From Oban to Greenock (Glasgow) · Northern Europe · 7 nights
From Oban to Greenock (Glasgow)
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.
The seaside resort town of Ballycastle is just a short drive from the Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and highlight of the Antrim coast. The town also has a lovely mile-long beach and a number of attractive 18th-century buildings, and a regular ferry service operates between Ballycastle and Rathlin Island.
Sanda is a small, privately-owned island off the Kintyre peninsula, and it’s an important site for breeding and migratory birds, designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Species to look out for include Manx shearwaters, storm petrels, ringed plovers and golden eagles.
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.
Brodick is the main village on the Isle of Arran, a bustling port that sits on a bay opposite the towering Goatfell mountain. Highlights include the impressive 16th century Brodick Castle, and it’s only a short drive to Lochranza on the north coast, home to an even older castle and the Arran Distillery.
The genteel resort town of Largs sits on the Forth of Clyde, just across the water from the island of Great Cumbrae. Take a stroll along the Victorian promenade, enjoy a classic British seaside experience at the amusements and learn about the town’s Viking heritage, celebrated at the annual Viking Festival.
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.
