From Oban to Greenock (Glasgow) · Northern Europe · 7 nights
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 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.
Jura is a wild and rugged island, where a population of 200 people is outnumbered by some 5,000 red deer. The landscape is dominated by the Paps mountains, and the island is known for its fine whiskies. Jura was also once home to George Orwell, who completed ‘1984’ at the remote Barnhill farmhouse.
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.
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.
The village of Strachur sits on the eastern shore of Loch Fyne, a short drive from Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. Local points of interest include Strachur House, built by General John Campbell in the 1780s, and the Ardkinglas Estate, with its lovely Woodland Garden.
Inveraray was founded by the Duke of Argyll in the 18th century, a handsome and meticulously planned Georgian town in an almost uniform black and white colour scheme, on the shores of Loch Fyne. The magnificent neo-Gothic castle, still home to the Dukes of Argyll, is a particular highlight.
The peaceful isle of Bute boasts surprisingly varied landscapes for an island of its diminutive size, from rugged moors and fertile hills to sandy beaches. Highlights include the beautiful gardens of Mount Stuart House and the imposing castle at Rothesay.
Gritty Glasgow is Scotland's largest city, renowned for its culture, style and the friendliness of its people. With internationally-acclaimed museums and galleries, stunning architecture, vibrant nightlife, fantastic shopping and a diverse array of restaurants and bars, Glasgow has something for everyone.
