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Discover the fishing town of Ullapool in the northern reaches of Scotland, nestled on the shores of Loch Broom. Explore the picturesque town on foot with your local guide, who will introduce you to Ullapool and its interesting history regarding commerce and local folklore. Take a stroll through its streets and admire the town’s charming gabled rooftops en route to a local venue. Upon arrival, you will enjoy a taste of local tablet—or fudge—and shortbread, two of Scotland’s popular sweet treats. Afterward, choose to either return to your ship with your guide or stay to explore the town independently at your leisure. Later, you may make your own way back to your awaiting ship.

Experience two of Scotland’s hidden treasures during a visit to the Singleton Distillery and the village of Beauly. Embark on a scenic drive along the picturesque shores of Loch Broom toward the Muir of Ord. Arrive at the Singleton Distillery, producer of some of the Highlands’ finest whiskies, including the Singleton of Glen Ord, which is available for purchase only from the distillery itself; the remaining bottles are exported to Asia. Follow your guide as you learn about the whisky-making process and view the large stills and mash tuns used during production. After your tour, savor a taste of Singleton whisky, then travel to the charming village of Beauly. Here, you will enjoy free time for independent exploration, maybe choosing to view the nearby ruins of an old priory. Or choose to stroll the village’s streets and browse its boutiques and cafés, before returning to your ship.

Visit Inverewe Garden, a National Trust Site, and take a guided walk through its collection of Champion Trees. Begin with a scenic drive by motor coach through the pastoral landscapes of one of Scotland’s most northerly corners. Upon arrival at Inverewe House, you will meet your ranger guide and set out on foot to view the estate’s collection of Champion Trees, the largest in the Southern Hemisphere. Learn about their significance to the local ecosystem before enjoying a stroll around the gardens, filled with lovingly cultivated exotic plants. See Himalayan rhododendrons, Tasmanian eucalyptus and more as your guide shares stories of the garden’s creation by a father and daughter team. You will also see a large collection of New Zealand plants and the National Collection of the genus Olearia as well as impressive towering California redwoods. After, return to your ship.

Journey into the wilds of Scotland for a fascinating chance to learn about the geology of this dramatic region. At Knockan Crag, you can see the internationally famous Moine Thrust (in which enormous forces move rocks sideways), where much older Moine schists have been pushed over the younger Durness limestone so that the older rocks are on top of the younger ones. The theory of this dramatic rock reversal was confirmed here by two brilliant rock mappers of the Geological Survey in Scotland. You will learn about this fascinating natural feature as you hike along the thrust trail, accompanied by an expert in the area’s geology. If you prefer, the quarry trail offers the option to return before the short climb that rises to the thrust. Your guide will share insights along the way, and you will also have the opportunity to explore the trails at your leisure.

Embark on a panoramic drive through the North West Highlands Geopark, recognized by UNESCO for its unique geology. Board your motor coach and set out from Ullapool, travelling north through the dramatic mountain landscape of the North West Highlands Geopark. This picturesque region is home to some of the oldest rocks in Europe, with a geological record spanning nearly two-thirds of Earth’s history. During your drive, view the distinctively shaped mountains, such as Stac Pollaidh and Quinag, rising steeply from the lochan landscape, and keep watch for red deer as you travel farther north through increasingly wild landscapes. Toward the eastern end of Loch Assynt, you will pass the ruins of Calda House and Ardvreck Castle, then continue along the banks of the loch toward the village of Lochinver. After, you will return to your awaiting ship via a photo stop at rugged Knockan Crag.

Board a Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB) and venture onto the calm waters of Loch Broom. Depart from the pier for your one-hour cruise along the shoreline to this striking sea loch on Scotland’s northwestern coast. As you travel past the quiet shores of Annat Bay, once central to Scotland’s herring fishing industry, scan nearby rocky outcrops for common and grey seals and look skyward to spot sea eagles gliding above the loch. If you are lucky, you may also catch a glimpse of the dolphins and porpoises who are sometimes spotted playing in these waters. During your cruise, your guide will share insights into the wildlife you encounter, the history of fish farming in the loch and the delicate ecosystem that sustains this region. At the end of your excursion, return to the pier and rejoin your awaiting ship.

Gain insight into Scottish clan heritage during a visit to Foulis Castle, the seat of Clan Munro. Home to the Chiefs of Clan Munro for more than 700 years, Foulis Castle provides a glimpse into a living Highland tradition. After a drive by motor coach, you will arrive at this historic estate, surrounded by fields of malting barley, and enjoy a visit hosted by a member of the family. Explore the Georgian house, built in 1755 on the site of an earlier tower that burned down during the years following the Battle of Culloden. Walk through rooms which display portraits, clan memorabilia and historic tartans, and visit the early Georgian kitchen, which reflects centuries of family life. Learn about the clan’s enduring legacy, including ties to US President James Monroe. Cap your day with tea or coffee served with biscuits, scones and a dram of whisky, then return to your ship.