Scotland
Isle of Skye
At a first glimpse of the Eilean Donan Castle, you half expect King Arthur and his knights to come cantering over the ridge, with the sound of coconuts clopping together.
The iconic scenery on Scotland’s Isle of Skye, depicted in films such as Monty Python and the Holy Grail, draws visitors from around the world to explore its clear, green Fairy Pools; the pinnacles and ridges of Quiraing; the rocky Black Cullins mountain range and the stunning, coastal scenery of Neist Point.
AutoVenture’s private, guided tours provide guests with a sweeping tour of the Scottish Highlands, telling tales and showcasing remnants of a Viking heritage dating back to the ninth century, as well as the lands where Flora MacDonald helped Bonnie Prince Charlie hide from government troops. Should there be a nip in the air, perhaps a stop at the Talisker distillery for a wee dram of single malt whiskey will warm the soul.
No matter the weather, the wildlife and scenery are spectacular with sea eagles, dolphins, whales and otters that are often spotted on the Coral Beaches, Talisker Bay and Neist Point. Its museums offer displays that date back to the clans, and eons before, to when dinosaurs roamed the grounds. Its craft shops dazzle showing potters, stone carvers, bladesmiths, jewelers, weavers and knitters.
One of the visit’s high points is a meal and tour of the historic Kinloch Lodge. Built in 1680, it became a remote shooting lodge for the Macdonald Clan. There guests will enjoy a meal by Michelin Star Chef Marcello Tully, who will regale diners with a memorable feast, be it home-cured organic salmon, scallops with peanut sauce, pigs cheeks, or a perfectly cooked steak with truffle. And perhaps another glass of whiskey or a pint of Scottish ale to wash it down.
For those unfamiliar with Scotland, an AutoVenture guided tour is the surest way of getting closest to the culture, and of capturing an unforgettable land.
