Scotland - Whisky and the Western Isles

Sample some of the most famous whiskies and discover both the ancient and contemporary culture along with some stunning landscapes on this weeklong small-group tour of Scotland.
Starting off in Edinburgh you head head straight for the Sottish Highlands where you enjoy the scenery and local delicatessen of Trossachs National Park. Then it is off through the Western Highlands to the standing stones of Kilmartin Glen and Oban, famed for its seafood and whisky, before catching the ferry to Islay, Queen of the Hebrides.
Amidst Islay's rugged coastal scenery you get to taste some of Scotland’s peatiest whiskies at the Bowmore, Kilchoman and Ardnahoe Distilleries. Of course we also stop at Laphroaig, Lagavulin, and Ardbeg for tastings, enjoy local lunches and visit historical sites like the ruins of Kildalton church and Dunyvaig Castle.
Back in the Highlands we stop at the beautiful village of Inveraray on the banks of Loch Fyne before returning to Oban where you can hike to McCaig’s Tower or enjoy some local nightlife in one of the many pubs.
Next you take a ferry to rugged Mull, followed by another crossing to the spiritual island of Iona, the ancient burial ground of Scottish Kings and the birthplace of Celtic Christianity. Visit the historic abbey and explore the rugged coastline.
Once again returning to the west coast you travel past Castle Stalker to the beautiful slopes and peaks of Glencoe. Via Fort William and in sight of Ben Nevis we journey through the Great Glen to the pretty coastal village of Plockton. We use it as a base to explore the dramatic scenery of our last island, Skye.
Our final travel day sees us return past Eilean Donan Castle, through the through the Grampian Mountains and past several lochs, including Loch Ness, to Edinburgh.