Description

A grand tour of Scotland, 5 days at it's breathtaking views and fascinating places throughout the Highlands of Scotland. Visit the dramatic mountain scenery of Assynt and experience the remote white sandy beaches of the Northern Highlands, walk through the ancient pine forests of the Cairngorm National Park, vibrant Inverness - capital of the Highlands, the awe inspiring Glen Coe, and soak up the romantic beauty of the Isle of Skye. Further highlights include Eilean Donan Castle, Loch Ness and Scotland's highest road out to the remote village of Applecross, giving you a tour unrivalled for the best views of Scotland.

DAY 1: DUNKELD - CAIRNGORMS - LOCH NESS - ULLAPOOL
Going north over the Forth Road Bridge to the charming highland village of Dunkeld on the banks of the river Tay. From here you head into the Cairngorm national park and the ancient pine forests of the Rothiemurchus estate. Panoramic views of Loch Ness follow as you travel down to the banks of the famous loch and the village of Dores where you can do some “Nessie” spotting! Then it’s on to the shores of Loch Broom where you spend two nights at Ullapool. (*on some tours it may be necessary to stay in Inverness in which case the itinerary will be subject to slight changes)

DAY 2: ASSYNT - ARDVRECK CASTLE - ULLAPOOL
Visits the far northwest highlands and the grandeur, expanse and wildness of the mountains of Assynt. This area is historically famous as being the first crofting area to be bought by the local crofters, the Assynt Crofters’ Trust.  You will be immersed in the history of the area and visit the 15th century ruins of Ardvreck Castle, once the stronghold of the MacLeods of Assynt. The day is full of amazing views of some of Europe's oldest landscapes from the stunning white sand beach at Achmelvich Bay to the traditional fishing village of Lochinver. With the chance of seeing wildlife such as whales and red deer as well, this is sure to be a memorable day.

DAY 3: BEINN EIGHE - APPLECROSS - PLOCKTON - SKYE
leaves Ullapool heading south to take in the drama of the River Droma as it plunges 60m down into the Corrieshalloch Gorge. From here you travel past the mountains of the Beinn Eighe national nature reserve and along the picturesque coastline of Loch Torridon. The tranquil setting of Applecross is your destination for lunch before taking one of the highest roads in Scotland, Bealach nam Bo (meaning the Cattle Pass), with its jaw-dropping views, hairpin bends and precipitous cliffs. In the afternoon you stop in “tropical” Plockton where you can see palm trees growing alongside Loch Carron and take time to enjoy its sheltered serenity. Then it’s over the sea to Skye and the delightful harbour town of Portree with its friendly welcome.

DAY 4: FULL DAY TO EXPLORE SKYE  
Today is a flexible day on Skye; and your driver-guide ensures you take a unique route that suits the weather, the local events, and your group's interests. You can travel north to the Trotternish Ridge and beyond. Here you find the geological wonders like Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock, and the stunning mountain pass of the Quiraing. Or your guide may take you back in time and teach you about the legends and clan culture surrounding the 13th-century home of the Clan MacLeod, Dunvegan Castle. You return from to Portree in the evening.

DAY 5: EILEAN DONAN - KINTAIL - GLEN GARRY - FORT WILLIAM - GLENCOE - KILLIN - EDINBURGH  
We go south from Skye stopping first at the famous stronghold Eilean Donan Castle, used in the film “Highlander”, set at the head of 3 lochs as protection against Viking raiders. Continuing east through the rugged mountains of Kintail including the splendour of the Five Sisters, you drive down through Glen Garry past Britain's highest mountain, Ben Nevis, then onto Fort William for lunch. In the afternoon you will explore spectacular Glencoe, scene of the infamous massacre of the Clan Macdonald in 1692. You then start your journey towards Edinburgh. 

For departure details refer to the "Prices, Dates, and What's Included" Section...

Explore the breathtaking views of the Highlands of Scotland!!