Islay - An Islay Distillery Visit one of Islay’s fine whisky distilleries, where they’ve been making whisky for as long as 200 years.
Enjoy a ‘wee dram’
Islay is known for its malt whiskies with nine working distilleries. The rugged conditions found on the island give its whisky the distinctive strong, peaty and smoky characteristics.
Visit one of the distilleries and discover more about the whisky making process with a guided tour, and of course, a tasting. While on this beautiful island, you can also admire the abundance of wildlife, from otters to Golden Eagles.
Duration: 2 hrs
Booking code: E-ISY4
Min. number: 10 traveller(s)
Highlights:
• Experience a historic distillery and see their traditional whisky-making methods.
• Sample the typical whisky of Islay and delve into the different characteristics.
• Scout for an abundance of wildlife, from seals and otters to geese and Golden Eagles.
• Admire the stunning scenery along Islay’s 130-mile-long coastline.
Practical information:
• Remarks/requirements: Please note the numbers on whisky tours are extremely limited. The name of the distillery will be confirmed on board. Please wear warm, waterproof clothing and comfortable walking shoes.
• Walking or Activity information: Involves moderate physical activity on relatively level surfaces and gentle terrain.
• Wheelchair accessible: No
• Language Availability: English
Colonsay Gardens Visit one of the finest rhododendron gardens in Scotland on the tranquil Hebridean isle of Colonsay.
Garden party
Stroll through the beautifully landscaped rhododendron and woodland gardens at Colonsay House on the unspoiled island of Colonsay in the Inner Hebrides. Notice how the design accentuates the natural features of the woodland areas. The formal gardens burst with colors and scents. See an exceptional variety of plants, trees, shrubs, and flowers, most of which were planted in the 1930s.
Duration: 2h
Difficulty: Level 2: Moderate - some mobility needed
Booking code: INCL-CSA1
Highlights:
• Visit Colonsay, a tranquil island in the Hebrides known for its unspoiled beauty
• Enjoy a leisurely walk from the pier to one of the finest gardens in Scotland
• See the beautiful rhododendron gardens and other delightfully landscaped gardens
• Stroll through some of its 20 acres of wonderful woodland
Practical information:
Practical information:
• Language: English.
• Remarks/requirements: Appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes.
• Walking information: Approximately 2 miles, some uneven surfaces and steps.
• Wheelchair accessible: No
Stornoway - Traditions of Lewis Awake your senses as you discover vibrant Harris Tweed, idyllic seascapes, and rich crofting traditions.
Immerse yourself in tradition
Connect with the landscape, heritage, and culture of the Isle of Lewis on this unique journey with local guide and weaver, Donald Macleod.
Donald will demonstrate the art of Harris Tweed weaving at his home loom studio, before taking you to explore Garry Beach, a breathtaking expanse of golden sand framed by towering sea stacks and rugged moorland. Nearby, you’ll also learn more about peat cutting – a once vital source of fuel for the islanders.
Duration: 4 hours
Difficulty: Level 2: Moderate – some mobility needed
Booking code: E-STO6
Min. number: 10 traveller(s)
Highlights:
• Gain unique insight into the art of Harris Tweed production, the materials used, and how it’s woven.
• Join a local weaver and guide and discover some of his favorite landscapes on the Isle of Lewis.
• Learn about Hebridean crofting and traditions such as peat cutting.
Practical information:
• Remarks/requirements: Please wear comfortable walking shoes. Warm, waterproof clothing is recommended. This a small group tour with limited capacity.
• Walking and activity information: Involves moderate physical activity on relatively level surfaces and gentle terrain. Includes some rough terrain and inclines.
• Wheelchair accessible: No
• Language Availability English
Islay - Port Ellen—Islay Heritage Walk Join a local guide for a heritage walk and discover more about Islay whiskey, local history and island life.
Whiskey Island
On this heritage walk through Islay’s Port Ellen toward Laphroaig Distillery, you’ll learn about the island’s famous whiskey, history and modern-day island life.
Admire the coastal views at the picturesque inlet of Sròn Dubh, visit the MacDougall monument, which sits atop a grassy mound overlooking the sea, and see the iconic white storehouses of the Laphroaig Distillery, which is renowned for its peaty, smoky malts.
