Unforgettable 13-Night Scotland Family Adventure from Edinburgh to the Western Isles

Day 1: Edinburgh Arrival

Edinburgh, Scotland on August 3, 2025

10:30am

Edinburgh Airport Arrival and Transfer to Hotel

Complete customs and transfer to your centrally located family-friendly hotel in Edinburgh, dropping off luggage and resting briefly after the overnight flight.
Included, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Henderson's Salad Table

Enjoy a fresh and wholesome vegetarian lunch spot with seasonal Scottish produce, popular and cozy for families.
GBP15, 1h

1:30pm

Edinburgh Castle

Explore Edinburgh Castle, a historic fortress that offers stunning views of the city and interactive exhibits perfect for children and adults alike.
GBP19.50, Advance booking recommended, 2h

4:00pm

Walk the Royal Mile

Leisurely walk down the Royal Mile, exploring shops, street performers, and historic spots, easily accessible and child-friendly.
Free, 1.5h

6:00pm

Dinner at Howies Victoria

Dine on classic Scottish cuisine in a casual and welcoming atmosphere fitting for families.
GBP25, 1.5h
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Day 2: Edinburgh Culture Day

Edinburgh, Scotland on August 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Urban Angel

Start with hearty Scottish breakfast options and child-friendly dishes in this popular café.
GBP10, 1h

9:30am

National Museum of Scotland

Discover natural history, Scottish artifacts, and interactive exhibits for children in this large, free museum open 10am-5pm.
Free, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Oink for Scottish Hog Roast

Grab delicious hog roast sandwiches, a unique quick treat loved by children and adults.
GBP8, 1h

2:00pm

Edinburgh Zoo Visit

Take a bus to Edinburgh Zoo (open 10am-5pm), home to giant pandas and a great family outing with easy walking trails.
GBP22 adult, GBP14 child, 3h

6:00pm

Dinner at The Sheep Heid Inn

Enjoy a historic pub atmosphere with hearty food options and a welcoming vibe for families.
GBP20, 1.5h
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Day 3: Edinburgh to Cairngorms

Edinburgh to Aviemore, Scotland on August 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Have a relaxed breakfast at your hotel before picking up your rental car.
Included with lodging, 1h

9:30am

Car Pickup in Edinburgh

Pick up your rental car from a central location in Edinburgh for the road trip north to the Cairngorms.
Included in rental, 30m

10:00am

Drive to Aviemore

Scenic 2.5-hour drive north to Aviemore in the Cairngorms National Park, with a gentle pace and a stop for breaks as needed.
Fuel approx GBP25, 2h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Old Bridge Inn

Enjoy traditional Scottish pub fare with a riverside setting in Aviemore, welcoming for families.
GBP20, 1h

2:00pm

Rothiemurchus Forest Trail

Take a gentle 1-hour family hike on marked woodland trails suitable for children, spotting wildlife and enjoying nature.
Entry free (donation appreciated), 1h

4:00pm

Check-in B&B in Aviemore

Settle into a cozy local bed and breakfast, perfect for a comfortable family stay for 3 nights.
GBP120 per night, N/A

6:00pm

Dinner at The Winking Owl

Try fresh local seafood and kid-friendly menu options in this charming restaurant in Aviemore.
GBP25, 1.5h
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Day 4: Cairngorms Hiking

Aviemore, Scotland on August 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at the B&B

Enjoy a hearty Scottish breakfast including eggs, porridge, and fresh fruit to fuel your day.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Loch an Eilein Walk

Take the spectacular 1.5-hour easy hike around Loch an Eilein with stunning views and castle ruins—a favorite for families.
Free, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Cairngorm Hotel

Relax with Scottish comfort food in a historic hotel setting, suitable for all ages.
GBP20, 1h

2:00pm

Cairngorm Reindeer Center Visit

Meet and learn about free-roaming reindeer, an exciting and educational experience for the child and adults alike.
GBP15 adult, GBP8 child, 2h

5:00pm

Relax at Hotel or Take a Short Walk in Aviemore

Enjoy some free time to explore the village, visit shops or rest before dinner.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Old School Restaurant

Dine on local produce and family favorites in a casual yet quality setting.
GBP25, 1.5h
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Day 5: Cairngorms to Isle of Skye

Aviemore to Isle of Skye, Scotland on August 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at B&B

Enjoy breakfast before a scenic drive west towards the Isle of Skye.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Drive to Isle of Skye

