Probably the most popular backpacker adventure in Scotland ! An ideal budget tour  for those short of time who really want to discover the magic of the Scottish Highlands. Experience fantastic overnight destinations* on the shores of Loch Ness. We only stay in the best - all  accommodation on this tour is in VisitScotland approved 3 and 4 star hostels - Experience the difference with us.

Get out there - deep into the magnificent mountains, remote lochs and glens and experience our fascinating history and culture. A fantastic action packed three days in the awesome Highlands and Isle of Skye exploring Loch Ness, Glencoe and the wild west coast .

Day 1: Edinburgh - Loch Ness
We leave Scotland's capital and head to Stirling, home to legends such as William Wallace and Robert the Bruce and scene of many of Scotland's most famous and bloody battles. Our route north takes us through the dramatic & inspiring Glencoe, and if weather permits we may well take one of our legendary ëwee walks', before heading for Fort William - in the shadow of mighty Ben Nevis (Britain's highest mountain). Travelling through the Great Glen we head for Fort Augustus . Staying on the banks of Loch Ness, in Fort Augustus tonight we discover a bit more of highland history and culture, before trying to entice Nessie out for a wee dram!

Day 2: Loch Ness - Isle of Skye
Today we explore the magical Isle of Skye . Ruined castles, awesome scenery, Viking fortresses and home to the legendary MacLeod and MacDonald Clans. Immersed in Celtic myths and legends, hear all about the Faeries and the Selkies, and local characters who have contributed to the rich history of this magical island. Quite simply unmissable! Our overnight destination is at a legendary 4 star hostel Morag's Lodge on the banks of Loch Ness with the best showers in the Highlands !

Day 3: Loch Ness - Edinburgh
Before heading south en route for Edinburgh , we follow the entire length of Loch Ness, searching for a priceless glimpse of the legendary beast. We visit Inverness, capital of the Highlands, and head for brooding Culloden Moor , sight of the defeat of Bonne Prince Charlie's Jacobite uprising. After a bite to eat and perhaps another ëwee walk', we head south for Pitlochry, Dunkeld and Perth (amongst other things) before arriving back in Edinburgh at approximately 5.30pm. ñ An action packed, fun filled and unforgettable 3 days!

Departure Dates:
Departs every Monday, Wednesday, Friday (Extra departures on Saturdays in summer months)

* Overnight stops may vary

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NEW TOUR FOR 2008

A spectacular 5 day adventure through the Highlands and magical Isle of Skye . Get out there amongst some of the world's most incredible scenery. Stay in a haunted Highland castle , go Monster hunting on Loch Ness , hear tales of Scotland's bloody history, enjoy whisky tasting in a Highland distillery and explore the magical Isle of Skye.

Blow your mind and & re-awaken your spirit! Our spectacular 5 day adventure through the amazing West Coast, Highlands and Isle of Skye is perfect for those who have the time to see Scotland properly and want to leave the big cities and tourist hordes behind and get out amongst some of the world's most diverse and fabulous scenery.

Day 1: Edinburgh - Oban
Leaving Edinburgh , we head to the impressive William Wallace Monument where your passionate and knowledgeable guide will recount exciting tales of Scotland 's national hero William Wallace. Then it's onwards to visit the ancient battlefields of Stirling, including Bannockburn . From here, we then enter The Trossachs National Park - Rob Roy Country. Our route north takes us through the dramatic and inspiring Glencoe, scene of the infamous massacre in 1692, before making our way along the coast to the gateway to the Isles, the small seaside town of Oban .

Day 2: Oban - Skye
After breakfast we leave Oban and travel north through stunning coastal scenery and onwards to mighty Ben Nevis , Britain 's highest mountain and the film location for 'Braveheartë and Harry Potter. Our journey through the Great Glen and west through lonely Glen Sheil and the five sisters of Kintail to Kyle of Lochalsh is truly spectacular. We discover the most photographed castle in Scotland , and possibly the most stunning castle in Europe, Eilean Donan, and then it's over the sea to the magical Isle of Skye !

Day 3: Carbisdale Castle *
We spend most of today exploring the wonderful Isle of Skye with its ruined castles, awesome scenery, Bonnie Prince Charlie, the jagged Black Cuillin Mountains , stunning coastlines and home of the legendary MacLeod and MacDonald Clans. Immersed in Celtic myth & legend, you'll hear about selkies, the mischievous faeries and even learn the secret of eternal youth! Then, to round off a magical day we'll return to the mainland and west to our majestic home for the night: Carbisdale Castle *, your very own haunted Highland castle.

Day 4: Carbisdale Castle * to Loch Ness
Discover Scotland 's bloody and dramatic history. Today we explore the area around Inverness, capital of the Highlands .  We'll see haunting Culloden Moor , sight of the defeat of Bonne Prince Charlie's Jacobite uprising, and the standing stones at Clava Cairns. We may even find time to sample Scotland 's national drink - uisge beathe, whisky, at a working distillery. Then it's off to Loch Ness, where hopefully we'll catch a glimpse of the Nessie - keep your camera ready!

