Oban, Isle of Skye & The Sound of Mull

Your tour begins in Glasgow, where you meet at your hotel. After settling in, you're free to explore. Places of interest include Buchanan Street, the core of Glasgow's retail centre and home to the Royal Concert Hall, and the Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum. With free entry, you could admire paintings by Rembrandt, Van Gogh, and Dalí, as well as works by local Scottish artists.

Embark on a journey along the magnificent West Highland Line, one of the most scenic railways in the world. The routes takes you through the mountainous west coast of Scotland, along the River Clyde, and over the hills and glenns of Argyll. You'll also travel by the shores of Loch Lomond and through Trossachs National Park. This is one of the most iconic sights in Scotland and is considered to be the natural boundary between central Scotland and the Highlands. On the way, pass through several Highland villages known for breathtaking landscapes. Your destination is Oban, your base for the next three nights. The afternoon is free to explore. Perhaps visit McCaig's Tower on Battery Hill, or the Oban War & Peace Museum. The Oban Chocolate Company is the place to go for handmade chocolates, or you could take the bus to the ruined castle of Dunstaffnage, sat on a promontory with sea on three sides.

• Breakfast, Dinner

Transfer by coach to Fort William for a journey on the iconic Jacobite, hailed as one of the great railway journeys in the world. The Jacobite travels from Fort William to Mallaig, crossing lochs, rivers, mountains, golden beaches, and beautiful villages before passing over the Glenfinnan Viaduct. From Mallaig, take the ferry to Armadale, on the Isle of Skye. Here you visit the striking ruins of Armadale Castle. The castle was once home to the Macdonalds of Sleat, and you have time to explore the romantic castle and historic gardens, with stunning views to the Sound of Sleat and the mountains of Knoydart. The estate is also famous for its wildlife, so be on the lookout for eagles, deer, and pine martens. Explore the Museum of the Isles for an education on local Highland history before sailing back to Mallaig. Return to Oban by coach, seeing the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct from a different angle. This viaduct is loved by photographers and filmmakers alike, and features prominently in the second Harry Potter movie. Constructed over the waters of Loch Shiel, the viaduct overlooks the Glenfinnan Monument and offers stunning views.

Please note that journeys are steam-hauled where possible - some departures may use the ScotRail scheduled service.

• Breakfast, Dinner

After a relaxed morning, board the MV Isle of Mull for a highlight of your tour, a scenic cruise along the Sound of Mull. Soak up incredible views as you sail from Oban to Craignure, seeing the island of Lismore with its impressive lighthouse, the Nevis Mountain range, the Garvellach Islands, and imposing Duart Castle. The Sound of Mull's geographic position makes it the ideal area for spotting marine life. The Atlantic Ocean's clear waters ensure good visibility, while the sheltered location of the Sound protects it from harsh weather.

These conditions also make the Sound of Mull a favourite among divers and snorkellers. Keep your eyes peeled for porpoises and cormorants during your cruise. Later, enjoy a tour and whisky tasting at Oban Distillery, one of the oldest in Scotland and one of the smallest, with just two pot stills. The distillery began operating in 1794, and is famous for its Oban West Highland malt. Your evening is free to spend as you wish. Perhaps take a stroll through the historic town.

• Breakfast, Lunch

Travel by rail back to Glasgow, enjoying views over wild, unspoilt areas of natural beauty. You have free time to explore, perhaps stroll along Buchanan Street, taking in the impeccable Victorian architecture. 

• Breakfast, Dinner

Today, your holiday comes to an end and you are free to travel home.

• Breakfast