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Historic Land Adventure: Rosslyn and the Borders with Panorama Etours - Edinburgh

Historic Land Adventure: Rosslyn and the Borders with Panorama Etours

Edinburgheasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

9 hours

Fitness Level

Basic walking ability needed; comfortable shoes recommended

Overview

Discover Scotland’s iconic sites with Panorama Etours in a 9-hour journey through the Borders. From Rosslyn Chapel to Melrose Abbey, uncover legends and history in a scenic setting.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Rosslyn and the Borders

For all ages! • 9 hours • Stunning Scenery

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About This Adventure

Embark on a captivating 9-hour journey through Scotland's Borders, uncovering the secrets of Rosslyn Chapel and other iconic sites. Explore Smailholm Tower, discover a hidden statue of William Wallace, and marvel at the ruins of Melrose Abbey. This adventure promises unforgettable memories steeped in history and mystery.

Take a journey with us to explore the borders of Scotland and find out the secrets of the enigmatic Rosslyn Chapel!

Duration

9 hours

About

We’ll take you to some of the most iconic and mysterious sites in the region, including Smailholm Tower, a 15th century tower related to the childhood of Sir Walter Scott. You’ll also see a hidden statue of William Wallace, the Scottish hero of the 13th century, and explore Melrose Abbey, a ruined monastery founded in 1136.

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Finally, you’ll visit Rosslyn Chapel, a mysterious and fascinating building filled with intricate carvings and symbols. From taking in the beauty of the area to learning about the fascinating history and culture, you are sure to make memories that will last a lifetime!

Itinerary

Our day out exploring the Borders will start by visiting Smailholm Tower, an ancient 15th century stronghold located in an idyllic scenery. It belonged to ancestors of Sir Walter Scott, one of Scotland’s greatest writers and of its greatest heroes too. Having spent part of his childhood in the area, we’ll see how the tower influenced some of his later life work. Over the day you will find out how he became one of Scotland’s greatest writers and of its greatest heroes too. Our guide will then take you to a majestic Statue of William Wallace hidden in the forest. Built with local sandstone and overlooking the river Tweed, this iconic monument was commissioned by David Erskine in the 19th century and hidden to avoid the British rulers from finding it. It defiantly looks South, towards the English neighbour. For lunch we will stop in the charming town of Melrose. Before getting some free time to try the local cuisine, our guide will take you for a visit of the beautiful ruins of Melrose Abbey. Built in the XII century as a monastery, it is today known as the resting Place of nonetheless than the Braveheart of Scotland.

Saving the best for last, we will visit Rosslyn Chapel. The subject of many stories and legends throughout its long history, it inspired novels like The Da Vinci Code. Filled with mysterious carvings, symbols, and artwork the chapel has been linked to the Knights Templar, the Freemasons, and even the Holy Grail. Our guide will take you on a journey to explore its mysteries and centuries old unsolved enigmas.

Adventure Tips

Wear comfortable shoes

You’ll be walking through historic sites and uneven terrain.

Bring a camera

Photograph breathtaking ruins and scenic views along the way.

Pack rain gear

Weather can change quickly in the region, so be prepared for rain.

Stay hydrated

Bring water bottles to keep cool and refreshed during the day.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Red squirrel
  • Bird species such as skylarks

History

The Borders region has been a contested border zone for centuries, hosting many skirmishes and legends since medieval times.

Conservation

Efforts are underway to preserve the historic sites and promote sustainable tourism practices in the area.

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Adventure Hotspots in Edinburgh

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Comfortable walking shoes

Essential

Supports long periods of walking on uneven historic sites.

Camera or smartphone

Captures the scenic and historic highlights.

Rain jacket

Protects against sudden weather changes in the region.

Water bottle

Keeps you hydrated throughout the day.