Day One

Edinburgh to Inverness

From Edinburgh we will make our way via lonely Rannoch Moor to the beauty of Glen Coe. There is a stop in the heart of the Glen where you can enjoy these spectacular surroundings. Next we head for Fort William before driving through the Great Glen to Loch Ness for some monster spotting. Our tour is based in Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, for the next three nights.
The stay in Inverness is unescorted.

Day Two

The Magical Isle

Today we enjoy a full day excursion to the beautiful island of Skye. Following our tour through picturesque Glen Carron we cross 'over the sea to Skye' and make our way to Sleat, the Garden of Skye. The gentle scenery that we see in this part of the island contrasts with the rugged beauty of the Cuillin Hills that we will discover later on our tour. We will make a visit to the Clan Donald Centre where there is time to explore the fabulous gardens. Later we will make a scenic drive and enjoy some beach combing. A real highlight is our stop to visit Eilean Donan Castle (optional), perched on its island at the head of Loch Duich. You will marvel at the views when we stop at this most picturesque of castles. Our return to Inverness will take us through Glen Shiel to Invermoriston where we will make our final stop of the day.

Day Three

Caithness and John O'Groats

We leave Inverness and head across the Black Isle to the Cromarty Firth where, depending on tide conditions, we may see our first seals. We will make a stop in the town of Golspie. High above the town is an astonishing statue, 27m (90') high. This is of the First Duke of Sutherland, whose agents were involved in the most notorious of the Clearances in the Highlands during the 19th century. We'll hear more about this sad episode in the history of Scotland as we head North. There will be a stop in John O" Groats for that 'I was there' photograph before making our way to stunning Duncansby Head where, after a stroll along the cliff-top path, there are views of the dramatic sea stacks and seascapes to enjoy. Duncansby is rich in birdlife including Guillemot, Kittiwakes and, the most famous residents, Puffins (until late July). There are binoculars available on-board our mini-coach so you can get a 'close up' view.

After our visit to Duncansby we turn southwards for home. Our journey will take us through Wick and there will be a comfort stop along the way before we make journey's end in Inverness.

Day Four

Inverness to Edinburgh

This morning there is an excursion through the Black Isle to the pretty village of Cromarty followed by free time in Inverness for shopping or sightseeing. Later this afternoon join your motorcoach for our tour south. Our route will take us to the gentle Spey Valley, with views of the Cairngorm Mountains, then through the dramatic scenery of the Drumochter Pass and onwards to Glen Garry - watch out for imposing Blair Castle. We'll make a stop for afternoon tea before continuing through the rolling Tayside countryside. From Perth its homeward bound to journey's end in Edinburgh.