Waterways of Scotland

Scotland’s wild waterways offer the perfect blend of calm retreat and action-packed adventure.

Drenched in 10,000km of coastline, lochs, rivers and waterfalls, there’s beauty to be found at every turn. Glide up the River Journey through the Trossachs National Park to Loch Lomond. Perhaps board a sea plane for an unforgettable flight over the most magnificent landscapes. Meet the majestic Caledonian Canal and take a short stroll through the dramatic Nevis Gorge to Scotland’s second highest waterfall, Steall Falls. Take a scenic boat trip to Mull and enjoy its impressive coastline, its quaint, colourful town of Tobermory and its fresh seafood. Maybe hopscotch your way through the Hebrides on board a luxury cruise to marvel at the untouched beauty of Scotland’s 900 offshore islands. Spot the impressive sea eagles and loveable puffins, try windsurfing on Tiree, search for basking sharks off the shores of Coll or Stand Up Paddleboard in the crystal-clear waters off the Barra coast. Seek out adrenalin fuelled adventure at Torridon from sea-kayaking, gorge scrambling and coasteering or perhaps find a slower pace on board a beautiful 13-metre sailing yacht in the waters of Minch discovering the rich wildlife and stunning scenery.

Choose to venture up north and discover Orkney’s 5000-year-old history, dive in to uncover the WWII shipwrecks of Scapa Flow, stroll pristine white beaches or take bracing coastal clifftop walks. Gently paddle in silence through the impressive Aigas Gorge to witness otters and feeding ospreys as the sun rises on an early morning canoe safari. Experience a Loch Ness cruise to hear intriguing tales of ‘Nessie’ and the ancient Urquhart Castle. Witness dolphins frolicking off the rugged coastline of the Moray Firth with its pounding surf and wild beaches. Embrace the Scottish saying “Today’s rain is tomorrow’s whisky” and soak up the history of whisky-making on a personal distillery tour and tasting. In the Cairngorms cast a fly for local salmon with professional fishermen before a visit to the smokehouse. Round up your trip in Edinburgh with a visit to The Royal Britannia Yacht, Her Majesty The Queen’s former floating palace for over 40 years.

Spend a few weeks in May or September to get the best of the weather whilst avoiding the midges as you venture through Scotland’s impressive waterways.

At a glance

• Set sail, cruise, paddle or stroll along miles of untouched coastline to soak in the remote wilderness or get wet and wild discovering Scotland’s breath-taking waterscapes.
• Awashed with wildlife, take time to explore Scotland’s diverse habitats and uncover seals, dolphins, whales, puffins and rare seabird colonies.
• Escape to Scotland’s myriad of isles for their timeless beauty, rich culture and remnants of ancient civilisations.
• Stay in a range of beautifully hand-picked historical country houses, loch-side hotels, private island estates and luxury cruises.
• Taste the freshest of seafood on the west coast and savour smoked salmon and liquid gold in the east.

All of our itineraries are designed around you, so please remember that this is just a suggestion which can be tailored into something completely bespoke to you and your preferences.

Call us today on +44 (0)1646 405060 to start planning your holiday.