July 8-16, 2027
Join us in 9 Days in Scotland + Glasgow Pride Option on
9 Days in Scotland + Glasgow Pride Option
Discover Scotland with Pride Adventures and the California Gay Adventures community as you journey from Edinburgh to Glasgow on a 9 day adventure shaped by castles, the Highlands, whisky country, the Isle of Skye, and the joy of traveling together.
This hosted LGBTQ+ group trip combines the elevated experience of a National Geographic Journeys itinerary with the connection, ease, and community Pride Adventures is known for.
Our Journey Through Scotland Begins Here
From Edinburgh’s Royal Mile and iconic castle to the wild beauty of the Highlands, this itinerary brings together Scotland’s history, scenery, and local culture in a way that feels immersive but not rushed.
Along the way, we’ll visit Stirling Castle, walk through Pitlochry with a local expert, taste whisky at one of Scotland’s oldest distilleries, take in the legendary waters of Loch Ness, spend a full day exploring the dramatic landscapes of the Isle of Skye, cruise the scenic shores of Loch Lomond, and end in Glasgow with a street art tour and farewell dinner. For those who want to keep celebrating, an optional Glasgow Pride extension follows the main trip.
TRIP HOST
Chris Smith - Los Angeles, CA
Chris serves as Founder | Chief Adventure Officer at Pride Adventures, shaping the vision behind each journey and bringing people together through thoughtfully designed travel experiences around the world.
Chris Smith - Los Angeles, CA Bio
Chris has been leading group trips and outdoor adventures for more than 25 years, with roots that trace back to growing up in Arizona as the middle of seven children in an outdoor-loving family. That early connection to the outdoors and to shared experiences shaped his approach to travel and community from the very beginning.
Before founding Pride Adventures, Chris helped build California Gay Adventures (CGA), creating space for LGBTQ+ people to connect through hiking, camping, and shared outdoor experiences. Over time, that community-first foundation expanded into broader group travel, while staying true to the same values of connection, inclusion, and fun.
Today, Chris focuses on shaping the experiences behind Pride Adventures trips and supporting the hosts and partners who help bring them to life. He believes the best journeys are the ones where people feel welcomed, supported, and connected long after the trip ends.
Itinerary Overview
Experience the best of Scotland as we travel from Edinburgh to Glasgow, weaving through historic cities, Highland landscapes, and coastal beauty along the way. This thoughtfully designed route balances guided experiences with time to explore, creating a journey that feels immersive without being rushed.
From castles and cultural landmarks to the Isle of Skye and Loch Lomond, each day builds on the last, blending iconic highlights with local moments and shared experiences as a group.
Days 1–2: Edinburgh
Arrive in Edinburgh and settle into Scotland’s historic capital. We’ll begin with a welcome meeting and included dinner before exploring the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, and the city’s layered history.
Transportation: Walking, private vehicle as needed
Stay: Voco Edinburgh Haymarket or similar
Included Meals: Welcome Dinner, Breakfast
Highlights: Welcome gathering, Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile, Edinburgh orientation walk
Days 3–4: Stirling, Pitlochry & Whisky Country
Travel north toward Pitlochry with a stop at Stirling Castle and the Scottish Crannog Centre. The next day, enjoy a guided walk through Pitlochry, visit Blair Athol Distillery, and take in Queen’s View.
Transportation: Private vehicle, walking
Stay: Atholl Villa Guest House or similar
Included Meals: Breakfast daily
Highlights: Stirling Castle, Scottish Crannog Centre, Pitlochry guided walk, whisky distillery tour and tasting, Queen’s View
Days 5–6: Loch Ness, Fort William & Isle of Skye
Continue through the Highlands with a sheepdog farm visit, Culloden Moor, and a scenic drive along Loch Ness before reaching Fort William. The next day, experience a full day exploring the Isle of Skye, including Eilean Donan Castle, Dunvegan Castle, and Portree.
Transportation: Private vehicle, walking
Stay: The Inch Hotel or similar
Included Meals: Breakfast daily, Dinner on Day 6
Highlights: Sheepdog farm visit, Culloden Moor, Loch Ness scenic drive, Eilean Donan Castle, Isle of Skye, Portree
Day 7: Glencoe, Loch Lomond & Glasgow
Travel south through the dramatic landscapes of Glencoe before continuing to Loch Lomond for a scenic boat cruise. Later, arrive in Glasgow and settle in for the final chapter of the journey.
