Scotland: High School Service Learning (2024)

Take an overnight flight from Boston to Edinburgh.

After arriving in Edinburgh, you’ll be greeted by Stone & Compass staff and driven to the hotel. After checking in and settling luggage, we’ll embark on a brief walking tour of the city! We’ll walk on Princes Street, through cemeteries, making our way to The Queen’s Gallery, Palace of Holyroodhouse. From here, we’ll begin a hike up Arthur’s Seat, a hill that offers an amazing scenic view of the city. Have a great dinner before settling in for the night.

Today, we are off to explore Edinburgh Castle, a historic castle in Edinburgh that stands on Castle Rock! Then, the students will have free time exploring the Royal Mile. This street is filled with shops to explore and restaurants to try. After lunch, we will partake in an Edinburgh Vault history tour. During this tour, we take a walk underneath the city and roam around its chambers to learn about Edinburgh’s past. With spooky tales and fun sights, this is a great tour to enjoy.

We will depart our hotel for the ancient town and former capital of Scotland, Dunfermline, which in 2022 was granted city status by the Queen. We will visit the historical Dunfermline Abbey, the burial place of Robert the Bruce. The Abbey is situated in the center of town and next to Pittencrieff park where the students will have free time. We’ll visit the Hot House, which holds exotic plants and flowers from all around the world. Surprise!! Peacocks roam freely in this park! Students will also enjoy free time in the city center

Today begins with a scenic drive up to Inverness. We’ll stop for lunch on the way before checking into the hotel and settling luggage. Then, we’re off to tour the city! We’ll take a walk along the water, explore various cathedrals, and have some free time to enjoy the city’s main center. Students will also visit the cultural museum located in the heart of the city.

Today, we are off to catch Nessie! Loch Ness is a large freshwater loch in the Scottish Highlands. During a boat cruise, we’ll explore the loch, but keep your eyes peeled for a monster sighting as you gaze at the surrounding landscape. Afterwards, we will visit the Castle Eilean Donan. Built in the 13th century, this castle holds rich history and beautiful panoramic views. Explore the castle and stop in the gift shop for souvenirs!

We will depart early to drive to the Isle of Skye, stopping for lunch on the way. After checking into the hotel and settling luggage, we are off on a magical adventure – roaming around the Fairy Pools! This excursion is a nature-lover’s dream – dip your feet in the flowing water or even go for a swim. Students will be surrounded by the mountains and see quite a few waterfalls.

Today is another day filled with nature and adventure in the Isle of Skye. We will hike The Old Man of Storr, which offers a beautiful view of the land. After lunch, we are off to see Kilt Rock. Named after a drop point that resembles a kilt, this viewpoint is a must see. Kilt Rock is also home to the Mealt Waterfall, a 50-meter tall waterfall. Then, it is back to the hotel for some rest time before enjoying a great dinner and getting luggage ready for tomorrow’s travel day.

Today, we will partake in a scenic drive back to Edinburgh, stopping along the way for excursions. Students will have lunch and free time in Fort William. We’ll also drive through Glencoe and see the Three Sisters. When we arrive in Edinburgh, we will settle luggage before enjoying a great farewell dinner.

Have a safe journey back to the USA!