Seven Isle Spectacular – Scotland’s Inner Hebrides

This morning after landing into Edinburgh or Glasgow airport, collect your vehicle and make your way to the coastal port of Ardrossan. Hop on the ferry across to the Isle of Arran where you can find a little bit of everything you’d ever want from a Scottish island; an ever-changing coastline, dramatic mountain peaks, sheltered beaches, verdant forests, great cultural festivals and a wealth of tasty local produce. On top of the whisky, be sure to try the creamy liqueur Arran Gold.

Overnight: Brodick, Isle of Arran

Today is dedicated to exploring the unique landscapes and wildlife of Arran. Why not scale Goatfell, the largest mountain on Arran? It’s a Corbett sitting at 2,866 ft above sea level – a perfect place to search for red squirrels, deer, golden eagles, otters, seals, basking sharks. Arran is also home to many stone circles dating from the Neolithic period and the early Bronze Age, so after visiting Lochranza Castle, you can visit Machrie Moor and its six stone circles.

Overnight: Brodick, Isle of Arran

Meals: Breakfast included.

This morning catch the ferry to the other side of the mainland and travel along the coastal road to the charming fishing village of Tarbert. The village sits on the narrowest strip of land between the two bodies of water, forming a natural harbour. From here you can explore the Mull of Kintyre peninsula and the famed K66 route; 66 glorious miles shrouded in natural beauty, history and culture. Heading down the west coast enjoy thundering waves glimpses of the islands of Gigha, Cara, Jura and Islay. Stop off to see the ancient Ballochroy Standing Stones before heading to the southern tip to find the iconic Mull of Kintyre lighthouse nestled between Saint Columba’s footstep & clan massacre sights. Return up the East coast through the little villages such as Peninver, Carradale, Saddell and Grogport looking back over the Isle you have just stayed on.

Overnight: Tarbert

Meals: Breakfast included.

Today take the ferry over to the Isle of Islay. This stunning island spans 240 square miles, with an incredible 130 miles of coastline. The island is famous for its malt whiskys, so you may wish to visit one of the eight distilleries on the island. If “Water of Life” isn’t your thing, the wildlife and scenery are also a big draw to this unique island. Bird-watching is particularly popular with locals through the year. Remember though – don’t try to squeeze it in after a distillery tour or two – looking through binoculars has been known to make some people woozy, especially after all that whisky!

Overnight: Isle of Islay

Meals: Breakfast included.

Today, from your base on the Isle of Islay, you may choose to take a boat trip over to the Isle of Jura, home to just 200 people but over 5,000 deer. This untamed island is one of the wildest places of Scotland and the long and narrow island is known for its jutting mountains, delectable whisky and its swirling whirlpool. This is a hikers and photographers paradise and it only takes a short car ferry to experience it yourself.

Overnight: Isle of Islay

Meals: Breakfast included.

Today take the ferry back to the mainland to the “Gateway to the Isles”, Oban; your base for the night. Here you can explore the pretty harbour town including the grandiose folly of McCaig's Tower overlooking the docks and the famous Oban Whisky Distillery. Perhaps visit the historic town of Inveraray, stopping to view the Castle which was used in the filming of “Downton Abbey” season IV or the old Jail. Oban is renowned for its seafood and you will find a wealth of restaurants to excite the taste buds.

Overnight: Oban

Meals: Breakfast included.

This morning, take the ferry from Oban to the romantic Isle of Mull. Here you can tour the wild and awe-inspiring landscapes, moorland and sweeping coastline of this remote island. Spend today exploring the north of the island and visit the contrasting castles around Duart Bay; Duart Castle is a 13th century ruin whilst nearby Torosay Castle is an elegant Baronial Manor house. Then onwards to the town of Tobermory a bustling natural port and fishing town famed for its quaint rows of pastel coloured cottages. Finish your day with one of the islands iconic artsy whisky or maybe try their new gin… or both!

Overnight: Tobermory, Isle of Mull

Meals: Breakfast included.

Dedicate today to exploring the south of the Isle of Mull. Visit the imposing fortified tower at Moy Castle set against a dramatic mountain back-drop and wander the adjacent Lochbuie Stone circle. Then head for the most southerly tip of the island at Fionnphort where you can cross by foot passenger ferry to the tiny and peaceful Isle of Iona and the spiritual retreat of Iona Abbey. Perhaps enjoy a boat trip from the west of the island to Staffa and the Treshnish Islands to see Fingal’s Cave and an abundance of sea-life such as whales, porpoise and nesting puffins.

