Details
Day One – Torridon
This driving route could start in Inverness, or further south and we can tailor-make it to suit.
Your first destination is in one of the most scenically beautiful and secluded locations in the whole of Scotland in the wild and rugged area of Wester Ross. Your route today could include Loch Ness and the famous Bealach na Ba (Pass of the Cattle), with its series of exhilarating hairpin bends.
Your Hotel
This small, family-run inn makes a picture-perfect base for exploring the dramatic west coast with its abundance of lochs, forests, mountains and rivers. The grandeur of the surrounding mountains forms a stunning backdrop to your hotel, which nestles in the crescent-shaped village high street. Converted from a row of white-washed fishing cottages, the hotel overlooks an idyllic loch which reflects a tiny island covered in Scots Pines. Two snug lounges both feature glorious views over the peaceful loch, and offer visitors the chance to idle away an afternoon watching the occasional boat come and go, and maybe enjoy a wee dram from the honesty bar in the corner. If you’re lucky you could even be treated to one of the west coast’s spectacular sunsets.
Day Three – Ullapool
Next head further north, following the coast road as it traverses deeply set lochs, and pass more soaring mountains. Plenty of time today to explore as you tour. Your next stop is the colourful harbour village of Ullapool.
Your Hotel
This unique hotel offers visitors a genuinely warm welcome, and is a particularly interesting place to rest awhile. Behind a traditional row of whitewashed fishermen’s’ cottages lies an assorted collection of coffee bar, book shop, arts venue, restaurant and hotel. The owners have developed their eclectic establishment over the years to become the genial and sociable hub of the local arts community.
The large and cheerful visitors lounge on the first floor is stuffed full of comfy sofas and cosy corners, books, games and pictures. Conversations spill out into general discussions, with excellent advice offered on local things to see and do. Ceilidhs, plays, poetry readings, and local artists’ exhibitions are frequent events. Complimentary tea and coffee is available here and there is an honesty bar too. The excellent food is sourced locally with the emphasis on fresh seafood and vegetarian dishes.
The book shop is a great place to browse. Here you will find a large selection of special and unusual Scottish literature, arts and history books, and can stock up on scarce editions and hard-to-find volumes. Each bedroom also has a selection of books which guests are welcome to read during their stay, and are available to buy when they leave.
Day Five – Caithness
Drive further north, now entering Sutherland and some of Scotland’s most dramatic coastal landscapes, passing Durness and crossing the Kyle of Tongue before entering the region of Caithness at Scotland’s northeastern tip.
Your Hotel
Your hotel is a delightful 1810 country home nestling in 20 acres of woodland, below a waterfall, on the gently meandering River Forss. In truth there can be few finer spots to linger in the big sky country; a place where time always seems to be on your side. The hotel restaurant has a reputation as one of the finest in the North and is the only 2AA Rosette restaurant in Caithness.
Day Six – Caithness
You have a full day to relax and explore Caithness – perhaps visit John O’Groats for those keen to cover one of Britain’s “extremities” and the Castle of Mey, as well as Wick, home of the Old Pulteney Distillery. A day trip to Orkney is also possible.
Day Seven – Dornoch
Drive south down the east coast of Caithness and Sutherland to the charming small Highland town of Dornoch and your base for tonight. Your route could take you inland to explore the remarkable flow country of Sutherland, or keep to the coast to find the Whaligoe Steps and Dunrobin Castle.
Your Hotel
Set on the High Street of this most historic Highland town, your B&B in Dornoch is an acclaimed, family owned property of exceptional quality. Traditionally presented, yet containing all the comforts of a boutique hotel, and within strolling distance of the fabulous beach and golf course, this is accommodation that leaves a lasting impression and one to which you’ll surely wish to return having experienced the superb, friendly hospitality and world-class breakfast.
Day Eight – Dornoch
If history appeals, this area is dotted with features known as the ‘Pictish Trail’ with numerous standing and carved stones – one of the best is at The Old Church at Nigg – a magnificent stone decorated with Pictish symbols and imagery. If time, make a detour north to Dunrobin Castle, on the coast north of Golspie. Whisky enthusiasts should pay a visit to the Glenmorangie distillery a few miles to the south in Tain. On your way from Inverness to Dornoch there is an excellent refreshment stop and farm shop at the Storehouse of Foulis.
Day Nine – Return Home
The trip ends by crossing the Dornoch Firth, or take time to explore the Black Isle by Cromarty, before reaching the Highland capital Inverness. We can arrange additional nights here or further south as suits.
Pricing
£770 per person for March, April and October, £780 per person for May to September.
Price is based on 2 adults sharing double or twin ensuite rooms for 8 nights on a bed and breakfast basis in our hand-picked selection of small hotels and guest houses.
Before your departure, you will receive personalised holiday information including full directions and recommended routes from your specified starting point, and suggestions on places to visit depending on your interests and our local knowledge to help you get the most from your holiday.
All itineraries and room types are presented subject to availability at specific hotels.
