10 day itinerary for Scotland

Itinerary

Scotland is a stunning destination, and with your interests in hiking, whiskey tasting, and gluten-free options, we can create a fantastic 10-day itinerary that balances adventure and relaxation. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Edinburgh

• Morning: Arrive in Edinburgh. Check into your accommodation and freshen up.
• Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll along the Royal Mile. Stop by St. Giles' Cathedral and enjoy the street performers.
• Evening: Dinner at a gluten-free friendly restaurant like “Mamma’s” or “The Baked Potato Shop.”
• Night: If you’re up for it, join a ghost tour to explore the spooky side of Edinburgh!

## Day 2: Edinburgh Exploration

• Morning: Hike up Arthur’s Seat for breathtaking views of the city. It’s a moderate hike and well worth the effort!
• Afternoon: Visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse and the Scottish Parliament. Grab lunch at a café with gluten-free options.
• Evening: Enjoy a whiskey tasting at the Scotch Whisky Experience. They offer a range of tastings, and you can learn about the whiskey-making process.

## Day 3: Drive to the Highlands (Inverness)

• Morning: Rent a car and drive to Inverness (about 3.5 hours). Enjoy the scenic route through the Cairngorms National Park.
• Afternoon: Arrive in Inverness and have lunch at a local café. Explore the city, including Inverness Castle and the River Ness.
• Evening: Dinner at a gluten-free friendly restaurant. Try “The Mustard Seed” for a lovely atmosphere and great food.

## Day 4: Loch Ness and Hiking

• Morning: Take a hike around Loch Ness. The Great Glen Way offers stunning views and is a great way to explore the area.
• Afternoon: Visit Urquhart Castle on the shores of Loch Ness. Enjoy a picnic lunch (pack gluten-free snacks!) with a view of the loch.
• Evening: Return to Inverness for dinner. Consider a local pub that offers gluten-free options.

## Day 5: Speyside Whiskey Trail

• Morning: Drive to the Speyside region, known for its whiskey distilleries (about 1 hour from Inverness).
• Afternoon: Visit a couple of distilleries like the Macallan or Glenfiddich. Many offer tours and tastings, and you can inquire about gluten-free options for lunch.
• Evening: Stay overnight in the Speyside area. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant with gluten-free choices.

## Day 6: Hiking in the Cairngorms

• Morning: Head to the Cairngorms National Park for a day of hiking. The trails around Aviemore are fantastic, with options for all levels.
• Afternoon: Pack a gluten-free lunch to enjoy amidst the stunning scenery.
• Evening: Return to your accommodation and enjoy a cozy dinner. Look for local dishes that can be made gluten-free.

## Day 7: Isle of Skye

• Morning: Drive to the Isle of Skye (about 2.5 hours). The scenery along the way is breathtaking!
• Afternoon: Explore the Fairy Pools for a magical hike. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for a refreshing dip (if you’re brave!).
• Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant in Portree. Many places offer gluten-free options, so be sure to ask!

## Day 8: More of Skye

• Morning: Hike the Quiraing for stunning landscapes and unique rock formations. It’s a must-see!
• Afternoon: Visit the Old Man of Storr for another iconic hike. Pack a gluten-free lunch to enjoy on the trail.
• Evening: Return to Portree for dinner. Try a seafood restaurant that can accommodate gluten-free diets.

## Day 9: Return to Edinburgh

• Morning: Drive back to Edinburgh (about 5 hours). Take your time and enjoy the scenery along the way.
• Afternoon: Arrive in Edinburgh and relax. Visit any sights you may have missed, like the National Museum of Scotland.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant. Look for places that specialize in gluten-free cuisine.

## Day 10: Departure

• Morning: Depending on your flight time, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and perhaps a final stroll through the city.
• Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure.

Tips:

• Always check with restaurants about gluten-free options, as many places are accommodating.
• Make sure to pack snacks for hikes, as gluten-free options can be limited in remote areas.
• Enjoy the stunning landscapes, rich history, and, of course, the delightful whiskey!

I hope this itinerary helps you have an unforgettable adventure in Scotland! If you have any questions or need adjustments, feel free to ask! Safe travels! 🍀🏞️🥃