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 Coylumbridge Hotel, located in the heart of the Highlands, your group of well-matched travellers will be guided around Cairngorm Mountain, Fort Augustus, Nairn, Culloden Battlefield, Brodie Castle, Balmoral Estate and Ballater. 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 Coylumbridge 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 visit to Balmoral Castle & Crathie Kirk
• An excursion to Ballater
• Visits to Nairn, Culloden Battlefield, and Fort Augustus

• Fully escorted by a friendly, experienced tour manager

  Highlights:

• Take in the royal family's official Scottish residence with a fascinating tour of Balmoral Castle & Estate
• 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
• Immerse yourself in charming Ballater, a picturesque Victorian village nestled on the outskirts of Cairngorms National Park
• 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 Coylumbridge 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 Coylumbridge Hotel. This beautiful property, backed by beautiful scenery, is an ideal base for exploring the Scottish Highlands. 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 excursion to Balmoral Castle, Crathie Kirk and Ballater

Enjoy breakfast this morning before venturing on a morning drive to the famous Balmoral Castle, the Scottish holiday home of the Royal Family since 1852. You’ll get to enter the castle to see the ballroom (the largest room in the castle), view the exhibitions and wander the gardens. The castle’s ballroom is the only area open to the public and where many members of the Royal Family have been pictured hosting events. Near the castle is Crathie Kirk, a small parish church in the village of Crathie. Best known for being the regular place of worship of the Royal Family, this church was built in 1895 and looks over the Dee River. The tour will then continue to the beautiful Victorian village of Ballater, located near Cairngorms National Park. You can stroll around the speciality shops and seek out one of the delightful cafes for lunch (on your own account). This evening, you’ll have time for dinner and to relax.

Day 3: Included boat tour of Loch Ness, with a visit to the town of Fort 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 Battlefield 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.