Scotland: A Culinary, Cultural & Whisky Odyssey

Unlike its illustrious single malts, the spirit of Scotland could not be bottled. It lingered in the rustling heather, in the haunting refrain of bagpipes, in the verses of Robert Burns, recited with pride each January.

For many, Scotland meant the Highlands: a wilderness of pine-covered peaks and turreted castles, where salmon leapt in the Spey, Dee, and Tay, and where the fathomless lochs rippled with monstrous myths. Edinburgh, the lamplit capital, brooded in the shadow of Arthur's Seat, its forbidding castle housing the Scottish Crown Jewels, sparkling like Hogmanay fireworks. On the banks of the Clyde, Glasgow stood as a former bastion of shipbuilding, its streets adorned with Mackintosh's Art Nouveau flourishes. And then there were the islands—nearly 800 of them—each one a chapter in Scotland's vast Caledonian epic.

Guests arrived in Glasgow and were welcomed with a private transfer to their hotel. That evening, they gathered for cocktails and a sumptuous welcome dinner at the Moxy Glasgow Merchant City.

The next morning began with a curated walking tour revealing Glasgow's industrial and artistic past, followed by an interactive workshop at the National Piping Centre. After a lunch at a local eatery, the remainder of the day was left for personal discovery.

The culinary and cycling adventure started with a transfer to the Powfoot Hotel. After being introduced to their bicycles and GPS navigation, guests enjoyed a relaxed evening and dinner by the Solway Firth.

Powfoot to Dumfries (30 miles)

The day began with a private tour and tasting at the historic Annandale Distillery. Originally founded in 1830 and later revived, the distillery offered guests a chance to sample exquisite peated malts under the guidance of a whisky guru.

The journey continued to Ruthwell Cross, a 1,000-year-old stone monument of European significance. At Caerlaverock National Nature Reserve, guests encountered one of the world’s premier sites for wintering wildfowl. A short ride led to Caerlaverock Castle, a romantic 13th-century moated fortress—and a perfect stop for photos and refreshments.

At Glencaple, the Boathouse Cafe offered serene estuary views and the best coffee and pastries in the region. The day ended with a scenic cycle along the River Nith into historic Dumfries.

Dumfries to Thornhill (27 miles)

Departing Dumfries, guests pedaled into the Galloway Highlands, past the enigmatic Twelve Apostles Stone Circle. At Keir Mill, they paused at the grave of Kirkpatrick Macmillan, the little-known inventor of the modern bicycle, and his blacksmith shop—a pilgrimage for cycling enthusiasts.

Arriving in Thornhill, guests enjoyed a cafe stop in the village before retiring to the luxurious Nithbank Estate, one of Scotland's finest B&Bs. With expansive grounds and warm hospitality, it offered the ideal setting to unwind with scones and tea. Dinner that evening was at the renowned BQA in Thornhill.

Thornhill Loop (27 miles, guided)

A guided loop led to Morton Castle, a hidden treasure beside a tranquil loch, where otters were often spotted. Continuing through rolling countryside, guests arrived at Drumlanrig Castle, the “Pink Palace” of the Buccleuch family. The castle—featured in numerous films including Outlander—offered a rich history, gardens, a cafe, and artisan shops. A lesser-known fact: Neil Armstrong once stayed here and planted a tree in its gardens.

Kirkcudbright and the Coast

The group transferred to the artist town of Kirkcudbright, staying at the charming Selkirk Arms Hotel. A coastal ride to Gatehouse of Fleet, with a stop for local ice cream, was an optional highlight.

Exploring Kirkcudbright

Guests spent the day discovering the town’s galleries, harbor views, and artisanal shops, soaking up the creative atmosphere of Scotland’s renowned artist enclave.

Journey to Edinburgh

Traveling eastward, guests arrived in Edinburgh, where Georgian elegance met modern sophistication.

Edinburgh Highlights

Guests enjoyed a private tour and tasting at the iconic Johnnie Walker Experience and wandered the immersive landscape art installations of Jupiter Artland. With free time to explore the capital’s cultural and culinary offerings, the final days were a fitting crescendo to the journey.

Farewell Scotland

Departures marked the close of an unforgettable exploration, leaving guests with memories steeped in malt, myth, and majestic landscapes.