An enthralling cruise on Lord of the Highlands through the very heart of the Scottish Highlands including two gala dinners, while exploring the hidden sea lochs and islands off Scotland’s western shore, at the very best time of year. You will see the hidden gems of Kyle Rhea, the Sound of Sleat and Sound of Mull, the glistening waters of Loch Linnhe and the endlessly fascinating waters of the Caledonian Canal, as well as two stunning gardens at Cawdor and Ardchattan Priory.
This luxurious boutique cruise ship is designed for the exploration of Scotland’s rugged coastlines and serene lochs. With her elegant cabins, great dining and expansive observation decks, she offers a wonderful way to enjoy the Highlands and Islands. Whether sipping a dram of whisky as the sun sets over a tranquil loch or capturing unforgettable landscapes through your camera lens, Lord of the Highlands promises a journey as memorable as the destinations themselves.
ITINERARY
Monday 10th May – Kyle of Lochalsh – embarkation
Tuesday 11th May – Eilean Donan Castle
Cameras at the ready for our first glimpse of Eilean Donan Castle, the most photographed castle in Scotland. Trace the legacy of Clan Donald at the Museum of the Isles housed in the grounds of Armadale Castle and explore the attractive woodland gardens which complement the romantic ruins.
Wednesday 12th May – Tobermory
Explore the colourful island capital of Mull, Tobermory, before discovering Duart Castle, seat of the Clan Maclean for more than 700 years. The castle proudly guards the sea cliffs on Mull and was brought back from a state of ruin in 1911.
Thursday 13th May – Craignure, Mull and Iona
Travel to the sacred isle of Iona to relish the tranquillity of the restored Benedictine abbey, a much-revered place of pilgrimage.
Friday 14th May – Oban, Ardchattan and Glenfinnan
A garden has existed at Ardchattan for more than 700 years, since Valliscaulian monks, from a little-known order in Burgundy, first settled on the north shore of Loch Etive. At Glenfinnan, wonder at the renowned viaduct, with its 21 huge arches, framed by spectacular Highland scenery.
Saturday 15th May – Transit Neptune’s Staircase and sail the Caledonian canal to Fort Augustus
From sea level, Lord of the Highlands ascends the spectacular eight interconnected locks of Neptune’s Staircase to Banavie, giving you a relaxing day on board as we transit the length of the canal connecting the Great Glen’s four lochs.
Sunday 16th May – Caledonian Canal, Loch Ness and Cawdor Castle
Immortalised in Shakespeare’s Macbeth, the 14th-century home of the Thanes of Cawdor boasts three very different gardens, each with its own unique history and appearance.
Monday 17th May – Inverness and disembarkation
HOW TO BOOK: £500pp off when you quote ‘The Oldie’. Your cruise is all-inclusive, covering all meals, drinks, shore excursions, and gratuities. We provide coach transfers from Inverness airport and Inverness city centre to Kyle of Lochalsh at the start, and to Inverness city centre and Inverness airport at the end. For those wishing to drive, free car parking is available at Inverness airport, with transfers included as above.
Go to Hebridean.co.uk and search ‘HIGHLAND AND ISLAND EXPLORER’
or call 01756 704747. Cabins from £5,135 per person, £7,180 for single occupancy, to suites at £6,805 per person.
