This three-centre holiday is designed around fabulous walks amid varied and stunning land- and seascapes, while learning about the history of the people who lived there. We spend two nights on the Isle of Skye, three on Harris and two in Ullapool on the mainland's west coast.
The drive from Inverness to Skye follows the north shore of Loch Ness and takes us through Glen Shiel - scene of a Jacobite defeat on May 11, 1719 - with a stop at Eilean Donan Castle, much photographed since its restoration during the 1920s.
We spend one-and-a-half days walking on Skye before crossing the Little Minch to Harris. This Outer Hebridean island boasts a landscape of striking contrasts: rugged mountains to the north; white sandy beaches, turquoise ocean and flower-strewn machair on the southwest; rocky bays and lochans on the southeast. Here, at a crofter's cottage, we see the traditional weaving of Harris Tweed.
Travelling north across the narrow border into Lewis we visit the standing stones at Callanish. The 50 stones were erected at least 5000 years ago and the reasons for their alignment and relationship to three smaller stone circles and other monuments nearby remain a mystery.
Finally, we cross the Minch to Ullapool on Loch Broom. This lively fishing village where whitewashed buildings curl around its harbour has much to offer, including live traditional music in the local pubs. A walk in the Assynt area, a geologist's paradise north of Ullapool, promises a memorable conclusion to this unique Highland experience.
Accommodation:
We use quality Hotel accommodation in Ullapool and Harris. On the Isle of Skye we will stay in a four star Guesthouse. Throughout your journey you can be sure of a friendly welcome and delicious meals. All twin and double rooms are en suite but single rooms may not have en suite or private facilities on all nights.
Walking Grade:
The emphasis is on a leisurely pace with time to observe and interpret the area, its history and wildlife. We usually spend 5 to 6 hours walking up to 8 - 10 miles (12 -16 km). Gradients are generally easy and much of the walking is on paths, although these can be rough in places. Basic fitness required.
Notes:
Dates: May 20, June 10, June 24, July 8, July 22, August 5, August 12, September 9, September 16
Start: Saturday, Inverness Station 13:30
Finish: Saturday, Inverness 10:00
Cost: &795
Price Includes: 5 nights Hotel & 2 nights four star Guesthouse, Dinner, Bed & Breakfast, 6 packed lunches, entrance fees, ferry tickets, guiding throughout the week. Single Room Supplement: &70
Availability:
20 May 2006 - 27 May 2006
10 June 2006 - 17 June 2006
24 June 2006 - 01 July 2006
08 July 2006 - 15 July 2006
22 July 2006 - 29 July 2006
05 August 2006 - 12 August 2006
12 August 2006 - 19 August 2006
09 September 2006 - 16 September 2006
16 September 2006 - 23 September 2006
Also see tour packages in:
Hiking and walking outfitters
Europe
Scotland
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