Scottish Highlands and Skye

CAIRNGORMS NATIONAL PARK, STRATHSPEY STEAM RAILWAY & BLAIR CASTLE

This morning after breakfast, we head to the Cairngorms National Park, an area of outstanding natural beauty. It’s a haven for wildlife lovers, as a spot that many rare and endangered species call their home. Think pine martens, red squirrels, mountain hares and golden eagles, as well as the most endangered species – Scottish wildcats.

As we drive towards Broomhill you might see red Lock Leven Rose deer or Highland cows on the mountaintops. There are more opportunities to gaze at the stunning scenery, as we board the Strathspey heritage railway, with its spectacular views through forests and heather-clad moorland. Our destination
is Aviemore, where the endless panoramic views, forests and tranquil lochs continue.

As we leave behind our majestic train, we continue onward through the beautiful Spey Valley to Historic Blair Castle. The Castle is the ancestral home of the Clan Murray, dating back to the 13th Century, over 19 generations have made it their home. The Castle houses a wealth of family portraits, furniture and china and gives the visitor an insight into the Atholl family.

During your visit you may wish to learn a little more about the castle’s history by visiting the Jacobite Exhibition which reflects the trials and tribulations the Athol family and Blair Castle endured during the Jacobite rebellion. The extensive grounds include the 9-acre walled 'Hercules' garden, which has been restored to its Georgian glory where peacocks roam freely against the back drop of the renowned summer 275 metre herbaceous borders.

LOCH NESS CRUISE AND THE BLACK ISLE PENINSULAR

Do you believe in the myth of the Loch Ness Monster? Today is your chance to delve deeper into the mystery of Nessie. Our journey begins on a two hour Loch cruise with a commentary on board, complete with an enclosed lounge and seating area, with a café and facilities, as well as upper and lower deck outside viewing areas with seating. On this fascinating cruise, hear tales of the Loch, unravelling its mystifying history, as well as learning about the local wildlife which we may spot on our cruise. Plus, look out for iconic views of Urquhart Castle from the Loch, whose romantic ruins date back to the 13th century.

This afternoon we head North of Inverness and towards the Black Isle. Despite its name, this captivating part of Scotland is actually a peninsular, with striking coastal views and charming fishing villages dotted along the shoreline. The name of this Highland peninsula is thought to derive from the Scots Gaelic eilean meaning ‘island’ and dubh meaning ‘black’; the latter most likely a reference to the dark fertile soil.

It’s a beautiful place to visit, so we allow plenty of time to explore this incredible coast. It’s home to two RSPB nature reserves: the enchanted woodland of Fairy Glen and the peaceful Udale Bay, a habitat for pink-footed geese.

FORT WILLIAM TO MALLAIG TRAIN JOURNEY

Today may be the highpoint for many, for more reasons than one. Described as one of the most scenic train journeys in the world, today we journey from Fort William to Mallaig. This is a side of Scotland that is best experienced by train. Our day begins as we drive to Fort William, passing though the incredible mountain scenery in anticipation. On a clear day, you may even spot the towering 1,345 metres of Ben Nevis as we travel through spectacular countryside, and cross the world-famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, with its 21 arches. You may recognise it from numerous films and television programmes that have featured, the most famous being Harry Potter, as the majestic Jacobite Steam train puffs along the lush countryside.

As the train then passes through Arisaig and Morar stations, you won’t be able to peel your eyes from the striking loch, sea and hill views before the approach to Mallaig, from where you can see the small isles. A typical port town, you can simply stroll along the front, watch the fishing boats babbling in the water or visit the Mallaig Heritage Centre, with archives and artefacts of the harbour’s history. After some time in the picture-postcard Scottish town of Mallaig, we return to Fort William.

(Note that depending on the season, the train may be steam or diesel at short notice).

ISLE OF SKYE

Today we head further afield to the largest of the Inner Hebrides Islands, the mesmerising Isle of Skye. The route to Skye is truly beautiful, passing lochs and inlets, as well as the imposing Eilean Dolan Castle, before we come to one of the last villages on the mainland before reaching the Skye, the historic village of  The Kyle of Lochalsh. These days we don’t need to take a boat to get to Skye anymore, instead we can cross the road bridge that links to the island.

Often described as a magical place, there are many folktales told on the island, and legends of fairies and giants abound. To really get a feel for this beautiful part of the world, we will have a scenic tour of the island to take in the spectacular views before visiting Dunvegan Castle and Gardens.
A must-visit, the castle has been in the same family for 800 years and is said to represent the true spirit of the Isles. You might not think that given the location of the castle there would be many plants or flowers that thrive there, but the truly splendid gardens are in fact home to a wide variety of flora. It’s then onward to Portree, the island capital known for its colourful houses forming a rainbow of pastels along the coastline.

RETURN HOME

After breakfast, make your way home with unforgettable stories of the Scottish Highlands and Skye.