Ullapool

Tours

They call Inverness the ‘Gateway to the Highlands’ for a reason. After welcoming you on board, we head North towards some of Scotland’s most stunningly rugged and remote regions. Are you prepared? Got your camera? Scarf? Walking shoes? Because today we’re even traversing along some of Scotland’s famous NC500 Route. As we leave Inverness behind, Scotland's Highland landscapes are ready to impress. Rolling moorlands and stretches of pine forests, the open wilderness is worth a photo or two. We'll pass by rushing rivers and quiet lochs, through charming villages and beneath towering mountains. We'll make a stop or two along the way at some of this region's most stunning spots, but we like to keep things flexible depending on the group and weather. As we approach our next stop, look out for glimpses of Loch Broom, its calm waters contrasting the jagged peaks and untamed landscapes around it as we arrive at our next stop. Something a little different but equally as lovely – we stop in the village of Ullapool, known as the ‘Gateway to the Outer Hebrides’. With a strong fishing heritage, why not grab a quick snack of locally sourced seafood? Or maybe perusing the craft shops is more your thing. But don’t get too comfortable because the Highlands are calling you out again After a quick visit, we’re off to Knockan Crag National Nature Reserve. Knockan Crag National Nature Reserve is where the rocks come to life... or it seems that way. From stunning sculptures to poetry carved into rockfaces, it's a breathtaking spot to be sure. No visit to Scotland is complete without a ruinous castle. As you explore the quiet history of our next stop, Ardvreck Castle, try to imagine what it might have been like for the MacLeods clan living there in the 15th century, overlooking the mysterious Loch Assynt. As you gaze out over the loch, keep an eye out for the missing daughter of the MacLeod’s, Eimhir, also known as the ‘mermaid of Assynt’. The legend goes that instead of marrying the brute to whom she was betrothed, Eimhir plunged into the caverns of the loch and made a new home beneath the water’s surface. It’s time for a wee break so we head to the small fishing port and resort of Lochinver on the west coast of Scotland. Enjoy the beautiful mountain views and white sandy beaches as you perhaps munch on one of their legendary pies for lunch. I bet you weren’t prepared for a trip to the Caribbean while visiting Scotland? That’s how stepping onto Achmelvich Beach feels. Water as clear and blue as a crystal, sand as fine and white as snow. Enjoy a wee stroll, because no matter the weather this is a beautiful spot. Mermaids, pies, beaches, castles... it’s been a day to remember as we head back to Inverness that evening.

Day 1 You head north over the Firth of Forth to the charming highland village of Dunkeld. From here, you head into the Cairngorms National Park and the ancient pine forests of the Rothiemurchus estate. After lunch, you enjoy panoramic views of Loch Ness as you travel down to the banks of the famous loch, and the village of Dores where you can do some “Nessie” spotting Then it’s onto the shores of Loch Broom where you spend two nights at Ullapool. Day 2 Today, you explore the far northwest Highlands and the mountains of Assynt. This area is famous as being the first crofting area to be bought by the local crofters, the Assynt Crofters’ Trust. You’re immersed in the history of the area and visit the 15th century ruins of Ardvreck Castle, once the stronghold of the MacLeods of Assynt. The day is full of amazing views of some of Europe’s oldest landscapes, the stunning white sand beach at Achmelvich Bay, and the traditional fishing village of Lochinver. You spend the night in the picturesque fishing village of Ullapool. Day 3 You head south to take in the drama of the River Droma’s 60m plunge into the Corrieshalloch Gorge. From here, you travel past the mountains of the Beinn Eighe nature reserve and along the picturesque coastline of Loch Torridon. After your lunch stop in Applecross, you take one of the highest and most exhilarating roads in Scotland, Bealach na Ba. In the afternoon, you stop in “tropical” Plockton, where you can see palm trees growing alongside Loch Carron and take time to enjoy its sheltered serenity. Then it’s over the sea to Skye and the delightful harbour town of Portree. Day 4 Today is a flexible day on Skye; and your driver-guide ensures you take a unique route that suits the weather, the local events, and your group's interests. You can travel north to the Trotternish Ridge and beyond. Here you find the geological wonders like Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock, and the stunning mountain pass of the Quiraing. Or your guide may take you back in time and teach you about the legends and clan culture surrounding the 13th-century home of the Clan MacLeod, Dunvegan Castle. You return from to Portree in the evening. Day 5 Travel south from Skye and visit the famous stronghold, Eilean Donan Castle. Continuing east through the rugged mountains of Kintail, you drive down through Glen Garry past Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis, and onto Fort William for lunch. In the afternoon, you explore spectacular Glencoe, scene of the infamous massacre of the Clan Macdonald in 1692. You then start your journey towards Edinburgh.

Day one: Depart early from Inverness and head north-west to Ullapool to catch the ferry. This stunning sea-trip takes you along Loch Broom, past the Summer Isles, and out to Stornoway, which is the capital of the Outer Hebrides. Once you have arrived on Lewis, your first stop is the ancient past. Travel to the North West of the island to visit the blackhouse at Arnol. Dive into this traditional abode and discover how the Highland crofting families lived their day-to-day lives. After this, go through more crofting communities and venture to the northernmost tip of the island, the Butt of Lewis. The lighthouse here boasts epic views of waves crashing against sea cliffs. Head back to Stornoway for your overnight stay.  Day two: Today, you’re heading south to Harris. The first thing you notice about Harris are the mountains. And as you weave through the towering marvels, your guide will tell you about the traditions and tales of this part of Scotland. There’s not many towns around here; but after you’ve had your fill of unspoilt beaches and landscapes, you stop in a small town for lunch. Now it’s time for one of the great Hebridean highlights, Luskentyre beach. On a good day, the sea turns turquoise and the sands look pristine white. After you’ve enjoyed all these natural wonders, it’s time to head back to Stornoway. Maybe it’s time to try the famous black pudding for dinner. Day three: We begin the day by traveling to Dun Carloway Broch, stepping back in time to explore this ancient site. Perched on a hillside overlooking the Isle of Lewis, this Iron Age broch has stood for nearly 2,000 years, a testament to the skill and resilience of its builders. As you walk through its stone passageways and gaze across the sweeping landscape, you can almost hear the echoes of past inhabitants who sought shelter and community within its walls. Next, we visit Ardroil Beach, a stunning expanse of golden sands framed by rolling dunes and dramatic headlands. The beach is not only visually striking but also historically significant—it was here, in 1831, that the famous Lewis Chessmen, a set of medieval chess pieces, were discovered. Take a walk along the beach and keep an eye out for seals basking on nearby rocks. After two unforgettable days exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Lewis and Harris, we travel back to Stornoway to board the ferry. Bid farewell to these enchanting islands as we set sail across the scenic waters of the Minch to Ullapool. Once back on the mainland in Ullapool, we journey through the rugged beauty of the Northwest Highlands, passing the shimmering waters of Loch Broom and craggy hills on our way to Inverness, the capital of the Highlands.

Day 1 Travel north into the Scottish highlands, stopping at the historic village of Dunkeld for a short walk through the forest to some waterfalls. Continue north through the Grampian Mountains to the Spey Valley, where you’ll have lunch. In the afternoon you’ll see world-famous Loch Ness and stop in Inverness. Visit the impressive waterfalls at Corrieshalloch Gorge before arriving in the fishing port of Ullapool for your overnight stay. Day 2 Catch the morning ferry for a 2-hour sail along Loch Broom, past the Summer Isles and then out across the Minch to Stornoway, the main town on Lewis and the capital of the Outer Hebrides. Keep an eye out for dolphins, whales, and seabirds during the crossing. Arriving on Lewis and Harris, you head to the North West coast, guided by your driver through traditional crofting towns and seaside ports. You spend the evening in Stornoway; a bustling port town and the home of Scotland’s most delicious black puddings. Day 3 Today, delve into the history and landscapes of this wild island. Begin at Arnol Blackhouse*, offering a glimpse into traditional farming life. Next, explore the ancient stone fort of Dun Carloway, steeped in history dating back to before 100 AD. Travel through crofting villages to the renowned Calanais Stone Circle*, a prehistoric mystery still puzzling archaeologists. Spend your afternoon exploring the beautiful beaches and mountains of western Lewis before returning to Stornoway in the late afternoon. Day 4 Harris boasts the highest mountains in the Outer Hebrides and one of the most beautiful white-sandy beaches in Britain, Luskentyre. The area is also famous for Harris Tweed and myths that are as strange as they are poignant. After a morning of exploring the dramatic landscapes, you stop for lunch. Depending on the weather, we may even go for a picnic on the beach – so don’t forget to pack your sunglasses. Next, embark on a ferry to Portree, the largest town in Skye, where you'll stay for the next two nights. Day 5 Every horizon in Skye conceals something astoundingly beautiful. So today, your driver-guide makes the most out of your time on this marvel-studded landscape. You may travel to the Quiraing mountain pass and enjoy a spectacular walk, venture to Kilt Rock and see a gigantic waterfall, or take a boat trip to the lesser-known Loch Coruisk. After you’ve enjoyed the sights of Skye, you have your final evening in Portree. There are plenty of fabulous seafood restaurants to celebrate a fine day of exploring. Day 6 As your trip concludes today, there's still plenty to see on the way back to Edinburgh. Cross the Skye Bridge for a glimpse of Eilean Donan Castle, a quintessentially Scottish sight. Travel under Ben Nevis, Britain’s tallest mountain, often shrouded in clouds. Pass through the emotional valley of Glencoe, site of a tragic massacre in Scottish history. Finally, as the landscape flattens, enter the Lowlands en route to Edinburgh, arriving in the early evening.

Day 1 Depart Edinburgh, heading west towards Stirling. Pass Stirling Castle and the Wallace Monument, and continue to Doune Castle, used for location shoots in Monty Python’s “Holy Grail.” Stop in the small town of Callander for refreshments. Then, marvel at the splendor of Loch Luibnaig, Loch Earn, Glen Ogle, and Glen Dochart on a scenic drive over the wild and remote Rannoch Moor. The views of the extinct volcano will take your breath away, and were also the scene of the infamous Clan Macdonald massacre of 1692. Continue north up the Great Glen to mysterious Loch Ness, with plenty of time to try and spot “Nessie” the Loch Ness Monster. The evening will be spent in Inverness, with free time to explore the “Capital of the Highlands.” Day 2 Depart Inverness early to cross over the Black Isle, and continuing past Dunrobin Castle. From here, drive the northeast coastline, traveling into some of Scotland’s most dramatic scenery. Enjoy the views of some of Europe’s oldest landscapes, and the chance to spot wildlife such as golden eagle and red deer. Close to Scotland’s most northerly mainland village, John O’ Groats, board the ferry to cross the Pentland Firth to the Orkney archipelago. It is a short drive on arrival to the famous Italian Chapel, where you will stop for a quick visit before continuing to the Viking stronghold of Kirkwall, your home for the next 2 nights. Look inside Kirkwall’s magnificent Viking cathedral, and wander the winding streets of the historic town center. Day 3 Explore the ancient island of Orkney, and discover a land of contrasts, where fertile green pastures are fringed by shores of golden sands, and washed by the waters of the North Sea and Atlantic Ocean. Highlights include a visit to Skara Brae, the mystical prehistoric stone circle at Brodgar, the standing stones of Stenness, and Maeshowe, where Vikings left one of the largest collections of Norse runic inscriptions in the 12th century. Day 4 It’s time to leave Orkney and sail the Viking waters back to the mainland. From here, travel across the very top of Scotland, driving past the stunning Ben Loyal and Ben Hope mountains, following the rocky cliffs and stunning golden sand beaches of the northern coastline. Go to the far northwest of the Highlands, and admire the grandeur of the wild Assynt mountains. Stop to view the 15th-century ruins of Ardvreck Castle. Continue to Ullapool at the mouth of Loch Broom, a beautiful whitewashed fishing village where you will spend your last night. Day 5 Your morning includes visits to Corrieshalloch Gorge, and the ancient Clava Cairns, as well as exploring the more recent bloody history of the Culloden battlefield. Return south through the magnificent Cairngorm National Park, driving past the ancient Caledonian pine forests of Highland Perthshire, before your drop off in Edinburgh.

Day 1: Edinburgh to Inverness Begin your journey north with a visit to the iconic Kelpies and explore the historic Stirling Castle. Admire the charming Doune Castle, known for its appearances in Monty Python, Outlander, and Game of Thrones. Experience the breathtaking landscapes of Glen Coe and catch a glimpse of the majestic Ben Nevis. Learn about Loch Ness and its legendary inhabitant, 'Nessie'. Arrive in Inverness and enjoy leisure time. Take a stroll along the picturesque River Ness or visit Inverness Castle for panoramic views. Later, unwind at local bars or savor a meal at charming restaurants. (Overnight: Inverness) Day 2: Inverness to Stornoway Explore the awe-inspiring Corrieshalloch Gorge and embark on a picturesque ferry ride from Ullapool to the Isle of Lewis. Keep an eye out for playful dolphins. Visit the renowned Harris Distillery and return to Stornoway, the main town on Lewis, for the night. (Overnight: Stornoway) Day 3: Stornoway Discover the Iron Age marvel, Dun Carloway and experience 17th-century island life at Gearrannan Blackhouse Village. Visit the Butt of Lewis, the island's northernmost point, with its solitary lighthouse. Enjoy free time in Stornoway to explore the harbor and indulge in local cuisine. (Overnight: Stornoway) Day 4: Stornoway to Portree Pay tribute to island history at a poignant memorial. Explore Harris' beautiful beaches and medieval church. Ferry 'over the sea to Skye' to Portree, the main town. Enjoy local seafood and whisky or embark on a scenic walk. (Overnight: Portree) Day 5: Portree Marvel at the enchanting Sligachan River and the majestic Cuillin mountains. Visit the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, featured in Highlander and James Bond films. Enjoy free time in Portree, exploring shops, savoring meals, and soaking in the picturesque harbor. Visit Skye's landmarks: Kilt Rock and the Old Man of Storr. (Overnight: Portree) Day 6: Portree to Edinburgh Explore the Isle of Skye and ferry to Mallaig. Experience the spectacular Glenfinnan Viaduct on the Jacobite Steam Train (if option selected). Journey through the Cairngorms National Park en route to Edinburgh, concluding an unforgettable adventure.

Day 1: Set off from Inverness and begin your journey on Scotland’s ‘Route 66’. It’s an epic drive with loads to squeeze in. Just make sure you have plenty of space on your camera. Heading for Ullapool, we spend the first day weaving through the North Coast 500’s winding roads. Your driver-guide will take you to towering mountains, banks of shimmering lochs, and the shores of beautiful beaches. We reach the scenic port town of Ullapool in the late afternoon. *From November to March, Applecross may be inaccessible due to bad weather and daylight timings. Day 2: Today, the scenery gets progressively more beautiful, rocky, and mountainous. As you travel north, your driver-guide will take you to some of the most beautiful sights in Scotland. Your itinerary depends on the weather and your guide’s expert tips, but you may have a chance to venture into the deep Smoo Cave, wander the ruins of Ardvreck Castle, and gaze at gorgeous white beaches. You stop for lunch in a Highland village and spend the evening in the beautiful town of Thurso. Day 3: Today, get plenty of opportunities to explore cosy fishing villages, epic cliffs, and ancient Neolithic sights. In the morning you will have a chance to visit a fine Scottish Highland Whisky distillery. The road leads you further south, where you have a chance to stop for lunch. Continue on your epic North Coast 500 route southwards where you can enjoy the green valleys and sea views as you travel to Dunrobin Castle. You have time to explore the stately home, learn about the Dukes of Sutherland, and find out how it has been used as both a school and a hospital. Finally, you will arrive back in Inverness in the early evening to finish your tour.

Day 1: Edinburgh to Inverness We travel north stopping to visit the Kelpies, a stunning spectacle of modern engineering. Kelpies are mythological beasts in Scottish folklore, and this fantastic landmark is the largest of its kind in the world. We arrive in Glen Coe, dominated by majestic mountains which contrast the flat expanse of its neighbouring Rannoch Moor. Your guide will take you through Glen Coe’s sad history. We stop in Fort Augustus to visit the legendary Loch Ness for a photo break. Overnight Inverness Day 2: Inverness to Stornoway Commence your day with invigorating breezes and breathtaking views at Corrieshalloch Gorge. Proceeding northward along a picturesque route, we embark on a ferry voyage from Ullapool to Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis – all the while keeping a lookout for playful dolphins! Upon reaching the island, we make our way directly to the southern tip of Harris, where we’ll explore the renowned Harris Distillery for a delightful sip before heading back to the northern part of Lewis for an overnight stay in the bustling town of Stornoway. Overnight Stornoway Day 3: Stornoway to Stornoway Visit the Iron Age at the broch of Dun Carloway then experience island life at the Gearrannan Blackhouse Village. These houses were lived in until as recently as the 1970s and represent 17th century island life on Scotland’s rugged Atlantic Coast. We explore the remote coastline and visit the Butt of Lewis – the most northerly point on the island – to see the isolated lighthouse and dramatic force of the sea against the cliffs. Overnight Stornoway Day 4: Stornorway to Portree After leaving Stornoway, we'll visit a memorial highlighting a darker side of island life. We'll explore beautiful beaches and the oldest medieval church on the Isle of Harris. Then, we'll catch a ferry to Skye, making Portree our base for two nights. Enjoy local seafood and whisky or take a scenic walk in town. Overnight Portree Day 5: Portree to Portree We spend the day exploring Skye, visiting iconic locations such as Kilt Rock, the Old Man of Storr and the Quiraing. Next we stop at the most photographed castle in Scotland, Eilean Donan. Overnight Portree Day 6: Portree to Edinburgh Start the day by exploring Armadale Castle, once home to Clan MacDonald. We board the ferry from Armadale and arrive in Mallaig, a charming fishing village. Treat yourself to some fish and chips before an optional ride on the Jacobite Steam Train - aka the Hogwarts Express from Harry Potter! The West Highland Line between Mallaig and Fort William is famous for its wildly beautiful scenery and dreamy sands of the west coast. You’ll quickly understand why it’s been voted the most scenic rail journey in the world. We make a final comfort stop in the southern Highland village of Pitlochry before concluding our tour in Edinburgh early evening.

Departing from Edinburgh, travel through Scotland’s Central Belt and head north to the village of Luss on the shores of Loch Lomond. Next, cross the steep pass of 'Rest and be Thankful' in the village of Inveraray, a town famed for its oysters and seafood. Next to Dunadd Iron Age Fort, the coronation site of kings and queens of Dalriada, the ancient Gaelic speaking kingdom. After a stop at Kilmartin, drive through the stunning Argyll scenery to the bustling fishing town of Oban, the location of your first night’s stay. In the morning discover the beautiful Glencoe, one of the most impressive glens in Scotland, through a short hike and photograph stop. Travel to Glenfinnan Viaduct, then head to Fort William for either a tour of Ben Nevis Whisky distillery or a visit to Inverlochy Castle and Neptune’s Staircase. Drive north arriving at Loch Ness to get photos of the infamous monster Nessie! Your route then takes you into some of the most spectacular scenery in all the Highlands as we pass through Glenshiel and the iconic Five Sisters of Kintail to the meeting point of 3 lochs – Loch Duich, Loch Long & Loch Alsh – the stunning setting for Eilean Donan Castle. Day 3, explore the sights of the Trotternish Peninsula to the Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock and the Quiraing, while listening to the local folklore of the landscape was created. Next, visit the Museum of Island Life, and then loop around north Skye to take in magnificent views, east to the Torridon Mountains and west the Outer Hebrides. Journey onto the Cuillin Mountains, travel through Kyle of Lochalsh to the pretty village of Plockton. During the summer season (April-October) we’ll take you on a seal spotting cruise along the coast of palm-tree lined Plockton on Loch Carron. Yes, you read correctly – palm trees! On Day 4, head to the North Highlands with the first stop of the day at Corrieshalloch Gorge, Scotland’s deepest gorge. Onto the legendary North Coast 500 Route traveling past towering peaks to the ancient ruin of Ardvreck Castle. Head to Knockan Crag to learn more about the local geology, before visiting the pretty fishing town of Ullapool. After lunch, travel to Rogie Falls and find cascading water and gentle trails among the forest. Visit the town of Beauly, onetime favourite town of Mary Queen of Scots, before returning to Inverness. Our last day begins at Clava Cairns, the site of incredible standing stones and burial chambers dating back to 4000 years ago. Next is Culloden Battlefield, the location of the last battle to be fought on British soil. Through Cairngorms National Park, to our final stop at the ancient Fife town of St Andrews. This medieval walled town is home to St Andrews University, the oldest in Scotland, as well St Andrews Cathedral. In the evening it's time to start winding your way through the fishing villages of Fife, across the Forth Road Bridge, and back into Edinburgh. Please note: there may be seasonal changes to the route from November to March.

Day 1 Your tour will begin as you depart the cosmopolitan city of Edinburgh and travel into the Highlands. Your first stop of the day is in the village of Dunkeld. There you can stretch your legs and admire the cathedral’s unusual mixture of architectural styles, before you venture through the shadows of the great and gorgeous Grampian Mountains and stop for lunch in the charming town of Aviemore. After you’ve satisfied your taste buds, you drive out to Rogie Falls and take a short walk out to see this lovely sight. Next up is Corrieshalloch Gorge, a lesser-known Scottish sight, but it’s sure to be one that you’ll also love. Then you’re off to Ullapool for a short visit before you jump on the ferry to Stornoway, where you will be spending the night. Day 2 After breakfast, set off for the Butt of Lewis, the northernmost point of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides. Hold onto your hats as it's one of the windiest spots in the UK. Explore the island with your driver-guide, passing through traditional crofting towns and seaside ports. Beach enthusiasts will enjoy a walk at Port of Ness, while history lovers can visit Arnol Blackhouse* to experience traditional farming life. After lunch in Stornoway, explore the west side of Lewis to Uig Bay before returning to Stornoway for the night. Don't miss trying Scotland's delicious black pudding while in this port town. Day 3 On your third day, it will be time to enter the region of Harris. Harris boasts the highest mountains in the Outer Hebrides and is home to one of the most beautiful white-sandy beaches in Britain, Luskentyre. After a morning of exploring the breathtaking landscapes, enjoy lunch. Depending on the weather, a beach picnic might be on the agenda, so don't forget your sunglasses. Return to Stornoway in the late afternoon Day 4 First up today is a visit to the Calanais Stone Circle*, so prepare yourselves for the possibility of time travel. This prehistoric sight still mystifies archeologists today. Continue your exploration with Dun Carloway Broch – these unique ruins sit atop a mound of rock on the Isle of Lewis. Following lunch in Stornoway, you’ll jump back on the ferry to the mainland. We head straight for Inverness, our final overnight stop. Day 5 This morning, we leave Inverness, tracing Loch Ness's shores, cameras ready for a glimpse of Nessie. Then to Tomintoul, Highland's highest village, nestled in Cairngorm National Park, exemplifying planned village architecture. Continuing to Royal Deeside, following River Dee from mountains to Aberdeenshire coast. Relax over lunch in Braemar, Cairngorms National Park's heart, a remote village cherished by the British Royal Family. Surrounded by majestic mountains, peat-coloured rivers, and dark forests, it's a Highland retreat. Heading south, we cross Scotland’s highest mountain pass, traversing Highland Perthshire before reaching Scone Palace, home to Scotland’s legendary Stone of Destiny. From here it’s a short journey back to Edinburgh.