Travel around the spectacular Scottish Highlands in style, taking in picturesque views at every turn! Our tour includes scenic rail journeys on the fabulous Kyle Line and on the Strathspey Steam Railway, as well as a cruise on the famous Loch Ness. We also get a glimpse of life in the Highlands from the 1700s to the 1950s at the superb open-air Highland Folk Museum.
PACKAGED ITINERARY
Day 1 Arrival
We arrive at our hotel in time for dinner.
Day 2 Scenic Train Journey Inverness – Kyle of Lochalsh
Today we enjoy a one-way scenic train journey on the spectacular Kyle Line from Inverness to the Kyle of Lochalsh. Our Scotrail train travels through the spectacular scenery of the Highlands in the shadows of mountains and forests, beside bright lochs and wide-open moors, as we head for the final stretch towards the Kyle of Lochalsh, which offers beautiful views of Skye. We have time to do a spot of sightseeing on the island before returning by coach, passing the famous Eilean Donan Castle and the stunning views at Loch Cluanie.
Day 3 Loch Ness Cruise & Loch Ness Centre
This morning, we embark on a scenic journey to Loch Ness. We attempt to track down the world’s shyest monster on a 50-minute cruise of legendary Loch Ness, departing from Fort Augustus on the southern shores. Brimming with history and monster tales, the real stars of the loch are its castles, monuments and scenery. We visit the newly re-opened Loch Ness Centre for a tour to unearth real stories about Loch Ness and learn about 500 million years of history, hidden secrets and scientific research inspired by sightings of the Loch Ness Monster.
Day 4 Strathspey Steam Railway, Aviemore & Highland Folk Museum
After breakfast we head off for a return journey on the Strathspey Steam Railway from Aviemore to Broomhill, taking in glorious views of heather-clad moors, Caledonian forest and the Spey River. Upon return to Aviemore we have some free time to explore this popular Cairngorms resort, famous for its winter sports and hill-walking, before heading south to step back in time at the open-air Highland Folk Museum. Here, we experience life in the Highlands from the 1700s to the 1950s, exploring 35 historical buildings as we discover how people lived, worked, went to school and enjoyed their leisure time.
Day 5 Departure
After breakfast, we make our way home.
Grant Arms Hotel
Grantown-on-Spey
Situated in the heart of the grand Highland town of Grantown-on-Spey, this traditional, quality Scottish hotel once hosted Queen Victoria and in more recent times, Queen Elizabeth II. The hotel offers modern comforts whilst retaining its traditional character and is proud of its location, surrounded by amazing wildlife, flora and fauna. All 50 well maintained, comfortable bedrooms have spacious bathrooms and are equipped with a TV, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. The public areas were recently refurbished to a high standard, the large restaurant is in a beautiful, high-ceilinged room which overlooks the high street, and the bar and lounge areas are cosy and relaxing. Please note there are steps to some rooms.
Inclusions
- Single rail journey Inverness – Kyle of Lochalsh
- Loch Ness cruise
- Tour of the Loch Ness Centre
- Return rail journey Aviemore – Broomhill
- Entrance to Highland Folk Museum (free entry)
See quote for hotel inclusions
4 Nights Half Board
Twin from £346pp
Double for Sole Use Supplement from £118
Based on Monday arrivals