Nature & Wildlife

Programme

Day 1: The Kingdom of Fife

Arrival in Edinburgh. Pick up your rental car at the airport and head to South Queensferry, where the iconic Forth Bridges span the the Firth of Forth. The call of the seagulls and the clean, salty sea air will be a first flavour of what’s to come. After a short break, continue to the other side of the river to the small Kingdom of Fife. The former county is one of Scotland’s most fertile areas. On the gently rolling hills barley is grown for the whisky industry, but also fine organic vegetables that fill the local shops. Dotted along the coast are small, traditional villages, where crabs and lobsters are caught, and some excellent fish restaurants can be found. Accommodation: Fife

Day 2: Puffins on the Isle of May

After a hearty Scottish breakfast, you can explore the small fishing village of Anstruther. Fishing boats and sailing yachts dominate the scenery of the harbor promenade, and a small, sandy beach invites you to linger. Today you can take a boat trip to the Isle of May. Not only is the island home to Scotland’s oldest lighthouse, but it’s a world-famous bird sanctuary that provides a safe nesting site for thousands of seabirds such as gannets and the iconic puffin. A large seal colony is also native to the Isle of May and can almost always be seen from the boat. The views on the steep cliffs are superb and the proximity to the birds is unparalleled, so best bring binoculars. In the evening you should try Anstruther’s famous Fish & Chips, which are known far beyond the borders of Scotland and have won several awards. Distance: 50 miles, Driving Time: 1 hr, Accommodation: Fife

Day 3: Cairngorms National Park

Today’s journey takes you through the heather-covered plateaus of the Cairngorms National Park. The largest national park in the United Kingdom boasts a spectacular landscape and provides a unique habitat, home to many rare plants and animals. The Pass of Drumochter is a main mountain pass in the Central Scottish Highlands and the only gap suitable for road traffic for almost 70 miles. You will pass Dalwhinnie, where Scotland’s highest distillery is situated, before stopping at the tranquil Loch an Eilean to enjoy the fresh, clean air and beautiful mountain panoramas. The area is home to the ancient Caledonian Forest with its Scots pines directly descended from the first pines to arrive in Scotland following the late Glacial about 7000 BC. On the way you can either take part in a sheepdog show or visit the Highland Wildlife Park, which is home to many native animals but also some exotics. Distance: 125 miles, Driving Time: 3,5-4 hrs, Accommodation: Aviemore

Day 4: Ospreys & Reindeer

Today you can go on a range of walks where you can observe ospreys in the Abernethy Forest. At one point, these were completely extinct in Scotland, and only settled here again at the end of the 1950s. From an observation center, approximately 400m from their nests, you can see the approximately 100 pairs well with the help of cameras. At the Insh Marshes, one of the most important wetlands in Great Britain, you can observe other native birds and mammals: squirrels, rare tree martens, wild cats, golden eagles, merlines, ptarmigans and capercaillie. A trip to the nearby sleddog centre, and Great Britain’s only free-living reindeer herd is also worth a visit. Accommodation: Aviemore

Day 5: Dolphins & the Black Isle

The journey continues northwards. Along the way, stop in Inverness, the lively capital of the Highlands and hub of the folk and bagpipe music scene. Take a short walk to the Ness Islands, located in the River Ness, where with a bit of luck you can spot bats and otters. Then continue to the Black Isle.The green, fertile peninsula, whose high-yielding barley fields supply a large number of Scottish distilleries, is one of the best places in Scotland to spot dolphins. The Moray Fjord is home to the northernmost dolphin population in the world, which can also be observed on two-hour dolphin tours. The skippers, who know the coasts like the back of their hand, have decades of experience with the dolphins and approach the marine mammals in a sensitive and respectful way. From here the journey continues into the actual Highlands, through a breathtaking landscape, as seen in books and films. In Gairloch you can enjoy local specialities in the “Old Inn” – a multi-award-winning fish restaurant. Distance: 130 miles, Driving Time: approx. 3 hrs, Accommodation: Gairloch

Day 6: Whales, Seals and Shellfish Safari

Gairloch is a typical Highland town with a distinct highland identity and a rich Gaelic heritage. There is much to discover around Gairloch in the midst of the dramatic Northwestern Highlands: Gairloch Bay, beaches, dunes and golf courses. And numerous beautiful hikes are within easy reach. Spend the day hiking, cycling, playing golf or just relax and unwind. Alternatively, embark on a “Shellfish Safari” with local fisherman Ian McWhinney. Listen to his stories and look over his shoulder while he’s catching lobsters and other delicious seafood, which you will savour after the boat trip. Overnight: Gairloch

Day 7: Applecross & Eilean Donan Castle

Drive along the stunning Applecross peninsula, from where you can enjoy unique views over to Skye. The area is one of the most beautiful areas on the West Coast. Afterwards you can visit Eilean Donan Castle, which is located in the middle of Loch Duich and one of the most photographed castles in the world. Passing the majestic mountain range of the “Five Sisters of Kintail“, you will finally leave the tourist area around the Isle of Skye and drive to an area that is an hidden gem for nature and wildlife lovers. Over the Mam Ratagan Pass with fantastic views over Loch Duich you drive to the magnificent, hidden Glenelg Bay. Even the town entrance sign with the remark that Glenelg (Earth) is the twin town of Glenelg (Mars) indicates the funny peculiarity of the small settlement. Glenelg, with its sheltered location on the bay, is an oasis of peace and calm and home to a variety of wildlife, such as otters, stone and sea eagles, as well as foxes and construction martens. Distance: 90 miles, Driving Time: 2,5-3 hrs, overnight: Glenelg

