Two islands that famously encapsulate the best of the Scottish landscape are Bute and Skye, and our stunning tour features both – complete with some lovely castles and a visit to legendary Loch Ness for good measure!
PACKAGED ITINERARY
Day 1 Arrival
Today, we travel to Wemyss Bay from where we take the ferry to Rothesay, arriving at our hotel in time for dinner.
Day 2 Isle of Bute
Today we visit the neo-gothic Mount Stuart House and Gardens, one of the most technologically advanced houses of its age, set in 300 acres of landscaped gardens, woodland and coast. Afterwards, we enjoy a scenic tour of the island before we arrive back in Rothesay to spend the rest of the day exploring at leisure.
Day 3 Ferries between Islands
This morning, we take a short ferry from Rhubodach to Colintraive from where we travel along the shores of the tranquil Loch Fyne, before continuing to the famous ‘outdoor capital of the world’, Fort William. In the afternoon we head to the fishing village of Mallaig passing the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, featured in the Harry Potter films. Upon arrival we catch the ferry to Armadale on Skye and make our way to our hotel.
Day 4 Dunvegan Castle & Trotternish Peninsula
Today we journey to the northwest corner of Skye to visit the famous Dunvegan Castle & Gardens. Built on a rocky outcrop on the shores of Loch Dunvegan, Dunvegan is the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland. After our visit, we enjoy a scenic drive around the northern Trotternish Peninsula via Duntulm, before returning to our hotel.
HOW ABOUT?
We recommend you hire a step-on guide service for the afternoon as the fabulous local guides bring the magnificent scenery to life with their commentary. Ask your Account Manager for details.
Day 5 Glass-bottomed Wildlife Cruise & Loch Ness Centre
Before leaving Skye we take a cruise in a glass bottomed boat with Seaprobe Atlantis before heading to Loch Ness where we visit the newly reopened Loch Ness Centre for a unique tour that allows us to become part of the legend and unearth the history, stories and science about this famous Loch and its mythical inhabitant. We then continue on to Pitlochry.
Day 6 Pitlochry Driver’s Day Off
We spend today relaxing in our hotel and exploring the picture-postcard town of Pitlochry. Popular for over 150 years as a holiday destination, the town boasts Queen Victoria as one of its original visitors. Enjoy a stroll along Main Street in this charming resort, with its many attractive shops, bars and tearooms to discover.
Day 7 Departure
After breakfast, we begin our journey home.
Please note, this island tour relies heavily on island ferry services. In the event that a sailing is cancelled or delayed, be aware that itineraries will have to be adapted, sometimes at very short notice.
Fisher’s Hotel
Pitlochry, Perthshire
The friendly Victorian Fisher’s Hotel is situated in a picturesque village location in the heart of historic Pitlochry. All 140 homely bedrooms are well decorated and equipped with a TV, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. There is a bright, spacious restaurant and two bars, one of which is a pub-style bar and one a smaller, more intimate bar. There are also two elegant lounge areas full of comfortable sofas and armchairs and an outside seating area in the lovely gardens.
Glenburn Hotel
Rothesay, Isle of Bute
The grand and friendly Glenburn hotel is a landmark on the island haven of Bute, set in a prime position above delightful, terraced gardens commanding fantastic views over Rothesay Bay and the Cowal Peninsula, and a 15-minute walk from the town. Extensively refurbished in 2016, the hotel offers 119 comfortable bedrooms, each fully equipped with tea and coffee making facilities and decorated in a country house traditional style. There is a large, informal restaurant and a sumptuous, cosy bar as well as a separate grand lounge/ballroom where entertainment takes place. There is also a library/snug and an outside terrace offering lovely views over the bay. Several steps are required to enter the hotel and there is no ramp so this hotel is not suitable for wheelchairs.
The Dunollie Hotel
Broadford Bay, Isle of Skye
The Dunollie Hotel is located on the main road through Skye, set by the waterside of Broadford Bay with magnificent views across the sea to Loch Kishorn and the Applecross Hills. All 84 bedrooms are spacious and the stunning setting of the restaurant provides lovely views across the bay. There is also a comfortable bar and lounge which is perfect for relaxing in by the open fire. There are steps throughout the hotel and no lift access, so the hotel is not ideally suited for wheelchairs.
Glenburn Hotel
Rothesay, Isle of Bute
Nights 1 & 2
The Dunollie Hotel
Broadford Bay, Isle of Skye
Nights 3 & 4
Fisher’s Hotel
Pitlochry, Perthshire
Nights 5 & 6
6 Nights Half Board
Twin from £669pp
Single Supplement from £130
Based on Wednesday arrivals
Selected dates only
Inclusions
• One way ferry Wemyss Bay – Rothesay
• Entrance to Mount Stuart House & Gardens
• One way ferry Rhubodach – Colintraive
• One way ferry Mallaig – Armadale
• Entrance to Dunvegan Castle & Gardens
• 1 hour cruise on Seaprobe Atlantis
• Tour of the Loch Ness Centre
Please refer to your quote for hotel inclusions.