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. Alternatively, you can head into the city center, just a short walk way, where you'll find a renowned shopping district and stunning architecture at every turn. After the meeting, enjoy a meal at a nearby restaurant, and then the rest of the evening is yours to explore at your leisure. It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place. If you wish to spend more time in Glasgow, we'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).

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. The walk to the train station takes about 15 minutes through the city. Keep in mind you'll be carrying your luggage, and some city streets may have uneven paving, so please tread carefully. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours. The train itself is operated by ScotRail and is clean, comfortable and modern. A menu of drinks and snacks is available to purchase on board which includes lots of Scottish produce like Tunnock’s wafers and the famous Irn-Bru drink .There are toilets on board. The train station also features a food store offering healthier snacks and sandwich options. In holiday seasons and summer months please expect the train to be busy, and whilst we endeavor to book seats together as a group, seat reservations are not always possible.

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 winds through the countryside, offering views of the Glenfinnan Viaduct, famous for its appearance in the Harry Potter films, before hugging the coastline and arriving at 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! Today’s train ride is on a regular passenger service operated by Scotrail, not on the steam-hauled tourist train. Please note that weather conditions can often affect small, rural ferry crossings. If the Mallaig to Armadale ferry is not operating, alternative travel arrangements will be provided. The leader-led whisky tasting may take place on Day 3 or 4. Your travel time today will be approximately 1.5 hours.

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. Today’s guided hike will be 3 to 5 km (1-2 hours). If you wish to opt out of this activity your leader will be at hand with alternative suggestions. The leader-led whisky tasting may take place on Day 3 or 4. Dunvegan Castle is open from April to mid-October and is not included in the itinerary. However, if time permits, we will make every effort to get to the castle - guests pay entry.

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. Please note that today's included excursion on Loch Ness is a public cruise, and you will share the boat with other travelers. Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours.

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. The afternoon is free to explore, either as a group or alone.

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. Train Inverness to Edinburgh approx 3.5 hours Invisible Cities walking tour approx 1.5 hours - paved & cobbled streets. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. The accommodation is a 20-minute walk from Haymarket Railway Station, offering a wonderful opportunity to soak in the sights and sounds of this vibrant city on foot. However, if you’d prefer a taxi, there’s a taxi rank just outside the station, and your leader will be happy to assist you in arranging one. Today's walking tour of Edinburgh is run in partnership with Invisible Cities, an NGO that trains people who have experienced homelessness to become walking tour guides in their own city. 100% of the tour net proceeds will be reinvested in developing the guides further with education or new opportunities. Money from your tour will help Invisible Cities organise high-quality training for guides, who have all experienced homelessness, and organise events for the homeless community. Edinburgh's terrain offers something for everyone, from historic city streets to challenging hill climbs and peaceful riverside walks, making it a fantastic destination for walking. The cobbled streets, particularly in the historic Old Town, can pose a challenge for some pedestrians. They can be uneven and may be difficult to walk on, especially for those with mobility issues. Additionally, the inclines in some parts of the city, particularly around the Royal Mile and historic areas, can make walking more strenuous. However, many areas in Edinburgh, especially in the New Town, have smoother and more even pavement, making them easier to navigate. The city also has made efforts to improve accessibility with ramps and curb cuts in various locations.

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. If you’d like extending your exploration of Scotland, consider joining one of our other adventures on Orkney or Shetland Islands. Again, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.