Want to spend five days wandering historic streets, exploring castles, browsing bookstores, and eating your way through Scotland’s capital? Edinburgh is waiting.
Join us June 14–18, 2027 for our Edinburgh Side Quest. This five-day, small-group adventure follows the Scottish Highlands Reading Retreat and is designed for women who want to continue exploring before heading home. We’ll trade the quiet shores of Loch Tay for cobblestone streets, centuries of history, beautiful architecture, cozy bookshops, and some of the best restaurants in Scotland.
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While this Side Quest is scheduled immediately after the Scottish Highlands Reading Retreat, you do not need to attend the retreat to join us in Edinburgh. Whether you’re extending your time in Scotland or simply looking for a thoughtfully planned way to explore the city with a small group of like-minded women, you’re welcome to join us for this portion of the journey.
Why Edinburgh?
The medieval Old Town, elegant Georgian New Town, winding closes, dramatic skyline, and centuries-old buildings make it one of Europe’s most atmospheric capitals. It is also a UNESCO City of Literature, with a rich literary history, independent bookstores, and plenty of cozy places to settle in with a new book.
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Unlike our countryside retreats, this Side Quest will place us in the heart of the city. We’ll stay at one carefully selected Edinburgh hotel throughout the trip, giving us a comfortable home base without the need to pack up and change accommodations. From there, we’ll explore historic landmarks, wander distinctive neighborhoods, browse local bookshops, and enjoy memorable meals at some of the city’s excellent restaurants.
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We recommend this experience for women who enjoy cultural exploration, city walking, history, literature, great food, and a more active itinerary balanced with free time to explore at their own pace.
Pricing & Booking
Edinburgh is an expensive city to visit, often ranking as one of the most expensive cities for tourists in Western Europe. Guests may choose a private room for their own space and comfort, or select a shared room option to split the cost with a friend or another traveler.
Private
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$5,550
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Shared (double-occupancy)
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$3,025 per person
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​This includes the following:
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Four nights in a 3- 4-star hotel in Edinburgh
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All meals (extra food and drink for snacking is not provided)
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Airport transfer and any group transfer to/from tours
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Three regional activities, such as an Edinburgh Tour or visiting local castles
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Secure your spot with a 40% deposit.
Full balance due by April 14, 2027.
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Deposits are non-refundable.
What We'll Do
Over five days, we will*:
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Tour Edinburgh and learn more about the stories, architecture, and history that have shaped Scotland’s capital
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Visit Edinburgh Castle, dramatically positioned above the city on Castle Rock
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Wander the Royal Mile, historic closes, and the atmospheric streets of the Old Town
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Track down independent bookstores, literary landmarks, and cozy places that celebrate Edinburgh’s bookish side
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Enjoy excellent meals together at thoughtfully selected local restaurants
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Explore some of the city’s most distinctive neighborhoods, shops, cafés, and historic sites
*Itinerary is subject to change.
This Side Quest is designed to offer an introduction to Edinburgh without rushing through every attraction. We’ll experience the city’s history, literary culture, food, and atmosphere while leaving the logistics to us and allowing space to enjoy the unexpected discoveries that make city travel so memorable.
Is this Side Quest for me?
This Side Quest is a good fit for women who enjoy exploring cities on foot and want to experience the history, culture, and literary charm of one of Europe's most captivating capitals. We'll spend our days wandering Edinburgh's historic neighborhoods, visiting iconic landmarks, browsing independent bookstores, and discovering great local restaurants.
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You don't need to be an experienced traveler, but you should be comfortable walking several miles throughout the day, navigating cobblestone streets and LOTS of hills, and spending full days out exploring before returning to the same hotel each evening.
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If the idea of castle tours, cozy bookshops, historic streets, excellent food, and soaking up the atmosphere of Scotland's capital sounds like your perfect way to spend a few extra days, this Side Quest is likely a great fit.
What's Included
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Four nights of hotel accommodations
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Airport transportation
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All meals during the five days
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Regional activities such as an Edinburgh city tour, castle tours and more
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Slow Travel Co. host throughout the experience
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All planning and logistics coordination
What's Not Included
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Flights to and from Edinburgh
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Travel insurance (highly recommended)
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Additional snacks and personal purchases
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Alcoholic beverages
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Gratuities for local guides and drivers
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Medical expenses or emergency costs
Location & Accommodation
We'll stay in one comfortable 3- to 4-star hotel in the heart of Edinburgh, giving us the perfect home base for exploring Scotland's capital.
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By staying in one centrally located hotel for the duration of the trip, you'll be able to settle in, unpack once, and enjoy a more relaxed pace while still having easy access to everything Edinburgh has to offer. After each day of exploring, you'll return to the same welcoming accommodations to unwind before another day of discovering this remarkable city.
Mid-June in Edinburgh typically brings mild temperatures and long daylight hours, with temperatures ranging from around 48°F (9°C) at night to 63°F (17°C) during the day. Weather can change quickly, so expect a mix of sunshine, clouds, wind, and occasional rain showers.
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Edinburgh is best explored on foot, and the historic center includes cobblestone streets, LOTS of hills, and uneven surfaces.
Climate & What to Expect
What to bring
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Layers to accommodate Scotland's ever-changing weather
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A lightweight waterproof jacket and compact umbrella for passing rain showers
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Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city and sightseeing
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A day bag for carrying your daily essentials while out exploring
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Passport, medications, and any other personal essentials
Your Retreat Host is an experienced traveler and will manage all aspects of the trip — from planning to on-site coordination. She is your primary contact for questions or support before and during the retreat. After booking, expect a friendly welcome email with more details like packing tips and travel info.
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Please note, your Retreat Host is not a medical professional and cannot provide medical advice. If you feel unwell, she can help direct you to local healthcare providers.
Your Group Leader & Support
Money & Spending
Most places in Edinburgh accept both British Pounds and credit cards—Visa and Mastercard are recommended. It’s also a good idea to carry around £50 in cash for small purchases or emergencies. You’re welcome to bring local currency if you prefer, but there are ATMs at the airport where you can withdraw local currency once you arrive.
Travel insurance is highly recommended for this retreat. It goes far beyond covering delayed flights or lost luggage. It can protect you in the event of unexpected cancellations, medical emergencies abroad, travel delays, or other disruptions outside of your control. With the current travel environment and how quickly plans can change, having coverage in place offers valuable peace of mind and helps ensure you’re not financially responsible for unforeseen circumstances that could impact your trip. Please note that Slow Travel Co. is not responsible or liable for any such disruptions, losses, or expenses incurred, and travel insurance is the best way to safeguard your investment.
Travel Insurance