Duration: 3h00
Difficulty: Level 2: Moderate—some mobility needed
Booking code: INCL-ISY1
Highlights:
• Discover the history, heritage and culture of Islay with the help of your local guide.
• Admire the coastal views at the picturesque inlet of Sròn Dubh
• See the iconic white storehouses of the Laphroaig distillery, which is known for its peaty, smoky malts.
Practical information:
• Remarks/requirements: Please wear warm, waterproof clothing and comfortable walking shoes.
• Walking or Activity information: Involves moderate physical activity on relatively level surfaces and gentle terrain. There is approximately 3.7 mi of walking.
• Wheelchair accessible: No
• Language Availability: English
Lews Castle Walk Learn about the Isle of Lewis on a guided walk to Lews Castle and explore Museum nan Eilean at your leisure.
Gothic drama
Join your knowledgeable guide on a walk to Lews Castle. Along the way, you’ll hear about the characters and past events that have shaped Stornoway and the Isle of Lewis, and learn about modern-day island life.
When we arrive, you can explore at your own pace. Admire the castle’s turrets and towers and enjoy spectacular views over Stornoway and beyond. Then visit the Museum nan Eilean at your leisure and learn about the heritage of the Outer Hebrides.
Duration: 2h45
Difficulty: Level 3: Active - good mobility needed
Booking code: INCL-STO1
Highlights:
• Enjoy a guided walk to the impressive, Gothic-revival Lews Castle.
• Hear fascinating stories about the area’s rich history from your local guide.
• Explore the castle and Museum nan Eilean at your own pace, admiring the breathtaking views and delving into the history of the Outer Hebrides.
Practical information:
• Remarks/requirements: Please wear warm, waterproof clothing and comfortable walking shoes.
• Walking or Activity information: Involves moderate physical activity on relatively gentle terrain, includes some uneven, sometimes wet ground, and some steps. Approx. 1.25 mi of walking each way.
• Wheelchair accessible: No
• Language Availability: English
Small Boat Cruising in the Hebrides Discover craggy coastlines and renowned wildlife as we cruise aboard our small expedition boats.
Cruising the wild
Join us as we head off the beaten track and cruise through some of Scotland’s most enchanting coastal landscapes.
Your Expedition Team will seek out the best adventures and experiences based on the local conditions. Perhaps you’ll find yourself exploring the Isle of Skye’s wild Loch Scavaig, framed by the Black Cuillin Mountains. Or maybe you’ll experience the majestic acoustics of the hexagonal basalt columns at Staffa’s legendary sea cave. Wherever you explore, keep watch for the wildlife that abounds around these rugged shores.
Duration: 0h45
Booking code: INCL
Highlights:
• Experience the Hebridean wilderness as you cruise along rocky coastlines in our small, nimble expedition boats.
• Look out for the wildlife that thrives in this area such as seals, seabirds and even eagles.
• Get closer to epic scenery and explore under the expert guidance of your Expedition Team
Practical information:
• Remarks: This activity is subject to weather and sea conditions. Locations may vary. Further information will be available on board.
• Activity Information: Involves limited physical activity but need agility to step in and out of the small boats.
• Wheelchair Accessible: No
• Language Availability: English
Expedition Hikes in the Hebrides Discover rugged landscapes and timeless nature beauty on select hikes with your Expedition Team.
Explore the Hebrides on foot
Join your Expedition Team for up-close exploration in the Hebrides. On a carefully curated range of hikes, you may find yourself on a leisurely coastal walk amid fragrant spring gorse flowers on the Isle of Arran, admiring views of the distinctive Goat Fell along the way. Or perhaps you’ll take an exhilarating route through the Black Cuillin Mountains of Skye to the remote Loch Coruisk.
In true expedition style, routes can vary. More information will be available on board during your voyage.
Duration: 3-4h00
Booking code: INCL
Highlights:
• Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of remote landscapes as you explore on foot.
• Look out for the wildlife that thrives in the area, such as deer, eagles and renowned seabirds.
• Admire the majestic coastlines and soaring mountains that have inspired artists and poets alike.
Practical information:
• Remarks: This activity is only bookable on board and subject to weather conditions.
