From Troon to Oban · Northern Europe · 7 nights
From Troon to Oban
We know of no ship quite like this one; a tiny little gem, dedicated to Scotland and all things Scottish, this Princess is fit for a queen!
A single ship with just 48 guests and in operation for only nine
months of the year – hardly viable in the modern day, you would
think – and when you step aboard you will also feel as if you have
been swept into a bygone age, when kindness was key. A one word
descriptor? Charm, perhaps. But that only begins to cover what is
special about Hebridean Princess.
The coastal town of Troon, just to the north of Ayr, is probably best known for its seven golf courses, including Royal Troon, which regularly hosts the Open. Other attractions include sandy beaches, excellent seafood restaurants and nearby Dundonald Castle, which dates back to the 14th century.
Just two miles long by one mile wide, the Holy Isle has a spiritual significance that dates back to at least the 6th century. The island was originally known as Inis Shroin, the ‘Island of the Water Spirit’, and is home to a spring said to have healing powers.
Campbeltown was once known as the ‘whisky capital of the world’, and was home to 34 distilleries at its peak. Although just three distilleries remain, this is still a great place to learn about the process of making whisky, and it’s also a base for exploring the beautiful Kintyre peninsula.
Islay is renowned for its peaty, smoky whiskies, and the island is home to nine different distilleries, including the famous Laphroaig. Other highlights include the RSPB Loch Gruinart Nature Reserve and the ruins at Finlaggan, former seat of the Lords of the Isles.
The tiny island of Iona, situated off the southwestern tip of Mull, is said to be the cradle of Christianity in Scotland, and is a popular place of pilgrimage. Thousands of visitors flock here every year to visit the Abbey, and the island gets particularly busy in summer.
The traffic-free, privately owned island of Ulva is situated just off the west coast of Mull. With a permanent population of around sixteen people it’s a peaceful and unspoilt place, offering excellent hiking and cycling opportunities, varied wildlife and an intriguing history.
Tiree is the westernmost of the Inner Hebrides, and enjoys some of the longest sunshine hours in the UK. The influence of the Gulf Stream also means the climate is milder than on the mainland, and the island is characterised by sweeping white sand beaches, pretty wildflowers and strong winds that keep the midges away.
The waterfront town of Oban, situated on Scotland’s west coast, is the main gateway to the Hebridean islands, and it’s a busy place in summer. We recommend sampling the excellent seafood while enjoying the views across to the islands of Mull and Kerrera.
