Highlights of the Scottish Highlands – Exclusively Solos

From rugged mountains and serene lochs to historic castles and picturesque towns, this is Scotland at its most spellbinding and solo-friendly.

Journey on an easy-going getaway encompassing Scotland’s most exceptional sights, dropping in at recognisable spots as well as some lesser-known, but equally as delightful highlights. Over five days, you’ll visit several natural spectacles, taking in each one at your own pace within the comfort and safety of a like-minded group of nature, culture and history enthusiasts. 

From your base at the charming Carrbridge Hotel, located in the heart of the Highlands, your group of well-matched travellers will be guided around Aviemore, Cairngorm Mountain, Fort Augustus, Nairn, Culloden Battlefield, Brodie Castle, and a gin distillery. Along the way, prepare to also be captivated by the dramatic panoramas while learning about the legends that go with each area and sampling Scotland’s finest spirits with a local expert.

What's Included:

• Four nights' dinner, bed and Scottish breakfast at the three-star Carrbridge Hotel
• A welcome dinner and drinks, and a farewell dinner
• Four breakfasts
• A visit to Brodie Castle
• Return flights to Inverness, with coach travel and transfers throughout
• A cruise across Loch Ness
• A scenic ride aboard the Strathspey Steam Train
• A visit to Aviemore
• A visit to a renowned gin distillery
• Fully escorted by a friendly, experienced tour manager

• Visits to Nairn, Culloden Battlefield, and Fort Augustus

  Highlights:

• Discover the secrets of Scotland's world-renowned spirits industry with a tasting at a gin distillery
• Take in the breathtaking vista of the Cairngorms National Park from the UK's highest restaurant atop Cairngorm Mountain
• Embark on a two-hour cruise across the mystical waters of Loch Ness
• Witness local reindeer herds up close at a reindeer sanctuary in Aviemore
• Immerse yourself in the rich history of Scotland with a full-day tour of Nairn, Culloden Battlefield, and Cawdor Castle
• Wander around Fort Augustus, a picturesque town nestled on the banks of the Caledonian Canal
• Learn about the Scottish clans and their battles with a trip to Culloden Battlefield

Day 1: Travel to the Carrbridge hotel, with welcome drinks upon arrival and dinner

Your first day will be dedicated to travel, relaxation and a little bit of settling in. After arriving in Inverness, you’ll be transferred to the charming Carrbridge Hotel. This beautiful property, situated in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, is backed by forests and the sparkling River Dulnain. Welcome drinks and dinner will be served, providing the perfect opportunity to get to know your fellow solo travellers before the tour kicks off.

Day 2: Included Strathspey steam rail journey to Aviemore and the Cairngorm Mountain with gin tasting at a local distillery

Prepare for the day ahead with breakfast at the hotel, before heading to Aviemore for a shorter, but no-less-special, rail journey. Join your tour manager and fellow guests as you board the Strathspey Steam Railway, a thrilling reminder of the golden age of steam. You'll encounter delightful unspoilt Highland scenery as you glide past great sweeps of the River Spey, through moorland and forest. Returning to Aviemore, you'll have the chance to explore the famous resort town, which is one of Britain’s most famous outward-bound centres. Continue to visit the Cairngorm Alpacas - at Lochbuie Croft - to gain first-hand insight into the lives of Alpacas and their handlers. After your visit, drive through twisting mountain roads to the Cairngorm Mountain visitor centre, which offers glorious unspoilt views of the surrounding region and its expansive vistas. Towards the end of the day, you’ll call at a local gin distillery where you’ll have a chance to sample a few delicious varieties and discover the history of the craftsmanship of Scottish gin-making. Having returned to the hotel, you’ll have the rest of the evening free to perhaps reminisce on the day and nurse a drink with your fellow travellers by the open fire in the bar.

Day 3: Included boat tour of Loch Ness, with a visit to the town of For Augustus

Following breakfast this morning, you’ll board on a two-hour Loch Ness cruise, which will be narrated by your tour manager as you take in views of the banks. Make sure to keep your eyes peeled for a glimpse of Nessie, the legendary creature said to inhabit the loch. Back on land, the tour will call at the town of Fort Augustus, known for the impressive Fort Augustus Abbey that was founded in the 18th century. Now home to a museum, the fort will be explored on a guided tour, and you’ll learn about its role in the local community while marvelling at the architecture and the stained-glass windows. Those eager to venture on a stroll, can join an optional hike along the towpath of the Caledonian Canal. Alternatively, you can potter around at your own pace, perhaps taking a saunter with some other travellers. In the evening, unwind at your leisure or amongst your fellow travellers.

Day 4: Included visit to Nairn, Culloden Batterfield and Brodie Castle

Once the group have had breakfast, it’s time to make the most of your penultimate day. The small market town of Nairn is up first, and you’ll get to meander around this ancient fishing port known for its unspoilt beaches and wealth of wildlife – keep an eye out for seals, whales, and dolphins. You’ll then head to the Culloden Battlefield, where you'll be transported back in time to one of the most significant battles in Scottish history. Learn about the Jacobite rising of 1745 and the fateful battle that took place here with your guide. During your visit, you’ll be led through the eerie moorland and stand where the brave Jacobite soldiers once stood, fighting for their beliefs. The group will continue to the rose-coloured, turreted Brodie Castle, the ancestral home of the Brodie clan for over 400 years and a treasure trove of priceless antiques and artefacts. The castle building reflects the changing needs of the residents over the centuries – from the impenetrable 16th-century guard chamber to a sprawling Victorian extension with some magnificent rooms. A guided tour will help you make the very most of your visit. The beautiful grounds, which boast a dazzling display of daffodils in the spring, are also well worth exploring. As it’s the final evening, you can join your fellow travellers for a farewell dinner at the hotel – an ideal chance to reflect and discuss highlights amongst each other.

Day 5: Return to Inverness and travel home

Bid farewell to the Highlands and your newfound friends, and travel home.