Welcome to Scotland! Your adventure begins in Glasgow – one of Europe's most vibrant and cosmopolitan cities. Here, you’ll find world famous art collections, Victorian and Art Nouveau architecture and some of the best shopping in the UK outside of London. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight to meet your trip leader and fellow travellers. If you arrive early, why not take a stroll along the River Clyde – once the heart of the city’s ship building industry. After the meeting, get to know your new travel friends at a nearby restaurant or grab a ‘fish supper’ in the lively Merchant City. Known for its pedestrianised areas, outdoor dining and designer shopping districts, Merchant City is a great area to get to know Glasgow’s food scene and nightlife. 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.

This morning, take a short walk to the train station to catch an early morning train – the world-famous West Highland Line. This captivating railway journey from Glasgow to Fort William takes you through some of Scotland's most breathtaking landscapes. You’ll arrive in Fort William in the early afternoon, giving you time to explore this famous town that’s home to the highest mountain in the UK – Ben Nevis. In the afternoon, weather permitting, you can opt to join your leader on a hike into Glen Nevis, ascending to the summit of Cow Hill. Your efforts will be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of Glen Nevis, the surrounding peaks and across Fort William to Loch Linnhe and beyond. The rest of the day is free, so maybe hole up in one of the cosy local pubs for a hearty meal – ask your leader for all the best recommendations. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours. The train is operated by ScotRail and is clean, comfortable and modern. A menu of drinks and snacks is available to purchase on board, including lots of Scottish snacks like Tunnock’s Caramel Wafers and the famous Irn-Bru drink. There are toilets on board. In holiday seasons and summer months, please expect the train to be busy. While we endeavour to book seats together as a group, seat reservations are not always possible. The optional hike today will take approximately 3 hours or 10 km (6 mi) with 475 m (1555 ft) of elevation gain.

Complete your train journey on the West Highland Line this morning. As the train departs from Fort William, you’ll be 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. Follow the coastline before reaching the charming fishing village of Mallaig. Hop off the train and onto a ferry, which will take you to the Isle of Skye – the largest and northernmost of the major islands is the Inner Hebrides of Scotland. Skye’s landscape is a captivating mix of dramatic cliffs, rugged coastlines and undulating moorland. When you arrive, take a private transfer to a local whisky distillery for a tour and tasting session. Then, continue to your accommodation, where you’ll have some free time to relax and take in the surroundings. Later in the evening, maybe join your trip leader to sample a dram or two! Your travel time today will be approximately 1.5 hours Today’s train ride is on a regular passenger service operated by ScotRail, not on the Jacobite Steam Train. It travels on the same route as the Jacobite train, but you'll have the bonus of travelling the local way.

Join your guide for a short morning hike and take in the beautiful scenery. If luck is on your side, you might even catch a glimpse of some of Skye's native wildlife including otters and seals. After the hike, you’ll take a private bus tour to explore some of Skye’s most famous landscapes as you circumnavigate the Trotternish Peninsula. This peninsula is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, including the Quiraing, with its distinct geological formations. You’ll also stop at the towering pinnacle of the Old Man of Storr and Kilt Rock – a dramatic sea cliff which overlooks the cascading Mealt Falls. There will also be the chance to stop at a local gallery or museum along the way. If time permits, you might visit Dunvegan Castle (entrance fees not included) before returning to your accommodation in the late afternoon. Today’s guided hike will be 3 to 5 km (1 to 2 hours). If you wish to opt out of this activity, your leader will be able to provide alternate suggestions.

Bid farewell to the Isle of Skye and board a private bus to travel over the iconic Skye Bridge and back to the mainland. Continue through picturesque landscapes until you reach the charming village of Fort Augustus, located on 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 culture. Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours. Please note that today's included excursion on Loch Ness is a public cruise, and you will share the boat with other travellers.

Hopping on a local bus to nearby Culloden Battlefield, located on the outskirts of Inverness. It was here that Bonnie Prince Charlie’s Jacobite rebellion came to an end in 1746. Visit the battlefield, then make your way to the city centre to take a walk along the River Ness. This trail weaves over small islands in the river, before crossing a graceful suspension bridge to complete the loop. The trail ends near a local arts centre, looking up at Inverness Castle. The rest of the day is free for you to explore. Maybe visit the castle or seek out a local whisky store, catch a gig, do some souvenir shopping or, if you’re looking for a hidden local favourite, then Leakey’s Bookshop is a must-see.

Take a morning train to Edinburgh, 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 between each area’s architecture and streetscape. Check into your accommodation, then take an insightful walking tour of the city with Invisible Cities – a social enterprise that trains locals who have experienced homelessness to become tour guides. Hear your local guide’s personal experience of the city as your wind your way through the streets, hitting the highlights. The rest of the day is free for you to explore – maybe visit Edinburgh Castle or the National Museum of Scotland. Your travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours. Your walking time today will be approximately 1.5 hours. You’ll be walking along paved and cobbled streets – comfortable walking shoes are recommended. You will be required to carry your own luggage for the 10-minute walk from Edinburgh Waverly Station to the accommodation. Should you require a taxi, there is a taxi rank at the main exit of Waverly Station. Edinburgh's streetscape varies 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 travellers. They can be uneven and 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 have smoother pavement, especially in the New Town, making them easier to navigate. The city has also made efforts to improve accessibility with ramps and curb cuts in various locations.

With no activities planned for today, your adventure comes to an end after breakfast. If you wish to spend more time in enigmatic Edinburgh, and it’s highly recommended you do, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation.