Curator’s statement
Imagine cruising through breathtaking landscapes, passing by ancient ruins and pristine mountains, while indulging in top-notch accommodations and dining. This is exactly what you can expect when you embark on a river cruise through Scotland.
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Where to stay in Scotland
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Things to do in Scotland
To start off your journey, you will meet in the charming city of Inverness. Known as the capital of the Highlands, Inverness offers a quaint mix of historic buildings, bustling markets, and picturesque views of the River Ness. It is the perfect place to begin your intimate river cruise through Scotland.
Day 1
After meeting in Inverness, you will be transferred to Banavie to board your cruise ship. As you bid farewell to the bustling city, you will set sail towards your first destination. Along the way, you will pass by the famous Caledonian Canal, a masterpiece of engineering that connects the North Sea to the Atlantic Ocean.
Day 2 - Banavie to Lagan
On this day, you will embark from Banavie and sail to Lagan. As you cruise through the canal, you will be surrounded by rugged landscapes and majestic mountains. Make sure to keep an eye out for the famous Loch Lochy, which is known for its rare sightings of the elusive creature, Nessie.
Day 3 - Laggan to Kytra
Your journey continues towards Kytra, a picturesque village known for its traditional Scottish charm. Along the way, you will pass by the famous Loch Oich, where you can spot a variety of wildlife and stunning landscapes. In Kytra, be sure to take a stroll along the charming streets and immerse yourself in the local culture.
Day 4 - Kytra to Fort Augustus
As your cruise ship glides through the shimmering waters, you will reach Fort Augustus. This quaint village is home to the famous Caledonian Canal locks, a must-see attraction for any visitor. The locks provide a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to learn about the engineering feat that connects the Atlantic Ocean to the North Sea.
Day 5 - Fort Augustus to Dochgarroch
As you depart Fort Augustus, you will continue your journey towards Dochgarroch. Along the way, you will pass by the beautiful Loch Ness, where you might spot the famed Loch Ness monster. Dochgarroch is a charming village that offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city life. Take a stroll through the village, or enjoy a picnic by the riverbank.
Day 6 - Dochgarroch to Muirtown
On the second-last day of your cruise, you will sail towards Muirtown, a charming village nestled along the banks of the river. Here, you can opt for a guided tour of the stunning ruins of Urquhart Castle, or simply relax on the deck of your cruise ship and soak in the breathtaking views.
Day 7 - Disembark Muirtown and transfer to Inverness
Inverness is home to many wonderful attractions that are worth exploring. These include the Inverness Cathedral, a beautiful example of Gothic architecture, the Inverness Castle, which offers stunning views of the city, and the Inverness Museum & Art Gallery, which showcases the history and culture of the Highlands.
Places to eat & drink in Scotland
Travel Advisor
Tammy Kiefer
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Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, A Spring Adventure on the Tulip Time River Cruise in the Netherlands and Belgium.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel on Cruises.