DESCRIPTION:

If you ever wanted to explore the rich cultural and natural history of northern Scotland, this is certainly the way to do it. Visit old growth forests, rich bird sanctuaries, and peat bogs, and learn about Scotland’s alluring history and culture by visits to Norse archaeological sites, and castles.

Be hosted by Sir John Lister-Kaye at a Victorian sporting lodge which is the family home. Sir John is an author, conservationist, and lecturer who has dedicated himself to preserving the rich natural history of Scotland. This program highlights his favorite areas in Scotland-the Highlands and the Islands. Sir John restored the House of Aigas, which he purchased in 1975; it now serves as an education center.

Use the Field Center as a base for travels throughout the Highlands, staying in the comfortable cottages on the grounds. While at Aigas Field Center, enjoy walks through Glen Affric, a remnant of the ancient ‘Great Wood of Caledon’; Abernethy Forest, lying on undulating glacial deposits; and in the Cawdor Big Wood. During a day-visit to the Black Isle, take a thrilling boat ride to look for bottlenose dolphins, sea birds, and other wildlife.

Spend time on the famed Isle of Skye; the mountainous landscape here is the result of intense volcanic activity 65 million years ago. See the great Cuillin mountain range; the deep western sea lochs, once rivers of ice; the volcanic landforms of northern Skye, and the sheltered straths and glens of southern Skye.

Then travel to the Shetlands, known for their beautiful coastlines and striking white sandy beaches. Voted one of the world’s top ten tourist sites by Lonely Planet, the Shetlands offer an exciting variety of wildlife and culture. See whales, otters, seals, and puffins, before visiting museums and galleries that proudly showcase a vibrant arts scene. Expect a warm reception from the famously friendly locals.

Finally, head to the Orkney Islands, a group of about 100 islands and skerries situated 6.2 miles from the northeast tip of the Scottish mainland. Though there is evidence of human habitation from over 6,000 years ago, nomadic visitors have been visiting these islands for over 10,000 years. Visit Maes Howe, built in the Stone Age, and one of the finest chambered tombs in the world, with the largest collection of runic writing and engraving outside Scandinavia carved upon its walls. Wander the village of Skara Brae, Orkney’s best-preserved Neolithic site, which features a number of houses with furniture and domestic items preserved within.

CONSIDER:

Consider traveling during the Simmer Dim, or summer solstice, the almost perpetual light of mid-summer evenings. At this time of year there are only a couple hours of darkness at most, and a clear night can stay bright enough to read at midnight due to the glow in the sky from the just-dipped sun.

OPTIONAL EXTENSIONS & ADD-ONS:

Please inquire.