Transportation: Private vehicle, boat, walking
Stay: Radisson Blu Hotel Glasgow or similar
Included Meals: Breakfast
Highlights: Glencoe, Three Sisters viewpoint, Loch Lomond scenic boat cruise, arrival in Glasgow
Day 8: Glasgow
Spend the day discovering Glasgow’s creative energy, Victorian architecture, and celebrated street art scene. In the evening, we’ll gather for our included farewell dinner.
Transportation: Walking
Stay: Radisson Blu Hotel Glasgow or similar
Included Meals: Breakfast, Farewell Dinner
Highlights: Glasgow street art tour, free time in Glasgow, farewell dinner
Day 9: Departure or Glasgow Pride Extension
Depart Glasgow at any time, or continue with the optional Glasgow Pride extension from July 16 to 18, 2027.
Transportation: On your own
Stay: Optional post trip hotel nights in Glasgow
Included Meals: Breakfast
Highlights: Departure day, optional Glasgow Pride extension
Booking Options
Choose the option that fits your travel style. Whether you’re looking to share the experience with a roommate or enjoy your own private space, both options include the full itinerary, all group experiences, and the same welcoming Pride Adventures experience.
Your trip price includes more than the base itinerary. Pride Adventures adds dedicated hosting, private welcome and farewell gatherings, covered basic tips, pre-trip communication, access to our private Departure Lounge, and the added value of traveling through Scotland with an LGBTQ+ group from the start.
Shared Room | We Can Match You
$5,499
Traveling solo? No problem. We’ll match you with another traveler in our group.
Shared rooms are double occupancy with two beds, offering a great way to connect with fellow travelers while keeping costs lower.
Private Room | Your Own Space
$8,649
Enjoy your own private room throughout the trip.
This option is perfect if you prefer more space and privacy while still being fully part of the group experience.
Note: Private rooms are limited on this itinerary due to smaller rural accommodations in parts of Scotland. The higher price reflects the limited single occupancy availability across the trip. This option is best for travelers who prefer their own space while still being fully part of the group experience.
Adventure Activities
Experience the moments that make this journey through Scotland unforgettable. From historic castles and Highland traditions to scenic cruises and cultural discoveries, these curated experiences bring each destination to life.
Edinburgh Castle Visit and Royal Mile Walk
Begin the journey with a guided walk through Edinburgh, climbing Castle Hill and following the iconic Royal Mile before stepping inside Edinburgh Castle. Explore centuries of history, from royal stories to the Crown Jewels, all set above the city’s dramatic skyline.
Scottish Crannog Centre Guided Tour
Step into Scotland’s ancient past with an expert led visit to the Scottish Crannog Centre on Loch Tay. Discover 2,500 years of Highland history through reconstructed dwellings, artifacts, and hands on demonstrations of traditional crafts.
Pitlochry Guided Walk and Blair Athol Whisky Tasting
Explore the charming Victorian town of Pitlochry with a local expert before visiting Blair Athol Distillery, one of Scotland’s oldest whisky producers. The experience ends with a guided tasting that brings Scotland’s whisky heritage to life.
Isle of Skye Full Day Excursion
Spend a full day exploring the Isle of Skye, one of Scotland’s most breathtaking landscapes. Visit Eilean Donan Castle, continue through dramatic coastal scenery, and discover the harbor town of Portree, all set against Skye’s rugged and unforgettable terrain.
Loch Lomond Scenic Boat Cruise
Take to the water on a scenic cruise across Loch Lomond, passing islands and the peaks of the surrounding Highlands. With live commentary along the way, this experience offers a peaceful and immersive look at one of Scotland’s most iconic regions.
Glasgow Street Art Tour
Discover Glasgow’s vibrant street art scene with a local guide, exploring murals, hidden corners, and the stories shaping the city’s creative identity. This experience offers a modern and unexpected perspective on Scotland’s largest city.
Optional Glasgow Pride Extension
Our journey ends at the perfect time in Glasgow, just as the city comes alive for Pride.
Extend your trip from July 16 to 18 by adding a couple of post nights and experience the energy of Glasgow Pride, including the parade, festival events, and celebrations happening throughout the city.
There is no additional cost for this extension beyond your hotel nights. All activities and expenses during this time are on your own, giving you the flexibility to celebrate Pride your way while staying connected with the group.
Inclusions:
What's Included:
✓ 8 nights of accommodations in Edinburgh, Pitlochry, Fort William, and Glasgow, or similar
✓ Breakfast daily during the main itinerary
✓ Pride Adventures private Welcome Dinner in Edinburgh and private Farewell Dinner in Glasgow
✓ Transportation between destinations and to included activities, including private vehicle, walking tours, and scenic boat cruise
✓ National Geographic Journeys experience with G Adventures, including:
• Scottish Crannog Centre guided visit
• Pitlochry guided walk
• Isle of Skye full day visit
• Loch Lomond scenic boat cruise
✓ Guided visits and entrance fees for included activities, such as:
• Edinburgh Castle visit and audio tour
• Stirling Castle visit
• Blair Athol whisky distillery tour and tasting
• Sheepdog farm visit
• Culloden Moor visit
• Glasgow street art tour
✓ Scenic Scotland highlights, including Loch Ness, Glencoe, Loch Lomond, the Highlands, and the Isle of Skye
✓ Expert G Adventures Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout the journey, along with knowledgeable local guides at key sites
✓ Pride Adventures host traveling with the group
✓ Basic gratuities included for local guides, drivers, and included services, along with a base CEO tip of $5 per day
✓ Small group experience with Pride Adventures, CGA, and fellow travelers, with a maximum group size of 16
What's Not Included:
× International flights, including your arrival into Edinburgh, Scotland and your departure from Glasgow, Scotland
× Transportation to and from airports
× Travel insurance, which is required for participation
× Meals not listed in the itinerary
× Optional activities and free time experiences not listed as included
× Glasgow Pride extension hotel nights, which will be offered as an optional add on once pricing is available
× Expenses during the optional Glasgow Pride extension, including meals, local transportation, Pride events, activities, and personal spending
× Pre trip and post trip hotel nights, outside of any optional extension package selected
× Personal expenses such as souvenirs, beverages, snacks, laundry, and similar items
× Additional tips for hotel staff, personal services, or optional gratuities beyond what is already included
Physical Rating, Comfort, and Adventure:
Physical Rating: 2 Light
This trip is best for travelers who enjoy a comfortable pace with regular walking and sightseeing. Expect cobblestone streets, castle hills, some stairs, and uneven Highland terrain. Most days focus on discovery and movement between destinations rather than physical challenge, but you should be comfortable on your feet for extended periods throughout the day.
Service Level: Comfortable Adventure
Enjoy 8 nights in comfortable, locally selected hotels and guesthouses across Scotland, offering a balance of convenience, character, and a welcoming place to recharge. From a centrally located hotel in Edinburgh to a traditional Highland stay in Pitlochry, accommodations reflect the spirit of small group travel while maintaining comfort throughout the journey.
Travel Style: Cultural Discovery with Highland Scenery
Designed for travelers who want to experience Scotland through its history, culture, landscapes, and local moments. This 9 day journey moves at a steady, well paced rhythm, blending iconic landmarks, dramatic Highland scenery, and time to enjoy each destination. A great fit for those looking for a well rounded experience that feels immersive, social, and thoughtfully curated.
Important Documents & Links:
JoinCGA.com – California Gay Adventures
Documents containing personal information will be delivered privately to attendees via email and/or text as the trip dates approach. For any questions, please contact chris@prideat.com.
Important Documents & Links:
We’ve included a few important links below to help you review trip details:
Adventure Updates
🟡 Trip Status: Not Yet Confirmed
This trip will be confirmed once we reach our minimum of 8 travelers.
Please do not book flights yet. We’ll notify all registered travelers as soon as the trip is officially confirmed so you can book with confidence.
🌈 Private Departure Lounge
Once the trip is confirmed, travelers will receive access to our private Travel with Pride Departure Lounge for Scotland.
This will be the main place for future trip updates, flight guidance, packing reminders, pre trip details, group introductions, and important departure information as we get closer to Scotland.
❓ Questions?
If you have any questions, please email tripsupport@prideadventures.com.