An incredible 6 day journey though the Highlands of Scotland to the magical Isle of Skye, returning via the heather-clad mountains of the Cairngorms. This wonderful trip takes in the best scenery of the rugged Highlands, the beauty of Skye and the Cairngorms National Park with quiant villages and top attractions along the way. Begin your exploration at the awe-inspiring 'Kelpies' and one of the largest and most historically important castles in Scotland, before touring north for the west coast, the Isle of Skye and later, Inverness. End the tour with an enjoyable tour and tasting at Glenturret Whisky Distillery.
Customize this tourToday we tour to Stirling stopping to view ‘The Kelpies’, two huge 300-tonne equine sculptures that dominate the Falkirk skyline, on our way to Stirling Castle. This was the favoured residence of Scotland’s Kings and Queens in medieval times, enjoy a full tour to take in the castles' long and turbulent history. This afternoon, we tour through the fabulous landscape of Scotland’s first National Park and across Rannoch Moor to the dramatic scenery of Glencoe that is steeped in history. Overnight nr Glencoe.
This morning we tour west on the ‘Road to the Isles’, providing wonderful views to the Small Isles of Eigg and Rhum. Our journey follows the West Highland Railway, built to help open up this remote part of the Scottish coast. We stop at Glenfinnan to view the monument in honour of the Highlanders who gave their lives to the Jacobite cause in 1745. After lunch in the fishing port of Mallaig we take the ferry “Over the Sea to Skye” and visit Armadale Castle & Gardens. Overnight Skye area.
Today we begin on a tour of the Isle of Skye, passing through Broadford and on to the main settlement on the Island, Portree, with its colourful harbour front and interesting shops. After lunch we head north through the rugged Trotternish Peninsula and take in the views at Uig, the Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock Falls before travelling back down the island for the evening. Other options are a possibility depending on the weather, but this will most definitely be a day to remember. Overnight Skye area.
After breakfast, enjoy a spectacular visit to iconic Eilean Donan Castle. The scenery quickly changes as we travel through Glen Shiel to Loch Ness. We stop at the charming village of Fort Augustus to walk part of the Caledonian Canal and stop for lunch nearby before moving on to travel the length of the loch. The afternoon is spent exploring the city of Inverness with some free time exploring the interesting shops and beautiful riverside setting. Overnight Inverness area.
Today begins with a visit to Culloden Battlefield which will provide a lasting image of Bonnie Prince Charlie and his Jacobite Army. Take a walk on the battlefield where the last battle to be fought on British soil took place in 1746. Next, we head out for a scenic trip through the Cairngorms National Park. On the way we stop for lunch, visit Carrbridge village and explore tranquil Rothiemurchus Estate, home to ancient Caledonian Pine Forests. Overnight Dunkeld.
After breakfast, explore the quaint highland village of Dunkeld with historic buildings and medieval cathedral on the banks of the river Tay. When ready, we head off for a tour and tasting at the local Whisky Distillery before taking in the traditional market town of Crieff to explore the town and have lunch. Later we depart the Highlands and head south for the cobbled streets of South Queensferry to view the famous Forth Rail Bridge. Tour ends in Edinburgh.