5-Day Nature and Educational Road Trip in Scotland: Exploring the Calanais Standing Stones

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Stornoway, Scotland

9:00AM

Breakfast at No. 1 Baker Street

Start your day with a hearty full Scottish breakfast featuring local sausages and black pudding at the cozy No. 1 Baker Street.
Located in the heart of Stornoway, it's an easy walk to your next destination.
GBP15, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Stornoway Castle

Take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful grounds of Stornoway Castle, a fantastic introduction to Scotland's historic architecture.
A 10-minute drive from the breakfast spot.
GBP10, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Crown Inn

Enjoy local seafood at The Crown Inn, famed for its fresh catch of the day.
A 5-minute drive from the castle.
GBP20, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Lewis War Memorial

Pay homage at the Lewis War Memorial, while enjoying stunning views of Stornoway.
Short 10-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Drive to Calanais

Take the scenic route to the iconic Calanais Standing Stones, a major highlight of your journey.
A 30-minute drive from the memorial.
Free, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Explore Calanais Standing Stones

Marvel at the ancient Calanais Standing Stones, a testament to Scotland's storied past.
On-site archaeological site parking.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The but 'n' Ben

Savor a traditional Scottish dinner including hearty haggis and neeps at The but 'n' Ben.
A short drive from the stones; follow local signage.
GBP25, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Calanais Insight

Calanais, Scotland

8:00AM

Breakfast at Calanais Visitor Centre

Start your day with a light breakfast at the Calanais Visitor Centre while soaking in views of the stones.
On-site at the visitor center.
GBP10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Guided Tour of Calanais

Join a guided tour to deepen your understanding of the historical significance of the stones.
Meet at the visitor centre.
GBP15, 2 hours

11:30AM

Nature Walk around the Standing Stones

Take a scenic walk surrounding the stones, capturing photography of the breathtaking landscapes.
Stay on-site and explore nearby paths.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Callanish Café

Enjoy a delicious local soup and sandwiches at Callanish Café, right near the standing stones.
Casual 5-minute walk from the stone circle.
GBP15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the nearby Calanais II

Explore the lesser-known Calanais II stone circle, which offers a quieter experience of ancient history.
Around a 10-minute drive from Calanais.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Drive to Isle of Harris

Journey to the stunning Isle of Harris, known for its beautiful beaches and scenic views.
A 1-hour drive from Calanais II.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Anchorage Restaurant

Dine at The Anchorage, known for its fresh local seafood and dramatic ocean views.
Near Tarbert, dine while exploring the coastline.
GBP30, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Isle of Harris Adventure

Isle of Harris, Scotland

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a full Scottish breakfast at your hotel, gearing up for a day of exploration.
In-house dining at your accommodation.
GBP15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Luskentyre Beach

Take a scenic morning drive to Luskentyre Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and white sands.
30-minute drive from Tarbert.
Free, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Harris Gallery Café

Stop for lunch at Harris Gallery Café, and enjoy a local dish while soaking in artwork from local artists.
5-minute drive from Luskentyre.
GBP15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore the Harris Tweed Weaving Mill

Visit a local Harris Tweed Weaving Mill to learn about this famous Scottish textile and its history.
A 20-minute drive from the café.
GBP10, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Tarbert Castle

Enjoy breathtaking views of Tarbert and learn about its medieval history by exploring this ancient ruin.
15-minute drive from the weaving mill.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Drive to Inverness

Begin your journey towards Inverness, which is the capital of the Highlands.
Approximately a 3-hour drive.
Free, 3 hours

8:30PM

Dinner at The Mustard Seed

Indulge in local Scottish cuisine with a contemporary twist at The Mustard Seed in Inverness.
Located by the River Ness in Inverness.
GBP30, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Inverness and Surroundings

Inverness, Scotland

8:00AM

Breakfast at The White House

Start the day with a delicious breakfast of freshly baked breads and local pastries in a charming café.
A brief walk from your accommodation.
GBP12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Urquhart Castle

Explore the historic ruins of Urquhart Castle, overlooking Loch Ness, with stunning views and rich history.
A 30-minute drive from Inverness.
GBP15, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Highland Larder

Savor fresh locally-sourced lunch items at The Highland Larder, known for its gourmet take on classic dishes.
Back in Inverness; about a 30-minute drive.
GBP20, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition

Dive deep into the history and lore of Loch Ness at this interactive exhibition.
Just a short drive from the lunch spot.
GBP12, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Take a Boat Tour on Loch Ness

Set out on a scenic boat tour to experience the stunning views around Loch Ness and possibly spot the famous Nessie!
Meeting point at the Loch Ness Centre.
GBP25, 1 hour

5:00PM

Return to Inverness

Enjoy some free time wandering the picturesque streets of Inverness or shopping for local crafts.
Short drive back to the city center.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Kitchen

Dine at The Kitchen, where delicious Scottish dishes are accompanied by panoramic views of the River Ness.
Located near Inverness' city center.
GBP30, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Final Day and Departure

Loch Ness, Scotland

8:00AM

Breakfast at Black, Isle of Ness

Finish your journey with a delicious breakfast while enjoying views of Loch Ness.
Located along the shores of Loch Ness.
GBP15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Morning Hike at Great Glen Way

Experience the beauty of the Scottish Highlands with a morning hike along part of the Great Glen Way.
A short drive from your breakfast stop.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at the Bunchrew House Hotel

Relish a final pint or local dish at the Bunchrew House Hotel located right on the shores of the loch.
Short drive back to Bunchrew.
GBP25, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore the Clava Cairns

Visit the ancient burial site of Clava Cairns, showcasing remarkable prehistoric architecture.
About a 30-minute drive from lunch.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Departure Preparation

Return back to Inverness to prepare for departure.
30-minute drive back to Inverness.
Free, 1 hour
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