Inverness, the so-called ‘Capital of the Highlands’. After a day on the road, it might just be time for your next wee dram.
Nessie, castles and Jacobite legends
If there’s one chapter of Scottish history that helps unlock much of the Highlands, it’s the Jacobite Rising of 1745. In simple terms, the Jacobites supported the exiled Stuart monarchy under Bonnie Prince Charlie in an attempt to reclaim the British throne. Although the campaign ended in defeat, its legacy continues to shape Highland identity and Scotland’s national story.
That story comes vividly to life at Culloden Battlefield. Beginning in the excellent interactive visitor centre before stepping onto the windswept moor itself, it’s one thing to learn about the battle and quite another to stand among the clan memorial stones where the Jacobite Rising came to its tragic conclusion. For many, it’s one of the most moving experiences of the trip.
From there, the journey continues to the legendary waters of Loch Ness where, let’s be honest, most travellers arrive hoping to spot Nessie.
Despite decades of stories and speculation, Scotland’s most famous resident remains wonderfully elusive. Yet there’s something undeniably magical about cruising across the dark waters of Loch Ness. Stretching more than 35km (21.7 mi) through the Great Glen, its peat-stained waters provide the perfect hiding place.
The cruise ends at Urquhart Castle, where there’s time to explore one of Scotland’s most spectacular ruins. Perched above the loch, the castle has witnessed centuries of conflict and changing allegiances, while its dramatic setting continues to attract filmmakers and photographers from around the world.
As if the day hasn’t already delivered enough Scottish icons, the journey back to Inverness usually includes one final stop to meet Highland cows. Their shaggy coats, sweeping horns and gentle personalities rarely fail to steal the show.
The magic of Skye
This is one of the trip’s biggest driving days, but also one of its most rewarding. Dramatic coastlines, towering cliffs and glimpses of Scottish heather combine with ancient folklore to create landscapes that feel almost mythical.
Before reaching Skye, there’s a brief stop at one of Scotland’s most photographed landmarks: Eilean Donan Castle. Perched on a tiny island where three sea lochs meet, it has become one of the defining images of Scotland and has appeared in films including Highlander and James Bond.
Further north, the adventure continues at Sligachan Old Bridge, where legend promises eternal youth to anyone brave enough to hold their face beneath the icy water for seven seconds. Results may vary, but it’s a wee moment of fun before lunch in the charming town of Portree, with an iconic harbourfront lined with pastel-coloured houses, fresh fish and chips and bakeries selling famous donuts.
Then comes one of the trip’s highlights: the hike to the Old Man of Storr. The climb is steep and the weather famously unpredictable, but the reward is unforgettable. Towering rock pinnacles rise above the landscape, remnants of one of Europe’s largest ancient landslides, and sweeping views stretch across the Trotternish Peninsula towards the sea.
The day finishes with the journey back across the western Highlands to Fort William, our base for the next adventure.
Steam trains, mountains and movie magic
The morning begins at Glenfinnan, where history and Hollywood meet. The famous viaduct became known around the world through the Harry Potter films, and watching the Jacobite Steam Train (the Hogwart’s Express) cross its 21 arches is a magical sight for muggles.
Nearby, Loch Shiel and the Glenfinnan Monument mark the place where Bonnie Prince Charlie first raised his standard in 1745, bringing the Jacobite story full circle after visiting Culloden earlier in the trip.
The adventure continues beneath Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the United Kingdom. Whether you choose a gentle walk or admire the mountain from atop (via the gondola), it’s impossible not to appreciate the scale of the surrounding landscape.
The afternoon becomes yours to enjoy Fort William, Scotland’s outdoor adventure capital. Wander the independent shops and cafés, explore Loch Linnhe by foot or boat, sample a local whisky or simply relax and soak up the Highland atmosphere before the journey continues south.
Glencoe, whisky and Highland hospitality
The final drive through Glencoe provides a spectacular finale. Carved by glaciers and steeped in history, the glen has featured in many films including Skyfall, where James Bond and M shared their poignant final journey together.
A stop at the famous Three Sisters viewpoint offers one last opportunity to appreciate the Highlands. On a sunny day the mountains stretch endlessly into the distance; after rain, countless temporary waterfalls spill down the cliffs, transforming the landscape all over again.
As the journey continues towards Glasgow, there’s one final Scottish tradition to experience: whisky. Visiting the Clyde Distillery offers insight into the country’s national drink, from traditional production methods to the subtle differences between regional styles. Whether you’re already a whisky enthusiast or tasting your first dram, it’s a fitting toast to an unforgettable week.
Glasgow offers a different side of Scotland once more. With free time to explore, you can admire its striking Victorian and Art Nouveau architecture, browse world-class museums and galleries, enjoy a little retail therapy or simply soak up the busy atmosphere before gathering one last time for a farewell dinner.
These shared adventures have a way of bringing people together and there’s no better place to celebrate than over one final meal, raising a glass and saying ‘Slàinte mhath!’.
Why Scotland continues to surprise me
Coming from New Zealand, I thought I had a good appreciation for dramatic landscapes and life lived outdoors. While the two countries share that adventurous spirit, Scotland has a character entirely its own. It’s woven through castles, glens, lochs and the stories of the people who call this place home.
Whether you’re hiking on Skye, searching for Nessie, admiring the trains or enjoying a wee dram in the Highlands, Scotland has a remarkable way of staying with you long after you’ve returned home.
If Scotland is on your travel wish list, I’d simply say this: go. You may even discover why the Scots have a phrase for those who fall in love with their country… Haste ye back.
Experience all this and more on like CEO Tom on: Highlights of Scotland
