Overview
Sheer cliffs, deep lochs and windswept moors form a landscape draped in mystery. Megalithic and religious sites rise up out of the fog, while ancient mountains watch over the fishing ports and isolated hamlets. Along sleepy lochs, the typical cottages and captivating gardens serve as reminders that the harshness of the region does stop it from being poetic, while the bird colonies populating the cliffs eroded by the read more ocean reveal the most important thing: nature reigns supreme here.
Ponant Explorers
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Itinerary
Glasgow was Scotland's great industrial centre during the 19th century and today, the city remains the commercial and cultural capital of the Lowlands. Lying on the banks of the River Clyde, Glasgow boasts some of the finest Victorian architecture in the entire United Kingdom. Ships will dock in Greenock which is a 45 minute drive from Glasgow.
Top Things to Do in Glasgow:
- admire the famed Glasgow Cathedral
- stroll through the Glasgow Botanic Garden
- cruise Loch Lomond
- visit the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
Under the craggy, emerald peaks of the Scottish Highlands lies a tiny port town with a heart for adventure. Gaelic for 'little bay', Oban is a town of endless Victorian charm and elegance that fulfills your every dream of Scotland. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to the shore.
Top Things to Do in Oban:
- ride the Jacobite Steam Train
- take a gondola up Aonach Mor
- stroll through the Arduaine gardens
- enjoy a scenic drive to Glencoe
- tour the Oban scotch whiskey distillery
Your exploration of the Isle of Skye should start off with a visit to the Old Man of Storr, an iconic rock formation offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The Fairy Pools are a series of crystal-clear blue and green pools and waterfalls, the perfect location for a leisurely hike. For a taste of local culture, visit the Dunvegan Castle, the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland, where you can learn about the Clan MacLeod.
Portree, the picturesque capital of the Isle of Skye, enchants visitors with its colorful harbour and stunning natural beauty. The town's name is derived from the Gaelic "Port Righ" (King's Harbour), and hints at its royal connections, including a visit by King James V in 1540. Lined with brightly painted buildings the quaint harbour provides a perfect backdrop for leisurely strolls.
Portree offers several notable attractions including the Aros Centre which showcases the island's culture and history through exhibitions and performances. For nature enthusiasts, the nearby Old Man of Storr offers breathtaking views and a rewarding hike. Don't miss a visit to the local shops and eateries, where you can sample traditional Scottish fare and purchase unique island crafts.
Stromness, a serene harbor town in Orkney, Scotland, is a haven of maritime history and artistic allure. Its labyrinthine streets lead to the Pier Arts Centre, where modern art connects with Orkney's heritage.
The town's architecture, with traditional stone houses, whispers tales of seafarers and explorers.
A stone's throw away, ancient mysteries of the Neolithic Orkney UNESCO sites, including the Ring of Brodgar and Skara Brae, await. These sites offer a peek into life 5,000 years ago. Stromness is not just a gateway to the past; its cozy pubs and local shops offer a warm welcome, making it a perfect blend of exploration and relaxation for any visitor.
The picturesque fishing town of Ullapool nestles on the shores of Loch Broom, in the Scottish Highlands. Its location is one of the more pristine natural environments in Britain. Ullapool offers a row of whitewashed cottages arrayed along the harbour and special views of the loch and its flanking hills. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to the dock.
Top Things to Do in Ullapool:
- hike the beautiful trails of Knockan Crag
- drive through Scotland’s western Highlands
- visit majestic Corrieshalloch Gorge
- skim the waters of Loch Broom on a RIB
Colourful row houses and red-hulled fishing vessels line the shores of this picturesque port set on the edge of the Outer Hebrides. The gateway to Lewis and Harris Island, Stornoway is a short journey to a natural wonderland of mountains, craggy rocks, moorlands, meadows, and rugged coastlines. Ships will anchor offshore and tender guests to shore.
Top Things to Do in Stornoway:
- explore Lews Castle
- visit the Callanish Stones
- tour the Gearrannan Blackhouse Village
- cruise the Uig coastline in a RIB (boat)
The Isle of Mull, situated off Scotland's west coast, is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and charming villages. Nature lovers will be captivated by the island's diverse wildlife, including eagles, otters, and whales. Explore the island’s rich history by viewing Duart Castle, the ancestral home of Clan Maclean, perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the Sound of Mull.
Located at the northernmost tip of the lovely Isle of Mull, Tobermory has to be one of the most beautiful natural seaports on Scotland’s West Coast. Founded in 1788, this ancient fishing village has been converted to a leisure port highly appreciated today for its surroundings and the quiet charm it exudes.
Visitors will be won over by the row of many-storied houses on the hillside, illuminating the harbour with their vibrant colours. The town offers a museum dedicated to the local history, an art gallery, a 9-hole golf course and a whiskey distillery.
Glasgow was Scotland's great industrial centre during the 19th century and today, the city remains the commercial and cultural capital of the Lowlands. Lying on the banks of the River Clyde, Glasgow boasts some of the finest Victorian architecture in the entire United Kingdom. Ships will dock in Greenock which is a 45 minute drive from Glasgow.
Top Things to Do in Glasgow:
- admire the famed Glasgow Cathedral
- stroll through the Glasgow Botanic Garden
- cruise Loch Lomond
- visit the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
Life On Board
You will love the onboard innovations, French gastronomy and sophisticated chic when you cruise on Le Champlain. Read more
Your ocean facing accommodation provides you a well appointed luxurious home as you explore the seas. Read more
Enjoy the views as you take a dip or swim in the resistant currents of the infinity pool. Read more
The chic innovative underwater lounge offers guests a chance to view and hear marine life. Read more
Enjoy the convivial social life in the main lounge or take in a show in the theatre. Read more
The two restaurants offer exquisite French gastronomy, both with outdoor settings and Ponant's impeccable service. Read more
AUD Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Ponant. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
