Vikings, Wilderness & Cultures: Leith to Lisbon

Set neatly between the mountains and the sea, Aberdeen's harbour is said to be ‘one of the most architecturally distinctive in Europe.' Docking in the heart of the city, witness Aberdeen's famous stunning, sparkling, granite buildings and monuments shimmering in the sunlight and listen for the warming tones of Scottish dialect 'Doric' as you roam. Today, choose one of our Scenic Freechoice activities or join a more active Scenic Discovery.

Freechoice: Learn the history of Aberdeen on a city tour or choose to explore some of the fairy tale castles. Alternatively, enjoy a whiskey and pale ale tasting tour. Discovery: Explore the dramatic cliffs at the Bullers of Buchan, observing the diversity of wildlife, from Aberdeenshire's puffins, porpoises, minke whales and sunbathing seals. (B/L/D)

We make our way to the Outer Hebrides – also known as the Western Isles – that stretch for 130 miles and look out on their western side to the Atlantic Ocean. We will land at the isolated archipelago (and World Heritage site) of St Kilda, where derelict crofts bear testament to the fortitude of islanders who once dried seabirds for winter food. The isles hold Europe's most important seabird colony and is home to Britain's highest sea stacks (rock columns).

Discovery: Cruise on Zodiac along the craggy sea cliffs, home to Europe's largest colony of seabirds including gannets and puffins or join one of our Discovery Team for a hike passing by ruins and grazing sheep for beautiful panoramic views of St Kilda. (B/L/D)

Skye's capital is an attractive fishing port with brightly painted houses around a natural harbour. It is sometimes possible to attend a Ceilidh here – an evening of Scottish music and dance. Once a MacLeod stronghold, the beautiful Isle of Raasay boasts the extinct volcano of Mt Dun Caan, which rises 443 metres high. Today, choose one of our Scenic Freechoice activities or join a more active Scenic Discovery.

Freechoice: Enjoy a scenic tour of the Isle of Skye, taking you to landscapes so unique they are used in many sci-fi films or walk along the Scorrybreac headland and learn the history of the Portree with a local guide. Discovery: Venture on a hike to the "Old Man of Storr", a large pinnacle of rock that stands high and can be seen for kilometres. (B/L/D)

Cruise through this beautiful stretch of water. Admire from your private verandah suite, or head to the Observation Terrace and look for seals, otters and porpoises playing in the waves. Fort William is known for its sandy beaches, dramatic hills, castles, distilleries and iconic films locations. Breathe the fresh mountain air and be amazed at the most beautiful beaches.

Freechoice: Ride the Nevis Range Mounatin Gonolda, reaching heights of 650m for spectacular vies, or choose to visit the famed Glenfinnan Viaduct bridge, before visiting the Ben Nevis Distillery for a tour and tasting. Alternatively, join an art workshop. (B/L/D)

The picturesque little bay of Oban is overflowing with Victorian charm and elegance. Oban is surrounded by dramatic shores and spectacular countryside. Freechoice: Visit the exotic Arduaine Garden and admire the spectacular array of colourful plants from around the globe, or explore Oban with a local guide. Alternatively, learn the history and heritage of Inveraray Castle. (B/L/D)

Arrive in this major seaport near Porto, at the mouth of the Douro river. Located near vineyards, this beautiful baroque city is home to colourful houses decorated in traditional Portuguese tiles, Gothic cathedrals, modern street art and fado restaurants serving delicious food and its best-known export, Port wine. (B/L/D)