Isle of EriskaBen NevisLoch NessEilean Donan
Embark on a captivating tour through the stunning landscapes of Scotland, visiting the renowned Isle of Eriska, Ben Nevis, Loch Ness, Eilean Donan Castle, and experiencing the art of whisky distilling. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Inverewe Gardens.
Itinerary Highlights
What’s included
flexibility
This is an example itinerary. It is fully flexible; you can add or detract days and include hotels at your chosen budget. It departs daily.
07
Nights
Price Guide
$POA
Our quotes are bespoke for your customised trip. The prices displayed are indicative only, read more
Fly to Glasgow
Arrive Glasgow – Isle of Eriska
Upon arrival at Glasgow International Airport, You are then privately transferred to your island hotel on the shores of Scotland’s west coast. The remainder of the day is at your leisure to relax and enjoy the setting of your hotel.
Argyll Highlights
The landscapes of Argyll are some of the gentlest areas of the Scottish Highlands while still representing the grandeur of the region. Drive through the Pass of Brander in the shadow of Ben Cruachan, a mountain hollowed out to house a hydroelectric power station, to Loch Awe, where the land once dominated by the Clan Campbell unfolds in front of you. Cross over to Loch Fyne, a long inlet of the sea. Continue to Inveraray Castle, home to the Duke of Argyll – the chief of the Campbells. The castle sits near the shores; some impressive interiors, explored during your private tour, are the most richly decorated in Scotland.
Follow the shores of Loch Fyne, a sea loch located off of the Firth of Clyde, towards the port town of Oban; travel via the pre-historic and ancient landscape called the Kingdom of Dal Riata, once encompassing parts of both western Scotland and north-eastern Ireland. Time permitting, see the bridge from the mainland over to Seil Island, which was considered the only bridge over the Atlantic for many years! Sitting at the foot of McCaig’s Tower, Oban is a busy port located in the Anglican and Roman Catholic Cathedrals of Argyll and the Isles, built in completely different styles. Return to your hotel from here.
Isle of Eriska – Ben Nevis – Fort William
Travel northwards today with your driver-guide towards the town of Fort William. Towering over the town is Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK. You may wish to take the gondola up the mountain to enjoy fantastic views. Check into your hotel and take advantage of the activities on offer, including fishing and clay pigeon shooting.
Highlands
Inverness. Depart Fort William, which is overshadowed by the slopes of Ben Nevis, the United Kingdom’s highest mountain, stopping for a photo opportunity at the sombre Commando Memorial which stands in tribute to the Commandos of World War II who trained in the area. Pass by Loch Lochy, one of the four beautiful lochs along the route and notably, the hiding spot for Bonnie Prince Charlie after the Battle of Culloden. Travel onward to the banks of Loch Ness, which has been long associated with ‘Nessie’, the fabled monster said to inhabit the deeps. Try looking out for her as you walk around the ruins of Urquhart Castle, which dominate the central part of the loch. You arrive in Inverness, a small but charming city considered the capital of the highlands.
One of the most important historic sites in Scotland is located near Inverness, the battlefield of Culloden Moor, where Bonnie Prince Charlie was defeated in 1746 by government troops, ending his battle to regain the throne for the Stuarts. At this poignant spot, learn how these events dramatically changed Scotland’s way of life. Time permitting, discover Clava Cairns, an atmospheric Neolithic burial site in an enchanting setting and believed to be the inspiration for the Craig na Dun stone circles in the popular television series, Outlander. The return journey to Fort William takes you past either the Cairngorms National Park or the quieter east shore of Loch Ness.
Fort William – Blair Castle – The Whisky Trail – Inverness
Today your driver-guide is waiting to take you into the centre of Scotland’s Highland region. Visit the attractive town of Pitlochry and Blair Castle. Blair Castle was the heart of the ancient Kingdom of Atholl and home to the Duke of Atholl. The Duke retains the only private army in Europe, which is based within Blair. Continue north through the Cairngorm mountain range, enjoying stops at some of the best whisky distilleries in Scotland. Learn how the typically Scottish drink is distilled and enjoy a few tastings.
Northwest Highlands
Today, explore the stark beauty of the Northwest Highlands. These mountains cover the most remote part of the British mainland. Take a trip around Wester Ross, one of the most spectacular regions in Scotland. Follow the route of the rail line that cuts a track through the dramatic countryside as your route takes you towards the West Coast, where the grandiose mountains of Torridon dominate the landscape. Travel through the Beinn Eighe Nature Reserve where native wildlife species such as golden eagles are encouraged. As you continue, the expansive waters of island-studded Loch Maree are revealed. Overlooking the bay are Inverewe Gardens, one of the most remarkable gardening projects ever undertaken. There are over 2,000 different species of plants from all over the world, from Australia to China. The gardens are full of colour, and you can find lots of different types of flowers blooming throughout the year. You return to Inverness by a more northerly route, passing Corrieshalloch Gorge where the River Measach tumbles over a rocky precipice into a ravine.
Highlights of the Highlands
Enjoy your day at leisure or opt for private experiences at Prickly Thistle Tartan Mill or the famous Johnstons of Elgin woollen mill, notably the only mill in Scotland that transforms raw cashmere from the raw material to the finished article and has been doing so for over 200 years. During your private tour, witness this highly-prized fibre being dyed, teased, carded, spun, and hand-finished by the Elgin craftsmen.
Depart Inverness
A note on price
The prices outlined above are a rough guide to give you an idea of costs and enable you to budget for your trip.
Guide prices are generally for private arrangements based on twin share, in well located, good quality accommodation (excluding international flights).
Please note costs are indicative and may vary due to a number of factors such as; travel date, hotel choice, room category, number of people travelling and prevailing exchange rates.
Price Guide $POA
When to travel
Scotland has a temperate maritime climate, which means that the weather can be quite unpredictable. The average temperature in summer (June to August) is around 15°C, while in winter (December to February) it can drop down to 5°C. The best time to visit Scotland is during the summer months when the weather is relatively mild and the days are longer. However, if you’re looking to experience Scotland’s winter sports or the magical Northern Lights, then planning a trip during the winter months might be your best bet.
Add on’s
After touring the beautiful landscapes and historic sites of Scotland, consider expanding your horizons to explore neighbouring countries such as England, Wales, or Ireland. Each of these countries offers its own unique culture, history, and natural beauty for you to discover. Whether it’s the bustling cities, charming countryside, or coastal wonders, there’s so much more to explore beyond Scotland’s borders.
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