Whether you're a lover of the drama "Braveheart" or the musical "Brigadoon," Mel Gibson or Gene Kelly, respectively, your interest in Scotland has probably been piqued. And why not? A country that battled England long before the U.S. (it may finally get it this year through the ballot box), and one so spectacular it makes grown men sing of "the heather on the hill" (at least on the big screen) will have that effect.
Today's Scotland, however, is what one writer calls "an eclectic blend of old-world charm and new-world glitz." And with the latest, all-inclusive Scottish Isles and Glens package from CIE Tours (which recently received the prestigious Scotland's Heritage "International Tour Operator of the Year" award), your stay isn't limited to just the two major cities, Glasgow and Edinburgh. Not when there are grand castles, green rolling hills, picturesque lochs and friendly villages to be explored.
Among the tour's high points:
• The Isle of Iona. One word: ethereal. That's the sensation you're left with from this holy place famous for its Celtic crosses and fully restored cathedral where 50 Scottish kings were buried during the Middle Ages.
• The 5,000-Year-Old Village of Skara Brae. The BBC has dubbed it "one of the most re-markable discoveries in modern archaeology." What the locals can't answer is: What were the farmers who once lived in the intricate maze of dwellings hiding in the secret spaces found under stone dressers?
• The Scottish Highlands. This is where Bonnie Prince Charlie and his Highlanders were defeated by King George II's forces at the bloody Battle of Culloden in 1746. It's also where you can still see dogs herding sheep, after you drive along the stunning scenic shores of Loch Ness—if you don't get sidetracked trying to find Nessie.
• The Ghost Tour. Who doesn't like a good ghost story? Tax collectors and bootleggers once clashed beneath the now-famed Royal Mile thoroughfare in the capital city of Edinburgh, which might explain why so many spots are said to be haunted. Your tour guide provides an "energetic account" of the alternately horrific and hilarious details.
• The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. Don't let the title fool you. With the world-famous Edinburgh Castle as a backdrop, this is actually a huge festival featuring bagpipes, highland dancing and military bands.
IF YOU GO: CIE Tours has escorted millions of Americans on motorcoach tours of Ire-land, Scotland, England and Wales for more than 83 years. For more info, on this and other packages, contact your travel agent, call CIE at 800-243-8687 or visit www.cietours.com.
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