Day 5: Loch Ness to Edinburgh
Today is the perfect end to your Highland adventure as we wind our way southwards from Loch Ness, passing along the shores of Loch Laggan where the TV series ëMonarch of the Glen' is filmed. Taking our time to explore beautiful Perthshire, big tree country, we finally cross the spectacular Forth Bridge on our return to the capital city of Edinburgh .  An awesome, action packed Highland adventure!

* Overnight destinations @ Carisdale Castle and Oban may vary during busy periods

TOUR CHECK- IN: 08.30am RETURNS: APPROX 17.30pm

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Get beyond the mainland and discover the far northern and western fringes of Scotland - Europe 's last great wilderness! The Island Explorer tour is for travellers on the search for maximum adventure!

This is our ultimate trip, which combines  Scotland 's wonderful Western Isles, including Skye, as well as the far north and Orkney Islands .

The journey along the remote Northwest coast of Scotland is unforgettable: small villages, long sandy beaches and dramatic mountain scenery. Reaching Ullapool (once a Viking stopover and now a bustling ferry port), travellers board the ferry for the Isle of Lewis. The Outer Hebrides are a fascinating place: the Gaelic culture, unspoilt scenery and sense of isolation are huge attractions.

These Hebridean islands are predominantly Gaelic speaking and visitors get the chance to see an original Blackhouse, hear traditional music, as well as enjoy the wonderful local seafood. The stunning Callanish Standing Stones, which date back more than 5000 years, are some of the most impressive and inspiring ancient stones in Britain . The Isle of Harris is famed for its unspoilt wonderful sandy beaches, aqua blue waters and sparcity of people. The sunsets are also legendary!

The final leg of the tour takes in the magical Isle of Skye . Perhaps the most famous Scottish island, it's a place of many contrasts: stunning coastline and rugged mountains, wild moorland and sleepy settlements.

Day 1: Edinburgh - Carbisdale Castle *
Heading north from Edinburgh , we pass through Perthshire - surrounded by mountains, forests and salmon packed rivers.  First stop is at Dunkeld and Birnam Wood, site of Macbeth's battle in 1054. Lunch is in the small village of Kingussie , made famous by the 'Monarch of the Glen' TV show. Then it's off to lonely Culloden Battlefield, scene of the last major battle in Britain . Then it's on to world famous Loch Ness for a wee bit of monster spotting before heading for our lavish evening accommodation in a Haunted Highland Castle!*

Day 2: Carbisdale Castle * - Orkney
We travel north through the sparsely populated wilderness of Sutherland and Caithness, via glens left deserted as a result of the Highland Clearances, and on to John 'O' Groats, Britain's most north easterly point. We then catch the ferry to the Orkney Islands, home to more archaeological ruins in one area than anywhere else in Europe ! We spend the night in the island's capital, Kirkwall . The Orkneys have only been a part of Scotland since 1490 and the islands still retain a very distinctive Scandinavian influence.

Day 3: Free Day in Orkney
A free day on the Orkneys with a local transport pass (included) to explore the amazing sites. Discover the naval battle at Scapa flow and Kirkwall Cathedral, burial place of Viking Kings and warriors. Explore Skara Brae, dating from the late Neolithic period and inhabited between 3200BC and 2200BC. This incredible stone village is made up of eight dwellings (some still containing original furniture) linked together by a series of low alleyways and is a marvel of ancient building techniques. You can also experience the magnificent standing stones at the Ring of Brodgar.

Day 4: Orkney to Ullapool
We say farewell to these unique islands and make the crossing by ferry back to the mainland, hopefully seeing some whales and dolphins on the way. Then follow the stunning North coast, passing sandy beaches and stopping for lunch in the lovely village of Tongue . We then journey along the wild North West coast to the charming fishing town of Ullapool , passing bleak landscapes and dramatic mountain scenery and unspoilt sandy beaches. Ullapool was once a Viking stopover and is now a bustling fishing port and gateway to the Western Isles. It's famous for its seafood and traditional music and is a great place to explore.

Day 5: Ullapool to Lewis
We catch the ferry to Lewis, where we spend the night. Today we visit the stunning Callanish Standing Stones, Neolithic in age and dating back more than 5000 years. Much quieter than Stonehenge, these are said to be some of the most impressive and inspiring of any of the ancient stones in Britain . These Hebridean islands are predominantly Gaelic speaking and have an unbroken culture dating back thousands of years. Tonight is your chance to hear traditional music and haunting Gaelic tunes.

Day 6: Harris to Loch Ness & Isle of Skye
In the morning we explore the amazing beaches of Harris, famous for its clear blue waters and, magnificent mountain backdrop and traditional crofting culture. These islands are home to the Clan MacLeod who has lived here for over 1200 years. After exploring the wonders of Harris, we leave the MacLeod homeland and cross by Ferry to the 'winged island', the Isle of Skye . We explore the magical Isle of Skye before heading for Eilean Donan Castle and the mainland.

Day 7: Loch Ness to Edinburgh
We explore infamous Loch Ness and The Great Glen before passing Fort William and Ben Nevis - Britain 's highest mountain. Discover 'The Weeping Glen', Glencoe, where we hear about the infamous massacre of the MacDonald's. Over the wilds of Rannoch Moor, we then stop in historic Stirling with its famous Wallace Monument , where the true story of Braveheart is told, before returning to the capital City of Edinburgh ! 

