Scotland's Extreme North West 611

Scotland's Extreme North West 611

1,612 Views
4 Days From

$975

Scotland's Extreme North West 611

4 Days Starting and ending in Scotland

Visiting: Kinlochbervie, Lochinver, Durness, Lairg

Tour operator:

Brightwater Holidays

Tour code:

BXNW

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

6 - 25

Physical rating:

Light

Age range:

1-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Vegans, Meat, Please contact Brightwater with any specific dietary requirements

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

UK tours by Coach

Activities:

Walking

From: $975

NB: Prices correct on 10-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Scotland's Extreme North West with our captivating coach tour. Discover the enchanting Smoo Cave, marvel at the majestic Suilven Mountain, and indulge in the world's best hot chocolate at Cocoa Mountain. Experience the thrill of the Salmon Leap at Loch Shin and relax on the pristine white sands of Oldshoremore. This special interest tour offers comfortable accommodation at the Kinlochbervie Hotel, professional tour management, and all outlined visits, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience. As you traverse the breathtaking landscapes of Assynt and the rugged beauty of Durness, you'll explore historic sites like Balnakeil Church and the ancient Smoo Cave, while enjoying the stunning coastal views and unique cultural heritage of this remote region. Join us for an extraordinary adventure in the heart of Scotland's wild and untamed north.

Highlights

  • The magical Smoo Cave

  • The spectacle of the Suilven Mountain

  • Officially the best hot chocolate in the world at Cocoa Mountain

  • Salmon Leap at Loch Shin

  • White sands of Oldshoremore

  • Stunning beaches at Achmelvich Bay

  • Visit to the old church graveyard of Balnakeil in Durness

Places You'll See

Scotland's Extreme North West 611

Scotland's Extreme North West 611

Scotland's Extreme North West 611

Scotland's Extreme North West 611

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1

Location: Kinlochbervie

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: The Kinlochbervie Hotel

Meals Included: Dinner

We depart from our designated pick-up points and head north, stopping en route for refreshments. We continue to Kinlochbervie on the tip of the north west coastline and our accommodation at the Kinlochbervie Hotel, which overlooks the fishing harbour and the open sea beyond.

Day 2

Location: Lochinver

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: The Kinlochbervie Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Enjoy your breakfast. Today we travel south into Assynt, an extraordinary landscape of vast, undulating moorland studded with hundreds of freshwater lochans. The coastline is equally beautiful, with cliffs, impressive sea stacks and a series of stunning white beaches, such as the one at Achmelvich Bay. We will spend some time in Lochinver, a large village with a busy harbor, set on the shores of Loch Inver with superb views inland to the famous mountain of Suilven. Though relatively small in Scottish terms at 2389ft, Suilven presents a fearsome sight with its seemingly unconquerable summit, which we can expect to be flecked with snow at this time of year.

Day 3

Location: Durness

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: The Kinlochbervie Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

This morning after breakfast we will have a walk along the beach at Oldshoremore, one of Scotland’s most beautiful beaches. Formed from eroded sandstone and seashells, the white sandy beach is surrounded by ‘machair’, dunes of marram grass which are among the richest dune areas in Britain
Later we travel up the single track road to Durness through spectacular scenery where we will visit the beautiful old church graveyard of Balnakeil, home to the grave of the famous Gaelic poet Rob Don. This is a most interesting cemetery overlooking one of the finest sandy beaches in the UK. We will also visit the wonderful chocolatier at Cocoa Mountain where you have the opportunity to buy the finest hot chocolate drink anywhere in the world (official!). It also sells gorgeous handmade chocolates. Originally these buildings were used as an early warning station in case of nuclear attack, it was turned into a craft centre in 1964 and has housed a number of local craftspeople – sadly there are not many crafts-folks left today. Given the small size of the chocolatier shop we may have to split the group between Balnakeil Church and swop over.
We also visit the Smoo Cave which has the largest entrance of any sea cave in the British Isles. Recent excavations show that the cave was in use 6,000 years ago by the earliest settlers in the north. The “blowhole” and waterfall can be observed from an observation point above the cave.
We continue via Loch Eriboll to Tongue, whose name has old Norse origins: it comes from “tunga”, a tongue of land projecting into the loch. Although the Norse people probably lived here between the 900 and 1200, nothing certain has been found of their settlement. When Thomas Telford completed the road south to Lairg in 1828, Tongue changed from being an island community relying on the sea for its communications. When the road to Thurso followed in 1836 a daily coach service ran and during the rest of the 1800s efforts to complete the road west to Durness continued.

Day 4

Location: Lairg

Meals Included: Breakfast

We begin our homeward journey, travelling via Laxford Bridge, Loch More, Loch Shin and Lairg. In the 1950s a hydro-electric dam was constructed which raised the level of Loch Shin by over 30 feet and it now forms one of the major attractions of the area, complete with a spectacular salmon leap.
At one time the majority of the inhabitants in Lairg area resided on the high moorlands and straths, with the children of tenanting shepherds walking miles to school over rugged hill paths, but gradually these dwellings have been vacated in favour of a move down to the more accessible present village on the southern shores of the loch, which developed from around 1812.
Continuing via Bonar Bridge and Tain and return back to our original pick-up points.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation is included as part of the tour package.

