9 Day West Coast, Puffins & St Andrews

Today is a fabulous introduction to the Scottish landscape. After pick-up, we head out for Scotland’s west coast. After a look at Loch Lomond, we tour to Garelochead and up Loch Long to Arrochar village. Surrounded by magnificent west Highland scenery, we spend the day touring Argyll with visits to Lochgoilhead village, Ardentinny beach and beautiful Loch Eck. If desired, enjoy a walk in the area. 

After breakfast we head for the Isle of Bute. For such a compact island, Bute has some extraordinarily varied landscapes. From the lush, fertile and rolling hills of the island's heart to the craggy, heather-covered moorlands of the north and the delightful sandy beaches around the coastline. Explore beautiful Ettrick Bay on foot, the remarkably well-preserved ruins of St Blane’s Chapel and Mount Stuart country manor house with extensive gardens. 

Arriving in the seaside town of Inveraray, we pause to look around the interesting shops here and visit Inveraray Castle, home to the Duke and Duchess of Argyll. When ready, we tour south to Kintyre, considered by many to be Scotland’s most picturesque Peninsula. This place is more about disconnecting from the world and connecting with nature. We spend the afternoon touring south to the peaceful little town of Campbeltown. 

This morning we tour Kintyre’s west coast towards Kilmartin Glen that is often described as the “Birthplace of Scotland. Rich in standing stones, ancient burial cairns, and a fortified hill fort, we will explore some of the finest historical sites before visiting the museum. After lunch, we tour onwards to visit the bustling seaside town of Oban home to one of the oldest whisky distilleries in the country. Explore this busy seaside town and take in the panoramic views from McCaigs Tower. 

This morning we take the morning ferry to the rugged Isle of Mull. Crossing the Firth of Lorne, we arrive on the island and set out to explore the north of the island with its stunning mountain scenery, seascapes, and abundant wildlife - look out for Deer, Otters and White-Tailed Eagles. We visit the town of Tobermory with its wonderful frontage of painted houses and interesting shops before we venture west to walk the white sand beach at Calgary Bay. 

We have an early start this morning as we head for Fionnphort where you’ll step aboard a wildlife cruise bound for the Isle of Staffa. Enjoy a 3 hour cruise that allows 1 hour ashore to observe and photograph puffins.  Staffa provides nesting sites for various seabirds including guillemots, razorbills and puffins. Also look out for seals, dolphins and whales. Return via Iona to spend the afternoon taking in this serene island that’s home to the oldest and most sacred religious places in western Europe.

After breakfast, we leave the Isle of Mull by taking the small ferry back to the mainland. We explore the peaceful Ardnamurchan Peninsula by way of single-track road where the relics of ancient volcanic activity are conspicuous features. This is an area ideal for wildlife watching opportunities and we hope to see Sea-Eagles, Red Deer, Otters and Seals amongst others. Later, we travel inland to Fort William town.

Today we make our way south through the stunning landscapes of Rannoch Moor and Glencoe - take in the scenic views at the “Three Sisters” and learn about the grim massacre of 1692. Moving on, we pause at the charming village of Killin with its scenic bridge and the spectacular Falls of Dochart. Later, we visit Balquhidder to see the final resting place of Highland Hero and loveable rogue, Rob Roy McGregor.

We tour east into the Kingdom of Fife to explore St Andrews. On the way we visit Falkland Palace, the furnished historic palace which was once the favoured place of retreat and leisure for the Stuart Kings and Queens of Scotland, including Mary Queen of Scots. Arriving in St Andrews, the University dominates the town where you can enjoy some free time exploring the medieval centre consisting of narrow alleys and cobbled streets. We visit the East Neuk fishing villages before ending in Edinburgh.