* Another hostel may be substituted for Carbisdale Castle as an overnight stop.

TOUR CHECK- IN: 08.30am RETURNS: APPROX 17.30pm

Departs Saturdays (May ñ October only)

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Escape the city of London and discover a country like no other. Many centuries ago the Celts were driven to the fringes of Britain by foreign invaders and developed a fascinating and unique culture in a land all their own ñ Wales!

Explore this beautiful country and meet a proud and patriotic race of people who have helped shape this ancient land!  From the legends of King Arthur to the famous valleys of Snowdonia National Park , this country will really capture your imagination.  Stunning towns with timeless castles, steeped in history and oozing culture, you'll discover that Wales is an intensely proud country especially to its Celtic heritage. Many places still speak Welsh as their 1st language, and their obsession with Rugby is rivalled only by that of New Zealand .

Day 1: London - South Wales
Leaving the hustle and bustle of everyday life in London , we head for the freshest of air in the valleys and mountains of Wales .  Crossing the mighty Severn bridge, we stop in Chepstow, in the marchlands of Britain , before driving through the romantic ruins of Tintern Abbey.  Once suitably inspired, our journey takes us West to Cardiff, the capital of Wales and the spiritual home of rugby, where there will be plenty of time for lunch and perhaps throw a ball around.  Having answered those rumbling stomachs, our guide will drive you up into the Brecon Beacons, giving you a chance to walk and burn of a few calories, after which they will drive you to Abergavenny, where you can reward your day's endeavors with a pint of Brains.

Day 2: Brecon Beacons & South Wales
Bibliophiles will think they've died and gone to heaven out our first stop, Hay-on-Wye, the town of books.  From there, we will follow in the footsteps of the Great Welsh Leader Llewellyn to his final resting place near Builth Wells.  After paying our respects, the trip takes us North, into the majestic Elan Valley , a site of outstanding beauty where the road will take us alongside a procession of awe inspiring dams and reservoirs.  Heading up into the mountains of mid Wales , the tour will stop at the legendary Devils Bridge , where you will have an opportunity to descend and admire the raging waterfalls.  After a slice of Bara brith or perhaps a teacake, the tour will set it's course back for Abergavenny, with plenty of picturesque photo stops along the way.

Day 3: Abergavenny - London
Setting out the tour takes you to Blaenafon and the Big Pit one of Britain 's leading mining museums.  You will learn about the conditions and situations of the miners in the area, and have the opportunity to descend 300 feet to witness it for real.  After which, the route follows the border between Wales in England to Hereford for lunch and a final chance to buy a fluffy sheep.  Then it's on to Stratford on Avon , the birthplace of Shakespeare and a beautiful 'olde towne' before a final jaunt back to London.


Departure Dates:
Departs London every Friday TOUR CHECK- IN: 07.15am RETURNS: APPROX 18.00pm

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Take this 5 day tour to the edge of Britain and follow in the footsteps of King Arthur through England 's West Country and beyond into Cornwall with its rugged cliffs and crashing waves!

Explore the remains of ancient civilizations, party the night away at the UK 's surfing capital - Newquay! Discover more about the distinctive Cornish culture and their historic struggle for independence. 

The Cornwall Crusader is a relaxed and chilled out tour allowing you to escape from the fast pace of city living and taking you to the very edge of the world!

Day 1: London - Cheddar
Depart London and travel west to Salisbury Cathedral and then onto Stonehenge, the UK’s most famous and mysterious stone circle. We explore the dramatic Cheddar Gorge. Overnight in Cheddar.

Day 2: Cheddar - Newquay
Spend the morning exploring the wilds of Dartmoor National Park, home of mischievous pixies and a land of Giants , witches and the Hound of the Baskervilles... End the day in the English surfer's paradise of Newquay - great waves and fabulous sandy beaches!


Day 3: Cornwall
The whole day is spent in Cornwall performing ancient rituals around the mysterious standing stones, doing scenic coastal walks, attempting to speak some Cornish, visiting the amazing Minack Theatre and stopping at the most westerly tip of England, Land’s End. After a busy day you will be able to have a night out to remember in Newquay.

Day 4: Newquay - Bath
Leaving Newquay we get a lungful of fresh air on the cliffs of Tintagel, the birthplace of King Arthur. Onwards then to the mystical Isle of Avalon, Glastonbury, the birthplace of English Christianity and burial place of King Arthur. Stopping for the night in the beautiful and historic city of Bath.

Day 4: Bath - London
The morning is spent exploring the city, famous for its Roman Baths (of course!) and impressive Georgian architecture. We finish off the tour with a visit to historic Lacock, one of England's most picturesque villages and home to many a costume drama - Pride & Prejudice and Emma to name but a few, before dropping by 5000 year old Avebury Stone circle - the largest circle of stones in Europe. Then it's back to England 's capital city, London , and the end of the tour.

Departure Dates:
Departs every Monday

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