Scotland: Scenic Journeys of the Highlands and Islands 5311

Scotland: Scenic Journeys of the Highlands and Islands 5311

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7 Days From

$2795

Scotland: Scenic Journeys of the Highlands and Islands 5311

7 Days Starting and ending in Glasgow, Scotland

Visiting: Glasgow, Firth of Clyde, Loch Lomond, Rannoch Moor, Fort William, Ben Nevis, Oban, Mull, Duart Castle, Tobermory, Morvern, Caledonian Canal, Neptune's Staircase, Loch Linnhe, Glen Coe, Glenfinnan Viaduct, Mallaig, Loch Ness, Inverness, Urquhart Castle, Moray Firth, Achnasheen, Loch Carron, Stromeferry, Kyle of Lochalsh, Eilean Donan Castle, Cairngorms National Park, Aviemore

Tour operator:

Brightwater Holidays

Tour code:

BSJH

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

6 - 25

Physical rating:

Gentle

Age range:

1-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Vegans, Meat, Please contact Brightwater with any specific dietary requirements

Interests:

Cultural, History, Rail Tours

From: $2795 (USD)

NB: Prices correct on 21-Apr-2025 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on a breathtaking journey through the majestic landscapes of Scotland with the "Scenic Journeys of the Highlands and Islands" tour. Begin your adventure with a scenic rail journey from Glasgow to Fort William, traversing the stunning West Highland Line. Explore the historic Duart Castle on the Isle of Mull and enjoy the vibrant waterfront of Tobermory. Discover the engineering marvel of Neptune's Staircase and cruise on the serene waters of Loch Linnhe. Experience the iconic Jacobite steam train ride over the Glenfinnan Viaduct and cruise on the legendary Loch Ness. Marvel at the picturesque Eilean Donan Castle and conclude your tour with panoramic views from the Cairngorm funicular railway. With comfortable coach travel, professional tour management, and delightful accommodations, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Scotland's natural beauty and rich heritage.

Highlights

  • Rail journey on the scenic West Highland Line to Fort William.

  • Visit to Duart Castle on the Isle of Mull, home of the Chief of Clan MacLean.

  • Cruise on Loch Linnhe and explore the stunning Glen Coe.

  • Ride the Jacobite steam train over the Glenfinnan Viaduct.

  • Cruise on Loch Ness with views of Urquhart Castle.

  • Visit to the iconic Eilean Donan Castle.

  • Experience the Cairngorm funicular railway for panoramic views.

Places You'll See

Scotland: Scenic Journeys of the Highlands and Islands 5311

Scotland: Scenic Journeys of the Highlands and Islands 5311

Scotland: Scenic Journeys of the Highlands and Islands 5311

Scotland: Scenic Journeys of the Highlands and Islands 5311

Scotland: Scenic Journeys of the Highlands and Islands 5311

Scotland: Scenic Journeys of the Highlands and Islands 5311

Itinerary

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Day 1

Location: Glasgow, Firth of Clyde, Loch Lomond, Rannoch Moor, Fort William, Ben Nevis

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: The Ben Nevis Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Dinner

Assemble at Glasgow Queen Street Station where our tour begins, as we depart on a rail journey to Fort William. This is a particularly scenic journey on the West Highland Line, though it begins in darkness as our train powers up the steep incline in the tunnel out of the station. Before long we are running along the shores of the Firth of Clyde, followed by views over Gareloch and Loch Long on our left and Loch Lomond on our right. The line continues through Glen Falloch before traversing the ‘Horseshoe Curve’ and crossing the wilderness of Rannoch Moor. On reaching Glen Spean the line turns west and heads down to Fort William on the shores of Loch Linnhe, beneath the towering bulk of Ben Nevis.