• If a local guide is used, additional charges will apply. Hiking routes may vary. Further information available on board
• Walking Information: Hikes range from 3-6 miles and can involve a high level of physical activity over an extended period, in terrain that may often be uneven, slippery and steep. You are expected to carry your own backpack and equipment. These hikes are not suitable if you have limited mobility.
• Wheelchair Accessible: No
• Language Availability: English
Isle of Arran - Glen Rosa Walk Join a scenic circular hike with a local guide through the Scottish Highlands from Brodick, offering splendid views.
Scotland in miniature
Your circular hike starts in Brodick on the Isle of Arran, set in a delightful bay. You’ll ascend toward woodland and hike along the trails, surrounded by forest and moorland. Take in the dramatic scenery all around you, including gorges, glens, mountains, and streams. See the jagged granite peaks of the Goatfell range, scenic Glen Rosa, and the craggy rocks of A’Chir ridge and Cìr Mhòr.
Duration: 3h30
Difficulty: Level 3: Active - good mobility needed
Booking code: E-NAR1
Highlights:
• This invigorating hike on the Isle of Arran leads to Glen Rosa, featuring excellent views of the Goatfell range
• Take a circular route from Brodick, pausing to take photos along the way
• Immerse yourself in dramatic views and stunning moorland scenery
• See the A’Chir ridge and the magnificent Cìr Mhòr rock
Practical information:
• Remarks/requirements: Warm, waterproof layers of clothing and comfortable walking shoes.
• Walking information: Approximately 3-6 miles across rough paths.
• Wheelchair accessible: No.
• Language: English.
Islay - Islay Boat Trip See Islay from the sea on a wildlife boat trip past historic distilleries, seal colonies, and spectacular coastal scenery.
Explore Islay’s stunning coastline by boat from Port Ellen Marina, spotting seals, birdlife and dramatic scenery. Learn about the island’s history, culture, and whisky heritage as you pass the Laphroaig, Lagavulin, and Ardbeg distilleries, see a 16th-century castle, and cruise a protected coastal area only accessible from the sea, with chances to spot dolphins and white-tailed eagles.
Duration: 2h30
Difficulty: Level 1: Easy – suitable for most people
Booking code: E-ISY5
Min. number: 6 traveller(s)
Highlights:
• Only viewable from the sea, observe Islay’s Special Area of Conservation, home to wildlife including a large seal colony, red deer, lots of birdlife, and some of the best scenery the island has to offer.
• Admire coastal views of the Laphroaig, Lagavulin and Ardbeg distilleries.
• Discover the history and culture of the island with a local guide.
• Pass the ruins of 13th-century Dunyvaig Castle guarding Lagavulin Bay.
Practical information:
• Remarks/requirements: Please wear warm, waterproof clothing.
• Walking or activity information: This excursion takes place on a local boat. There are no landings or walking. We cannot guarantee wildlife sightings.
• Wheelchair accessible: No
• Language availability: English
Stornoway—Ancient Lewis and Blackhouse Village Visit ancient Iron Age sites, and former crofting settlements on the Isle of Lewis.
The Callanaish Stones
Discover Gaelic culture and history on Lewis. We will visit Dun Carloway Broch, an example of Iron Age architecture only found in Scotland with views over the Isle of Lewis.
Then step back in time as we explore Gearrannan Blackhouse Village—a formerly abandoned crofting settlement perched on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. From here, it’s a short walk to beautiful Dalmore and Dalbeg beaches
Duration: 3hrs 45min
Difficulty: Level 2: Moderate—some mobility needed
Booking code: E-STO2
Min. number: 25 traveller(s)
Highlights:
• Visit Gearrannan Blackhouse Village, which was once a crofting settlement on the edge of the Atlantic.
• See Dun Carloway Broch, a uniquely Scottish Iron Age construction, perched atop a mound of rock.
Practical information:
• Remarks/requirements: Please wear warm, waterproof clothing and comfortable walking shoes.
• Walking or Activity information: Involves moderate physical activity on relatively level surfaces and gentle terrain. Includes a short uphill path at Dun Carloway and some steps at Callanaish.
• Wheelchair accessible: No
• Language Availability: English
Brodick Castle & Gardens Explore the stunning landscaped gardens and country park of a Victorian-era island castle.
