A Scottish Journey

Majestic landscapes, rich cultural heritage and imagination-firing stories: Scotland delivers on every level. After meeting the group at our hotel, we'll get to know each other over a delicious welcome meal. Stay: Malmaison Edinburgh City (or similar) (D)

After breakfast, it's time to board the mini-coach and take to the scenic route. Now the journey begins! We'll admire the historic fishing villages speckled along the east coast before our first port of call: St Andrews. This small town has a big reputation for world-class golf, as well as a prestigious university – the third oldest in the English-speaking world.

Following a spot of lunch, we'll catch our first glimpse of the otherworldly Cairngorms National Park before settling into our accommodation for the evening. Stay: The Lodge on the Loch (or similar) (B)

Prepare to travel back to the 16th century this morning as we stop in at stately Crathes Castle. Soaring turrets, intricately painted ceilings and enchanting manicured gardens await at this characteristically Scottish tower house. After an included lunch, we'll follow in the footsteps of Queen Victoria as we explore the Royal Deeside area – said to have captivated the queen during her 1848 visit.

Later, we'll have the evening at our leisure. Stay: The Lodge on the Loch (or similar) (B/L)

Our day will begin in dramatic fashion this morning as we explore the stunning surrounds of Cairngorms National Park – heading to viewpoints specially chosen by our in-the-know Tour Leader. Then, truly authentic Scottish experiences await.

We'll stop at the open-air Highland Folk Museum, used as the filming location for the TV series Outlander.

Following that, we'll traverse to Inverness, the welcoming capital of the Highlands. And tonight, we'll come together to share stories of the day's adventures over an included meal. Stay: The Kingsmills Hotel (or similar) (B/D)

After this morning's orientation tour, a lesson in Scotch whisky awaits. We'll uncover the centuries-old legends and complex processes behind turning malted barley into ‘liquid gold' – sampling a dram or two while we're at it.

Later, the city is your oyster. Visit Inverness Cathedral, explore the charming Victorian Market or simply hunt down a good pub to relax in. What you do this afternoon is completely up to you! For dinner tonight, why not take advantage of the array of local eateries filled with character and delicious Scottish fare. Stay: The Kingsmills Hotel (or similar) (B)

Our path will lead us eastwards this morning as we make our way to the atmospheric Culloden Battlefield. Here we'll immerse ourselves in the fascinating history of the Highlands and gain a unique insight into the battle that took place on this vast moorland. Next, there's a chance to spot the elusive Nessie in mysterious Loch Ness – binoculars recommended!

Following our monster hunt, we'll pay a visit to the quaint village of Plockton, where painted cottages cluster around a picturesque bay. After strolling the harbour and observing the passing yachts, we'll continue on to our final destination of the day: the breathtaking Isle of Skye. At our hotel, we'll share the excitement for tomorrow's adventures over an included dinner. Stay: Duisdale House Hotel (or similar) (B/D)

Sensational landscapes, rare wildlife and imagination-firing history – the Isle of Skye delivers on every level. This is North Highland scenery on a grand scale! We'll spend the day taking in the island's unique geology and jaw-dropping scenery – including the extraordinary Quiraing, Kilt Rock and Old Man of Storr.

After a full day of exploring, we'll have the evening free to dine at our leisure or relax in our idyllic surrounds. Stay: Duisdale House Hotel (or similar) (B)

Today we'll continue our journey through soul-stirring Scottish scenery before taking a short ferry ride over to the breathtaking Isle of Mull. Here, the evening will be yours to spend as you please. Stay: Isle of Mull Hotel & Spa (or similar) (B)

The best way to explore the bewitching Hebrides is by island hopping – so today, we'll do just that. From Mull's little village of Fionnphort, we'll set sail to Iona: where a medieval abbey and revered pilgrimage site await us. After returning to our hotel on Mull, we'll toast to our Scottish journey with a final dinner together. Stay: Isle of Mull Hotel & Spa (or similar) (B/D)

Back to the mainland we go. It's been a tour that's delved deep into Scotland's heritage, so it's only right that we finish with a stop in historic Stirling. A drive through the Old Town will bring us to the magnificent hilltop castle, one of Scotland's most impressive and significant monuments. Here, we'll spend some time exploring the castle's many rooms and soaking up the sweeping views from atop the castle walls. What better way to round off our tour before returning to Edinburgh? (B)