Scotland's Highlands
Where the Mountains Meet the Sea

The romance of the area is also reflected in its turbulent and often tragic history - until the last century the Highlands were a land apart, with their own language and culture, where each clan preserved its fierce independence and separate identity. When Doctor Johnson and his biographer James Boswell visited the country in the eighteenth century, they were entering a remote world cut off from the rest of Europe. Even today the pride and feeling of distinction evident in local people is very marked. A visit to a clan castle, a kilt and bagpipe maker or a whiskey distillery - all of which are possibilities on this trip- will give particular insight into a fascinating culture, whether or not there is Scots blood in your veins!

Our "hiking through history" begins in Glasgow, Scotland's largest city, with excellent air and rail connections. Our first night is spent at The Malmaison Hotel, a comfortable haven in the city center. The next morning we drive out to the "bonny banks" of Loch Lomond, the threshold of The Highlands. Our first day of hiking takes us along a section of the long-distance footpath, known as 'The West Highland Way' as it winds its way along the shores of the loch, with the impressive massif towering above the waters. High above stands Ben Lomond itself, one of the over 200 "Monroes" or peaks over 3000 feet in Scotland, many of which begin around sea level! Our first walk is usually together, on a well known trail which affords panoramic views to both north and south.

In the afternoon we drive on to Loch Awe, to the superbly situated Ardanaiseig Hotel, set on glorious grounds by the side of the loch - a true taste of highland hospitality.

 Nearby are trails that lead around Loch Awe or, for the more adventurous, a hike up Ben Cruachan, for some of the finest views in the whole region. You may also choose to visit Oban, a picturesque seaport, once a small fishing and trading village, and now the main point of departure for ferries heading out to the Western Isles. The next day we head north for the shores of Loch Linhe on the threshold of historic Glen Coe. A short ferry ride across Loch Linhe takes us to the ancient island of Lismoreand and its Celtic castle.

Our final two days are spend exploring Glen Coe the best known hiking and climbing area in the whole of Scotland, and there is a wealth of choice, from sheltered woods and gentle waterside rambles to challenging peaks and wild remote glens.

Our hostelries in Scotland, in addition to their style and comforts, are all chosen for their fine food based on fresh local ingredients of high quality.

On the last day, we return to Glasgow by approx. 12 p.m.

• Lodging in typical stately homes and country houses
• Hikes by sea and lochside
• Remote mountain scenery
• Whiskey distilleries and bagpipe makers
• Historic Glen Coe
• Locally caught fresh seafood

Please contact us today for more information