Day 2

Location: Oban, Mull, Duart Castle, Tobermory, Morvern, Fort William

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: The Ben Nevis Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Enjoy a day of coastal and island scenery as we drive down to Oban and take the ferry to Mull. Here we will visit Duart Castle, the 13th century home of the Chief of Clan MacLean. We can explore the dungeons, the state rooms and appreciate the strategic position of the castle from the top of the keep. We then drive to Tobermory with its colourful waterfront for some free time. Later, we cross by ferry to Morvern en route to Fort William.

Day 3

Location: Caledonian Canal, Neptune's Staircase, Loch Linnhe, Glen Coe

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: The Ben Nevis Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

This morning we begin with a look at the Caledonian Canal, built by Thomas Telford between 1803 and 1822, and in particular Neptune’s Staircase, an impressive series of eight inter-connected locks that lowers vessels step-by-step to sea level. We then enjoy a cruise on Loch Linnhe and take a scenic drive through the magnificent mountain scenery of Glen Coe, a fine example of a volcanic caldera further shaped by glaciation in the last ice age. The haunting beauty of the glen is unrivalled in Scotland.

Day 4

Location: Fort William, Glenfinnan Viaduct, Mallaig, Loch Ness, Inverness

Accommodation Name: Carrbridge Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Today we journey back in time on the Jacobite steam train and experience one of the most spectacular railway journeys in the world – the famous Fort William to Mallaig line following The Road to the Isles. From the slopes of Ben Nevis, the route runs through rugged mountains and over the massive Glenfinnan Viaduct. We return on the train to Fort William later in the afternoon then drive through the Great Glen and along the shores of Loch Ness to Inverness.

Day 5

Location: Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle, Moray Firth

Accommodation Name: Carrbridge Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

The second boat trip of our holiday is enjoyed today as we cruise on Loch Ness, the largest volume of fresh water in the British Isles. We will also enjoy views of the much-photographed ruins of Urquhart Castle, and in the afternoon, we’ll transfer to the shores of the Moray Firth where we hope to spot the resident pod of dolphins.

Day 6

Location: Inverness, Achnasheen, Loch Carron, Stromeferry, Kyle of Lochalsh, Eilean Donan Castle

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Carrbridge Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

A classic train journey awaits. Using the scheduled diesel train service from Inverness, our route takes us through Strath Bran and the isolated little station at Achnasheen, on into Strath Carron to the head of Loch Carron, passing Stromeferry, the one-time terminus of the line, before we reach the current terminus at Kyle of Lochalsh. This afternoon, we visit the iconic Eilean Donan Castle.

Day 7

Location: Cairngorms National Park, Aviemore, Glasgow

Meals Included: Breakfast

Our tour concludes today but there is no let up in the scenic delights as we board the Cairngorm funicular railway for sweeping views. Later, we’ll catch the train from Aviemore to Glasgow, where the group will disperse or make onward connections.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation is included as part of the tour package.

  • Services of a professional tour manager

    The services of a professional tour manager are included throughout the tour.

  • Comfortable coach travel throughout

    Comfortable coach travel is provided throughout the tour.

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What's Not Included

  • Personal expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional activities, and other personal purchases are not included.

  • Travel insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and should be arranged separately by the traveler.

  • Optional excursions

    Optional excursions not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.

Mode of Transport

Travel in comfort with coach travel throughout the tour, complemented by scenic train journeys including the West Highland Line and the Jacobite steam train. Enjoy ferry crossings to the Isle of Mull and a cruise on Loch Linnhe, enhancing your exploration of Scotland's stunning landscapes.

Accommodation

Stay at the Ben Nevis Hotel or similar accommodations, offering comfortable lodging throughout your scenic journey in the Highlands and Islands. Later in the tour, enjoy the hospitality of the Carrbridge Hotel, ensuring a restful experience after each day's adventures.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of transportation is used during the tour?

    The tour includes comfortable coach travel, train travel, and ferry rides as part of the itinerary.

  • Will there be any guided tours during the trip?

    Yes, the services of a professional tour manager are included in the tour.

  • What kind of activities are included in the tour?

