Scenic Islands & Highlands of Scotland

Nestled within the breathtakingly beautiful Scottish Highlands at the head of Cromarty Firth, Invergordon is your gateway to the legendary waters of Loch Ness, where you can discover the history of the loch and its infamous resident. There will also be opportunities to venture to the 15 th -century Cawdor Castle with its links to Shakespeare’s Macbeth and the magnificent Dunrobin Castle, which houses a collection of paintings of the various Earls of Sutherland. Enjoy a summer’s walk around the town, admiring its many murals painted by local artists, or visit the nearby Glenmorangie whisky distillery for a special tour and tasting experience.

The friendly capital of the Shetland Islands, Lerwick is a bustling seaport with a wonderful natural harbour, which is ideal for exploring on foot. There will be opportunities to visit a nearby croft and witness an authentic crofting experience and meet some Shetland ponies; and during the summer months you are ideally placed to see orcas hunting seals close to the shore or a school of white-sided dolphins. Alternatively, you can spend time with local fishermen to discover the importance of Shetland’s fishing industry or wander along the foreshore to explore the Lodberries, trading booths built in the 19 th century, and learn about their maritime history.

Largest town on the Isle of Skye, Portree is set within a natural harbour surrounded with brightly-coloured houses and rocky cliffs. Serving as gateway to the rock formations at Trotternish Ridge, the Tusdale ruins and Dunvegan Castle – seat of the Clan MacLeod since the 13th century. Close by is Loch Coruisk, home to puffins, golden eagles, oystercatchers and occasional sea eagles.

The port of Ullapool sits on the shores of Loch Broom, and is the gateway to the Northern Highlands of Scotland. The picturesque town was founded by the British Fisheries Society in 1788, and its row of whitewashed harbour cottages line the seafront. There is a thriving ecosystem around Ullapool, where a simple walk along the shores of the unspoilt Loch Broom shows off its wildlife, with red and black-throated divers and red deer commonly seen.

Kirkwall promises an intriguing mix of nature, history, and traditional Scottish pastimes, with opportunities to discover Orkney’s haven for seals and seabirds during the summer months on hikes that will also include remarkable views of the island’s rugged coastline. During a stroll of the town, you can explore the striking red and yellow sandstone construction of St. Magnus Cathedral, discover narrow lanes and independent shops and restaurants; or venture further afield to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Skara Brae, or the mysterious Ring of Brogdar, offering incredible insights into Neolithic life in the Orkneys. Amidst your explorations of Kirkwall, relish opportunities to savour authentic Scottish cuisine, such as Orkney cheese and beef.