12 Day Outer Hebrides & Orkney Island Hopper

After pick-up between 9:00am & 10:30am in Glasgow we head deep into the Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, crossing the river Teith and through the village of Callander, stopping at Loch Lubnaig to admire the views. Next, we visit the charming village of Killin with its scenic bridge and the spectacular Falls of Dochart. Later, we visit Balquhidder to see the final resting place of Highland legend Rob Roy McGregor before we tour north for the fabulous scenery of Glencoe, steeped in history with dramatic scenery. Overnight Fort William.

After breakfast, we head out to explore one of Scotland’s most remote areas. The small ferry takes across to the peaceful Ardnamurchan Peninsula, an area ideal for wildlife watching opportunities and we hope to see Sea-Eagles, Red Deer, Otters and Seals amongst others. We explore the peninsula by way of single-track road where the relics of ancient volcanic activity are conspicuous features. Enjoy a walk out to the ruins of Castle Tiorum in a spectacularly scenic spot, and later, we travel by ferry over to South Skye for the evening. Overnight South Skye.

Today we relax and enjoy a slower pace as we spend the morning touring up the Isle of Skye to the Uig Ferry Terminal for our afternoon crossing to the Outer Hebrides. It will take us less than 2 hours to cross the Little Minch, and this is a great time to look for whales, Dolphins and seabirds along the way. Arriving in Tarbert, Harris, we get a feel for the island as we head for this evening’s accommodation. The Hebrides are known as the “long islands” as they stretch for 100 miles. Overnight Harris.

Today we explore the dramatic beauty of the Isle of Harris. Bring your camera for the scenic views over Nisabost beach, Seilebost beach and Sgarasta Mhòr beach. Enjoy a drive along the twisting Golden Road on the rugged east coast, visit the grand medieval building of St. Clements Church at Rodel, and take a relaxing walk on stunning Luskentyre beach. We will also visit the Harris Tweed Isle of Harris Shop to have a look at the range of tweeds produced on the island. Overnight Harris. 

After breakfast we explore the rich history of Lewis which has been inhabited by man for over 5000 years. Our day begins with a visit to a local weaver’s workshop for an interesting Harris Tweed weaving demonstration before we explore the ancient Calanais Standing Stones. Later, we visit Dun Carloway Broch which is likely to have been constructed around 200BC, and then onto a traditional blackhouse village to experience the history and heritage of crofting life. Overnight Lewis.

This morning allows time to explore the town of Stornoway at your leisure before we board the ferry and head back to the mainland. Relax and look out for wildlife as we cruise across the Minch, passing the Summer Isles to Ullapool harbour. This afternoon, we venture through Wester Ross; a very old landscape which is well known for its mountain scenery and stop to visit the ruins of Ardvreck Castle on Loch Assynt. Overnight Kylesku.

After breakfast, relax and explore the most remote northwest coast of Scotland. The coastline is formed of precipitous cliffs and sandy beaches, and we’ll stop to walk one of the lovely clean beaches at Sango Bay or Balnakiel. Next, we walk down to enticing Smoo Cave which would have been an important safe haven for the storage and repair of Viking Long Boats. Learn of the tragic story of the Highland Clearances, the Clan Mackay and the story of crofting life at the Strathnaver Museum. The ancient Pictish Farr Stone is situated nearby. Overnight nr Thurso.

Today, we cross the Pentland Firth to Orkney. This archipelago of 70 islands and skerries has beautiful beaches, heritage, culture and wonderful wildlife. We cross the Churchill Barriers to visit the Italian Chapel, St. Magnus Cathedral and Isbister Chambered Cairn, better known today as the ‘Tomb of the Eagles’, which is one of Orkney’s top archaeological sites. This Stone Age tomb revealed an amazing collection of bones and artefacts, placed here some 5,000 years ago. Overnight Orkney.

Today we have the entire day to explore Orkney mainland. We head out to the Iron Age complex at the Broch of Gurness, then onto the tidal island, Brough of Birsay, renowned for its Pictish and Norse archaeological remains, medieval church, and scenic coastal views. Later, we visit the Neolithic settlement of Skara Brae which is perhaps the most outstanding example of a prehistoric settlement, Maes Howe, the Ring of Brodgar, and the impressive Stones of Stenness. Overnight Orkney.

After breakfast, we board the ferry and head back to the mainland of Scotland, arriving in Caithness. This is a place where ocean meets rugged stone, and Viking heritage blends with Gaelic roots. It is a land where fishermen and farmers share the landscape. Discover its dramatic coastline, deep-rooted culture, and rich past of Scotland’s far north. We visit John O’Groats, Duncansby Stacks viewpoint, Wick Heritage Museum which has a strong focus on the herring-boom era of Wick's history and explore the ancient harbour of Whaligoe Haven. Overnight Dornoch.

After breakfast, we travel to Cawdor Castle for a visit, home to the Cawdor family for over 600 years. After lunch, we tour south through the Cairngorms National Park to enjoy a 1-hour Sheepdog demonstration. Meet the dogs and see them work the sheep, skilfully guiding them towards you. You’ll also learn about the history of the area and the importance of the working dog through the centuries in different working environments – a very entertaining afternoon indeed. Overnight Dunkeld.

This morning, the journey takes us through the ‘Sma Glen’ - a scenic glen with the fast-flowing River Almond running along the narrow valley floor. We pause at the traditional Scots market town of Crieff before visiting Drummond Castle Gardens with beautiful formal gardens which were used as the park and orchard of the Palace of Versailles in Outlander Season 2. We take in the famous Forth Rail Bridge before making our way back to your drop off.