A HOTEL group has launched a new “modern-day grand tour” between Scotland and Sicily.
The 16-day trip begins in the Scottish capital before moving to London, Brussels, Berlin, Munich, Florence, Rome and Palermo.
Hotel group Rocco Forte Hotels has said the journey is perfect for those “seeking cultural highlights, with authentic local experiences to explore in each of the destinations”.
Guests will be able to explore London in a fleet of Mini Coopers, visit street markets in Palermo as well as discover Munich’s street art scene as part of a private tour.
READ MORE: Bus route in Scotland named among UK's most scenic to try
Rocco Forte Hotels added that the trip “also showcases the benefits of slow travel” as guests can take in locations such as the Brenner Pass over the Alps and plains of northern Italy.
It comes after The Herald reported earlier this month that a regional government in Spain has confirmed new plans to establish a direct air connection to Scotland.
The newspaper reported that the government of the principality of Asturias is examining the possibility of a new connection to Edinburgh.
Last month meanwhile, Edinburgh Airport announced the addition of three new routes to popular holiday destinations, including a resort in North Africa, a coastal holiday spot and a celebrated wine region city.
Why are you making commenting on The National only available to subscribers?
We know there are thousands of National readers who want to debate, argue and go back and forth in the comments section of our stories. We’ve got the most informed readers in Scotland, asking each other the big questions about the future of our country.
Unfortunately, though, these important debates are being spoiled by a vocal minority of trolls who aren’t really interested in the issues, try to derail the conversations, register under fake names, and post vile abuse.
So that’s why we’ve decided to make the ability to comment only available to our paying subscribers. That way, all the trolls who post abuse on our website will have to pay if they want to join the debate – and risk a permanent ban from the account that they subscribe with.
The conversation will go back to what it should be about – people who care passionately about the issues, but disagree constructively on what we should do about them. Let’s get that debate started!
Callum Baird, Editor of The National
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here