Your Highlands and Islands odyssey begins with an early morning departure from Tranent, steering north on a scenic drive through the rugged heart of the Scottish Highlands. Relax and take in the shifting vistas of tranquil lochs and soaring peaks as you make your way to the Ullapool Ferry Terminal in preparation for your sea crossing across The Minch.
Board the ferry for a relaxing crossing toward the Outer Hebrides, keeping a sharp eye on the horizon for porpoises or soaring gannets during the passage. As you sail into the harbor, enjoy the striking first views of Stornoway before disembarking and making the short drive to your accommodation at 56 New Valley on the Isle of Lewis.
After settling in, stretch your legs with a wander through the charming streets of Stornoway Town Centre to pick up some local provisions or enjoy a meal. End your first island evening with a peaceful walk along the Stornoway Harbour, where you can admire the illuminated silhouette of Lews Castle reflected across the water.
Start your morning with a drive west to the world-renowned Callanish Standing Stones, where you can walk among ancient monoliths carved from shimmering Lewisian gneiss. These 5,000-year-old structures offer a profound sense of mystery as you explore the cross-shaped alignment overlooking the tranquil waters of Loch Roag. Before leaving, stop by the Calanais Visitor Centre to discover the Neolithic history behind these towering megaliths.
Continue your exploration journey north to the rugged western coast for a refreshing afternoon at Dalmore Beach, where you can marvel at the turquoise Atlantic waves crashing against the pristine sands. Take a quiet moment to visit the historic cemetery perched just above the shoreline before admiring the dramatic scenery that famously inspired the settings of the Peter May Lewis Thrillers.
As the sun begins to set, make a short detour to the nearby village of Carloway to admire the historic Gearrannan Blackhouse Village, where you can see traditional thatched stone cottages silhouetted against the coast. Finally, return to your accommodation at 56 New Valley to unwind after your exploration, perhaps enjoying a quiet evening meal in the garden as the long northern twilight settles over the Isle of Lewis.
Head to Stornoway Harbour to check in with Stornoway Seafari Ltd on Kenneth Street for an exhilarating two-hour marine adventure across the pristine coastal waters. As you navigate through Loch Erisort and the legendary Witches Pool, keep your camera ready for sightings of curious seals, playful dolphins, and even the occasional whale. This journey also explores the scenic inlets of Loch Leurbost and Loch Grimshader, offering a breathtaking perspective of the rugged Isle of Lewis shoreline.
Back on dry land, spend your afternoon wandering through the sheltered woodlands of the Lews Castle Grounds, where scenic trails lead you toward the impressive Gothic revival architecture of Lews Castle. Inside the castle complex, visit the Museum nan Eilean to view the world-famous Lewis Chessmen and discover the fascinating history and heritage of the Isle of Lewis.
Conclude your stay in the Outer Hebrides with a celebratory dinner at a local eatery like The Boatshed Restaurant, savoring fresh seafood caught from the surrounding waters. Afterward, let the child burn off some energy at the nearby Bayhead Play Park before returning to 56 New Valley to pack and prepare for tomorrow's ferry crossing back to the mainland.
Bid farewell to the Outer Hebrides as you arrive at the Stornoway Ferry Terminal to board the vessel for your return journey across the deep blue waters of The Minch. Enjoy a final dramatic view of the Isle of Lewis coastline from the deck before docking back at the Ullapool Ferry Terminal to begin your scenic drive south toward the mainland Highlands.
Continue your journey south along the iconic A82, traversing the spectacular landscapes of the Great Glen as you approach the towering peaks of the mainland Highlands. Upon arrival in the heart of the glen, check in to the Glencoe Youth Hostel in Ballachulish and take a moment to breathe in the crisp mountain air while gazing up at the dramatic ridges of Aonach Eagach.
Wind down your long travel day with a gentle walk along the shores of Loch Leven, where you can capture stunning photographs of the sunset reflecting off the tranquil water. Afterward, enjoy a quiet dinner in Glencoe Village or simply relax in the hostel's cozy lounge to rest your legs and prepare for tomorrow's exploration of the hidden glen.
