Highland Adventure

Our holiday begins in Inverness at the Palace Hotel & Spa, which overlooks the River Ness in the centre of the city. With free time you could familiarise yourself with the city on a riverside stroll or visit the Inverness Museum & Art Gallery before dinner. This delightful city is considered the capital of the Highlands, and is crowned by the stunning Inverness Castle. Its most famous resident, King Mac Bethad Mac Findláich, may seem familiar as he was the inspiration for one of Shakespeare's most famous tragedies, MacBeth.

• Dinner

Transferring to Fort William, we join the Jacobite Steam Train to Mallaig, one of the most scenic lines in the UK. During our time on board, we pass Ben Nevis before climbing into the mountains surrounding Glenfinnan, where we cross the impressive Glenfinnan Viaduct. The line also provides stunning views of Loch Eil, a glittering blue loch overseen by the chiefs of Clan Cameron. After time for lunch, we make the return trip by coach, pausing enroute at the Commando Memorial, a World War II monument, and Fort Augustus, a small village which the Caledonian Canal runs through.

On early/late season departures the Jacobite Steam Train excursion is replaced by the scheduled Scotrail service.

• Breakfast, Dinner

We visit Eilean Donan Castle, one of the most striking castles in Scotland. Perched atop a tiny island at the confluence of Loch Duich, Loch Long and Loch Alsh, this iconic fortress played a starring role in the film 'Highlander'. Originally built in the 13th century, it was destroyed during the Jacobite rebellions but restored 200 years later. We return to Inverness on the Kyle Line, one of Scotland's most scenic railways, skirting alongside lochs and through wild mountain landscapes. With a free evening in the city, you might like to enjoy dinner at one of the many pubs or restaurants.

• Breakfast

Travelling to Aviemore, we join the nostalgic Strathspey Steam Railway for a trip through the stunning sights of Cairngorms National Park. Winding our way alongside the River Spey, we enjoy views of rolling hills blanketed by purple heather, the craggy top of Cairngorm Mountain and the thick pine forests and wooded glens which line the tracks.

Next, we make our way to the Rothiemurchus Estate. Set in the heart of the Highlands, within Cairngorms National Park, we get to meet some of the most adorable Highland residents, the iconic Highland cow. Taking part in a 'hairy coo safari', a local ranger teaches us more about these shaggy creatures as we enjoy plenty of photo opportunities. Finally, we travel by coach to Culloden Battlefield. This atmospheric site was where the 1746 Battle of Culloden - the last major battle held on British soil - was fought. We return to our hotel by coach and enjoy a final farewell meal together.

• Breakfast, Dinner

Our tour draws to an end and you're free to depart Inverness after breakfast.

• Breakfast