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Clan Mackenzie Itinerary
The Mackenzie clan was one of the most powerful in the whole of the country, with territories stretching right across Scotland. Prime among these were the lands of Kintail, 14,000 acres of magnificent Highland scenery that include the Five Sisters of Kintail, now one of the most popular hillwalking challenges in Scotland.
Arriving and departing from the Highland capital of Inverness, this itinerary will take you into the heart of some of the wildest, most rugged scenery in Scotland. But, fear not, there are plenty of hospitality opportunities along the way.
Day one
Arrive in Inverness, the beautiful, bustling capital of the Highlands. In the nearby villages of Kingussie and Newtonmore, you'll find two fascinating Highland Folk Museums. Here, more than 400 years of Highland life are brought to life in exhibitions which track the everyday experiences of clansman and crofter.
Day two
Visit the picturesque village of Beauly, only 15 miles from the centre of Inverness. We've brought you here to visit Beauly Priory, where you'll find the splendid tomb of Kenneth, son of Alasdair of Kintail. The monument, which takes the form of the full armour and panoply of a knight is 'an outstanding work...and testimony to the importance of the chief it commemorates'.
Day three
Travel west to Eilean Donan Castle on the shores of Loch Duich, near Skye. You may well recognise this castle, as its beautiful image has long been used to promote the sheer majesty of Scotland's heritage and landscape. The current building was only constructed in the early 20th century. But, for Mackenzies, this has been a stronghold ever since they first settled here in 1267.
Day four
Head up Lochs Duich and Alsh to Kyle of Lochalsh. In recent years a toll bridge has replaced the long running ferry and you can head over this to the Isle of Skye itself. Here, you'll find no end of places to explore, most of which lie in the shadow of the jagged Cuillin mountains.
Day five
Leaving Skye behind, take the road northwards towards the busy fishing town of Gairloch. You have two choices of route here, one of which passes through the stunning Torridon mountain range. The Heritage Centre at Gairloch offers an award-winning introduction to the history of the area and the Highland way of life. Return to Inverness and, if time permits, visit the historic battlefield of Culloden where, in April 1746, 'Bonnie' Prince Charlie's Jacobite rebellion was crushed by Government forces.
Day six
Time to say goodbye to the Highlands and the beautiful city of Inverness.
Provided by www.ancestralscotland.com