Highland Explorer: Skye & Far North 2025

Today, we uncover hidden gems in the far northwest Highlands and the dramatic Assynt mountains. This region holds historical significance as the first crofting area purchased by local residents under the Assynt Crofters’ Trust. The landscape here is wild, rugged, and almost otherworldly with a timeless beauty.

Our first stop is the Knockan Crag Geology Centre, one of Scotland’s most extraordinary geological sites. Here, you’ll gain insight into ancient tectonic forces that reshaped Scotland’s landscape millions of years ago. We then step into history with a visit to the 15th-century Ardvreck Castle, perched on the shores of Loch Assynt. Once the stronghold of the MacLeods of Assynt, this haunting ruin is steeped in legendary tales of betrayal and the capture of the Marquis of Montrose, offering a glimpse into Scotland’s turbulent past.

For lunch, we head to Lochinver, a picturesque fishing village on Scotland’s wild west coast. Here, you can savour fresh seafood or the famous Lochinver pies while taking in the village’s breathtaking surroundings. Afterward, we journey to Achnahaird Beach, a secluded paradise known for its pristine white sands, turquoise waters, and dramatic mountain backdrop. You can choose to stroll along the beach or simply relax and soak in the serene beauty. As we travel, the route takes us through rolling moorlands and past the iconic silhouettes of towering mountains, with plenty of photo stops carefully selected by your driver-guide to capture the area’s astounding scenery.

We conclude the day with a scenic drive back to Ullapool, passing through untouched moorlands and peat bogs en route to the shores of Loch Broom. Enjoy a well-deserved rest among the charming, whitewashed cottages of this delightful fishing village.

Your overnight accommodation will be in Ullapool. (B)

Today, we continue uncovering the hidden gems of the Northwest Highlands, beginning with a journey south to witness the dramatic 60-meter plunge of the River Droma into Corrieshalloch Gorge.You can take a short walk through a picturesque forest to admire the powerful waterfall as it cascades into the depths of the gorge. Enjoy breathtaking views from one of the viewing platforms or experience the thrill of crossing the suspension bridge.

Our adventure leads us through vast moorlands and rolling hills, with plenty of opportunities for short breaks and photo stops along the way. As we near the majestic Beinn Eighe Nature Reserve and the towering Torridon Mountains, the landscape becomes more rugged, evoking a profound sense of wilderness and solitude. Following the route along dramatic sea lochs framed by craggy mountains and ancient forests, we’re treated to glimpses of Scotland’s raw, untamed, and timeless natural beauty. This scenic journey takes us to the picturesque village of Shieldaig, a true Highland gem.

We continue along the coast to Applecross for lunch in this remote village, which still retains the charm of traditional Highland life, with some residents speaking Gaelic. Enjoy local dishes at the Applecross Inn, renowned for its hearty Highland cuisine and cozy atmosphere. Next, prepare for the thrilling drive along Bealach na Bà, one of Scotland’s highest and most dramatic roads, once used to move cattle between the Applecross Peninsula and markets across the country. Our journey then takes us to the “tropical” village of Plockton, where palm trees grow along the shores of Loch Carron. Enjoy a short break and take a moment to soak in the tranquility of this haven.

We cross the bridge to the Isle of Skye, one of Scotland’s most captivating islands, and follow its dramatic coastline, stopping at viewpoints to admire the striking outlines of the Red and Black Cuillins. We then continue toward the island’s capital, Portree, where you’ll be dropped off at your accommodation in the early evening, giving you plenty of time to explore this charming town at your leisure.

Your overnight accommodation will be in Portree. (B)

Known as the “Misty Isle,” Skye captures the heart and imagination with its dramatic landscapes and ever-changing skies. Here, every horizon reveals something breathtaking, and today, your driver-guide will make the most of your time and the day’s weather to explore this wonder-filled landscape.

Every corner of Skye feels like stepping into a dream, with countless places to explore. You might head north to the Trotternish Ridge and beyond, where you’ll encounter geological wonders such as the Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock, and the breathtaking Quiraing mountain pass. This part of the island enchants visitors with surreal rock formations, dramatic cliffs, vast open spaces, and an overwhelming sense of wilderness. The ever-changing weather adds to the island’s dramatic scenery, with mist often shrouding the peaks and sunlight breaking through to illuminate the landscape, creating a magical atmosphere.

After a morning of exploration, we’ll pause in one of the island’s towns for lunch, recharging for the adventures ahead. In the late afternoon, your driver-guide will take you back in time, sharing legends and tales of clan culture as you visit Dunvegan Castle, the 13th-century ancestral home of Clan MacLeod.

In the evening, we’ll return to Portree, where you can decide how to spend your time. Will you enjoy a relaxing dinner and a stroll along the picturesque harbor, or perhaps explore local pubs offering traditional Scottish music sessions? The choice is yours.

Your overnight accommodation will be in Portree. (B)

We travel south through the Misty Isle, passing the Cuillin Hills and Sligachan Bridge, before returning to the mainland for a closer look at Eilean Donan Castle.

Perched on a small island, the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, made famous as a movie location, holds many fascinating stories. Enjoy refreshments at a local café and take a stroll along the loch to admire the castle from the outside. Alternatively, explore its chambers, where you can discover artifacts belonging to the MacKenzie and MacRae clans. Next, we continue past shimmering lochs, framed by the rugged peaks of the Five Sisters of Kintail. After this visual feast of towering mountains, we head to Fort William for a break.

We stop for lunch in Fort William at the foot of Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain. Sample local cuisine and wander the town center before continuing south through the Highlands. Next is the majestic Glencoe, a valley renowned for its rugged slopes and rich history. Here, you’ll have time for photos or a short walk to appreciate the stunning landscape and learn about one of the most tragic tales in Scottish history. Then, we journey through the wild, desolate landscapes of Rannoch Moor, crossing into the Trossachs National Park. Here, you’ll pass shimmering lochs, towering mountain peaks, and forest-filled glens, with a short break along the way to take it all in.

Heading further south, we cross the ancient natural fault line that runs through Scotland, watching as the rugged, majestic Highlands gradually give way to the flat, fertile plains of the Lowlands on our return to Edinburgh. (B)