Real Scotland – Scotland | UK Tour for Young Adults & Young Solo Travellers

Real Scotland Tours for Young Adults

The one that uncovers Scotland’s most spellbinding landscapes, from Loch Ness to Skye and ends with a magical steam train trip across the Glenfinnan viaduct

You’ve seen the Insta carousels. Now it’s time to witness those waterfalls, coastlines, lochs and more IRL. Worried about budgeting for your Scottish adventure? This one goes modest on food and accommodation, but major on locations and experiences to help you squeeze every drop of inspo from your trip – without breaking the bank. You’ll stay in dorm accommodation and share budget-friendly meals with up to 16 fellow travellers, exploring the biggest and best of Scotland (plus a few hidden gems) with a local guide.

“70 percent join our trips solo”

“70% of our travellers join our trips solo, so you’ll travel with like-minded young people who want to make friends, experience new things and create lifelong memories. This is the best way to turn solo travel into the most social travel imaginable.” (Cited from the very experienced and internationally popular operator of this tour for young adults. For the latest info and eventual changes see here)

“Most popular youth travel company in the world”

Info by the very experienced and internationally popular operator of this tour for young adults (“Most popular youth travel company in the world”, Wikipedia): “Our trips are exclusively for 18-35s, and whether you join us solo or in a group, our trips are designed so you can share incredible experiences with young travellers just like you.”

Reviews by tour participants:

out of 5 stars ()* (all reviews and the latest rating available on the details page

Target age group:

18 to 35 (35 to 45 at “Reunion Trips“)

Trip duration and price:

8 days, 1 country from about $ 2181* (final prices – also in other currencies like British £ or € – available on the booking page)

Destinations:

Europe > Scotland | UK

You’ll find all details and eventual changes on the details page

Planned Itinerary:

Day 1: Edinburgh

Dunkeld

Scottish Highlands

Loch Ness

Day 2: Loch Ness

Orkney Islands

Day 3: Orkney Islands

Day 4: Orkney Islands

Ullapool

Day 5: Ullapool

Stornoway

Day 6: Stornoway

Isle of Harris

Portree

Day 7: Portree

Day 8: Portree

Mallaig

Edinburgh

Day 1: Edinburgh to Loch Ness via Dunkeld and Cairngorms National Park

EdinburghWelcome to Edinburgh Contiki fam! We won’t hang around today, as we’re headed north to Perthshire, or the ‘Big Tree Country’. (We wonder how it got that name…) But don’t worry, we’ll be back. See ya soon Edinburgh.

DunkeldAlong the way we’ll stop at the beaut cathedral town of Dunkeld on the River Tay. Then we’ll continue along the (big) tree-lined gorge at Killiecrankie. Few options here: you could wander the woodlands and feel at one with mother nature, or opt to throw yourself off the Garry Bridge on the UK’s only fixed point bungee (and feel at one with gravity).

Scottish HighlandsIt’s onwards through the Cairngorms National Park. Bronze-age standing stones. Burial chambers said to be the inspiration for Craigh na Dun in Outlander. The site of the last major battle on British soil…Is it just us, or is this place a bit eerie? Seriously beautiful, though.Loch NessHow could we not visit the famous, monstrous (see what we did there?) Loch Ness. Keep your eyes peeled for Nessie, or choose to experience Highland hospitality first-hand in the local bars and restaurants during our night in Fort Augustus.

Morag’s Lodge (or similar)Included ExperienceSee DunkeldDunkeld is a wee charming town! We’ll take a guided tour through the pretty Perthshire town, passing cute 18th century houses leading to Dunkeld Cathedral. Our tour ends under the shadow of this striking partial ruin, dating back hundreds of years.
Included ExperienceVisit Culloden Battlefield One for the history buffs. Learn more about the Jacobite uprising and their defeat at this atmospheric battlefield.
Included ExperienceVisit a pre-historic burial siteTake a guided walk through the Clava Cairns, a prehistoric burial grounds dating back to the Bronze age. We’ll recount stories of famous people buried here and see the eye-catching remains of a medieval chapel.
Bungee off of the Garry BridgeTake the leap on the UK’s only fixed-point bungee, Garrie Bridge.Additional costs apply

