Whether you’re huddling up against the cold together (which gets extra special if you’ve got a roaring fire) or heading out to explore the highland and rugged terrain of the countryside, Scotland provides a fantastic destination for groups who want to spend some quality holiday time together. Naturally, here at Oliver’s Travels, we’ve got your accommodation sorted thanks to our range of luxury cottages in Scotland, but you might be wondering what is on offer when it comes to great activities? We’ve put together our favourite suggestions for the best group activities in Scotland below, so there’s bound to be something that everyone will enjoy.
Scotland’s sweeping landscapes are nothing short of cinematic, and one of the best ways to see them is from the saddle of a bike. These scenic Highlands rides depart from Inverness. Those who want a leisurely route can take the 25-kilometre journey to Beauly, passing the dolphin and seal-populated Beauly Firth en route. A more challenging and hilly 67-kilometre cycle will bring you to a picturesque waterfall that flows into fabled Loch Ness, home of the elusive Loch Ness Monster. Should you want to personalise your cycling route by adding in a distillery stop, for instance, Edinburgh Bike Tours can arrange that too.
Book: Online at Edinburgh Bike Tours
Location: 12 Timber Bush, Edinburgh EH6 6QH
Location: Badentinan, Elgin, Moray, Scotland, IV30 8QX
There are two schools of thought when it comes to swimming with sharks: people either find the idea utterly terrifying or they think it’s thoroughly thrilling. Basking Shark Scotland’s day-long boat tours, which depart from Oban during July and August, will carry your group along the coast in search of these rare and thankfully placid leviathans. Once you find them, the captain will check how relaxed they appear, and if the skipper gives you the go-ahead, you’ll be allowed to dive on in and join them in the water. If you’ve seen Jaws one too many times and don’t fancy a dip with these gentle giants, you can simply observe them from the safety of the deck. Either way, this has to be one of the most thrilling group activities in Scotland!
Book: Online at Basking Shark Scotland
Location: North Pier, Oban PA34 5NH, Scotland
If you’ve already explored Scotland’s west coast and are hoping to get a flavour of Fife on the east, Heart of Scotland Tours can help. They’ll drive you and your crew around in one of their nifty ‘wee red buses’ and show you all that this royal region has to offer. That includes the iconic Victorian-era Forth Rail Bridge; the 11th-century Dunfermline Abbey, where Robert the Bruce is buried; and the cathedral, castle and historic Old Course of St. Andrews, as well as a couple of the region’s most photogenic fishing villages.
Book: Online at Heart of Scotland Tours
Location: ZE, Waterloo Pl, Edinburgh EH1 3BQ
Love or loathe the man behind this resort; there is no denying that the golf courses here are unrivalled. And it’s not just the incredible views across the Firth of Clyde that has earned it its exceptional reputation – this course also has a golfing legacy like no other. Since the first fairway was built back in 1901, many dramatic sporting moments have unfolded on the championship Alisa course, including the famous Duel in the Sun between Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson in 1977. For golf nuts, the Trump Turnberry is a must-do pilgrimage.
Book: Online at Trump Turnberry
Location: Turnberry Ayrshire, Scotland, KA26 9LT
Pretend you are William Wallace and lead your army of friends on horseback through the gorgeous Scottish countryside near Newtonmore Riding Centre. Novice riders can arrange to have a brief introduction at the riding school before setting out on a guide-led walk into the surrounding wilderness. This riding centre is located within the Cairngorms National Park, so no matter where you and your four-legged friend roam, the views are bound to impress.
Book: Call 01540 670000 or email info@newtonmoreridingcentre.com
Location: Biallid Farm, Fort William Rd, Newtonmore, Inverness-shire, PH20 1BP
For an outdoor holiday experience that everyone can take part in (no matter what their fitness level or sporting skill), try archery. This centuries-old country sport requires no previous experience. All equipment will be provided, and expert instructors will be on hand to give you and your budding bow hunters a safety briefing, as well as offering tips to help you hit that elusive target. Get in a few practice rounds then begin a friendly competition to see who among your crew can hit the most bull’s eyes.
Book: Online at Rothiemurchus
Location: Rothiemurchus By Aviemore, Inverness-shire, PH22 1QH
If these group activities in Scotland tickle your fancy, all you need to do is get in touch with our friendly concierge service! They’ll help you find the perfect accommodation for your group, and if you need a bit more travel inspiration to get you looking forward to your luxury Scottish break, why not check out our blog? We’ve got articles on the Scotland Travel Guide, top 10 party houses in the UK – great if you’re planning a big celebration! And lastly, see our best family activities in Scotland and top 10 food and drink activities in Scotland.
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