9 Day Hebridean Islands and the Highlands

Day 1 is a fabulous introduction to the Scottish landscape; exploring the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond and the village of Luss and then to Inveraray to spend some time in this charming loch-side village. Later we travel past Loch Awe to Oban, ‘Gateway to the Isles’, and take a ferry to the rugged Isle of Mull. Overnight Mull.

Day 2 we tour the north of the isle of Mull with its stunning mountain scenery, seascapes and abundant wildlife. We visit the town of Tobermory with its wonderful frontage of painted houses and interesting shops, walk the white sand beach at Calgary Bay, and visit the home of one of Scotland’s oldest Clans. Overnight Mull

Day 3 we travel by ferry to explore the Ardnamurchan Peninsula by way of single-track road where the relics of ancient volcanic activity are conspicuous features. This is an area ideal for wildlife watching opportunities as we travel up the coast to take the ferry (15:00hrs) over the Sea of the Hebrides. Overnight South Uist.

Day 4 we travel through North Uist characterised by its 'drowned landscape' of peat bogs and lochans, and its string of bountiful beaches. Later, we cross the Sound of Harris and we will spend the afternoon exploring the dramatic beauty of Harris with highlights including stunning Luskentyre beach. Overnight Harris.

Day 5 we explore the rich history of Lewis which has been inhabited by man for around 5000 years or more. Our tour today includes a visit to the ancient Calanais Standing Stones, Dun Carloway Broch, a traditional blackhouse village where we discover the ancient way of life, and a Harris Tweed weaving demonstration. Overnight Harris.

Day 6 we depart the Outer Hebrides (07:20hrs) and travel cross the Little Minch to the magical Isle of Skye. Landing in Uig, we tour the Trotternish Peninsula to the island capital, Portree, with its colourful harbour front and interesting shops. Heading south we take in the fabulous scenery and seascapes as we travel over the Skye Bridge. Overnight Nr. Skye.

Day 7 we visit Eilean Donan Castle before taking a trip over the “Bealach Na Ba” to the remote Applecross Peninsula; a beautiful and tranquil place on the rugged coast of Wester Ross with stunning scenery. This area is well known for its spectacular mountain scenery and it’s not the easiest place to get to, but you’ll never forget the journey! Overnight nr Inverness.

Day 8 begins with a visit to Culloden Battlefield which will provide a lasting image of Bonnie Prince Charlie and his Jacobite Army before we venture south to explore the Cairngorms National Park. We visit Carrbridge and the Rothiemurchus Estate with fine views to the Cairngorm Mountains. Overnight Pitlochry.

Day 9 we relax and enjoy highland Perthshire, spending time in the town of Pitlochry and the village of Dunkeld before we take the Old Military Road south to Scone Palace, the crowning place of the Kings of Scots, including Macbeth and Robert the Bruce. We cross the river to the city of Perth and continue to Edinburgh. End of tour.