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Halloween in Scotland
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Halloween in Scotland
Do you know the real origin of Halloween? Scottish Halloween, or “Hallows’ Eve”, finds its roots in the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain.
The Celts, who lived over 2,000 years ago in what is now Ireland and the United Kingdom, celebrated the end of the harvest season with a festival known as Samhain (pronounced “sow-in”).
Samhain marked the transition from summer to winter and was considered a time when the boundary between the living and the dead was blurred. The Celts believed that on the night of October 31st, the spirits of the dead would return to Earth and cause havoc. They also believed that the presence of these spirits made it easier for the Druids (Celtic priests) to make predictions about the future.
During Samhain, the Celts would light bonfires and wear costumes made from animal skins to ward off evil spirits. They would also offer food and sacrifices to appease the spirits. In the 8th century, the Catholic Church designated November 1st as All Saints’ Day, a day to honor saints and martyrs. The evening before became known as All Hallows’ Eve, later shortened to Halloween.
Currently, Halloween in Scotland is celebrated with a mix of traditional and modern customs. People dress up in costumes, carve pumpkins into Jack-o’-lanterns, and decorate their homes with spooky themes. There are parties and events featuring haunted houses, ghost tours, and fireworks displays. Overall, Halloween in Scotland is a festive and fun-filled celebration with a spooky twist.
Halloween is the one of the best occasions to discover the great history, the culture and the natural beauties of the Scotland.
Scotland’s natural beauty is not to be missed. Scotland is famous for its stunning natural landscapes, from the rugged mountains and sparkling lochs of the Scottish Highlands to the rolling hills and picturesque coastline of the Lowlands.
History and Culture. With its fascinating history from ancient castles to historical battlefields, it is also renowned for a vibrant cultural scene, world-class museums, galleries, and folklore festivals.
Whisky. Scotland is home to some of the world’s finest whisky distilleries, producers of a wide range of distinctive and refined whiskies appreciated all around the globe. Enjoying a whisky tasting in some of the best Scottish distilleries is a must-do activity during your stay.
Hospitality and warmth. Scottish people are well known for their warmth and hospitality, and visitors can expect a warm welcome wherever they go. From friendly locals to cozy pubs and restaurants serving delicious local cuisine, Scotland is a welcoming and inviting destination that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Halloween in Scotland
The Celts, who lived over 2,000 years ago in what is now Ireland and the United Kingdom, celebrated the end of the harvest season with a festival known as Samhain (pronounced “sow-in”).
Samhain marked the transition from summer to winter and was considered a time when the boundary between the living and the dead was blurred. The Celts believed that on the night of October 31st, the spirits of the dead would return to Earth and cause havoc. They also believed that the presence of these spirits made it easier for the Druids (Celtic priests) to make predictions about the future.
During Samhain, the Celts would light bonfires and wear costumes made from animal skins to ward off evil spirits. They would also offer food and sacrifices to appease the spirits. In the 8th century, the Catholic Church designated November 1st as All Saints’ Day, a day to honor saints and martyrs. The evening before became known as All Hallows’ Eve, later shortened to Halloween.
Currently, Halloween in Scotland is celebrated with a mix of traditional and modern customs. People dress up in costumes, carve pumpkins into Jack-o’-lanterns, and decorate their homes with spooky themes. There are parties and events featuring haunted houses, ghost tours, and fireworks displays. Overall, Halloween in Scotland is a festive and fun-filled celebration with a spooky twist.
Halloween is the one of the best occasions to discover the great history, the culture and the natural beauties of the Scotland.
Scotland’s natural beauty is not to be missed. Scotland is famous for its stunning natural landscapes, from the rugged mountains and sparkling lochs of the Scottish Highlands to the rolling hills and picturesque coastline of the Lowlands.
History and Culture. With its fascinating history from ancient castles to historical battlefields, it is also renowned for a vibrant cultural scene, world-class museums, galleries, and folklore festivals.
Whisky. Scotland is home to some of the world’s finest whisky distilleries, producers of a wide range of distinctive and refined whiskies appreciated all around the globe. Enjoying a whisky tasting in some of the best Scottish distilleries is a must-do activity during your stay.
Hospitality and warmth. Scottish people are well known for their warmth and hospitality, and visitors can expect a warm welcome wherever they go. From friendly locals to cozy pubs and restaurants serving delicious local cuisine, Scotland is a welcoming and inviting destination that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Highlights
Tour Description
Halloween in Scotland
Contact us to check availability and ask for a quotation for families and private groups based on your special needs.
Passport with at least six months of validity is mandatory; One Life Journeys does not provide any service and assistance related visa requirements and processing.
We highly recommend purchasing a personal travel insurance at the time of booking.
Flexibility: Possibility to change dates, name of participant or tour until 75 days before departure (a supplement cost might be requested during high season, or for flight quotations if requested)
Reservation: 40% deposit at confirmation. Full payment is due 75 days prior departure.*
*For the complete policy, refer to our Terms & Conditions.
Tour Details
Day 1 – Arrival in Edinburgh, Scotland
Upon your arrival in Edinburgh, you will be transferred by private driver to your centrally located hotel. After some rest, you will enjoy a welcome dinner at a lively restaurant. Night in Edinburgh
Day 2 – Edinburgh
This morning you will start the day with a visit of Edinburgh with your local guide, including the Castle. You will have the rest of the day on own to enjoy the magic atmosphere of Halloween and the iconic “Samhain Fire Parade”. Night in Edinburgh
Day 3 – Stirling Castle and Rosslyn Chapel
Today you will visit Stirling Castle, is a historic fortress that dates back to at least the early 12th century, serving as both a royal residence and a strategic stronghold. The castle is perched atop a rocky outcrop, offering commanding views of the surrounding area. It is known for its impressive architecture, including the Renaissance Palace, the Great Hall, and the iconic Gatehouse. Afterwards, you will be transferred to Rosslyn Chapel, which took 40 years to build, and its ornate stonework and mystical symbolism have inspired artists and poets ever since. You will stop for lunch nearby before heading back to Edinburgh. Night in Edinburgh
Day 4 – St. Andrews
Today you will spend the day in St. Andrews, Scotland’s world-famous Home of Golf. You will be guided through a walking tour of the Old Golf Course (on seasonal availability). You will enjoy a nice food tour of St. Andrews walking around its medieval streets and gorgeous buildings and stopping for food and beer tastings. You will return to Edinburgh in the afternoon. Night in Edinburgh
Day 5 – Glasgow and Whisky Tasting
Today you will have a guided of Glasgow, a vibrant city in Scotland known for its rich history and cultural attractions. It is renowned for its stunning Victorian architecture, world-class art galleries, and vibrant music and arts scene. With a warm, welcoming atmosphere, Glasgow offers a blend of history, culture, and modernity that makes it a popular destination for visitors from around the world. You will visit, before lunch an historical Scottish Brewery to discover the inner workings of Wellpark Brewery home to over 450 years of brewing tradition and award-winning beers, finishing with a tasting experience of a pint of the good stuff waiting for you! After the beer tour you will enjoy the lunch in a typical Scottish Pub. On your way to Edinburgh, you will make a stop at a local distillery to taste some of the best whiskies of the region. Night in Edinburgh
Day 6 – Flight back home
Today you will be transferred to Edinburgh Airport to catch your flight back home.
*The program of activities and excursions might be subject to changes due to weather conditions. In case, alternatives will be offered.
⇒ Airport transfer at arrival and departure
⇒ Accomodation in charming, carefully selected hotels
⇒ All breakfasts
⇒ Meal on Days 1, 3, 4, 5
⇒ Professional Tour Leader
⇒ All transfers in a private deluxe minibus
⇒ Half Day Guided Tour of Edinburgh
⇒ Entrance tickets to Castle of Edinburgh
⇒ Admission at Samhain Fire Parade
⇒ Entrance Tickets to Stirling Castle
⇒ Entrance Tickets to Rosslyn Chapel
⇒ Eat and Walk Tour in St. Andrews
⇒ Walking Tour of Old Course in St. Andrews (On seasonal Availability)
⇒ Distillery Visit and Whisky Tasting
⇒ Guided Tour of Glasgow
⇒ Brewery Visit and Beer Tasting
⇒ All Activities and Entrances as per Itinerary
⇒ Professional Travel Consulting Throughout Trip
Χ International flights
Χ Travel insurance and local taxes
Χ Transfers and meals NOT mentioned
Χ Personal Expenses
Χ Tips to your tour leader, driver and local guides
Χ All that is NOT mentioned in “Included”
" Since 2014 I have worked and travelled on 4 different tours with Betta, they have all been amazing, all customized to what my group enjoys to do. I don’t have to tell her our preferences any more, they are just understood.
