Depart Edinburgh 09.15am and travel northwest through the historic area of Linlithgowshire, close to the historic palace. The tragic Mary Queen of Scots was born at Linlithgow palace, and became Queen when she was only 6 days old.
According to legend her father James V died of a broken heart when he discovered his wife had given birth to a daughter and not the son he was hoping for! Our route along the Forth Valley is one which has been used for thousands of years by invading armies, it was the northernmost frontier of the Roman empire and was later used by the English King Edward I as he marched proudly towards Stirling (only to be sent homewards to think again!). Nowadays it’s at the centre one of Scotland’s most important industries with huge oil refineries dominating the area.

As we approach Stirling the magnificent castle dominates our view and we make our way up towards the high volcanic rock where it imposes itself upon the surrounding land. Known as the ‘Key to Scotland’, for centuries this was the most important castle in Scotland and the views from the top make it easy to see why.

To the north is the 220ft high tower of the National Wallace Monument commemorating Scotland’s great hero William Wallace, played by Mel Gibson in the Oscar-winning movie Braveheart. From the castle you can look down over the scene of Wallace’s greatest triumph, the battle of Stirling Bridge, where he defeated the English army in 1297.

To the South is Bannockburn where, in 1314, the great Scottish warrior-king Robert the Bruce defeated the English army of Edward II. The battle was fought for possession of Stirling Castle but eventually led to a far greater prize for Scotland – the restoration of independence. It’s an area alive with history and we stop at the castle to give you time to soak up the history and heritage of this great site.

From Stirling we head into the Highlands and an area known as the Trossachs. Known as ‘The Highlands in Miniature’ it marks the point where the Lowlands meet the Highlands and entering this beautifully picturesque area feels like going into a different country. With its shimmering lochs, rugged mountain tops and forest-filled glens it’s easy to forget that this was once thought of as a dangerous frontier fought over by the fiercely territorial Highland clans. We stop here for lunch in the village of Aberfoyle, made popular in Victorian times due to its great location.

After lunch we ‘take the high road’ or back-road to Loch Lomond, Scotland’s largest lochs at over 22 miles long, passing Lochs Ard, Chon and Arklet along the way as we travel through the protected lands of Scotland’s first National Park. The route we take was described by the famous Scots comedian Billie Connolly as his favourite road in Scotland, and you can discover why – it’s stunning!!

We stop at Inversnaid on the secluded north-east of the loch, making it the perfect place to enjoy a walk along the ‘bonny banks’, up to a viewpoint for a fantastic view of the loch and the mountain it’s named after, Ben Lomond. This tranquil setting was once the home of Scotland’s famous highland folk hero, Rob Roy MacGregor. Made popular by many books and films Rob Roy lived an incredible life as a soldier, businessman, cattle-rustler and outlaw. By spending time on the trails by the loch you will undoubtedly be walking in the footsteps of one of Scotland’s great legends.

Leaving Loch Lomond we return to Edinburgh passing Scotland’s only lake – the Lake of Mentieth (although we have around 3000 freshwater lochs!). The legend states that after William Wallace was betrayed by his great friend the Earl of Mentieth and executed in London the name was changed from the Loch of Mentieth to the Lake of Mentieth so that nobody would ever forget the traitorous part the Earl played in his death.

Inclusions
Transportation by top of the range Mercedes minicoaches for a more personal service.
Forced air ventilation as standard.
Services of a professional driver/guide
Discount Card - money off restaurants, shopping and attractions.

Exclusions
Lunch and refreshments.
Entrance to Stirling Castle, but you get 10% off with our discount card - or £2 off Historic Scotland Explorer passes - for lots of Historic sites in Scotland

Important Information
Because we believe in time off the bus and give you opportunities to take nature walks we recommend you bring suitable clothing and footwear for your tour.

Departure Point
High Street, Edinburgh (9.15 AM)
Return time approximately 18.00

Departure Days - Every day
Monday to Sunday (All year)

When booking by telephone please quote BV RB D2