Take a Cruise of Loch NessEnjoy an early-evening cruise of the monstrous Loch Ness and keep your eyes peeled for the legendary monster…
Additional costs apply

Day 2: Loch Ness to Orkney

Loch NessRise and shine! We’re continuing north today, following the eastern side of the North Coast 500 (Scotland’s answer to ‘Route 66’). Along the way, you can choose to check out fairy-tale Dunrobin Castle and stroll some seriously impressive gardens, if you wanna live out your Laird and Lady dreams. Further north, The epic sea stacks at Duncansby Head will blow your mind, before we arrive at the most northerly town on the UK mainland, John o’ Groats. Go on, take a pic at the iconic sign. It’d be rude not to.Orkney IslandsAll aboard the ferry across the Pentland Firth. Trust us, it’s worth braving the wind on deck to spot dolphins, whales, and even the occasional Orkney Orca. I bet you didn’t think you could see THAT in the UK. In Orkney, we check out the Italian Chapel, built by prisoners during WWII. It’s a special wee place with a great story. We’ll then gather for a Contiki Clan dinner, either in the cosy social area of our hostel or at one of the brilliant local restaurants.

Kirkwall YHA (or similar)Included ExperienceScenic drive across the North CoastTake a scenic drive across the North Coast to John O’ Groats; the very top of mainland Britain. This coach tour will be full of stunning seascapes and insta-worthy moments.
Included ExperienceVisit OrkneyVisit Orkney, a dreamy cluster of islands brimming with history. We’ll stop at the Italian Chapel, Neolithic settlements and Kirkwall, the ancient capital or Orkney.
Included ExperienceCheck out the Italian Chapel This ornate, seafront red and white building was constructed by Italian prisoners of war who were held captive on Orkney during WWII.
Included Experience Explore Kirkwall Ramble around the Viking-influenced capital of the Orkney Islands. And watch the world go by at the harbour. Visit Dunrobin CastleStroll through the pretty gardens and French-inspired architecture of Dunrobin Castle. Dating back to the 13th century, this real-life fairytale castle was once the home to the Earls and Dukes of Sutherland.
Additional costs apply

Day 3: Orkney

Orkney IslandsToday we’re headed to Skara Brae, an INSANELY well-preserved Neolithic village. Get a glimpse at domestic life between 3,200BC and 2,200BC and wander around the homes in the settlement, complete with Stone Age beds and furniture!
Orkney’s coastline is stunning: the perfect place to breathe in fresh air and feel zen as you watch the endless waves crash on the shore. If you’re eagle-eyed you might even spot puffins.
As the night draws in we can enjoy an optional beach feast with open-fire cooking, bread-making, storytelling, crafts and games. Oh, and it’ll be led by experts on Vikings. And they’re dressed like Vikings. Don’t you just love Scotland?

Kirkwall YHA (or similar)Included ExperienceStep back in time at Skara BraeVisit this Neolithic village to get a glimpse into life in prehistoric Scotland.Included ExperienceSee the cryptic Ring of Brodgar This Neolithic stone circle will give you a snapshot of Orkney’s prehistoric past. And it makes for some great pics.Included ExperienceSee the magical Stones of Stenness This ritualistic array of megaliths is said to be Britain’s most ancient Neolithic stone circle. Enjoy a Viking beach feastEnjoy a feast on the beach guided by Viking experts (dressed as Vikings) with historical food, storytelling and activities around the campfire.
Additional costs apply

Day 4: Orkney to Ullapool

Orkney IslandsSee ya Kirkwall. Today we’re headed to the south end of Orkney. On the ferry we’ll admire stunning beaches, cragged cliffs, and some seriously impressive landscapes and rock formations in this UNESCO Geopark (the first in Scotland). And boy do we have some cool experiences to choose from today. Enter into the chasm of Smoo Cave in Durness, fly through the air on the Golden Eagle Zipline, or just kick back and soak up all that stunning scenery.UllapoolWoah, what a day of adventures. After taking a breath, we’ll head over the Kylesku Bridge towards the fishing port of Ullapool, our final destination. Search for live traditional tunes, local ale and fisherman with many a tall tale to tell…