On each trip we are treated to special tours that you would not see with a large tour company. She personally makes each trip a pleasure and we all feel that we are with a family member when we get together with her. Can’t wait for our next trip."
Jayne Meissell
Washington, NC, USA
Jayne Meissell
Washington, NC, USA
" Having been on group trips to Northern & Southern Italy, Sicily, Portugal & Spain led by Benedetta, we can recommend her enthusiastically.
For our private trips, she made all our rail, air, private car & hotel arrangements, chosen based on the quality we requested; selected knowledgeable and informative guides to assist us at multiple locations; & stitched it all together into a cohesive itinerary from beginning to end. The trip was a delight. Besides her professional side, Benedetta is an upbeat “foodie” with a mind for fun, & she’s flexible, on the client’s side & doesn’t push an agenda. Finally, as we’ve traveled abroad, we’ve known she’s had our back should help be needed while away."
Mark and Vicki Hyde
Wailea, Hawaii, USA
Mark and Vicki Hyde
Wailea, Hawaii, USA
" Thank you One Life journey!!! My wife and I had a life time trip in Italy (from Sicily to Alba and its truffles) thanks to you. The level of service you provided was the highest. Your travel experience, knowledge, understanding and passion made the trip truly unforgettable. Can’t wait for next summer with other one."
Arash Malekzadeh, Sydney Australia
Arash Malekzadeh
Sydney, Australia
" Your professionalism and attention to every and each single details was above and beyond any expectations. Betta and Ray tailored the trip based our personal agenda and preferences, it was the best travel experience we have ever had. Looking forward to our next trip with you.
"
Asia Spilotros, USA
Asia Spilotros
USA
"Betta was our Tour Manager on my trip to Croatia and Slovenia and I can’t say enough wonderful things about her! She was outstanding in every way – professional, prepared, passionate, friendly, approachable, and informative. Our journey was a stress-free experience and she made us feel completely safe and well taken care of throughout the entire trip.
Betta was very organized and a great manager of our schedule but was flexible and accommodating enough to balance the prescribed schedule against different things members of the group wanted to see or experience. She went out of her way to make sure we saw not only the tourist sites, but also several that were off the beaten track as well. Betta was always there for us if we had any questions, and the group engaged in many interesting conversations. You cannot go wrong if Betta is your Tour Manager!"
Karen, Chicago
"When traveling, you’ll need a generous amount of good humor, patience and flexibility while expecting the unexpected. There will always be a need to alter plans on the fly. The key to success when traveling is managing these usually stressful surprises. And this is where Betta shines. After three separate tours with Betta, I can cite numerous occasions where I saw her planning and attention to detail in evidence. Daily schedules were well communicated and, always with smiles, Betta kept the tour group together for our various comings and goings. However, Betta’s real talents were displayed when needed to improvise. More important than simply planning, Betta would easily “roll with the punches” when required or asked to deviate from her original plans. She could do this based on her intimate knowledge of several options she could utilize to meet the needs of the moment. Betta’s personality to be much more than pleasant."
Carl Robbins - USA
"Ray helped us organising our family vacation to Sardinia and it was amazing! It was everything we were looking for: great location, stunning seaside, closeness to the beach and comfortable and cozy hotel and also the food was to die for! Our expectations were definitely exceeded. We are going to contact One Life Journeys again for our next holiday!"
Anna, Milan, Italy
"Hi, my name is Bob, and my wife Elizabeth and I want to highly recommend Betta. We traveled with Betta as our tour director on two Italian tours. She is wonderful, always upbeat, and very professional, a pleasure to be with. An excellent communicator, Benedetta was always well prepared and very knowledgeable about the areas we visited.
Every day she provided us with extraordinary experiences. Betta was able to adjust the day’s schedule and activities to accommodate unforeseen circumstances. She also managed special dietary requests with patience. We both look forward to traveling with Betta again soon."
Bob