Highland Adventure

Our tour begins in Inverness at the Palace Hotel & Spa, which overlooks the River Ness in the centre of the city. Perhaps familiarise yourself with the city on a riverside stroll before meeting for this evening's meal. This delightful city is considered to be the capital of the Highlands, and it is crowned by the stunning Inverness Castle.

The history of Inverness dates back well over 2,500 years, and one of the most famous residents, King Mac Bethad Mac Findláich may seem familiar as he is the inspiration for one of Shakespeare's most famous tragedies, MacBeth.

• Dinner

Today we transfer to Fort William, where we join the Jacobite Steam Train* for the return journey to Mallaig, along what is arguably the most scenic railway journey in the UK. It is easy to see why this journey is so beloved by those who travel on it, as it is the perfect way to view the incomparable beauty of the Scottish Highlands.

During the journey the train steams past Ben Nevis, then climbs into the mountains surrounding Glenfinnan, where we cross the 21-arched Glenfinnan Viaduct. This iconic section of the journey has been shown throughout the world via the media of film and television, including 'Monarch of the Glen' and the 'Harry Potter' film series.

The line also passes by the stunning Loch Eil, a glittering blue loch overseen by the chiefs of Clan Cameron. After time for lunch we return to Fort William, from where we continue by coach to Inverness. En route, we make short stops at Commando Memorial, a monument dedicated to those who served as Commando's in World War II, and Fort Augustus, a small but rather striking village through which runs the famed Caledonian Canal.

*The Jacobite Steam Train does not operate until mid-May. Earlier departures travel on Scotrail's scheduled service.

• Breakfast, Dinner

Today 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 castle was featured in the film 'Highlander'. Originally built in the 13th century, it was destroyed during the Jacobite rebellions and restored 200 years later. Enjoy some time here, perhaps absorbing the magnificent surroundings or taking a walk by one of the lochs. We return to Inverness on the Kyle Line, one of Scotland's most scenic railways, skirting alongside lochs and through wild mountain landscapes. We arrive at our hotel ahead of a free evening. Perhaps use this opportunity to enjoy dinner at one of the city's pubs or restaurants; sampling Scotland's national dish, haggis.

• Breakfast

Our excursion today takes us along the tracks of the historic Highland Railway. Travelling to Aviemore by rail, we join the nostalgic Strathspey Steam Railway, through the large windows of the restored carriages, we take in the stunning sights of Cairngorm National Park as we wind alongside the River Spey; from rolling hills blanketed by purple heather and the craggy top of Cairngorm Mountain, to the mysterious depths of the thick pine forests and wooded glens that line the tracks. Finally, we travel by coach to Culloden Battlefield. The atmospheric battlefield was the site of the 1746 Battle of Culloden - the last major battle fought on British soil. We have the chance to visit the battlefield site as well as the Visitor Centre, which features interactive exhibitions and Jacobite artefacts. We return to our hotel by coach, where we enjoy a final farewell meal together

• Breakfast, Dinner

Your Tour Manager bids you farewell from Inverness and you are free to travel home independently.

• Breakfast