Overnight: Tobermory, Isle of Mull

Meals: Breakfast included.

Depart the Isle of Mull by ferry from Fishnish to Lochaline on the mainland before taking the country roads north. Take the "Road to the Isles" to visit the Glenfinnan Monument dedicated to Bonnie Prince Charlie and the magnificent Glenfinnan Viaduct, made famous in the "Harry Potter" movies and the Hogwarts Express. Then onwards to the fishing town of Mallaig to catch the ferry to the Isle of Skye. You may choose to stop at Armadale Castle in the South of the island before passing the beautiful peaks of the Cuillin Hills on route to the island main town at Portree and its bustling harbour.

Overnight: Isle of Skye

Meals: Breakfast included.

Dedicate a day to exploring the breath-taking natural beauty of this peaceful island; from the quaint port town of Portree, tour the north of the island and the Trotternish Peninsula with its natural features such as “Kilt Rock” and “the Old Man of Storr” for breath-taking 360° views. Visit the famous Fairy Pools to brave the cold wild swimming in the sapphire pools. Wildlife is in abundance, in the coastal waters you can spot seabirds, dolphins and seals. Possible cultural visits include Dunvegan Castle, home of the Macleod Clan, the Museum of Island Life and nearby Flora Macdonald's Grave or the distillery of famed malt whisky Talisker.

Overnight: Isle of Skye

Meals: Breakfast included.

This morning, cross back to the mainland via Skye Bridge and visit one of Scotland’s icons at Eilean Donan Castle spectacularly set at the meeting point of three lochs. Then cross the wilderness of Scottish Highlands heading for the shores of Loch Ness; a brief detour north along the windswept banks of the eerie Loch Ness will offer views of Urquhart Castle. Then return south to the lively port town of Fort William on the shores of Loch Linnhe; here you may choose to hike in the foothills of Ben Nevis, Britain's highest peak, or visit the Ben Nevis Distillery.

Overnight: Glencoe

Meals: Breakfast included.

A short journey South and you will be in Scotland’s most famous valley; Glencoe. Today is the perfect opportunity to explore the dramatic backdrops for movies including "Braveheart" and "Skyfall" as well as the inspiration for countless poets. The inspiration is easy to see with roaring falls, majestic wildlife and landscapes that were formed by a super volcano millions of years ago, then sculpted by massive glaciers in the last Ice Age. Be sure to visit the visitors centre to complete your experience.

Overnight: Glencoe

Meals: Breakfast included.

Begin today heading south through the barren moors and along the windswept bonny banks of Loch Lomond. Hiking, sailing, kayaking and much more is available from the shores of Scotland biggest land loch. Head to the historic cobbled town of Stirling and climb to the Castle which rivals that of Edinburgh for its historic significance and beauty - with beautiful gardens to unwind in, costumed performers who bring history to life and welcoming staff, the award-winning Stirling Castle is a must-see. Return your vehicle and explore the winding streets of Edinburgh by foot and public transport. Head to Leith docks to find the famous Royal Yacht Britannia and some world class restaurants.

Overnight: Edinburgh

Meals: Breakfast included.

The final day of your trip can be spent discovering the magnificent city of Edinburgh. From the winding streets of the cobbled old town to the wide avenues of the opulent Georgian New town, Edinburgh holds a unique atmosphere. Visit Royal sites such as the Palace of Holyrood House and the Royal Mile connecting it to the city's centrepiece at the magnificent Edinburgh Castle, home to the Scottish Crown Jewels. This city is like another world and it is easy to see the influence they have held over poets and authors such as J.K. Rowling. Perhaps step down into Edinburgh’s hidden history at Mary Kings Close and learn how the rich and poor lived during the black plague here. Round off your stay with a traditional Scottish dinner show full of music, dancing and traditional food. The perfect end to a prefect vacation.

Overnight: Edinburgh

Meals: Breakfast included.

Enjoy a final breakfast in your hotel before checking out. You may have a chance for some last-minute souvenir shopping or sightseeing (luggage can be stored at your hotel) before making your way back to Edinburgh or Glasgow Airports to check-in for your return flight to your home nation.

Meals: Breakfast included.