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Loch Ness, Strathpeffer and the Isle of Skye

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Scottish lochs, Highland villages and ruined castles

A breathtaking train journey from Dingwall to the Kyle of Lochalsh; the legendary Isle of Skye; time to explore Loch Ness and the romantic ruins of Urquhart Castle; and a visit to Inverness, capital of the Highlands, are just some of the highlights awaiting you on this great-value five-day break.

The discovery of sulphurous springs in Strathpeffer led to its rapid growth as a spa resort in Victorian times, and the town still retains many of its interesting buildings. The original Spa Pavilion has been magnificently restored, and the old railway station now houses a selection of craft shops and the Highland Museum of Childhood.

Day One

Fly to Edinburgh and transfer to your hotel, stopping en route in the charming highland town of Pitlochry. After check-in, the rest of the afternoon is free for you to relax or explore before dinner at the hotel. (Total transfer time approximately 4 hours.)

Day Two

Today we head to mysterious Loch Ness. Our first stop will be in Fort Augustus, where six interconnected locks join the Caledonian Canal to the Loch. Explore the Caledonian Canal Heritage Centre, or join our optional hour-long cruise on the Loch on board the 'Royal Scot' (a vessel equipped with the very latest sonar equipment so that you can indulge in a little monster-spotting!).

Our next stop will be Drumnadrochit, where you can explore the question of Nessie's existence at the Loch Ness Exhibition Centre, or wander the Loch's wooded shores before we continue to ruined Urquhart Castle, which looms mysteriously over the brooding waters of the Loch.

We'll return to the hotel dinner after a fascinating day.

Day Three

Today it's off to the beautiful Isle of Skye. You'll travel from Dingwall to Kyle of Lochalsh by train, along a stunning route featured in Michael Palin's "Great Railways of the World". Sit back and relax, but keep a camera close at hand, as you enjoy miles of breathtaking scenery.

From Kyle we'll cross the bridge to Skye. The island's main town, Portree, with its delightful white and colour washed buildings set around the harbour, offers a good range of shops and an interesting exhibition about the local environment. The Royal Hotel is reputed to be on the site of the inn from which Bonnie Price Charlie bade farewell to Flora McDonald before fleeing to France.

Day Four

This morning we head along the banks of Cromarty Firth to historic Dornoch. As well as its wonderful 13th-century cathedral and world-famous golf links, the town boasts many fine buildings - a bishops' palace (now a hotel), a courthouse and the old town jail.

From here we'll continue, via Bonar Bridge and past the marvellous views at Struie Hill, to thriving Inverness. Shop and explore, or perhaps head to the the excellent, new visitor centre at nearby Culloden, scene of the last major battle fought on mainland Britain (entry payable locally), before we return to our hotel.

Day Five

Transfer back to Edinburgh for your return flight home. Depending on your flight time, you may be able to visit the city's excellent museums and art galleries, or the lanes and wynds of the famous Royal Mile, before we head to the airport at the end of what promises to have been a really memorable holiday.

 
 

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