    The tour includes scenic train journeys, visits to castles such as Duart Castle and Eilean Donan Castle, a cruise on Loch Linnhe, and a boat trip on Loch Ness. There is also a visit to the Caledonian Canal and the opportunity to spot dolphins at the Moray Firth.

  • What scenic locations will be visited during the tour?

    The tour visits several scenic locations including the West Highland Line, Glen Coe, the Glenfinnan Viaduct, Loch Ness, and the Cairngorms.

  • Is there any free time during the tour?

    Yes, there is some free time in Tobermory on Day 2 of the tour.

  • Will I receive more details of the holiday before I travel?

    You will receive detailed joining instructions around 10 days prior to you departure, but you are of course welcome to contact us at any time should you have any queries.

  • What facilities do your coaches have?

    Generally, our coaches have reclining seats, air-conditioning and toilets, however this cannot always be guaranteed as sometimes we have to use smaller vehicles. Toilets are recommended for emergency use only and regular comfort stops will be made throughout your holiday while travelling around.

  • Do I have to go on the included excursions?

    Absolutely not. You are more than welcome to spend the day at your hotel or exploring independently should you wish. All we ask is that you inform your Tour Manager, so they are not left waiting for you to join the group.

  • Is there time to relax?

    Although our itineraries may seem jam-packed, boasting access to some of the most exclusive sites across the UK and beyond, a Brightwater Holiday is just that: a holiday. Each trip will counter in more than enough free-time for you to explore places at your own leisure. And with most nights and the majority of meals being included in our tour prices, you can relax in hand-picked accommodation.

  • Do I need to be an expert?

    Absolutely not! Although some of our tours are specifically focused on one thing, all you need to enjoy a Brightwater holiday is interest and bags of enthusiasm! Even on our most specialist tours, we take travellers from all skill levels, from experts to beginners.

  • How fit or active do I need to be for one of your holidays?

    You need to be able to get on and off the coach unassisted, and most – but not all – coaches have a kneel facility that lowers the front step for ease of boarding

  • Do you have self-drive holidays?

    Yes, we do – tailored to your exact requirements!

  • What’s the luggage allowance on your coaches?

    There’s no fixed limit, but we generally say one large suitcase to go in the luggage compartment and a smaller bag that you can take onto the coach with you. For flight-inclusive holidays, we include a luggage allowance of at least 20kg.

  • Where are your departure points?

    UK garden holidays generally depart from London, with additional pick-ups depending on the route of the coach, while holidays to Scotland depart from Glasgow, Edinburgh and Perth, with Dundee, Inverness and Aberdeen sometimes included. All Eurostar holidays depart from London St. Pancras and flight-inclusive holidays depart from one or more of the main London airports, with regional flights .

  • What about the company that will be kept?

    For single travellers, those with a companion or even those travelling in a larger group, you'll find that the signature of any Brightwater Holiday is the company. You won't ever be travelling with a group of strangers, instead, you'll find yourself surrounded by like-minded people with a strong shared interest who will soon become your firm friends.

  • What is a Brightwater Holiday?

    Bursting with enthralling, educational and enlightening itineraries, a Brightwater Holiday, by its very nature, is packed with bucket-list-worthy destinations, behind the scenes passes and expert-led experiences. From creating bespoke quality garden and special interest tours for groups and individuals alike, we have made it our business to make our guests' travel dreams come true.

  • Why is there a single supplement?

    Unfortunately, single room supplements are charges that are often imposed on us as a company when we book rooms for group holidays. However, most hotels do charge less for single occupancy, and we always pass this saving on to our solo travellers in the form of a modest single supplement.

  • How much are your optional excursions?

    Prices start from as little as £20, but please contact our friendly team for questions about specific itineraries or excursions.

  • Can I pre-book my coach seats?

    Yes, you can. In the case of front seats, guests with limited mobility are given priority. Please get in touch with our friendly team to discuss any requirements you may have.

  • How to get there? Easy!

    With a Brightwater Holiday, the journey is just as important as the destination and we make getting you to your tour start point easy. From organising group flights and individual travel plans, to offering accessible local departure and pick-up points, we go out of our way to ensure that your journey is as convenient and hassle-free as it can be.

