We had to book our day tour last minute due to a mixup on another tour that was a larger group tour. After having done a private tour in Ireland, we were actually glad the large group tour was cancelled and we were able to book with Aura Journeys. The other tour was to include Loch Ness and the Highlands, which would have been a 12-hour tour.
The private tour with Aura for my husband, me and our two friends afforded us a completely customized experience with our driver Brian. He picked us up from our hotel in Edinburgh at 9 am and explained that some of the planned stops were closed or already booked at capacity, which didn’t phase us one bit. We just wanted to see as much of Scotland and the Highlands and really had no specific requests. Brian gave us an exceptional experience! He had the Mercedes van stocked with water, snacks and the infamous Iron Cru drinks! We saw Newton Viewpoint, the Kelpies, Shetland ponies, cows (which we got to pet and feed!), Doune Castle, multiple cathedrals, Roman Camp Hotel for lunch with the most beautiful garden and grounds, a waterfall outside Aberfoyle, and the William Wallace memorial in less than 12 hours.
If you are thinking about booking with Aura, BOOK IT! Cannot recommend them enough and be sure to ask for Brian as your driver if he’s available. Not only did he give us a heck of a day, he was so friendly and personable and wonderful to spend the day with!