Best of Scottish Highlands

Today, you’ll travel to Dunrobin Castle, set on cliffs, overlooking the North Sea, and serving as the family seat of the Earl of Sutherland. A self-guided tour of the estate will reveal that it’s one of the oldest inhabited houses in Scotland, and you can wander the lavish interior, viewing the fine art, historical artefacts, and collection of antique furnishings. During your time here, you can also see a falconry display, the museum, and pay a visit to the cosy tearoom and gift shop, too.

Explore the capital of the Highlands today. This thriving city is home to a delightful Victorian Market, an excellent museum and art gallery, and some attractive riverside walks. Also enjoy a short tour of the Black Isle. Board the Spirit cruiser for a cruise around the inner Moray Firth to try to spot some marine wildlife and birds. A specialist guide will give a full commentary.

Head to Fort Augustus, at the southern tip of the loch, where a series of locks join it to the Caledonian Canal. The Caledonian Canal Heritage Centre gives a fascinating insight into the history and operation of the canal. Head past the dramatic ruins of Urquhart Castle to Drumnadrochit, where you can visit the Loch Ness Exhibition Centre or take a boat trip (payable locally) to go monster hunting.

Enjoy breakfast this morning before venturing on a morning drive to the famous Balmoral Castle, the Scottish holiday home of the Royal Family since 1852. You’ll get to enter the castle to see the ballroom (the largest room in the castle), view the exhibitions and wander the gardens. The castle’s ballroom is the only area open to the public and where many members of the Royal Family have been pictured hosting events. Near the castle is Crathie Kirk, a small parish church in the village of Crathie. Best known for being the regular place of worship of the Royal Family, this church was built in 1895 and looks over the Dee River.

Follow the Road to the Isles from Fort William to Mallaig. Pass landscapes ranging from sandy beaches to flowering heather moors and dense woodland. Stop at the Glenfinnan Visitor Centre, from where you can see the lone Highlander atop the Glenfinnan Monument looking out over Loch Shiel. Take the short uphill walk from the centre to get a view of the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct. The road ends at the thriving fishing port of Mallaig.

Travel back to Inverness airport for your flight home.