Compare Idyllic Isles of the Outer Hebrides Cruise by The Majestic Line vs Highlights of Scotland by Intrepid Travel
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| Trip |
5 | Excellent
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4.5 | Great
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| Duration | 10 days | 8 days |
| Price From | $ 5,873 | $ 3,660 |
| Price Per Day | $ 587 | $ 458 |
| Highlights |
Visits to:
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| Trip Style | Small ship cruise | Small group tour |
| Lodging Level | Standard | Standard |
| Physical Level |
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| Countries Visited | ||
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| Flights & Transport | Ground transport included | Ground transport included |
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| Meals Included | N/A | N/A |
| Description |
The Outer Hebrides is an island world like no other. On the very edge of the Atlantic Ocean, the pace of life is slower, the majority of inhabitants speak Gaelic and crofting is a way of life. Many of the rugged and mysterious islands, with evocative names such as Mingulay, the Monachs and the Shiants are populated only by thousands of seabirds. The scenery is breathtaking with huge skies and green seas providing a striking backdrop to white sand beaches and the jagged crags of some of the most remote, unspoiled and enchanting islands of the Hebrides. The crystal clear waters are home to many cetaceans, with porpoise, several species of dolphin and even whales and orcas regularly putting in an appearance. |
Picture yourself standing before ancient castles that guard misty lochs and on stunning cliffs with waterfalls cascading down — this is Scotland. From the brightly coloured murals on the bustling streets of Glasgow, to Fort William, an adventurer's playground, you’ll spend eight days exploring cobblestone streets and grassy landscapes. Explore the mystical Isle of Skye and mythological Loch Ness, where the murky depths hide a Scottish legend. See Inverness, vibrant and historic and learn tales of battles and folklore. End your journey in Edinburgh, a city of contrasts, where the old and new coexist, where nature and culture and where every corner holds a piece of history. With the right balance of small-group adventure and free time to explore, this trip will allow Scotland's unique magic to captivate your heart. |
Typical stopovers and anchorages
Tobermory:
The main town on the Isle of Mull has a very scenic natural harbour, fringed with brightly painted buildings. Go ashore for shopping and woodland walks.
The Isle of Coll:
A hidden gem of the Hebrides, the Isle of Coll has a vibrant community and a very picturesque harbour. The panorama of nearby islands makes a dramatic backdrop to Coll's flower-filled machair and sparkling white shell-sand beaches. Coll is a basking shark hot spot from July onwards.
Mingulay:
The Island of Mingulay is uninhabited apart from a large colony of grey seals and thousands of sea birds. Anchor in Mingulay Bay, with its sandy beach ideal for a trip ashore. Walk through the remains of the village and listen to the singing of the seals as they come ashore each night.
The Isle of Barra:
Anchor in Castlebay with Kisimul Castle providing a dramatic presence.
Vatersay:
Only a narrow strip of machair links Vatersay to Barra, providing two magnificent shell-sand beaches on either side.
Eriskay & South Uist:
For such a small island, Eriskay is known far beyond the Hebrides for the film “Whisky Galore”. Cruise the length of South Uist with a choice of anchorages
Benbecula & North Uist:
Travelling north the coastline breaks into hundred of tiny islands and islets, a stunning seascape
Tarbert, Harris:
Nestled in a valley where North and South Harris meet and set against a backdrop of rugged mountain peaks, Tarbert, the main settlement in Harris is a sheltered and pretty anchorage.
The Isle of Skye:
Cruise the Sound of Skye to Loch Scavaig with the dramatic backdrop of the Cuillins of Skye providing a breathtaking anchorage.
The Monachs:
The remote and uninhabited Monach Isles lie west of North Uist with a choice of sheltered anchorages. The islands are all linked at low tide with white sandy beaches; an idyllic paradise.
The Small Isles:
Call in at one or more of this group of small islands with tiny populations and a haven for wildlife
The Sound of Mull:
Drop in at Loch Drumbuie before heading homeward down the Sound of Mull to Oban
Day 1 Glasgow
Welcome to Scotland! Glasgow is one of Europe's most vibrant and cosmopolitan cities and this is where your adventure begins. It boasts world famous art collections, and is famed for its Victorian and art nouveau architecture. The city has some of the best shopping in the UK outside of London, first-class sports and leisure facilities, as well as a vast array of restaurants, bars and exciting nightlife. You’ll have a welcome meeting att 6 pm to meet your trip leader and fellow travellers. If you arrive early, why not take a stroll along the River Clyde, once at the heart of the city’s ship building industry. After the meeting, become acquainted at a nearby restaurant or grab a ‘fish supper’ in the lively Merchant City. Known for its pedestrianised areas, outdoor eating, trendy designer shops and ever-changing developments, the Merchant City is Glasgow with style, and one of the most popular areas to visit for tourists and locals alike.
Day 2 Fort William
After a short walk to the train station this morning, catch the early morning train, the world-famous West Highland Line, where your adventure really begins. The West Highland Line from Glasgow to Fort William is a captivating railway journey that takes you through some of Scotland's most breathtaking landscapes. Arriving in Fort William early afternoon gives the group time to explore this famous town. Fort William is world famous for the huge variety of outdoor activities available and of course is home to the highest mountain in the UK, Ben Nevis. The afternoon is free, so why not take a short walk into the countryside with your new friends or do some shopping in the town. Maybe jump in a taxi to the Nevis Range Gondola, which offers incredible elevated views of this wild region.
Day 3 Glenfinnan / Isle of Skye
This morning, complete your train journey on the West Highland Line, as the train departs from Fort William, passengers are immediately greeted by the imposing beauty of Ben Nevis, standing tall against the sky. The route then winds through the enchanting Glenfinnan Viaduct, famous for its appearance in the Harry Potter films, and clings to the coastline before reaching the charming fishing village of Mallaig. Here, hop off the train and onto a ferry, which takes you over the sea to Skye. The Isle of Skye is the largest and northernmost of the major islands is the Inner Hebrides of Scotland. The landscape of Skye is a captivating mix of dramatic cliffs, rugged coastlines and undulating moorland. It's a place where the elements have shaped the terrain into awe-inspiring natural wonders, some of which you’ll explore tomorrow. When you arrive, you’ll hop in a private transfer to your accommodation. Enjoy some free time to relax and take in the surroundings. Later in the evening you can join the group leader to maybe even sample a dram or two!
Day 4 Isle of Skye
Join your guide for a short morning hike and take in the beautiful scenery. If luck is on your side, you might even have the opportunity to catch sight of some of Skye's native wildlife, such as otters or seals. After the hike, you’ll take a private bus tour to explore some of Skye’s most famous and most recognisable landscapes as you circumnavigate the Trotternish Peninsula. The Trotternish Peninsula is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, including the Quiraing with its unique geological formations, that will leave you in awe. The towering pinnacle of the Old Man of Storr and Kilt Rock, a dramatic sea cliff with a cascade of spectacular waterfalls. Your bus tour will take you along winding coastal roads and offer stops at these remarkable sights, as well as time to explore a local gallery or museum along the way. If time permits, you may visit Dunvegan Castle (entrance fees not included) before returning to your accommodation late afternoon.
Day 5 Loch Ness / Highlands / Inverness
This morning, bid farewell to the enchanting Isle of Skye on a private bus, travelling over the iconic Skye Bridge and back to the mainland. Your journey continues through picturesque landscapes, until you reach the charming village of Fort Augustus, cradled at the southern edge of the legendary Loch Ness. Here, you'll be treated to a scenic boat cruise on these mysterious waters (see if you can spot the elusive monster deep below the tranquil waters!). After your boat excursion, head north to Inverness, the vibrant capital of the Highlands, known for its rich history and lively local culture. This is where you'll stay for the next two nights.
Day 6 Inverness
Start the day by hopping on a local bus to nearby Culloden Battlefield, located on the outskirts of Inverness. It was here, in April 1746, that Bonnie Prince Charlie’s Jacobite rebellion came to a bloody end. The battlefield is fascinating to walk around, and exudes a sombreness even today. Back in the city centre, take a walk alongside the River Ness. This local’s favorite follows a trail which weaves over some small islands in the river, before crossing a graceful pedestrian suspension bridge to complete the loop, finishing close to a local arts centre, looking up at Inverness Castle. The rest of the day is free to explore. Maybe visit the castle or a local whisky store, catch a gig, do some souvenir shopping, or if you are looking for a hidden delight,, then Leakey’s bookshop in Inverness is a must-see.
Day 7 Edinburgh
A morning train from Inverness takes you to Edinburgh today. Edinburgh is famous for its literary heritage, historic cobbled streets and striking architecture. The Old and New Towns of Edinburgh gained UNESCO World Heritage status in 1995, in recognition of the striking quality and contrast in architecture and streetscape between the Medieval Old Town and the Georgian New Town. Want to know more about ‘Auld Reekie’, the capital city of Scotland? After dropping bags at the accommodation, you’ll take an insightful tour of the city, led by someone who has previously been homeless. The rest of the day is yours to explore the winding streets and bars, visit some of the famous attractions or hit the designer stores of the city centre.
Day 8 Edinburgh
With no activities planned for today, you’re free to leave any time after breakfast. If you wish to spend more time in enigmatic Edinburgh, we don’t blame you – there’s so much to see and do – just speak to your booking agent.
