Edinburgh: Aberdeenshire, Balmoral Castle & Northeast Coast

Explore the captivating landscapes of northeast Scotland on this immersive 2-day tour from Edinburgh. Witness the iconic Forth Bridges, uncover the medieval charm of Dunnottar Castle, and explore the royal history of Balmoral. With a focus on personalized attention and small group sizes, this adventure offers an intimate glimpse into the region’s rich heritage and breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff or nature enthusiast, this tour promises to leave a lasting impression.

Key Points

• Explore northeast Scotland, including Aberdeenshire and Balmoral Castle, on a 2-day tour from Edinburgh.
• Visit iconic sights like the Forth Bridges, V&A Museum, Dunnottar Castle, and Crathes Castle.
• Enjoy a personalized experience in a small group of up to 16 participants.
• Tour includes transportation, accommodation, entry fees, and some meals, with the option to save up to 10%.
• Explore the scenic Cairngorms National Park and the charming town of Stonehaven.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This 2-day tour from Edinburgh offers travelers the chance to explore the highlights of northeast Scotland, including Aberdeenshire and the renowned Balmoral Castle.

Priced from $187.34 to $168.61 per person, the tour provides up to a 10% savings. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and a "reserve now, pay later" option, it’s easy to plan.

The small group size, limited to 16 participants, ensures a more personalized experience. Transportation by air-conditioned bus and a knowledgeable driver/guide are included, along with accommodation, entry fees, and some meals, making this an all-inclusive and convenient way to explore northeast Scotland.

Itinerary and Highlights

The 2-day tour departs Edinburgh and takes travelers on a journey through northeast Scotland’s captivating landscapes and historic sites.

A 2-day tour from Edinburgh exploring northeast Scotland’s enchanting landscapes and historic landmarks.

On day one, participants visit the iconic Forth Bridges, the V&A Museum in Dundee, and the dramatic Dunnottar Castle. They explore the charming town of Stonehaven before overnight in Aberdeen.

The second day begins with a visit to Crathes Castle, followed by lunch in Ballater and a tour of the grand Balmoral Castle.

The tour culminates with a scenic drive through the Cairngorms National Park, including the Devil’s Elbow viewpoint, before returning to Edinburgh.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour is operated using a small group format, limiting the number of participants to 16. This ensures a more personalized and intimate experience.

You’ll travel in an air-conditioned bus, with a driver/guide to handle the transportation and provide commentary along the way. The small group size allows for greater flexibility and the ability to navigate through narrow streets and access sites that larger tour buses cannot.

This means you’ll get to see more of the highlights without feeling crowded or rushed. The transportation is seamless, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the scenery.

Inclusions and Exclusions

Depending on the tour option selected, the tour includes accommodation, entry fees to all the highlighted attractions, as well as food and drinks during the journey.

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 4 years old, as the activities may be too strenuous. Pets aren’t allowed, except for assistance dogs.

Participants should come prepared with comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, as the tour operates in all weather conditions.

The tour departs from Castle Terrace in Edinburgh, outside the NCP Car Park, and the meeting point coordinates are ///casino.cove.works.

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Preparation and Meeting Point

Participants should come prepared with comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, as the tour operates in all weather conditions.

The meeting point is at Castle Terrace in Edinburgh, outside the NCP Car Park. This location can be found using the What3Words address "casino.cove.works".

The tour group size is limited to 16 participants, who’ll be transported by an air-conditioned bus with a driver/guide included.

Pets aren’t allowed, except for assistance dogs. The tour isn’t suitable for children under 4 years old.

Exploring the Forth Bridges and Dundee

Departing Edinburgh, the tour heads northeast, crossing the iconic Forth Bridges that span the Firth of Forth. This engineering marvel connects the Scottish capital to the east coast. The first stop is Dundee, home to the renowned V&A Museum.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Forth Bridges | Iconic suspension bridges over the Firth of Forth |

| V&A Museum | Acclaimed design museum showcasing Scottish creativity |

| Dundee | Vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage |

| Scenic Drive | Breathtaking coastal views during the journey |

Visitors can explore the striking modern architecture of the V&A and learn about Dundee’s storied past before continuing the tour through the rolling hills of Aberdeenshire.

Discovering Dunnottar Castle and Stonehaven

As the tour continues its journey through the stunning Aberdeenshire countryside, it makes its way to the iconic Dunnottar Castle, perched atop a rocky headland overlooking the North Sea.

Visitors are immediately captivated by the castle’s dramatic silhouette and its turbulent history. The tour explores the castle’s impressive ruins, learning about its role in Scotland’s past and the sieges it endured.

Leaving Dunnottar, the tour heads to the charming town of Stonehaven.

Highlights include:

1. Strolling along the harbor, admiring the colorful boats and quaint cottages.

2. Visiting the award-winning Tolbooth Museum to uncover the town’s maritime heritage.

3. Indulging in fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants.

The tour then continues on its journey, eager to discover more of northeast Scotland’s treasures.

Visiting Crathes Castle, Balmoral, and Perth

From Aberdeen, the tour heads into the heart of Royal Deeside, taking visitors to the impressive Crathes Castle.

This 16th-century castle boasts beautiful gardens and impressive architecture. After exploring the castle, the group enjoys lunch in the charming town of Ballater.

Next, the tour visits the iconic Balmoral Castle, the Scottish residence of the British Royal Family. Guests have time to wander the grounds and admire the stunning scenery of the Cairngorms National Park.

The final stop is the city of Perth, known for its historic charm, before returning to Edinburgh.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Purchase Additional Optional Activities During the Tour?

You can’t purchase additional optional activities during the tour. The tour’s inclusions and exclusions are clearly stated, and there’s no mention of any optional activities being available to purchase. The tour has a fixed itinerary and pricing.

How Much Free Time Is Allotted at Each Attraction?

The tour allows about 1-2 hours of free time at each attraction, giving guests ample opportunity to explore the sites at their own pace. The schedule is designed to provide a balanced mix of guided visits and independent exploration.

Are There Any COVID-19 Safety Protocols in Place?

The tour adheres to current COVID-19 safety protocols, including reduced group sizes, mandatory face coverings, and enhanced cleaning procedures. Travelers are encouraged to check the tour operator’s website for the latest updates on safety measures.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Length?

Yes, the tour offers a 3-day extension option that covers additional highlights in the Scottish Highlands. Guests can choose to extend their tour for an extra day to explore more of the region’s natural beauty and historic sites.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Preferences That Can Be Accommodated?

The tour can accommodate various dietary restrictions and preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and halal options. Guests should notify the tour operator of any special dietary needs when booking to ensure their requirements are met.

The Sum Up

This 2-day tour from Edinburgh offers an intimate journey through northeast Scotland’s stunning landscapes and rich history. Travelers will marvel at iconic sights like the Forth Bridges, Dunnottar Castle, and Balmoral Castle while exploring charming towns and scenic national parks. With a small group size and personalized attention, this tour provides an unforgettable adventure for those seeking to experience the breathtaking beauty of this region.

You can check availability for your dates here: