Accessible from both Edinburgh and Glasgow, on a UK vacation, Scotland’s Highland region covers the northern two-thirds of the country and contains much of the country’s most spectacular scenery and unspoilt natural beauty. A combination of mountains, glens, lochs and rivers surrounded on three sides by a rugged coastline, it contains some of Europe’s most extensive wilderness areas, many of which have been designated as national parks. Fort William is a town which lies at the foot of Scotland’s (and the UK’s) highest mountain, Ben Nevis, 1,345 metres/4,370 feet high. It is an attractive town offering cosy pubs and cafes.
Inverness is another excellent centre for touring the Highlands. It is known for its castle perched on a hill as well as a number of historic buildings in the Old Town. The Inverness Museum and Art Gallery provides an overview of the development of the Highlands. There are many lovely riverside restaurants and bustling pavement cafes as well as a wide range of shops in the Old Town. Nearby is Loch Ness, a 36 kilometre/23 mile long lake which is extremely deep and is “home” to the legendary Loch Ness Monster, also known as Nessie. Loch Ness can be visited on a boat tour from Inverness.
Loch Lomond is the UK’s largest lake, located in the centre of the Trossachs National Park. It is 8 kilometres/5 miles wide at its broadest point and there are 30 islands within it, three of them inhabited. It is called “The Queen of Scottish Lakes" due to its natural beauty. For a short cruise on the loch, the paddle steamer, the Maid of the Loch departs from Balloch. Twice the size of the Lake District, the Cairngorms National Park offers mountains, huge forests, rivers, waterfalls, lochs, wildlife small villages and whisky distilleries. It is also the centre of Scotland’s ski industry with Aviemore being the main ski resort. Glencoe is a picturesque village at the mouth of the famous glen of the same name where rugged mountain scenery is at its best. It is one of the most beautiful places in Scotland.
With so much to offer beyond the two major cities, this Scotland Back Roads small group tour immerses you all that’s great about this beautiful and unique country. Discover historic castles, murky lochs, and the Isle of Skye before you return to Edinburgh.
Experience the ultimate mix of golf and culture on this trip to Edinburgh. In Edinburgh, you’ll take advantage of the hop-on hop-off bus tour, enjoy a foodie walking tour, explore the Highlands with a small group, and tee up at three championship golf courses before returning each night to luxury accommodations at the Waldorf Astoria.
Venture to one of the world’s iconic golf regions to tee up for 18 holes at championship golf courses. In St. Andrews in Scotland, you’ll stay at the luxurious Fairmont St. Andrews Bay Hotel and hit the links each day at world-class golf courses. Each evening, retire to the hotel to enjoy its breathtaking amenities.
Hike your way into the heart of Scotland’s beautiful north. On this active tour through Scotland’s most pristine wilderness, you’ll pass through ancient pine forests, cross over mystical glens, and spot local wildlife, all while learning about Scottish history and admiring the stunning mountain peaks.
Hike into the heart of the UK’s most stunning national parks on this outdoor adventure through England and Scotland. On this UK vacation, you’ll head on hikes through gorgeous landscapes of forests, lakes, and mountains in Cairngorms, Trossarchs, Yorkshire Dales, and the Lake District.
This short Scotland tour focuses on the Isle of Skye on a round trip from Edinburgh. Visit lochs, hills and historic sites, then discover the Isle of Skye, one of the UK’s most unique and dramatic regions.
Explore the spectacular landscapes of the Isle of Skye on a fascinating hiking journey. As you hike trails along this Scottish island, you’ll learn about myths and legends, explore a fascinating and dark history, and experience a magical landscape of jagged rocks, peaceful glens, and shimmering lochs.