Lord of the Highlands, Historic Highland Castles ex Kyle of Lochalsh to Inverness

Historical Themed Cruise

Guest Speaker: Michael Davis - Michael researches, writes and lectures on architectural history and conservation themes, and is a visiting lecturer at the University of Strathclyde. He spoke out in favour of reconstruction of the original design during the controversy over the restoration of Glasgow School of Art, and is a past chairman of the Architectural Heritage Society of Scotland. His books include The Castles and Mansions of Ayrshire, Scots Baronial and The Scottish Castle Restoration Debate.

From clan seats to royal residencies, Scotland has no shortage of stunning and romantic castles and palaces, and the Highlands is home to many. Picturesquely situated and packed with history, they have endured prolific battles and many of those left standing were once home to royals or other significant figures.

Cameras at the ready for your visit to the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, situated on an island at the point where three great sea lochs meet. Onwards to Armadale, where you discover the epic history of Clan Donald at the Museum of the Isles. Built as a fishing port in the late 18th century, Tobermory is a picture-postcard town where brightly painted houses line the waterfront. Visit the ancient seat of Clan Maclean, Duart Castle, which has dominated the view of the Sound of Mull for over 700 years, and admire the mighty stronghold of the MacDougalls, Dunstaffnage Castle, where Flora MacDonald was held before being sent to the Tower of London. Relax on board as you sail Loch Linnhe, passing mysterious Castle Stalker until you reach the Caledonian Canal at Corpach. From Fort Augustus, the magnificent ruins of Urquhart Castle are calling. With 1,000 years of history, Urquhart Castle offers a taste of the Highlands at their most dramatic. Fort George is the mightiest artillery fortification in Britain, created by George II as the ultimate defence against further Jacobite unrest. Contrast the traditional castle built and inhabited by the Cawdor family for over 600 years; an ancient medieval tower constructed around a legendary holly tree. Finally, travel to Brodie Castle, renowned for its elegant interiors and a world- famous art collection.

Day 1:
Kyle of Lochalsh - Embarkation.

Day 2:
Kyle of Lochalsh – Eilean Donan Castle.
Armadale, Skye – Armadale Castle and Clan Donald Centre.

Day 3:
Tobermory, Mull – Free time to explore at leisure.
Craignure, Mull – Duart Castle.

Day 4:
Oban – Dunstaffnage Castle.
Sail Loch Linnhe to Corpach and transit Neptune’s Staircase to Banavie.

Day 5:
Cruise the Caledonian Canal to Fort Augustus.
Fort Augustus – Urquhart Castle.

Day 6:
Cruise the Caledonian Canal and Loch Ness.
Dochgarroch – Fort George.

Day 7:
Inverness – Cawdor Castle and Gardens.
Inverness – Brodie Castle.

Day 8:
Inverness - Disembarkation.