
post-cruise option
SCOTTISH ESCAPE
July 7 thru 11, 2027
Edinburgh Host Hotel, LGBTQ+ Tours & Ship Transfers

Today, we leave our ship and set our sights on Scotland! We’ll board our private coach and journey north to Edinburgh, with a stop in Manchester along the way. You’ll have time to stretch your legs, grab some lunch, explore a bit of the city, or simply enjoy some free time on your own. From Manchester, we’ll head north through the beautiful Scottish countryside to Edinburgh. There, we’ll check into our hotel and have the rest of the evening free to settle in, relax, or head out and begin exploring on your own.
Today, we’ll discover Edinburgh’s rich LGBTQ+ history before exploring the magnificent Edinburgh Castle, perched high above the city on Castle Rock. We’ll then stroll along the historic Royal Mile, taking in its charming cafés, shops, and centuries of Scottish history. Along the way, enjoy stunning views and soak up the unique atmosphere of Scotland’s captivating capital. The evening is yours to enjoy, with plenty of time to explore Edinburgh’s restaurants, traditional pubs, and vibrant LGBTQ+ nightlife.
Today, we’ll venture beyond Edinburgh, beginning with a visit to the mysterious and magnificent Rosslyn Chapel, made famous by The Da Vinci Code. We’ll continue to the charming town of Melrose and explore the atmospheric ruins of Melrose Abbey, before stopping at Scott’s View for sweeping panoramas across the rolling Scottish countryside. We’ll finish the day at Glenkinchie Distillery, where we’ll tour the distillery and discover the art of Scotch whisky making and enjoy a tasting of its signature whiskies.
Today, we’ll venture into the breathtaking Scottish Highlands with a stop at the Blair Drummond Smiddy Farm before continuing through some of Scotland’s most spectacular scenery. We’ll pause at a Glencoe viewpoint to take in the dramatic mountain landscape, then continue to Fort William, nestled beneath Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest mountain. From there, we’ll cruise the legendary Loch Ness, keeping an eye out for its elusive resident, before making our way to the charming village of Pitlochry.
After an unforgettable few days exploring Edinburgh and the Scottish Highlands, it’s time to say farewell to Scotland and begin our journey home. Enjoy a final Scottish breakfast and some free time to relax, pick up a few last-minute souvenirs, or take one more stroll through Edinburgh’s historic streets before checking out and heading to the airport for your flight home. We hope you leave with wonderful memories, new friendships, and plenty of stories to share from your OUTbound adventure!

Staying at the Apex Grassmarket Hotel puts you right in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town, with Edinburgh Castle towering above and the lively Grassmarket just outside your door. Our stylish host hotel offers comfortable, modern rooms, a welcoming atmosphere, and easy access to some of the city’s best restaurants, pubs, shops, and attractions. From here, you’ll be perfectly positioned to explore the Royal Mile, Victoria Street, and the city’s historic sights… all while enjoying the energy and charm of one of Edinburgh’s most iconic neighborhoods..
Our host is the Apex Hotel Grassmarket, which offers the perfect combination of comfort, convenience, and location for our stay in Edinburgh. Set in the heart of the historic Grassmarket, our hotel puts you within easy walking distance of Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, Victoria Street, and many of the city’s best restaurants, pubs, and shops. After a day of exploring, you can relax in comfortable, modern accommodations while enjoying the lively atmosphere of one of Edinburgh’s most iconic neighborhoods. It’s an ideal home base for experiencing the very best of the city.

Staying at the Apex Grassmarket Hotel makes your Edinburgh experience effortless. Your comfortable accommodations, city taxes, and daily buffet breakfast are all included in your stay, allowing you to relax and enjoy the city. Each morning, start your day with a delicious breakfast before heading out to explore Edinburgh’s historic streets, iconic landmarks, and unforgettable sights... all from the convenience of our centrally located hotel.

The hotel’s restaurant offers a wonderful setting to relax and enjoy a delicious meal while taking in one of Edinburgh’s most spectacular views. Overlooking the historic Grassmarket, the restaurant provides an unforgettable backdrop of Edinburgh Castle perched high above the city, creating the perfect atmosphere for breakfast, dinner, or a leisurely drink. While starting your day with breakfast, dining here lets you enjoy great food and the unmistakable beauty of Edinburgh right outside your window.

At our host hotel, you’ll have everything you need to relax, recharge, and stay active during our Edinburgh extension. After a day of exploring the city, unwind in the hotel’s indoor swimming pool or enjoy some well-deserved time at the spa. The hotel’s well-equipped gym and weight room make it easy to fit in a workout. Whether you’re looking to relax or stay active, these convenient amenities provide the perfect way to make the most of your time at our hotel.

Stylish, comfortable, and tastefully decorated using bright colors and elegant furnishings, this room can be reserved with one oversized king bed. Approximately 275sf, These rooms come complete with a writing desk, safe, WiFi, minibar, satellite TV and air conditioning.

The spacious City Rooms are all finely furnished with bright pieces in contemporary style. City Rooms are approximately 250sf and can be reserved with either a king size bed or two twin beds. Each room is equipped with a writing desk, satellite TV, safe, WiFi, minibar and air conditioning.


GAY EDINBURGH
Edinburgh is a welcoming and vibrant destination for LGBTQ+ travelers, blending a proud queer community with centuries of history, culture, and Scottish charm. From lively LGBTQ+ bars and clubs to queer-friendly cafés, restaurants, and cultural spaces, the city offers plenty of ways to connect with the local scene. Explore the historic Old Town by day, then head to Broughton Street and the surrounding New Town to experience some of Edinburgh’s LGBTQ+ nightlife, or simply enjoy the city’s inclusive atmosphere as you discover its castles, cobbled streets, and legendary pubs.

GAY EDINBURGH
Edinburgh is a welcoming and vibrant destination for LGBTQ+ travelers, blending a proud queer community with centuries of history, culture, and Scottish charm. From lively LGBTQ+ bars and clubs to queer-friendly cafés, restaurants, and cultural spaces, the city offers plenty of ways to connect with the local scene. Explore the historic Old Town by day, then head to Broughton Street and the surrounding New Town to experience some of Edinburgh’s LGBTQ+ nightlife, or simply enjoy the city’s inclusive atmosphere as you discover its castles, cobbled streets, and legendary pubs.