Highlands and Islands of Scotland

Perthshire's scenery is truly breath-taking. Experience serene glens, endless expanses of lush forest, beautiful moors, rushing rivers and tumbling waterfalls. Escape into this beautiful wilderness where awesome peaks like Schiehallion and Ben Lawers can be scaled, watch some of Scotland's most iconic species from majestic red deer stags to soaring ospreys. Don the coarse tweed, and take to the hills to immerse yourselves in traditional country pursuits. Casting a fly for local salmon, falconry or clay pigeon shooting opportunities are plenty. Be sure to explore this great whisky producing region with the legendary Glenturret Distillery, Scotland’s oldest close by.

Journey through the Trossachs National Park to Oban, a seaside town also known as the Gateway to the Isles. Take a scenic boat trip to one of the surrounding islands and discover the splendour of the Inner Hebrides. Mull offers so much with its miles of impressive coastline, from the pure white sands of Calgary Bay in the north west to the impressive sea arches of Carsaig in the south. Its charming Tobermory, a wee place with brightly painted waterfront buildings begs to be explored. Visit Kerrera, the closest island to Oban, and enjoy a pleasant stroll along the island's track roads and explore the ruins of Gylen Castle, one-time stronghold of the MacDougalls of Lorne. Wander along the Oban seafront to the ruined Dunollie Castle and the sandy beaches beyond. Oban is often referred to as Scotland’s seafood capital so make sure you enjoy lunch at one of its many restaurants.

Isle of Skye is an island renowned for its dramatic landscape. The largest island in the Inner Hebrides archipelago, it has an indented coastline of peninsulas and narrow lochs, radiating out from its jagged Cuillin mountains, arguably the most famous range in Scotland. If you are feeling adventurous and with sturdy boots seek out the mystical rock pinnacles called the Old Man of Storr or the truly spectacular Quiraing. The island also has a wealth of history, from prehistoric sites to brooding castles. Learn more about long ago feuds of rivalling clans, Jacobite battles, and the devastation of crofting communities during the Highland Clearances. The picturesque town of Portree features harbourside pubs, boutiques and art galleries. The island's town and villages are welcoming places with charming pubs so make sure you make time to enjoy a tipple or two with the locals.

The return route first takes you to the majestic Caledonian Canal considered to be one of the greatest waterways of the world. Find historic Fort William at the foot of Ben Nevis on the shores of Loch Linnhe. The challenge of climbing Ben Nevis might interest you, but there are also many excellent short walks in the Nevis Range. Our favourite to the Steall Falls takes you through the dramatic and beautiful Nevis Gorge. Feeling less energetic, then a gondola can whisk you up the north face of Aonach Mòr, one of Britain's highest peaks. From here you can enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding Great Glen and Ben Nevis mountain range and on a clear day, the distant Inner Hebrides archipelago. Discover the local hero Bonnie Prince Charlie who led the Jacobite rising of 1745 at the West Highland Museum.

Journey through the awe-inspiring deep glaciated valley and towering mountain peaks of Glencoe and the Trossachs National Park to your final destination Edinburgh. The capital of Scotland since the 15th century is a World Heritage Site that begs to be discovered. A beautiful town built amongst rocky hills and crags is filled with quirky charm and enticing nooks that tempt you to explore. Start at Holyrood Palace, the official residence of Kings and Queens since the 16th Century. Stroll the Old Town’s picturesque jumble of medieval tenements piled high along the Royal Mile. Discover Edinburgh Castle and its many treasures, a royal fortress since the 12th century, which dominates the townscape from its position on Castle Rock. Seek out the characterful old world subterranean drinking dens and street life. A city of high culture, art and literature, each summer the world's biggest arts festival draws people from far and wide.