  • Services of a professional tour manager

    The services of a professional tour manager are included throughout the tour.

  • Comfortable coach travel throughout

    Comfortable coach travel is provided for the duration of the tour.

  • Meals - as per the itinerary

    Meals are included as per the itinerary.

  • All visits as outlined in the itinerary

    All visits mentioned in the itinerary are included in the tour.

What's Not Included

  • Tipping and Gratuities

    Tipping and gratuities are not included in the tour package.

  • International Travel

    International travel to and from the tour starting point is not included.

Mode of Transport

Travel comfortably throughout the tour with coach travel, ensuring a relaxed and scenic journey as you explore the breathtaking landscapes and attractions of Scotland's extreme northwest.

Accommodation

Stay at the Kinlochbervie Hotel, offering comfortable accommodations with stunning views of the fishing harbor and open sea, providing a perfect retreat after a day of exploration in Scotland's extreme northwest.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The accommodation provided during the tour is at the Kinlochbervie Hotel, which overlooks the fishing harbour and the open sea beyond.

  • What is special about the hot chocolate at Cocoa Mountain?

    Cocoa Mountain is known for offering what is officially considered the best hot chocolate in the world. It also sells handmade chocolates.

  • What can we expect to see at Smoo Cave?

    Smoo Cave has the largest entrance of any sea cave in the British Isles. It features a 'blowhole' and a waterfall, which can be observed from an observation point above the cave.

  • What is unique about the beach at Oldshoremore?

    Oldshoremore Beach is one of Scotland's most beautiful beaches, formed from eroded sandstone and seashells. It is surrounded by 'machair', dunes of marram grass, which are among the richest dune areas in Britain.

  • What historical significance does the Balnakeil Church graveyard hold?

    The Balnakeil Church graveyard is home to the grave of the famous Gaelic poet Rob Don. It is an interesting cemetery overlooking one of the finest sandy beaches in the UK.

  • What is the significance of Loch Shin on the tour?

    Loch Shin is notable for its hydro-electric dam, which raised the loch's level by over 30 feet. It is a major attraction in the area, featuring a spectacular salmon leap.

  • Will I receive more details of the holiday before I travel?

    You will receive detailed joining instructions around 10 days prior to you departure, but you are of course welcome to contact us at any time should you have any queries.

  • What facilities do your coaches have?

    Generally, our coaches have reclining seats, air-conditioning and toilets, however this cannot always be guaranteed as sometimes we have to use smaller vehicles. Toilets are recommended for emergency use only and regular comfort stops will be made throughout your holiday while travelling around.

  • Do I have to go on the included excursions?

    Absolutely not. You are more than welcome to spend the day at your hotel or exploring independently should you wish. All we ask is that you inform your Tour Manager, so they are not left waiting for you to join the group.

  • Is there time to relax?

    Although our itineraries may seem jam-packed, boasting access to some of the most exclusive sites across the UK and beyond, a Brightwater Holiday is just that: a holiday. Each trip will counter in more than enough free-time for you to explore places at your own leisure. And with most nights and the majority of meals being included in our tour prices, you can relax in hand-picked accommodation.

  • Do I need to be an expert?

    Absolutely not! Although some of our tours are specifically focused on one thing, all you need to enjoy a Brightwater holiday is interest and bags of enthusiasm! Even on our most specialist tours, we take travellers from all skill levels, from experts to beginners.

  • How fit or active do I need to be for one of your holidays?

    You need to be able to get on and off the coach unassisted, and most – but not all – coaches have a kneel facility that lowers the front step for ease of boarding

  • Do you have self-drive holidays?

    Yes, we do – tailored to your exact requirements!

  • What’s the luggage allowance on your coaches?

    There’s no fixed limit, but we generally say one large suitcase to go in the luggage compartment and a smaller bag that you can take onto the coach with you. For flight-inclusive holidays, we include a luggage allowance of at least 20kg.

  • Where are your departure points?

    UK garden holidays generally depart from London, with additional pick-ups depending on the route of the coach, while holidays to Scotland depart from Glasgow, Edinburgh and Perth, with Dundee, Inverness and Aberdeen sometimes included. All Eurostar holidays depart from London St. Pancras and flight-inclusive holidays depart from one or more of the main London airports, with regional flights .

  • What about the company that will be kept?

    For single travellers, those with a companion or even those travelling in a larger group, you'll find that the signature of any Brightwater Holiday is the company. You won't ever be travelling with a group of strangers, instead, you'll find yourself surrounded by like-minded people with a strong shared interest who will soon become your firm friends.

  • What is a Brightwater Holiday?

    Bursting with enthralling, educational and enlightening itineraries, a Brightwater Holiday, by its very nature, is packed with bucket-list-worthy destinations, behind the scenes passes and expert-led experiences. From creating bespoke quality garden and special interest tours for groups and individuals alike, we have made it our business to make our guests' travel dreams come true.

