Magical Skye and the Scottish Highlands

Local departure by coach or Home Connect service then on to Strathpeffer for a four-night stay.

After an early start, we make our way from east to west today as we travel through the spectacular scenery of the Scottish Highlands along part of the North Coast 500 route to reach the magical Isle of Skye. This is the second largest of Scotland's islands and undoubtedly the most beautiful, where the jagged mountain peaks, deep lochs and stunning coastline have been attracting visitors for centuries. We'll cross the magnificent Skye Bridge and take in the beautiful landscapes of this wonderful corner of Scotland.

As we leave the island behind, we'll have a photo stop to admire the view of stunning Eilean Donan Castle before making our way back across country to Strathpeffer.

Enjoy a day to relax in the leafy Victorian spa town of Strathpeffer, where you can still drink water to treat all manner of ailments to this day. If you want to learn more about growing up in the Highlands, head to the Highland Museum of Childhood and uncover local history and traditions.

Alternatively, why not join our optional excursion to Ullapool, a picturesque point on the North Coast 500 touring route? This quaint port village on the shores of Loch Broom has white-washed cottages and a pretty harbour. Many of the buildings here date back hundreds of years, and outside the village there are still remnants of iron age settlements. Today, you can browse local crafts at the Harbour Gallery or Highland Stoneware, learn about fishing and crofting heritage at the museum, or simply enjoy watching boats come in and out of the harbour.

Enjoy a scenic trip along the banks of mysterious Loch Ness – be sure to have your camera ready in case you spot the infamous Nessie! We reach Fort Augustus at the southern tip of the loch. Here you can sit and watch boats navigate the locks that connect it to the Caledonian Canal, or visit the Clansmen Centre where guides demonstrate traditional weaponry.

We continue to visit Inverness, the 'capital' of the Highlands – a charming city situated at the top of the Great Glen. Why not stroll along the riverbanks, browse the Victorian Market, or soak up the Highlander hospitality in one of the cosy pubs.

Return home.