An Island Castle
Travel back to Victorian times on a visit to the grand baronial estate of Brodick Castle on the Isle of Arran. You can take the shuttle to the castle, or you can follow the coastal “Fisherman’s Walk” for a little over a mile.
Overlooking the Firth of Clyde, Brodick Castle offers wonderful views and has three national collections of rhododendron, which flower almost year-round. Stroll along the Silver Garden Trail and Plant Hunters’ Walk and admire the beautifully landscaped gardens, woodland and waterfalls.
Duration: At Leisure
Difficulty: Level 2: Moderate—some mobility needed
Booking code: INCL-NAR1
Highlights:
• Visit Brodick Castle, a wonderful example of an island castle on the Isle of Arran.
• See native and rare exotic plants along the Silver Garden Trail and Plant Hunters’ Walk.
• Look out for red squirrels, red deer and otters as you enjoy a walk along the woodland trails
Practical information:
• Remarks/requirements: Please wear waterproof clothing and comfortable walking shoes.
• Walking or Activity information: At guests’ discretion.Some uneven terrain with steps in the castle. Guests can choose to take a shuttle service to the castle or walk the “Fisherman’s Walk”, which is approximately 1.25 miles each way.
• Wheelchair accessible: No
• Language Availability: English
Brodick, Isle of Arran - Arran Landscapes - Forest Safari Explore Arran’s stunning landscapes on an off-road 4x4 journey.
From the rocky Clauchlands Hills to the ancient Giants’ Graves, this 4x4 off road drive in a spacious Unimog takes you deep into the Isle of Arran’s wild landscapes. Traverse rugged hills, marvel at the 140ft Glenashdale Falls, and explore prehistoric sites, while your knowledgeable guide shares stories of the island’s history, myths, and folklore.
Duration: 3h00
Difficulty: Easy – suitable for most people
Booking code: E-NAR3
Min. number: 10 traveller(s)
Highlights:
• Explore Arran’s rugged landscapes on a comfortable 16-seat off-road 4x4 vehicle.
• Enjoy panoramic views on a forest safari.
• Stop at Clauchlands Hills, Glenashdale Falls, and the Giants Graves, a 5,000-year-old Neolithic burial cairn.
• Expert local guide shares insights into Arran’s rich history and folklore.
Practical information:
• Remarks/requirements: Please wear warm, waterproof clothing. This excursion uses an off-road vehicle on roads and forest tracks.
• Walking or activity information: Most of the tour takes place in the vehicle, with short walks over rough and uneven terrain.
• Wheelchair accessible: No
• Language availability: English
Achamore Gardens Explore the community-owned Isle of Gigha and stroll among the lush foliage of Achamore Gardens.
Wild Beauty
When we land on the Isle of Gigha, you’ll be met by heather-clad hills, sandy beaches, and clear turquoise waters. This small Hebridean island was acquired by its 150 inhabitants in 2002. Visit Achamore Gardens, created in 1944. Due to Gigha’s warm microclimate, many subtropical plants flourish alongside native plants and shrubs in the 54-acre gardens.
Duration: 3h
Difficulty: Level 2: Moderate - some mobility needed
Booking code: INCL-GIG1
Highlights:
• Transfer ashore and walk to Achamore House, which offers stunning views of the island
• Take time to explore the gorgeous Achamore Gardens at your leisure
• Admire the Rhododendron Collection and rare species of trees and shrubs
Practical information:
Practical information:
• Language: English.
• Remarks/requirements: Appropriate waterproof clothing and comfortable walking shoes
• Walking information: 1 mile from pier to garden Mostly flat terrain with some uneven ground and steps
• Wheelchair accessible: No
Tobermory - Town Walk Discover Tobermory, the colorful capital of Mull, on a guided walking tour with free time to explore.
A Tour of Tobermory
Join your knowledgeable local guide for a leisurely walking tour of Tobermory. As you stroll, your guide will bring the history of the town to life, and you can look out for golden and white-tailed eagles.
You’ll also enjoy free time to explore at your own pace. You can choose to walk along the wooded coastal path to Rubha nan Gall Lighthouse, which offers great views over the Sound of Mull toward Kilchoan and the Ardnamurchan Peninsula.