  • Why is there a single supplement?

    Unfortunately, single room supplements are charges that are often imposed on us as a company when we book rooms for group holidays. However, most hotels do charge less for single occupancy, and we always pass this saving on to our solo travellers in the form of a modest single supplement.

  • How much are your optional excursions?

    Prices start from as little as £20, but please contact our friendly team for questions about specific itineraries or excursions.

  • Can I pre-book my coach seats?

    Yes, you can. In the case of front seats, guests with limited mobility are given priority. Please get in touch with our friendly team to discuss any requirements you may have.

  • How to get there? Easy!

    With a Brightwater Holiday, the journey is just as important as the destination and we make getting you to your tour start point easy. From organising group flights and individual travel plans, to offering accessible local departure and pick-up points, we go out of our way to ensure that your journey is as convenient and hassle-free as it can be.

  • Do I need to have travel insurance?

    Travel insurance is required for all overseas holidays and is also strongly recommended for UK holidays – primarily to protect yourself against cancellation charges should you be unable to travel.

Reviews of this operator

Trusted Customer  

Brightwater Holidays offers great value

28-Nov-2019

I would highly recommend Brightwater Holidays. It offers excellent service and value for money. This was my first tour as I normally arrange holidays myself, but this tour - which was to the gardens of Kent and Sussex - was a very pleasant change of pace.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Brightwater Holidays Customer  

My experience with Brightwater Holidays

08-Aug-2019

The tour was well managed, the sites visited were all interesting and linked to the theme of the Picts and their place in history, the hotel was comfortable and the coach journeys were well paced. I have been with Brightwater before and will certainly travel with them again

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Alan Hawkes (Google Reviewer)  

We were on the Tour...

28-Aug-2022

We were on the Tour of the Outer Hebrides. We had a great experience, in no small part due to the excellence of the tour manager and driver.

Brightwater Holidays Custome  

Wonderful experience with brilliant information

31-Jul-2019

The most important factor was an amazing guide in Alastair Walker whose knowledge and care for clients was fantastic. The whole trips are superbly organised

Feefo Trusted Reviews
David MacLennan (Google Reviewer)  

Noted a comment on taking...

23-Aug-2023

Noted a comment on taking coaches on A814 by a local person who didn't know the facts: When the A82 was blocked and the POLICE divert you onto that road you do as instructed not what a you know are tight roads but they only way to your destination as intructed by officials. We know this route is not suitable for large vehicles but the driver does as instructed by someone in authority.

Eric Webb (Google Reviewer)  

Recent (September 2023) Scottish holiday...

07-Oct-2023

Recent (September 2023) Scottish holiday not so good. Various 'issues' to do with scheduling and organisation. I'm happy to report however that - after an interval - a letter expressing disappointment brought a full response - including a generous refund. So - with fingers slightly crossed - we'll be booking with Brightwater again in due course.

Kevin Barrett (Google Reviewer)  

The recent tour in Northumberland...

30-Sep-2023

The recent tour in Northumberland turned out to be a shambles. Our South London driver took us to Newcastle, but no guide to meet us. Next day still no guide and the bus driver attempted to salvage the tour the best he could despite having no knowledge of the attractions. Fortunately one of the passengers Googled the tides for Holy Island. No holiday guide ever showed up. Coach and hotel were fine. Do these people only offer self guided tours? Take Shearings next time.

ALEXANDRA MCQUEEN (Google Reviewer)  

Been trying to get a...

17-Oct-2023

Been trying to get a reply from them for over a week. Booked Xmas tour, confirmation said pick up subject to numbers, they never said anything when booking and theyve been paid in full. Would not recommend!

Dp Green (Google Reviewer)  

I had heard this company...

20-Feb-2024

I had heard this company was a nightmare to deal with, but thought I'd give it a go. Signed up for a tour, then emailed them about how to pay off the balance. No response to 3 emails. I've never encountered a tour company that ignored questions on how to pay off a balance. Looked into other reviews and found many complaints about cancelled tours and refusals to refund deposits.

Kieran Thompson (Google Reviewer)  

Two of your tour busses...

26-Jul-2021

Two of your tour busses used the A814 from Garelochhead to Arrochar on 24th July 2021. This route is not suitable for large vehicles and your drivers should not have taken the huge coaches that way. There are clear signs at both ends of the road indicating it is not suitable for HGV's. Our car had to go off into the soft verge to allow your coaches to pass. Please amend your routes to avoid this road in future.

1 Select your preferred date

Thursday - Sunday

Mar 13, 2025 - Mar 16, 2025
$975

Tuesday - Friday

Mar 18, 2025 - Mar 21, 2025
$1115

Tuesday - Friday

Apr 08, 2025 - Apr 11, 2025
$1015

Friday - Monday

Apr 18, 2025 - Apr 21, 2025
$1015

Tuesday - Friday

Oct 07, 2025 - Oct 10, 2025
$975

Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Brightwater Holidays allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform brightwater holidays, 25 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Brightwater Holidays requires a minimum deposit of 15% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of brightwater holidays charges.

    At 40 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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