Drive approximately 3 hours to the Isle of Skye, breaking stops as needed for comfort and sightseeing.
Fuel approx GBP30, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Old Inn, Carbost

Enjoy traditional Scottish fare with views and family-friendly atmosphere near the famous Talisker Distillery.
GBP20, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Talisker Distillery (family visit)

Take a guided tour of Talisker Distillery (age restrictions in tasting room - non-drinking members enjoy visitor center and grounds), learning about whisky making on Skye.
GBP12 adult, free for child, 1h

3:30pm

Check-in to local B&B on Isle of Skye

Settle into a comfortable family-friendly B&B for 3 nights close to Portree or Carbost.
GBP130 per night, N/A

5:00pm

Short walk at Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls

Enjoy a quick 30-45 minute easy scenic walk with stunning cliff views and waterfalls, great for families with kids.
Free, 45m

7:00pm

Dinner at The Rosedale Hotel Restaurant

Family-friendly dining featuring local ingredients and fresh seafood.
GBP30, 1.5h
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Day 6: Isle of Skye Exploration

Isle of Skye, Scotland on August 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at B&B

Start the day with a local Scottish breakfast to prepare for outdoor activities.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Fairy Pools Walk

Do a 1.5-hour easy hike to the famous Fairy Pools with crystal-clear blue waters, a magical experience for the family.
Free, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Glenbrittle Café

Casual café nearby to refuel with soups, sandwiches and treats for kids.
GBP15, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Dunvegan Castle and Gardens

Explore the historic castle of Clan MacLeod with beautiful gardens and seals boat tour option (summer times approx 2-4:30pm).
GBP16 adult, GBP8 child, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Sea Breezes

Enjoy pizza and seafood in a casual setting the whole family will appreciate.
GBP25, 1.5h
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Day 7: Isle of Skye to Lewis & Harris

Isle of Skye to Stornoway, Outer Hebrides on August 9, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at B&B

Early breakfast before a full travel day with ferry to the Western Isles.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Uig Ferry Terminal

About 1.5 hours drive to Uig for ferry crossing to the Isle of Lewis.
Fuel approx GBP15, 1h30m

10:00am

Ferry from Uig to Tarbert, Harris

Take approximately 2h30m ferry crossing with vehicle to Harris and Lewis, scenic views en route.
GBP60 approx, 2h30m

12:30pm

Lunch on Ferry or at Tarbert

Grab lunch onboard or in Tarbert, casual café options to suit family needs.
GBP15-20, 1h

2:00pm

Drive to Stornoway

Drive 1.5 hours to Stornoway, main town of Isle of Lewis, checking in to B&B for 2 nights.
GBP120/night, 1h30m

4:00pm

Explore Lews Castle Grounds

Visit the castle and surrounding park area for a leisurely walk and picnic option, open daily around 10am-5pm.
GBP10, 1.5h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Stein Inn

Historic inn with hearty fare and children’s menu, perfect to conclude the day.
GBP25, 1.5h
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Day 8: Lewis Cultural Day

Stornoway, Isle of Lewis, Scotland on August 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at B&B

Leisurely breakfast with local specialities before a day full of cultural exploration.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Callanish Standing Stones

Visit this famous prehistoric site with walking trails around giant stone circles, great for kids to explore (open daily 9am-7pm).
GBP8 adult, GBP4 child, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Carroll’s Bistro

Casual family-friendly dining in Stornoway serving fresh local produce and seafood.
GBP20, 1h

1:30pm

The Gearrannan Blackhouse Village

Explore these restored traditional houses with interactive exhibits and craft workshops (open daily 10am-5pm).
GBP8 adult, GBP5 child, 2h

4:00pm

Beach Time at Luskentyre Sands

Relax at one of Scotland’s most breathtaking beaches with white sands and shallow waters, ideal for families to unwind.
Free, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Red Lantern

Enjoy international cuisine with local twists in a welcoming family spot in Stornoway.
GBP25, 1.5h
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Day 9: Lewis to Loch Ness

Stornoway to Loch Ness, Scotland on August 11, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at B&B

Start early with a filling breakfast to prepare for the long travel back to the mainland.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Ferry from Tarbert to Uig

Return ferry crossing approx 2h30m back to Isle of Skye.
GBP60 approx, 2h30m

11:00am

Drive towards Loch Ness

Drive 3 hours from Uig through beautiful landscapes to your chosen accommodation near Loch Ness, taking breaks to keep it comfortable.
Fuel approx GBP35, 3h