Ullapool YHA (or similar)Included ExperienceCheck out Duncansby Head Photo op! Explore the rugged cliffs of Britain’s most northerly-easterly point and take in the incredible views. Included ExperienceVisit Smoo CaveWant to step inside the mouth of a natural sea cave? Smoo Cave’s 50ft high entrance is one of the biggest in Britain. Watching the salt crystals glitter and shine within Smoo Cave is a gotta-be-there kind of moment, for sure.
Included ExperienceVisit UllapoolThis dainty coastal village in the Scottish highlands is the definition of a hidden gem! Think stunning waterside views, green valleys, and charming locals when it comes to Ullapool.
Fly on the Golden Eagle Zip Line (weather dependent)Soar 100m over a UNESCO Geopark on the Golden Eagle ZiplineAdditional costs apply

Day 5: Ullapool to Stornoway

UllapoolWe’re off to the Isle of Lewis & Harris. Yep, you guessed right. Another spectacular ferry crossing awaits (with more marine life to spot). Spotted something cool? Why not download the Hebridean Whale & Dolphin Trust app to report your sightings? Hopping off the ferry we’ve got a day of sightseeing awaiting us on Lewis. First up: the 5000-year-old (woah) Callanish Standing Stones. Then we’ll jump forward through time to the Iron Age and the impressive broch of Dun Carloway. History lovers will be in heaven in Ullapool. Everyone else can just enjoy filling their feeds with more spectacular sights.StornowayCloser to modern day, but still back in the 17th century (Scotland’s pretty old, eh?) we’ll get acquainted with the island way of life at Gearrannan Blackhouse Village. The Atlantic coastline feels like another planet, or the very edge of the Earth, and the Butt of Lewis (hehehe), is the most dramatic of all. Watch the waves crash against the isolated lighthouse and pretend you’re the main character in a moody detective drama. Back in Stornoway, stroll around the harbour and sample fresh seafood for dinner. This is the life.

Heb Hostel (or similar)Included ExperienceSee the mystical Callanish Standing Stones This mysterious Neolithic stone circle was built around 3000 BC for rituals and to observe the stars. Pretty cool eh?
Included ExperienceExplore Blackhouse VillageSee this ancient hamlet by the sea. The traditional Scottish houses with quaint thatched roofs give us total Outlander vibes.

Day 6: Stornoway to Portree

StornowaySee ya Lewis, we’re headed south towards Harris.

Isle of HarrisYou may have heard of Harris tweed, and today we’ll meet local crofter who practices the ancient skill of making tweed on a manual loom, using wool from his own sheep! You’ll also be introduced to his dogs with jobs, a group of collies who know how to handle a flock and will show you their skills.
On islands like these, the beach is always calling. And there’s no better place dip your toes into some seriously turquoise waters than Luskentyre: a pure white beach that looks like it’s been plucked out of a Medditteranean postcard. Scotland really does have it all. Then we’ll head back to Tarbert, the hub of Harris, to visit the award-winning (and socially responsible) Isle of Harris Distillery. Go on, buy a bottle for your mam. (And if you end up drinking it with your Contiki clan she’ll never know.)PortreeAnother ferry, this time bound for the magical Isle of Skye. You might recognise it as the place that always comes up on Instagram and makes you rub your eyes, thinking “that place can’t be real.” Well it is, and no photoshop is required to make this place look more stunning than it is.

