The Scottish Highlands are a renowned destination for travelers seeking to enjoy breathtaking natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and a serene escape from the bustle of daily life. This 3-day trip from Newcastle and Durham promises to whisk you away to the heart of this magnificent region, where you’ll have the opportunity to hike scenic trails, explore historic sites, and savor the tranquility of the highlands. With an expert guide at your side, you’ll uncover the secrets of this captivating corner of the world, leaving you with memories that will linger long after your return. But the true wonder of this journey lies in the surprises that await, beckoning you to embark on an unforgettable adventure.
Key Points
- Comprehensive 3-day tour of the Scottish Highlands from Newcastle and Durham, exploring the region’s natural landscapes and cultural heritage.
- Convenient pickups from multiple locations in Newcastle and Durham, with a 2.25-hour coach journey to the starting point.
- Moderate hikes, guided tours, and free time to experience the serene atmosphere of the Highlands, including Loch Ness and Glencoe.
- Includes accommodation, breakfasts, and an award-winning tour guide, priced at €425.22 per person.
- Not suitable for children under 16, wheelchair users, individuals with low fitness, or travelers over 70 due to the nature of the activities.
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Trip Details
This 3-day trip to the Scottish Highlands from Newcastle and Durham offers a comprehensive exploration of the region’s stunning natural landscapes and cultural heritage.
The adventure kicks off with convenient pickups from Durham Student Union, International House, and Northumbria University Nursery, before embarking on a journey that immerses visitors in the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands.
Priced from €425.22 per person, the trip includes transport by executive coach, comfortable accommodation at Morags Lodge in Fort Augustus, and hearty breakfasts to fuel the day’s activities.
Guests can look forward to moderate hikes, guided tours, and ample free time to soak in the serene atmosphere of this legendary destination.
Itinerary
The trip begins with a bus/coach journey of 2.25 hours to a visitor center, where guests enjoy a 45-minute break before continuing onward. Next, they embark on a 2.5-hour drive to Conic Hill, where they hike for 2 hours, taking in the stunning views of Loch Lomond. After a 75-minute ride to a local café, they break for an hour before heading to Loch Ness for a 15-minute guided tour. The day culminates with 1.5 hours of free time in Fort Augustus.
| Day | Transportation | Activity | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bus/coach | Hike | 2 hours |
| 2 | Bus/coach | Hike | 4 hours |
| 3 | Bus/coach | Hike | 3 hours |
Day 1 Highlights
Guests kick off the adventure by embarking on a 2.25-hour coach journey to a visitor center, where they enjoy a 45-minute break before continuing onward.
The highlight of the day is the hike up Conic Hill, which offers stunning panoramic views of Loch Lomond. Visitors can:
- Soak in the serene beauty of the lush, rolling hills and crystal-clear waters of the famous loch
- Challenge themselves with the moderate 2-hour trek up the hill
- Snap breathtaking photos of the iconic vistas from the summit
Visitors can refuel with a delightful break at a local café before heading to the legendary Loch Ness for a guided tour.
Day 2 Highlights
After their thrilling hike up Conic Hill on the first day, participants venture off to the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, where they embark on a captivating 105-minute guided tour showcasing the renowned railway bridge made famous by the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films. Following this, the group travels a short distance to the charming town of Fort William for a well-deserved lunch. Afterward, they depart for the stunning Steall Waterfall, where they’re treated to a 4-hour hike through the serene Hidden Valley. As the day winds down, the group returns to Fort Augustus, where they have 12 hours of free time to explore the quaint village and its picturesque surroundings.
| Activity | Duration |
|---|---|
| Glenfinnan Viaduct Guided Tour | 105 minutes |
| Lunch in Fort William | 1 hour |
| Hiking to Steall Waterfall | 4 hours |
| Free Time in Fort Augustus | 12 hours |
Day 3 Highlights
On the final day of the adventure, participants head to the awe-inspiring Glencoe region, where they embark on a 3-hour hike through the dramatic landscapes that have captivated visitors for centuries.
Immersed in the rugged beauty of the Hidden Valley, they soak in the majestic scenery and feel a deep connection to the land. The Glencoe Hike offers:
- Breathtaking vistas of towering mountains and cascading waterfalls
- Opportunities to spot iconic Scottish wildlife, like red deer and golden eagles
- Insights into the region’s rich history, including the infamous Glencoe Massacre
- A sense of personal triumph upon reaching the summit and taking in the panoramic views
After the hike, the group enjoys a relaxing break at a local café before making the journey back to the starting points, their minds filled with unforgettable memories of the Scottish Highlands.
Included in the Price
Included in the price, travelers enjoy a range of inclusions that enhance their 3-day Scottish Highlands adventure. Executive coach transportation whisks them between scenic locations, while accommodation at the charming Morags Lodge in Fort Augustus ensures a cozy respite after each day’s activities.
Hearty breakfasts fuel their explorations, and an award-winning tour guide provides expert insight throughout the journey.
The itinerary features 3 days of moderate hiking, allowing guests to enjoy the region’s stunning natural beauty. From marveling at the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct to embarking on the Hidden Valley of Glencoe hike, these inclusions elevate the experience, creating memories that will last long after the trip concludes.
Not Suitable for
While the 3-day Scottish Highlands tour offers an immersive adventure, it’s not suitable for certain travelers. Children under 16 years old, wheelchair users, those with a low level of fitness, and individuals over 70 years of age may find the moderate hiking and travel demands challenging to accommodate.
This tour requires:
- Navigating uneven terrain and steep inclines during hikes
- Spending extended periods on buses and coaches
- Maintaining a moderate pace for several hours at a time
- Carrying personal belongings and supplies throughout the day
Participants should be prepared for an active, physically demanding itinerary to fully enjoy the highlights of the Scottish Highlands.
Getting to the Trip
The tour offers multiple pickup locations to accommodate travelers from Newcastle and Durham. Passengers can board the executive coach at the Durham Students Union, International House, or Northumbria University Nursery, ensuring a convenient starting point for their Scottish Highlands adventure.
The journey to the Highlands begins with a 2.25-hour drive from the pickup locations. Along the way, travelers will have the opportunity to take in the picturesque countryside before arriving at the visitor center, where they’ll have a 45-minute break to stretch their legs.
From there, the group will continue their trek, making their way deeper into the stunning Scottish landscape.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Special Dietary Requirements Accommodated?
The tour accommodates various dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Guests are advised to inform the operator of any special dietary needs when booking to ensure their needs are met during the trip.
Can I Bring My Pet on the Trip?
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on this trip. The tour operator’s policy prohibits bringing pets due to safety, comfort, and space considerations for all travelers. Guests are advised to make alternative arrangements for their pets before joining the excursion.
Is There an Option to Extend the Trip?
The tour does not offer an option to extend the 3-day trip. However, travelers who want a longer experience can book additional nights at the accommodation in Fort Augustus during the free time on days 2 and 3.
Can I Choose My Own Hiking Routes?
While the guided hiking routes are well-planned, participants can also explore the Scottish Highlands on their own during the free time. However, hikers should ensure they have the necessary skills and gear for self-guided adventures.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Trip?
The trip offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for travelers. This allows participants to adjust their plans if needed without incurring additional costs or penalties.
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Recap
This 3-day Scottish Highlands tour from Newcastle and Durham offers an immersive experience in the region’s natural splendor and cultural heritage.
With guided hikes, visits to iconic landmarks, and comfortable accommodations, it’s a convenient way for travelers to discover the serene beauty and rich history that makes the Highlands truly captivating.
Whether you’re seeking scenic vistas or a deeper connection to the land, this trip promises an unforgettable journey through the heart of Scotland.