Day 8: Glenelg & Insel Skye

Use this day for wildlife explorations, kayak trips or hikes. Visit Sandaig Bay, which is an absolute highlight of the region with its streams, beaches and small islands. Writer Gavin Maxwell changed the name to Camusfearna in his book “Ring of Bright Water” to protect the place where he raised his otters. Or you can take a day trip to the Isle of Skye. The ferry crossing with the original Glenelg-Skye ferry, the only hand-operated swivel ferry in the world, is a special experience. The “Glenachulich” has been connecting Skye and Glenelg on the Kylerhea Strait since 1934 and attracts visitors and enthusiasts from all over the world. The boat trip from Elgol to Loch Coruisk is certainly one of the scenic highlights of the region. The lake, which colour depends on the weather, is surrounded by the giants of the Cuillin Mountains. The Cuillin mountain range is the UK’s only alpine mountain range. Perfect for hikers, nature lovers and photographers. In its U-shaped formation, it can only really be seen from Loch Coruisk, the lake itself has been described in countless songs, poems and prose. Accommodation: Glenelg

Day 9: Fort William & Morvern

In the morning take a short but scenic drive to Fort William, the outdoor capital of Scotland right at the foot of Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis. From Fort William you leave the main road again and enter the wilderness of Morvern, a peninsula with only 320 inhabitants. As a result, animals can move freely and undisturbed, and plants can thrive. Often referred to as Scotland’s “best kept secret” in nature shows, Movern is home to golden eagles, peregrine falcons, martens, otters and a variety of plants and flowers. From here you take the ferry across the Sound of Mull Strait to the Isle of Mull, where you will stay for the next two nights. Distance: 140 miles, Driving Time: 4-4,5 hrs, ferry approx. 30 minutes, Accommodation: Isle of Mull

Day 10: Isle of Mull

Mull is one of the most diverse islands in the Hebrides with a huge variety of wildlife. On a panoramic drive on small single track roads you will pass sandy bays, picturesque cottages and sea lochs with simply stunning views of the surrounding area. Take the opportunity to get up close and personal with the local flora and fauna on one of the many hikes available. Or take a trip to Iona. The tranquil island is regarded as the cradle of European Christianity. Visit Iona Abbey, relax on one of the white beaches or enjoy the views of the landscape on a hike up the highest mountain Dùn Ì. Alternatively, join an excursion to the basalt island of Staffa, where Mendelssohn was inspired to create his Hebrides Overture, and which is populated by thousands of seabirds and rare puffins in the summer. Accommodation: Isle of Mull

Day 11: Western Highlands & Inveraray

A pleasant ferry crossing takes you past a lighthouse, castle ruins and offshore islands to the small harbour town of Oban. From here you drive through the beautiful landscape of the Western Highlands along mountains, fortresses, tranquil sea lochs and lakes. In Inverary, a picturesque town on the shores of Loch Fyne, you can take a break and taste the local seafood specialties. A visit to Inverary Castle, which is still inhabited by the Campbell Clan, is also recommended. The scenic drive continues through the Trossachs National Park, with a wealth of photo opportunities and the rich, green colors of the natural paradise. Distance: 130km, Driving Time: 2-2,5 hrs, ferry approx. 45 minutes, Accommodation: Trossachs National Park

Day 12: Departure

Today you have to say goodbye to a wonderful, welcoming country. Distance: 50 miles, Driving Time: approx. 1 hr

Services

Tour includes

• 11 overnight stays in 3-4* B&B accommodation (en-suite)
• Scottish breakfast
• hire car for 12 days from/to airport including insurance and Sat Nav
• Morvern – Insel Mull ferry
• Insel Mull – Oban ferry
• Scotland road map
• Comprehensive info pack including leisure and restaurant recommendations
• 24/7 emergency hotline

Not included

• flights
• lunch and dinner
• fuel
• admissions
• additional driver

Optional add-ons

• £69 pp additional night in Edinburgh/Glasgow B&B, based on 2 people sharing (£41 single supplement)
• £89 pp additional night in Edinburgh/Glasgow hotel, based on 2 people sharing (£61 single supplement)
• from £50 per day car hire extension
• from £40 pp Royal Military Tattoo tickets (subject to availability)

Additional Information

Duration: 12 days
Participants: from 1 pax
Start: Edinburgh/Glasgow Airport
Finish: Edinburgh/Glasgow Airport

This tour can also be done by public transport, as an alternative to driving.

When deciding on your travel dates, please bear in mind that we require at least 6 weeks to prepare. Every trip is meticulously planned and organised, and the information pack is compiled with great care and attention. We also have to allow time for the information pack to be delivered (postal delivery can take on average 4 weeks in Europe). If you do want to travel at short notice, please contact us by email. Thank you for your cooperation!

Dates & Prices

Reviews