SAMPLE ITINERARY

Day 1 – Travel to Islay

Set off from Glasgow on your journey north, joining the famous A82 as it skirts the banks of Loch Lomond. Then spear left to cross the ‘Arrochar Alps’ and circle Loch Fyne to the ancient village of Inveraray.

Keep going as the route rises to Lochgilphead and falls to the classic fishing village of Tarbert at the head of the Kintyre peninsula, just a few miles north of the ferry port at Kennacraig. Soon, you’ll be sailing out of West Loch Tarbert on a relaxing crossing to the Isle of Islay.

Your accommodation

Your accommodation on Islay is an independently owned jewel, in a superb position overlooking Laggan Bay. With it’s own 18-hole links golf course, high end restaurant and beautifully designed spa offering a deluxe series of treatments, not to mention the spectacular nearby beach, you will never be at a loss of things to do.

Day 2 – Whisky Wonder

A day to explore this southernmost Hebridean island. Just along the coast from your hotel, the island ‘capital’ of Bowmore appears unchanged since its 18th century construction. Its main street falls steeply towards the water and drum-shaped Killarow Church oversees everything. Around the banks of Loch Indaal, pass atmospheric Bruichladdich on the way to the island’s westernmost point for views of the gleaming lighthouse.

At lunchtime you’re in for a treat, with a private guided tour of Islay’s newest distillery, during which you’ll hear the story of its inception and see its impressive production facilities. After the tour enjoy a guided tasting and food pairing of four whiskies and four dishes, specially created for you by the in-house chef. Drivers will be pleased to hear their drams are available to take away to enjoy later.

Day 3 – Northwards to an Island Idyll

Return to Kintyre by ferry this morning, then back on the ribbon of tarmac that carries you north, through ancient Kilmartin Glen, twisting onwards to the west coast fishing port of Oban. Perhaps stretch the legs here and enjoy a seafood lunch, or choose to press on the further 30 minutes to your next luxurious stop.

Your accommodation

Reached by traversing the shortest of bridges, the island of Eriska is given over entirely to the pleasure of guests of the retreat hotel found here. Once a fine baronial mansion, this hotel is a model of elegance and understatement. There are just 16 bedrooms in the main house, plus both fine dining and more relaxed dining experiences available – not to mention world-class spa facilities. 

Day 4 – Wallow in Island Life

A web of challenging driving routes through vast scenery emanates from the island, but we have to admit we’d be tempted to take a day off from driving simply to wallow in the beauty and tranquillity of Eriska.

Largely flat, the whole island is easy to explore on foot, with simply navigable trails all around and views across Loch Linnhe to Lismore, with Mull and the Ardnamurchan peninsula in the distance. Work up an appetite in the sports hall or on the golf course, or allow yourself to be pampered with a treatment in the calming spa with indoor swimming pool.

Day 5 – Over the Sea to Skye

Another great day on the road today. Wave goodbye to Eriska and just a short distance from the island take the tiny car ferry across Loch Linnhe to Ardnamurchan.

Here, in this overwhelming wilderness, take the undulating route through a scattering of hamlets and incredible beauty on your way to joining the ‘Road to the Isles’ at Lochailort. From here, follow the western spur of the famous West Highland railway line to the port of Mallaig, the jumping off point for the ferry to the legendary Isle of Skye.

Once across, it’s just 10 miles along the Sleat peninsula to your base for the next two nights.

Your accommodation

Long-established in the most peaceful of natural locations, your accommodation in southern Skye is a wonderful family owned property, as famed for its serenity of position as for its world-class dining. Almost entirely hidden from view down a long private driveway and mountain protected at lochside, it couldn’t be easier to forget about the outside world while staying here. 

Day 6 – Skye Adventures

Skye is an island of unending contrasts., with everything you could want from an island. With an endless gnarled coastline, soaring intimidating peaks, often deserted beaches, castles, gardens, fascinating history and proud culture, you will never tire of exploring this most famous isle. We’ll provide all the information you need to make the most of your time here.

Day 7 - North for a Foodie Treat

Continuing north today, you’ll follow the northeast coast, around lochs Ainort and Sligachan, the isles of Scalpay and Raasay rising from the water. Drive onwards to the island capital of Portree, whose colourful harbourside and bustling centre awaits the curious.

Carrying on, you’ll cross bleak moorland at the foot of the Waternish peninsula on your way to your base for one night in the village of Edinbane.

Your accommodation

Formed from the ancient structure of Skye’s oldest coaching inn, your last night on Skye is something of a hidden treat. Home to just four bedrooms, this independently owned restaurant with rooms has been awarded five gold stars by the AA and evokes the feeling of an exceptionally exclusive stay. Dinner here is an outstanding tasting menu, with the chef passionate about sourcing the vast majority of ingredients from the Isle of Skye itself.

Day 8 – The Outer Hebrides beckon

A 30-minute drive around Loch Snizort Beag sees the route drop towards the ferry port of Uig, where you’ll catch the service across the North Minch to the Outer Hebrides, landing in port at Tarbert on the Island of Harris.

From Tarbert, it takes just a minute or two to recalibrate, as you realise the differences here on the UK’s largest offshore island. But first divert to marvel at the staggering Caribbean-like beaches of South Harris, before continuing your journey. The road climbs and climbs away from the port, soon plummeting and rising again amidst quite fantastic landscapes on the hour-long drive (all part of the same landmass so no further ferry required) to Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis.

Your accommodation

Proudly standing in its raised position overlooking the town, your castle accommodation in Stornoway is a welcome alternative to the norm. Recently completely refurbished, beautiful apartments have been skilfully integrated in to the fabric of the original building. Fitted kitchens of the highest quality, lavish bathrooms and splendid bedrooms surely make this the Outer Hebrides’ most luxurious place to stay. 

Days 9 & 10 - Endless Explorations

Two days to explore Lewis and Harris is a wonderful way to round off your road trip.

We suggest you head for the breathtaking beaches at Luskentyre and Seilebost, take a guided tour of the acclaimed distillery, and cross the bridge to the tiny island of Scalpay - all within easy reach of each other on Harris.

While on Lewis, you won’t want to miss the awe inspiring standing stones at Callanish, the intimidating coastline of the northwest and the lonely sunset at Butt of Lewis Lighthouse. Again, we’ll share all of the secrets you need to get the most out of these fabulous islands.

Day 11 – Farewell Ferry

An early start today, as you board the ferry at Stornoway for your return crossing to the mainland. Finding port at the village of Ullapool, we’ll create a tailormade route for your return journey home.

PRICING

Price is based on two adults sharing en-suite accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis. This price also includes all ferry crossings for car and passengers as described.

We offer a choice of hotels at different prices, so please discuss your requirements with us. All hotels are subject to availability.

Before your departure, you will receive personalised holiday information including full directions, recommended routes and suggestions on places to visit, depending on your interests, to help you get the most from your holiday.