Whispers of Stone:
Scotland’s Geological Legacy

10 days Edinburgh, Glasgow, Isle of Skye, and the Scottish Highlands

Geology, Natural History

Scotland is a land shaped by fire, ice and time, where every peak, valley and coastline tells a story millions of years in the making. This program invites students to uncover the awe-inspiring geology that forms the backbone of Scotland’s natural and cultural identity. From climbing Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano in Edinburgh, to tracing glacial paths in the Cairngorms and marveling at the rugged beauty of the Isle of Skye, each day offers discoveries that ignite curiosity and inspire a deeper connection to the Earth.

Students will go beyond the surface, engaging in field studies, expert-led workshops and interactive lectures to unravel Scotland’s geological past and its impact on urban planning, sustainability and heritage. Alongside these academic pursuits, the program immerses participants in Scotland’s rich traditions, from sampling local cuisine to exploring historic landmarks and museums.

Itinerary
Learning Outcomes
Support for Faculty

Itinerary

DAY 1 – USA

Depart USA – Fly to Edinburgh, Scotland
Day 2 – Edinburgh
Morning

Arrive at Edinburgh Airport. Meet & Greet with TLAC group leader

Late Morning

Walking & Orientation tour of Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns, focusing on how the city's geology has influenced its architecture and history. Visit Calton Hill and discuss the use of local stone in historical buildings.

Afternoon

Visit the National Museum of Scotland for a guided tour of their geological and earth sciences exhibits. Learn about Scotland’s geological history, including ancient volcanoes, the formation of the Scottish Highlands, and fossil records.

Evening

Free time to rest and explore Edinburgh
Day 3-edinburgh
Morning

Depart the hotel early for a Guided tour of Holyrood Park and Arthur’s Seat.

Afternoon

Visit to the University of Edinburgh’s School of GeoSciences for a guest lecture on the role of geology in urban planning and infrastructure development in Scotland.

Evening

Group welcome dinner – enjoy local Scottish fare and try the haggis if you dare!
Day 4 – Glasgow
Morning

Check out of accommodation and travel to Glasgow for a visit to the Glasgow Science Centre, where students will explore exhibits on climate change, energy resources, and the impact of the Industrial Revolution on geology and environmental science.

Afternoon

Visit to the Hunterian Museum and Art Gallery at the University of Glasgow for a deeper understanding of Scotland's scientific

contributions.

Evening

Free time to explore Glasgow
Day 5 – ISLE OF SKYE
Morning

Check out of accommodation early for the Isle of Skye, stopping along the way to visit notable geological sites, such as the Callanish Stones and the Sleeping Giant on the Isle of Lewis.

Afternoon

In this hands-on workshop, students will explore the renowned rock formations of the Isle of Skye, including the Old Man of Storr, the Quiraing, and the Trotternish Ridge.

Evening

Free Time
Day 6 – TALISKER BAY
Morning

Visit the Talisker Bay, focusing on coastal erosion and the geological processes shaping the coastline. Conduct field exercises on sediment analysis and rock types.
Afternoon
- Enjoy a visit to the Talisker Distillery.
Evening

Return to hotel for a free evening
day 7 – cAIRNGORMS NATIONAL PARK
Morning

Early check out of hotel and Travel through the Scottish Highlands to the Cairngorms National Park, home to significant glacial features. Visit Loch Morlich and study glacial valleys, moraines, and sediment deposits.

Afternoon

Visit the River Dee to analyze river systems, water quality, and the effects of erosion and sediment transport on the landscape.

Evening

Free Time
day 8 – cAIRNGORMS NATIONAL PARK
Morning

Check out of housing and take a guided field trip into the Cairngorms National Park to explore the region’s diverse geology. Students will study the unique rock formations, glacial features, and evidence of past volcanic activity that shape the landscape. The geology of this area provides insight into the processes that have influenced Scotland’s terrain over millions of years.

Afternoon

Return to Glasgow for the night and free time.
day 9 – glasgow
Morning

Visit with a local Environmental Engineering business where students will have the opportunity to engage with a local environmental engineering company, where they will gain practical insights into how engineering solutions address environmental challenges.

Afternoon

Free time to explore Glasgow and get any last minute souvenirs

Evening

Group farewell dinner
Day 10

Transfer to Airport and depart Scotland for the USA

Learning Outcomes

Cultural Competence
Scotland’s Geology
Hands-On Experience
Earth’s History
Scientific Heritage

Support for Faculty

At The Learning Abroad Co., we collaborate with faculty to design custom programs that align with their academic vision. We provide comprehensive support in curriculum development, logistics and resources for promoting and recruiting students for these unique global learning experiences.

Online faculty-led program website for consultation by faculty and students pre- and during the trip
Expertise from the local team who developed the program proposal
Collaborative planning for a unique and customized program
Feedback forms for continuous evaluation
Pre-departure webinar

Contact Information

We would be delighted to work with you to facilitate a rich experience for your group in Scotland. If you would like to discuss any of the details in this proposal please do not
hesitate to contact us.

Julia Lynes
[email protected]
+1 (561)-528-0852

What’s Included

Housing
- Students & faculty will be housed in 3 star hotel accommodation with breakfast included
- 2 students per bedroom (2 separate beds) with private bathroom
- Private bedrooms for faculty members
Meals
- Breakfasts are provided every morning in the hotel
- 2 group meals included in the program as part of activities for students and faculty – Welcome Dinner and Farewell Dinner
Transport
- The group will have a private coach for the duration of the program
- During their free time, the students will be responsible for their own transportation
On-Site Support
- A TLAC team member on-site in Scotland will be assigned to your group for the duration of the program
- You will be provided with a 24-hour Emergency Contact phone number to reach TLAC at any time during your stay
Cultural Activities
- Engaging learning through a rich variety of cultural activities that bring academic concepts to life. Students will have the opportunity to explore the cultural heritage of their destination, connecting it directly to their field of study through thoughtfully curated experiences.
Field Visits
- Immerse yourself in hands-on learning through insightful visits with industry organizations, thought leaders and key partners, bringing your academic experience to life.