Day 1. Friday: We depart and travel to Lockerbie for one night, dinner, bed, and breakfast at the Dryfesdale Country House Hotel (NO LIFT. Limited ground floor bedrooms).
Day 2. Saturday: After a hearty breakfast, we set off on a scenic journey north, traveling through the awe-inspiring Cairngorms National Park, a vast wilderness at the heart of the Scottish Highlands. As we weave through its dramatic mountains, dense forests, and sparkling lochs, you’ll be surrounded by some of Scotland's most rugged and untouched landscapes. Our route then leads us to Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, where the River Ness gracefully meets the Moray Firth. Our day concludes with a scenic drive to Ullapool, where we’ll stay for the night at the Caledonian Hotel. Enjoy a delicious dinner and a restful night’s sleep. (NO LIFT. Limited ground floor bedrooms).
Day 3. Sunday After a hearty breakfast, we set off for an exciting journey, boarding the Caledonian MacBrayne ferry to Stornoway, the vibrant heart of the Outer Hebrides. As the ferry cuts through the waters, enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding islands before arriving in Stornoway, the largest settlement and administrative centre of the region. Known for its bustling port, Stornoway invites you to take a leisurely stroll along the quay, where fishing boats bob gently in the harbour, and the air is filled with the sounds of island life. Once ashore, you'll have free time to explore this charming town – whether it's browsing the local shops or enjoying the coastal scenery. Afterward, we’ll make a short journey to the Cabarfeidh Hotel, where you’ll stay for two nights with dinner, bed, and breakfast. (Lift to all floors. NO ground floor bedrooms).
Day 4. Monday Today, we embark on a fascinating guided tour of Lewis, the largest and most northern island in the Outer Hebrides. Known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant Gaelic culture, Lewis offers a deep dive into Scotland’s ancient past. The island is home to some of the best-preserved prehistoric sites in the country, including the iconic Callanish Standing Stones, although they will be closed to visitors until 2026 for major redevelopment of the visitor centre. As we journey through this magical island, we’ll uncover the proud history of the Lewis people, visit some of the area’s most beautiful beaches, and learn about the island’s strong Gaelic traditions. Please note, some attractions may incur an additional charge, payable on the day. The day promises to be an unforgettable blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Day 5. Tuesday After breakfast we travel south from the wild moorlands of Lewis to the border of mountainous Isle of Harris. Famous for the locally produced cloth, Harris Tweed, it is also home to the highest mountains in the Outer Hebrides. We will board the Caledonian MacBrayne ferry at Tarbet for the crossing to Uig on the magical Isle of Skye. On arrival at the Isle of Skye we continue to the charming town of Portree, the vibrant heart of the Isle of Skye. It is known for its colourful cottages and scenic harbour and offers a perfect snapshot of island life. We will continue to Broadford in the South of the island for two nights, dinner, bed, and breakfast at the Donollie Hotel (NO LIFT. Limited ground floor bedrooms with 22 steps leading to the restaurant).
Day 6. Wednesday Today we enjoy a visit to Dunvegan Castle & Gardens. Any visit to the Isle of Skye is incomplete without enjoying the wealth of history and clan MacLeod legend at the award winning Dunvegan Castle & Gardens. It is the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland and has been the ancestral home of the Chiefs of clan MacLeod for 800 years. Originally designed as a fortress to keep people out, today you can tour an award-winning castle and Highland estate steeped in history and clan legend and delight in the beauty of its formal gardens. On display are many fine oil paintings and clan treasures, the most famous of which is the Fairy Flag. Legend has it that this sacred banner has miraculous powers and when unfurled in battle, the clan MacLeod would invariably defeat their enemies.
Day 7. Thursday After a hearty breakfast, we set off on our return journey Sorth, winding along the stunning shores of Loch Lomond, home to the largest expanse of freshwater in the UK. The tranquil beauty of the loch, with its sparkling waters framed by rolling hills, sets the perfect tone for the day ahead. Our final leg takes us to the Lockerbie for one night, dinner, bed, and breakfast at the Dryfesdale Country House Hotel (NO LIFT. Limited ground floor bedrooms).
Day 8. Thursday We depart the hotel after breakfast and begin our return journey home.
