From Oban to Oban · 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.
The village of Ballachulish is rather unusual in that it is actually two villages, situated either side of Loch Leven. The main draw here is the spectacular Highland scenery of Glen Coe, which was used as a filming location for ‘Skyfall’ and several of the Harry Potter films.
Muck is the smallest and most southerly of the Small Isles, just 2½ miles across and home to barely 40 people. Flat, fertile and flecked with wildflowers, the island provides a haven for wildlife including puffins, kittiwakes, fulmars, shearwaters, sea eagles and porpoises.
Pull up a seat and enjoy a pint at the most remote pub in mainland Britain, the Old Forge in Inverie. This sleepy little village is situated on the wild Knoydart Peninsula, and can only be reached by boat or by hiking 17 miles over some pretty challenging terrain.
Armadale sits near the southern tip of the Sleat Peninsula on the Isle of Skye, linked by ferry to Mallaig on the mainland. Next to the ruins of Armadale Castle is a visitor’s centre dedicated to the history of Clan Donald, one of the largest clans in Scotland, and the castle is surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Kyle of Lochalsh is a pleasant little town that sits at the mouth of Loch Alsh, close to the bridge that links the mainland with the Isle of Skye. Nearby attractions include the 13th century Eilean Donan castle, one of the most iconic tourist destinations in Scotland.
Situated on the shore of Loch Gairloch in picturesque Wester Ross, the scattered settlements known collectively as Gairloch serve as a popular base for whale and dolphin watching trips, and the surrounding area is home to some beautiful sandy beaches.
Shieldaig is one of the prettiest villages on Scotland's west coast , perched on the edge of Loch Torridon. The village is mostly comprised of picturesque whitewashed cottages, and there are some great walks to be enjoyed along the coast and up in the brooding Torridon Hills.
The dramatic mountains of the Isle of Rum offer some of the most spectacular scenery in the Inner Hebrides. The eccentric Kinloch Castle is a reminder of the days when the island was the domain of the Bullough family, while the native wildlife includes deer, ponies, golden eagles and Manx shearwaters.
Tobermory, an old fishing station brightened by a crescent of colourful houses, is the main settlement on the Isle of Mull. This rugged and varied island is one of the most popular destinations in the Hebrides, and is rich in wildlife, home to species including white-tailed eagles, otters and whales.
Kilchoan is the most westerly village in mainland Britain, on the wild Ardnamurchan Peninsula. The village was only accessible by sea until 1900, and is now connected by a winding single-track road. It’s a beautiful part of Scotland, home to wildlife including wildcats, dolphins and golden eagles.
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.