Isles of the West: Bute & Skye 2027

Overview

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, stately homes and gardens and a scenic cruise on Lake Katrine.

Itinerary

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 Suggested Driver Day Off
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.

If you require a driver’s day off this would be the ideal day. Speak to the sales team for info about booking coach hire.

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 & Glencoe Visitor Centre
Before leaving Skye, we have a unique experience and take a cruise in a glass bottomed boat with Seaprobe Atlantis. Voted ‘Best Wildlife Experience in the UK’ by the Daily Telegraph, we can view incredible wildlife below the water as well as above, and all surrounded by spectacular scenery. Look out for seals, seabirds, jellyfish, urchins, anemones, otters and occasionally dolphins & whales. Afterwards, we head to the Glencoe Visitor Centre to find out about the stories that make the Nature Reserve so special. It features 3D maps and a cinema showing fascinating films on the area. Take in the panoramic views and refuel in the Highland Coo Café Afterwards, we continue our journey via the scenic A82 to our destination in the Trossachs.

Day 6 Cruise on Loch Katrine, Aberfoyle & Calender
Today we travel to 13km-long freshwater Loch Katrine for a 2-hour cruise from the Trossachs Pier in the heart of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. An inspiration for many famous poets, Queen Victoria sailed up the loch in 1869. Afterwards, we visit the pretty town of Aberfoyle for free time over lunch, then onto Callander for free time in the afternoon.

Day 7 Departure
After breakfast, we begin our journey home.

Map
Hotel

Glenburn Hotel

Rothesay, Isle of Bute

AAA

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.

BarLiftParking On Site & Free of ChargeRestaurantTea & Coffee making facilities

The Dunollie Hotel

Broadford Bay, Isle of Skye

AAA

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.

BarGround Floor RoomsParking On Site & Free of ChargeRestaurantTea & Coffee making facilities

The Winnock

Drymen

AAA+

A very warm welcome awaits you at The Winnock, a 3-star hotel located on the village green in pretty Drymen. The hotel has been hosting groups for over 30 years and is very successful in delivering quality cuisine, service and entertainment. All 73 comfortable bedrooms are traditional in style, furnished in tartan fabrics with tea/coffee making facilities. There is a large, bright restaurant and a relaxing, informal bar. Please note there is no lift.

BarGround Floor RoomsParking On Site & Free of ChargeRestaurantTea & Coffee making facilities
Pricing

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
  • Entrance to Glencoe Visitor Centre (free)
  • 2-hour cruise on Loch Katrine

See quote for hotel inclusions

6 Nights Half Board

Glenburn Hotel – Nights 1 & 2
The Dunollie Hotel – Nights 3 & 4
The Winnock – Nights 5 & 6

Twin from £607pp
Single Supplement from £204
Based on Wednesday arrivals
Selected dates only