A conveniently located hostelIncluded ExperienceExplore Isle of Harris With its white sands and turquoise waters you could think you were on a tropical island. Except for the weather! Included ExperienceWhiskey tour of the Harris DistillerySample whisky straight from the source at Harris Distillery, a cute village on the Isle of Harris. Learn how Harris Tweed is madeLearn how to make Harris Tweed from a local crofter who uses wool from his own flock of sheepAdditional costs apply

Visit a Highland Whisky DistilleryGet a tour of an award-winning socially responsible whisky distilleryAdditional costs apply

Day 7: Portree

PortreeIt’s been an action-packed 6 days, so let’s take an opportunity to kick back. Today we’ll take Portree at our own pace. You can set off into the hills for a long hike if you want to keep the adventures going, or just relax by the sea and watch the world go by. Oh, and there’s also a shuttle bus to the Fairy Pools and wildlife cruises which depart from the harbour. Dolphins, whales and sea eagles are there for the spotting. If you’re feeling more hardcore, there is the option to go canyoning down hidden rivers or to follow in the pawprints of Bear Grylls by abseiling down into the remote Spar Cave. Today’s a much needed rest day for your trusty Trip Manager (they need to recharge sometimes), so the experiences up for grabs today are optional, and it’s up to you to arrange them.

A conveniently located hostelDay 8: Portree to Edinburgh via Mallaig

PortreeIt’s been emotional Portree. But today we’re headed to the south of Skye to check out Armadale Castle, before our final ferry crossing over to the fishing port of Mallaig.

MallaigByyee Skye, we’ll never forget you, but another awesome experience awaits: an included ride on the iconic Jacobite Steam Train. Voted the best train journey in the world by Wanderlust Magazine three (!) times over, this spellbinding journey crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct (you know the one…from Harry Potter. With the flying car? Yep that’s it).
More cool sights on the way to Edinburgh. See if you can spot Ben Nevis, the UK’s tallest mountain, before we stop at in the mind-blowing Glen Coe. Then we’ll take in the wild expanse of Rannoch Moor, the Trossachs National Park, Stirling, and The Kelpies: the world’s largest equine sculptures. EdinburghWe arrive back into Edinburgh at around 8pm. Anyone for a wee dram?Included ExperienceVisit Glen CoeVisit the stunning landscape of Glen Coe and find out why it’s a sought-after filming location.Included ExperienceRoam around Rannoch Moor Be transported to another world in the Scottish wilderness. Bogs, rivers, lochans and a mountainous backdrop make this a magical place.
Included ExperienceTake snaps of The Kelpies Horse around and get some pics with these giant sculptures of ancient folklore monsters. They even light up in rainbow colours at night!
Included ExperienceTake the iconic Jacobite Steam TrainBook this version of the trip to secure your seat on this iconic experience. Feel like you’re on the Hogwarts Express as you journey on the Jacobite Steam Train through the world-famous Glenfinnan Viaduct.

You’ll find all details and eventual changes on the details & booking page

Some of the Highlights:

You’ll find all highlights and eventual changes on the details page

FAQs:

You’ll find all FAQs and the latest info on the details page

Included Meals:

Private mini-coach

You’ll find all details and eventual changes on the details page

Team:

You’ll find all details and eventual changes on the details page

Group Size:

Expert Trip Manager/Driver

You’ll find all details and eventual changes on the details page

Transfers:

Maximum 16 people

You’ll find all details and eventual changes on the details page

More Details:

You’ll find all details and the latest updates on the details & booking page

Over 70,000 – Join Us

Get occasional updates by email:

(Partially) travel with a nice group or entirely travel solo?

By booking an organized Scotland | UK tour for young adults or other Europe trips for young people you can not only reduce planning hassle, but often also save money, as tour operators can buy accommodations, transportation, etc. in larger contingents in advance and thus get special conditions. You will also benefit from the experience of the tour operator, professional tour guides (whose stories you can enjoy…) and have the easy opportunity to meet nice fellow travelers when traveling in a group. Anyone who has traveled before will know that travel companions or other traveling acquaintances are one of the most essential factors for unforgettable experiences. In addition, you usually have enough individual freedom even with organized tours and you can, if the arrival and departure is not included, additionally extend your stay individually before or after the group tour with young adults. If you still prefer to organize your trip completely on your own and travel independently, then you’ll find all the practical tools you need to plan and book quickly & cheaply on our individual travel page.