07 Days - Lakes & Valleys

Llandudno - Llanberis - Snowdonia Today, we will embark on a journey to the captivating landscapes of North Wales. Our first stop is the delightful town of Llandudno, graced by an impressive promenade that adds to its Victorian charm. Here, you will find a beautiful beach set against the picturesque backdrop of the Snowdonia Mountains. You will have the chance to enjoy some free time on Llandudno's sandy shores. Take a leisurely stroll along the longest pier in Wales or experience an exhilarating ride on Britain's only cable-operated tram, which will transport you to the summit of The Great Orme. Llandudno Museum awaits those interested in local history, and shopaholics will be delighted by the recently opened Victoria shopping center. For a unique experience, opt for a thrilling ride on the Llandudno Cable Car in Hope Valley. As the cable cars silently glide from Hope Valley to the summit of the Great Orme, you will be treated to breathtaking views of Llandudno, the Little Orme, Conwy Estuary, and beyond. The Llandudno Cable Car is the longest passenger cable car system in Britain. You can choose a return journey (an 18-minute ride) or a one-way trip, with departures available from Happy Valley or the summit. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the wonders of the Great Orme Tramway, Britain's largest and most spectacular funicular tramway. Climbing a mile to the Orme's summit, it offers sweeping vistas of Llandudno's magnificent bays and the surrounding landscape. This unique attraction has been thrilling visitors young and old for over a century and is an absolute must-see. After our adventures in Llandudno, we will head to Snowdonia National Park in Gwynedd, where we will encounter Snowdon, the tallest mountain in Wales and the highest point in the British Isles outside the Scottish Highlands. Snowdon is renowned for its vibrant natural flora and fauna and is designated as a natural nature reserve. If you choose the optional train journey, your excursion will begin at Llanberis station. From there, you will embark on an awe-inspiring adventure aboard a rack railway that will carry you to Clogwyn. The views from the train as it traverses a ridge toward the summit are nothing short of breathtaking. At the pinnacle, you will be treated to one of the world's most spectacular panoramas. For those who opt not to take the train journey, ample free time will be provided to explore the natural beauty of this area. Entrance to the Llandudno Cable Car and tramway is not included and can be booked on the day of arrival. Please be aware that the cable car attraction only accepts cash (Operation is weather permitting).

Lake District - Windermere - Glasgow This morning, following a delightful breakfast, our journey leads us through the enchanting landscapes of the Lake District National Park in Cumbria. This remarkable region is renowned for its abundance of lakes, each offering its own unique allure, and it has been rightfully honored as a World Heritage Site for its breathtaking vistas and lush woodlands. As we traverse this picturesque terrain, prepare to be captivated by the sheer natural beauty that surrounds you. Our destination is Windermere, a town nestled amidst the splendor of the Lake District. Here, you will have the opportunity to partake in a serene boat cruise on Lake Windermere, an experience that promises tranquility and magnificent vistas. The calm waters and scenic surroundings make this excursion a perfect moment to unwind and soak in the captivating ambiance of the region. Following a satisfying lunch, we continue our journey towards the vibrant city of Glasgow. Upon our arrival in this dynamic urban center, we will have the chance to view the impressive Glasgow Cathedral from outside. This iconic cathedral stands as a testament to Scotland's rich history and enduring cultural heritage. Its grandeur and historical significance make it a captivating stop on our journey through Glasgow. Though we won't enter its hallowed halls, the cathedral's exterior offers a glimpse into its remarkable architecture and storied past. Our exploration of Glasgow will then lead us to discover more of the city's cultural and historical treasures before we rest and prepare for the adventures that await us on the following day.