Lace up your hiking boots for an unforgettable morning trek into the legendary Lost Valley, also known as Coire Gabhail, a hidden glen tucked between the towering peaks of the Three Sisters of Glencoe. Following the rugged trail from the parking area off the A82, you will scramble over stones and cross bubbling streams to reach the high, flat meadow where the Clan Macdonald once famously hid their rustled cattle.
After descending from the heights, take a short drive to a nearby layby to witness the dramatic Meeting of Three Waters, where the Allt Coire Gabhail and Allt Doire-bheith rivers crash together to join the River Coe. Follow the short, rugged trail leading down from the A82 toward the riverbank to feel the spray of the waterfalls and admire this powerful natural spectacle framed by the steep, atmospheric mountain slopes.
After an active day of mountain exploration, head into Glencoe Village to enjoy a well-deserved hearty dinner at a local pub while soaking in the historic atmosphere of the glen. Return to the Glencoe Youth Hostel to make use of the excellent drying room for your gear and spend a relaxing final night in the cozy lounge preparing for tomorrow's shift to performance cycling.
Kick off your morning with an adrenaline-fueled adventure at the Glencoe Mountain Resort, where you can rent professional mountain bikes and gear up for some of Scotland's most exhilarating trails. Take the Glencoe Mountain Chairlift to the summit to soak in the panoramic Highland views before beginning a thrilling descent back down the rugged mountain tracks.
Following your high-energy morning, embark on a scenic two-hour drive toward the leafy landscapes of Perthshire to reach your final destination at Bridge of Earn. Upon arrival, enjoy a playful competitive stretch at the Noah's Ark Golf Centre, where the family can tackle the crazy golf course before checking in to your riverside accommodation at River Edge Lodges.
As the evening settles in, head to nearby Perth for a scenic stroll along the River Tay to admire the sculptures of the Public Art Trail. Finish your day with a hike through Kinnoull Hill Woodland Park to reach the summit, where the silhouette of Kinnoull Tower provides a stunning vantage point over the fertile valley below.
Begin your final morning immersed in royal history with a visit to Scone Palace, the ancient crowning place of Scottish kings and home to the replica Stone of Destiny at Moot Hill. After exploring the palace's grand interior, wander through the magnificent gardens to lose yourself in the Murray Star Maze or admire the towering conifers in the Pinetum.
Journey a short distance south to the windswept shores of Loch Leven for a boat crossing to the island ruins of Lochleven Castle. Explore the atmospheric Tower House where Mary, Queen of Scots was famously imprisoned in 1567, standing within the very walls where she was forced to abdicate the throne before her legendary escape.
Wrap up your Scottish adventure with a final celebratory dinner at a traditional restaurant in the village of Bridge of Earn. Spend your last night relaxing on the private deck of your cabin at River Edge Lodges, listening to the gentle flow of the River Earn as you reflect on your incredible journey through the Highlands and Islands.
| Place / Activity | Cost |
|---|---|
| Caledonian MacBrayne Ferry (Ullapool-Stornoway Return) | £24.60 |
| Callanish Standing Stones | Free |
| Dalmore Beach | Free |
| Gearrannan Blackhouse Village | £6 |
| Stornoway Seafari Ltd (2-hour trip) | £60 |
| Museum nan Eilean (Lewis Chessmen) | Free |
| The Boatshed Restaurant Dinner | £35 |
| The Lost Valley Hike (Coire Gabhail) | Free |
| The Meeting of Three Waters | Free |
| Glencoe Mountain Resort (Bike Hire & Lift) | £100 |
| Noah's Ark Golf Centre (Mini Golf) | £6.80 |
| River Tay Public Art Trail | Free |
| Kinnoull Hill Woodland Park | Free |
| Scone Palace | £17.50 |
| Lochleven Castle | £10 |
| Estimated Total (per person) | £259.90 |