  • Do I need to have travel insurance?

    Travel insurance is required for all overseas holidays and is also strongly recommended for UK holidays – primarily to protect yourself against cancellation charges should you be unable to travel.

Reviews of this operator

Trusted Customer  

Brightwater Holidays offers great value

28-Nov-2019

I would highly recommend Brightwater Holidays. It offers excellent service and value for money. This was my first tour as I normally arrange holidays myself, but this tour - which was to the gardens of Kent and Sussex - was a very pleasant change of pace.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Brightwater Holidays Customer  

My experience with Brightwater Holidays

08-Aug-2019

The tour was well managed, the sites visited were all interesting and linked to the theme of the Picts and their place in history, the hotel was comfortable and the coach journeys were well paced. I have been with Brightwater before and will certainly travel with them again

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Alan Hawkes (Google Reviewer)  

We were on the Tour...

28-Aug-2022

We were on the Tour of the Outer Hebrides. We had a great experience, in no small part due to the excellence of the tour manager and driver.

Brightwater Holidays Custome  

Wonderful experience with brilliant information

31-Jul-2019

The most important factor was an amazing guide in Alastair Walker whose knowledge and care for clients was fantastic. The whole trips are superbly organised

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Eric Webb (Google Reviewer)  

Recent (September 2023) Scottish holiday...

07-Oct-2023

Recent (September 2023) Scottish holiday not so good. Various 'issues' to do with scheduling and organisation. I'm happy to report however that - after an interval - a letter expressing disappointment brought a full response - including a generous refund. So - with fingers slightly crossed - we'll be booking with Brightwater again in due course.

John G R (Google Reviewer)  

Now, this is a wee...

08-Nov-2024

Now, this is a wee family run holiday that is run from a bedroom. Outrageous prices for a holiday in scotland.👍

Kevin Barrett (Google Reviewer)  

The recent tour in Northumberland...

30-Sep-2023

The recent tour in Northumberland turned out to be a shambles. Our South London driver took us to Newcastle, but no guide to meet us. Next day still no guide and the bus driver attempted to salvage the tour the best he could despite having no knowledge of the attractions. Fortunately one of the passengers Googled the tides for Holy Island. No holiday guide ever showed up. Coach and hotel were fine. Do these people only offer self guided tours? Take Shearings next time.

ALEXANDRA MCQUEEN (Google Reviewer)  

Been trying to get a...

17-Oct-2023

Been trying to get a reply from them for over a week. Booked Xmas tour, confirmation said pick up subject to numbers, they never said anything when booking and theyve been paid in full. Would not recommend!

Dp Green (Google Reviewer)  

I had heard this company...

20-Feb-2024

I had heard this company was a nightmare to deal with, but thought I'd give it a go. Signed up for a tour, then emailed them about how to pay off the balance. No response to 3 emails. I've never encountered a tour company that ignored questions on how to pay off a balance. Looked into other reviews and found many complaints about cancelled tours and refusals to refund deposits.

Kieran Thompson (Google Reviewer)  

Two of your tour busses...

26-Jul-2021

Two of your tour busses used the A814 from Garelochhead to Arrochar on 24th July 2021. This route is not suitable for large vehicles and your drivers should not have taken the huge coaches that way. There are clear signs at both ends of the road indicating it is not suitable for HGV's. Our car had to go off into the soft verge to allow your coaches to pass. Please amend your routes to avoid this road in future.

1 Select your preferred date

Sunday - Saturday

Jun 15, 2025 - Jun 21, 2025
$2795 (USD)

Sunday - Saturday

Sep 07, 2025 - Sep 13, 2025
$2795 (USD)
Prices last published on 21-Apr-2025

Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit for future tours

    Brightwater Holidays allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform brightwater holidays, 25 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Brightwater Holidays requires a minimum deposit of 15% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of brightwater holidays charges.

    At 40 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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