Glasgow - Loch Lomond - Fort William - Scottish Distillery - Loch Ness Today set our course for the breathtaking Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, home to the renowned Loch Lomond. As we arrive at Loch Lomond's serene shores, you'll have the option to embark on a delightful boat cruise, an experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the picturesque Highland scenery while relishing a comforting cup of tea or coffee. Loch Lomond, also known as the "Lake of the Elms," is a pristine freshwater loch that traverses the Highland Boundary Fault, often regarded as the dividing line between the lowlands of Central Scotland and the majestic Highlands. Our journey then meanders along a scenic route that leads us to Fort William, where we have the opportunity to explore the Nevis Range. Upon arrival, we ascend by cable car, provided it is operational, to Aonach Mòr, an imposing peak that stands at an elevation of 1,345 meters above sea level. It's a popular destination for those seeking the grandeur of the Scottish mountains. Your adventure then takes you to a Whiskey Distillery, where you will delve into the time-honored craft of whisky distillation during a guided tour, culminating in a delightful tasting session. During the day, we also pause to pay our respects at the Commando Memorial, a Category A listed monument located in Lochaber, Scotland. This monument is a tribute to the brave men of the original British Commando Forces, raised during World War II. Our journey further unfolds with a visit to Neptune's Staircase, a remarkable engineering marvel comprising eight locks along the Caledonian Canal. This extraordinary feat of engineering elevates the canal by 19 meters over a quarter-mile stretch of uninterrupted masonry. Navigating this flight of locks is a captivating 90-minute spectacle for boats. Constructed by the visionary Thomas Telford between 1803 and 1822, Neptune's Staircase ranks as Scotland's longest staircase lock flight. Our journey continues, offering breathtaking vistas of the legendary Loch Ness, a majestic waterway that stretches over 22 miles in length and plunges to depths of more than 227 meters. Loch Ness is most renowned for its intriguing tales of the Loch Ness Monster, affectionately referred to as Nessie, making it a must-see stop on our captivating itinerary. *Note: If the Scottish Distillery is not covered on this day it will be done on Day 7.

Isle of Skye / Inverness Today, after a hearty breakfast, we will embark on a captivating journey to explore the picturesque Isle of Skye. This enchanting island, Scotland's largest, is a pristine haven nestled off the rugged coastline of the West Highlands. It is a haven for nature enthusiasts, boasting dramatic sea cliffs, windswept valleys, and shimmering lochs. Our Isle of Skye adventure will begin with a scenic drive through the captivating Highland landscapes, taking us to the western coast and the iconic Eilean Donan Castle. Here, you will have some free time to soak in the breathtaking vistas. Next, we will cross over to the Isle of Skye via the renowned "Skye Bridge." As we journey along the island's east coast, you will be treated to mesmerizing views of the Red Cuillin Mountains, with a picturesque stop at Sligachan to capture the crystal-clear mountain waters in a photo. Upon reaching the charming town of Portree, often referred to as the "capital" of the Isle of Skye, you will have leisure time to explore its unique offerings. Our adventure will continue as we head towards some of the island's most renowned natural wonders on the Trotternish Peninsula. Prepare to be awestruck by the incredible sights of the Old Man of Storr and Kilt Rock – these are moments that will stay etched in your memory. Tonight, you will have free time in Inverness to savor the local cuisine and explore the city's culinary delights. Please note that dinner is not included on this evening.

Cairngorms national park - Edinburgh Castle - Forth Road Today, we embark on a scenic drive through the Cairngorms National Park, the largest national park in the UK, known for its majestic mountain range. Then you will arrive in the historic town of Stirling, dominated by the imposing silhouette of Stirling Castle. Here, you will have some free time to savor a leisurely lunch and explore the town's charming streets. Next on the itinerary is a visit to the captivating city of Edinburgh. Here, you will have the privilege of visiting the iconic Edinburgh Castle, a historic stronghold boasting splendid state apartments and the ancient Scottish crown jewels. As you descend the castle hill and traverse the renowned Royal Mile, you will encounter the magnificent St Giles' Cathedral, distinguished by its crown-shaped spire. Along this storied thoroughfare, you will also have the opportunity to marvel at Calton Hill, the National Monument of Scotland, Nelson Monument, the Scottish National Gallery, the Scottish Parliament, and the regal Hollyrood Palace. Continuing your journey, you will be treated to panoramic views of the Forth Road Bridge, offering a breathtaking backdrop of the Forth Rail Bridge.

Falkirk - Kelpies After breakfast visit to the Falkirk Wheel, a remarkable rotating boat lift that connects the Forth and Clyde Canal with the Union Canal. Finally, you will set your sights on The Kelpies, colossal 30-meter-high horse-head sculptures sculpted by the talented artist Andy Scott. Completed in October 2013, The Kelpies stand as a monumental tribute to Scotland's rich horse-powered heritage. Later you will board your coach and commence your return journey to London.

THE FIRST THREE DAYS OF THIS TOUR MAY BE RUN ON A MINIBUS.