Sacred Sites of the Western Isles Aug 30 - Sept 8
The wild spirit of Scotland could not be found to be stronger than in the Outer Hebrides where the old ways of life are only just catching up to the 21st Century. Here the windswept islands and the haunting stones of the ancient sites evoke feelings of the closeness with Nature. We’ll journey over to the Isles of Skye and Lewis, and our travels will include the best of sacred sites, including Callenish, to be seen at all hours, and many lesser known gems of sites, Castles, spectacular scenery (from heather strewn mountains to stunning coastal panoramas), you’ll be glad you have your camera readily at hand. On our way, besides visiting sites of beauty and antiquity, we’ll visit the Findhorn Community. And, at the end of the journey if you so wish, an optional trip to Rosslyn Chapel is offered.
Tour Itinerary:
Day 1: Aug 30th - Meet at Edinburgh Airport and make our way to Inverness, visiting Findhorn en route to have a look around this eco-community and the site where the Caddy’s had their astonishing experiences many years ago. After settling into our accommodations go out to enjoy our Welcome Dinner.
Day 2: Aug 31st – This morning after a leisurely breakfast take a trip to the Neolithic Clava Cairns, near Culloden, before we head north to Ullapool, stopping off at the beautiful Corrieshalloch Falls and Gorge. B&B in Ullapool tonight.
Day 3: Sept 1st - This morning we take the ferry over to the Isle of Lewis. On arrival in Stornaway, stop for a quick look around and afternoon tea before heading to our B&B not far from Callenish on the west side of the island. After settling in, take our first visit to walk amongst the hauntingly beautiful Standing Stones of Callenish, where we can commune with these wonderful beings. Dinner is provided tonight.
Day 4: Sept 2nd - This morning we will have a local guide, Margaret Curtis, to take us around some of the auxiliary Callenish sites; the circles, standing stones and associated mystical places, including Margaret's own exhibit. Here we can see her short, but impressive DVD and observe her research. In the afternoon we will visit one of the best preserved Broch's in Scotland, visit the Black houses and take a walk on one of the island's deserted sandy beaches. Dinner is provided tonight.
Day 5: Sept 3rd - Have a fairly relaxing day, visiting craft galleries and deserted sandy beaches! Drive to the north end of the island, where, Clach an Truiseil, or Trushel Stone, the tallest standing stone in Scotland resides. Later on we’ll have our last visit to the Callenish stones before enjoying our dinner (provided tonight).
Day 6: Sept 4th - Drive to Harris to catch the afternoon ferry and on our way, (weather permitting) enjoy a picnic lunch on a gorgeous sandy beach where the impressive Clach Mhic Leoid standing stone presides on the headland above. Catch the ferry at Tarbert and it’s “over the sea to Skye” landing at the village of Uig. From here it is a short drive to our accommodation for the next couple of nights in a distinctive small hotel on the outskirts of Portree, set within 12 acres of woodland. Discover the rich family history of the Macdonald family over dinner (provided this night).
Day 7: Sept 5th - Today we’ll spend the morning in Portree visiting craft galleries and shops where local treasures can be found (and bought if you’re not just window shopping). In the afternoon drive over the back road to Gunvegan Castle home of the famous fairy flag of the Macleod clan. In the evening, after dinner in Portree, search out some fine Celtic music at a Ceilidh.
Day 8: Sept 6th - Explore the north part of the Isle of Skye with its wonderful landscape features – The Old Man of Storr, Lealt Falls, Kilt Rock and the weird rock towers of the Quiraing. And across the other side of this peninsula, is the Fairy Glen. Let's connect with the fairies. Find a nice pub in Portree for dinner.
Day 9: Sept 7th - Today we journey back to the mainland, stopping off for lunch and a visit to Eilean Donan Castle, one of the most photographed castles in Scotland. Drive through the scenic Highlands and settle in at our B&B before enjoying our “Farewell Dinner” together.
Day 10: Sept 8th – It’s goodbye to the Highlands and back to Edinburgh Airport. An optional trip to visit Rosslyn Chapel (50 GBP extra) is offered on this day.
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Price Includes:
- Pick up and drop off at Edinburgh Airport
- All accommodation, breakfasts and 6 dinners
- All land transportation and ferry fares
- All entry fees
- Ancient sites located in inspirational and stunning scenery
- Castles and heritage sites
- Findhorn.
* The optional trip to Rosslyn Chapel on the last day is 50 GBP extra.
* The tour cost goes up 7% for bookings after May 1st 2008.
Also see tour packages in:
Europe
Scotland
Cultural Journey
Wildlife Viewing
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