CITY SPOTLIGHT
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EDINBURGH
Soul of Scotland Tours
“Soul of Scotland Tours—for those operators interested in
faith-based travel—is a family tour business that specializes in
Edinburgh’s extraordinary Christian heritage,” says Anderson.
On a two-hour, faith-focused walking tour, guests are led by a
guide in character as a medieval monk who details the contributions of significant historical figures, including Scottish
Reformation leader John Knox. The tour also visits St. Giles’
Cathedral, Greyfriars’ Kirk and St. Columba’s Free Church—all
along the city’s Royal Mile. soulofscotlandtours.com
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The Scotch Whisky Experience
Scotland’s signature spirit is the focus of the Scotch
Whisky Experience, a replica distillery that teaches visitors
about the country’s distinct whisky-producing regions and the
process of making the spirit, as well as giving them an appreciation for its flavors and aromas. Tour options range from one
to three hours and can include tastings of traditional Scottish
foods. Groups can also visit the nearby Glenkinchie Distillery,
30 minutes from Edinburgh. Glenkinchie can customize group
tours and help arrange transportation from the city.
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International Festival
The festival (Aug. 4–28) brings dance, theater, opera and
music from around the world to Edinburgh for more than
three weeks of innovative performances. Programs range
from massive public spectacles and fireworks displays to
educational workshops and seminars.
St. Giles’ Cathedral
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Nearby stops for
hub-and-spoke tours
“Scotland is not a huge country, and a lot of things are within
a one-hour drive from Edinburgh. If you expand to two hours,
you will be able to cover a whole lot of the country,” says
Anderson. Consider these other tour stops:
Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city, is only an hour away by car or
train. “It has a completely different feel from Edinburgh and is
renowned for its culture, style and friendly people.”
St. Andrews is a small town known for its ancient university and
golf history. “Visitors can explore the St. Andrews castle and the
golf museum, or walk along the famous Old Course.”
Dundee is a UNESCO City of Design, and in 2018 it will welcome
the V&A, the first design museum in the U.K. outside of London.
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January 2017
Scotch Whisky Experience