Day 1: We travel north and make our way to the lovely Gretna Hall Hotel with time to freshen up before dinner.
Day 2: After breakfast this morning, we continue our journey to Scotland. We arrive at the Highlander Hotel, set in the stunning location of Cairngorm National Park, and enjoy a delicious dinner this evening.
Day 3: It’s time to sit back and relax as we board the train for a one-way scenic journey from coast to coast on the spectacular Kyle Linae from Inverness to the Kyle of Lochalsh. Our Scotrail train travels through spectacular Highland scenery in the shadows of mountains and forests, beside bright lochs and wide-open moors. Marvel at the Torridon Peaks, the most distinctive mountain range in Scotland, before our final stretch of the journey along the breathtaking coast, south to Lochalsh. There will be time at leisure to do a spot of sightseeing and enjoy the tranquillity of the island, which offers magnificent views of Skye. This afternoon, our journey back to the hotel by coach affords stunning views at Loch Cluanie and passes the famous Eilean Donan Castle, sitting proudly on its own island where three great sea lochs meet.
Day 4: This morning, we embark on a scenic journey to Loch Ness. Departing from Fort Augustus on the southern shores, we embark on a 50-minute cruise of this infamous Loch as we attempt to track down the world’s most elusive monster. Brimming with history and monster tales, the real stars of the loch are its majestic castles, monuments and awe-inspiring landscapes. We visit the Loch Ness Centre for a self-guided audio-visual experience learning about 500 million years of fascinating history. Unearth real stories about Loch Ness and explore myths and legends, hidden secrets and scientific research inspired by sightings of the infamous Loch Ness Monster.
Day 5: After breakfast we head off for a return journey on the historic Strathspey Steam Railway through the Cairngorms National Park from Aviemore to Broomhill. Experience glorious Highland views of heather-clad moors, Caledonian forest and the meandering Spey River. We return to Aviemore for some free time to explore this popular resort. Famous for its winter sports, hill-walking and climbing, this delightful town is surrounded by towering mountains, sparkling lochs and dense forest. This afternoon, we travel south and step back in time at the open-air, award-winning Highland Folk Museum. Retrace life in the Highlands from the 1700s to the 1950s, exploring 35 intricately recreated historical buildings, and take a fascinating journey into history, discovering how people lived, worked, studied and spent their time at leisure.
Day 6: After enjoying our last hearty Scottish breakfast, we begin our journey home making an overnight stop at the Delta Marriott Hotel in Preston.
Day 7: We continue our journey home after breakfast this morning.