2:30pm

Lunch en route at Invermoriston

Stop at a charming café serving local dishes in Invermoriston village.
GBP20, 1h

4:00pm

Check-in Hotel or B&B near Loch Ness

Relax and settle into your countryside accommodation for 2 nights, ideally family-friendly and quiet.
GBP140 per night, N/A

5:30pm

Loch Ness Shores Walk

Take an easy 1-2 hour walk along the scenic Loch Ness shoreline with chances of spotting wildlife and panoramic views.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at The Dores Inn

Enjoy traditional Scottish meals in a cozy inn setting by the waterside.
GBP25, 1.5h
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Day 10: Loch Ness & Inverness

Loch Ness / Inverness, Scotland on August 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at accommodation

Prepare for a day full of gentle exploration and history.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Urquhart Castle Visit

Explore the ruins of Urquhart Castle with stunning Loch Ness views, ideal for a short family walk and history lesson (open 9:30am-5:30pm).
GBP12.50 adult, GBP6 child, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch in Inverness at Velocity Café & Bicycle Workshop

Enjoy relaxed café dining with fresh, locally sourced meals perfect for families.
GBP15, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Inverness Castle Grounds & Walk Along River Ness

Take a gentle 1-2 hour walk exploring the castle grounds and riverside paths with playground stops for kids.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Family Golf Lesson at Inverness Golf Club

Book a private 1-hour family golf lesson tailored to beginners and children to enjoy fun golf introduction.
GBP60 per family, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Mustard Seed

Modern Scottish bistro with diverse menu, accommodating children and adults.
GBP30, 1.5h
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Loch Ness to Pitlochry

Loch Ness to Pitlochry, Scotland on August 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast and check-out

Enjoy your last breakfast next to Loch Ness and prepare for your next scenic drive.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Drive to Pitlochry

About 2.5 hours drive to Pitlochry, a charming town known for its festivals and scenic walks, give breaks for comfort.
Fuel approx GBP20, 2h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Morton's Coffee Lounge

Enjoy fresh home-baked food and a relaxed atmosphere in this locally loved café.
GBP18, 1h

2:00pm

Walk at Black Spout Trail

Gentle 1.5 hour hike to a beautiful waterfall near Pitlochry, perfect for a family nature experience.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Check-in to B&B or local inn

Stay 2 nights in a cozy family-friendly accommodation.
GBP110 per night, N/A

6:30pm

Dinner at Victoria’s Restaurant

Enjoy refined but welcoming family dining with Scottish flavors and kid options.
GBP30, 1.5h
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Day 12: Pitlochry Festivities

Pitlochry, Scotland on August 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at accommodation

Fuel up for a day focused on local culture and festival experiences (check local events schedule).
Included, 1h

10:00am

Highland Games or Festival Visit

Attend a Highland Games event or other cultural festival if available; Pitlochry hosts events in August featuring games, music, and dancing.
Ticket price varies; approx GBP15 adult, free for children, 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at The Auld Smiddy Inn

Traditional pub lunch with friendly atmosphere and Scottish specialties.
GBP20, 1h

3:00pm

Daniels’ Walk

Easy 1-hour nature walk along the River Faskally with wildlife spotting opportunities, perfect for children.
Free, 1h

5:00pm

Relax or Explore Town Shops

Leisure time in Pitlochry to explore boutiques or relax.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Old Mill Inn

Enjoy a cozy dining experience with diverse Scottish dishes and kid-friendly meals.
GBP25, 1.5h
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Day 13: Pitlochry to Edinburgh

Pitlochry to Edinburgh, Scotland on August 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast and Check-out

Final breakfast before heading back to Edinburgh for your last night.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Drive to Edinburgh

Scenic 2.5-hour drive back to Edinburgh to drop off your rental car and spend your last day in the city.
Fuel approx GBP20, 2h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at The Elephant House

Famous café where J.K. Rowling wrote, offering a relaxed atmosphere and views of Edinburgh Castle.
GBP15, 1h

2:00pm

Edinburgh Royal Botanic Garden

Spend a peaceful afternoon strolling the beautiful gardens with plenty of space for a child to play and learn about nature; open 10am-6pm.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Hotel Check-in and Pack

Settle into a comfortable Edinburgh hotel near the airport for easy morning departure.
GBP160 per night, N/A

7:00pm

Final Dinner at Toasted

Enjoy your farewell Scottish meal with modern dishes suitable for the whole family.
GBP30, 1.5h
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