Duration: 1h00
Difficulty: Level 3: Active—good mobility needed
Booking code: INCL-TOB1
Highlights:
• Walking tour of Tobermory, visiting key sites
• Nature landing
Practical information:
• Remarks/requirements: Please dress according to the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes. Waterproof clothing is recommended.
• Walking or Activity information: Involves moderate physical activity on relatively level surfaces and gentle terrain. There is approximately 0.6 mi of walking. Optional coastal walk is approximately 1.25 mi each way over mostly flat terrain (can be muddy in places).
• Wheelchair accessible: No
• Language Availability: English
Nature Landing Discover the picturesque island of Eigg.
Disembarking on a small boat (RIB) on a solitary coast is the essence of expedition traveling. There are no ports, no houses, and probably no vehicles. Only raw nature, infinite landscapes, and untamed wildlife. No filters of any kind. The real pleasure is exploring the environment with the open mind of a pioneer and discovering the world as it used to be.
Eigg is a diverse island known for spectacular coastal scenery, birdwatching, and geology. Wildflowers flourish here among the native moorland and woodlands. Its rich history includes ancient forts and burial mounds scattered across the island.
Eigg is working towards becoming net zero carbon by using a heating system that uses local wood. This supports the local wood fuel business while reducing carbon emissions.
At HX, we have the best team of guides and naturalists, the highest safety measures, and the strictest environmental protocols to protect the land—all while ensuring an unforgettable experience.
Duration: Continuous
Difficulty: Level 3: Active - good mobility needed
Booking code: INCL-IGG1
Highlights:
• Spectacular scenery
• White-sand beaches
• Great for hikes off the beaten track.
Practical information:
Practical information:
• Language: English.
• Remarks/requirements: Dress according to local weather conditions with comfortable walking shoes.
• Walking information: At guests’ discretion, walking over uneven terrain
• Wheelchair accessible: No.
Tobermory - Duart Castle Enjoy a scenic drive to the picture-perfect Duart Castle on Mull, and find out about clan history.
Restored castle
Standing proudly on a clifftop guarding the Sound of Mull, Duart Castle enjoys one of the most spectacular positions on the west coast of Scotland. After falling into ruins, the castle was repurchased and restored in 1911 by Sir Fitzroy Maclean. Relive the past with a walk through the keep and the dungeons, and see objects of historical interest displayed in the exhibition of clan history.
Duration: 3h30
Difficulty: None
Booking code: E-TOB2
Min. number: 15 traveller(s)
Highlights:
• Discover the rugged beauty of the Inner Hebrides on a scenic drive along Mull’s east coast.
• You might be welcomed into the castle by Sir Lachlan Maclean, the 28th chief of the clan Maclean.
• Explore Duart Castle with a knowledgeable guide on hand to answer questions about the 400-year old site.
• Look out across the Sound of Mull and enjoy views of Lismore, Balliemore, and the Scottish west coast.
Practical information:
Practical information
• Language: English
• Remarks/requirements: Appropriate warm layered, waterproof clothing and comfortable non-slip walking shoes
• Walking information: Walking at Duart Castle at guest’s discretion. The castle has steps and a spiral staircase.
• Wheelchair accessible: No
Iona Abbey Enjoy a leisurely visit to Iona Abbey and learn about the history of St Columba.
In the footsteps of Christianity
Discover Iona Abbey at your own pace, the birthplace of Christianity in Scotland. Learn how this came about with St Columba’s arrival in CE 563 and the founding of the abbey. Today, Iona remains a place of pilgrimage and spirituality. Visit the cloisters, the impressive collection of over 180 medieval carved stones and crosses, and the graveyard, where many early Scottish, Irish and French kings are buried.
Duration: 2h
Difficulty: Level 2: Moderate - some mobility needed
Booking code: INCL-ION1
Highlights:
• Explore Iona Abbey at your leisure and delve into its history as a pilgrimage site.
• See an impressive collection of over 180 medieval carved stones and crosses.
• Discover how St Columba brought Christianity to Scotland.
Practical information:
• Remarks/requirements: Please wear warm, waterproof clothing and comfortable walking shoes.
• Walking or Activity information: Involves moderate physical activity on relatively level surfaces and gentle terrain.Gentle uphill to the Abbey, approx. 0.25 mi.
• Wheelchair accessible: No
• Language Availability English
