Scottish Isles and Norwegian Fjords Voyage – With Smithsonian Journeys

Day 1 - Glasgow

Glasgow, Scotland: Start your expedition holiday in Scotland’s largest city, Glasgow, which is overflowing with historic landmarks and vibrant culture. The distinct architecture is a fusion of classic 19th-century and modern early 20th-century, creating the unique 'Glasgow Style'. Its checkerboard street layout makes navigation easy, with lively street entertainment around every corner.

Day 2 - Fort William

Fort William, Scotland: Located at the foot of Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest peak, Fort William is renowned for its outdoor activities and scenic beauty. Visitors can explore the West Highland Museum, take a cable car ride up Aonach Mòr for spectacular views, or embark on the famous Jacobite Steam Train, which inspired the Hogwarts Express.

Day 3 - Portree

Portree, Isle of Skye, Scotland: The Isle of Skye ranks high on most visitors' priority lists with its combination of romantic history tied to Prince Charles Edward Stuart, known as Bonnie Prince Charlie, and its enchanting Cuillin Hills. The island remains mysterious and mountainous, with sunsets that linger brilliantly into the night amidst beautiful, soft mists. Iconic old crofts, with their thick stone walls and thatch roofs, offer a glimpse into the past. Skye's roads, leading through its natural wonders, are easy to navigate with unproblematic single-lane stretches.

Day 4 - Kirkwall

Kirkwall, Orkney Islands, Scotland: In bustling Kirkwall, the principal town on Orkney, visitors can explore a wealth of attractions along narrow, winding streets stemming from the harbour. Among the highlights are the impressive cathedral and several captivating museums.

Day 5 - Lerwick

Lerwick, Shetland Islands, Scotland: Founded by Dutch fishermen in the 17th century, Lerwick is a busy town and administrative centre today. Handsome stone buildings known as lodberries line the harbour, once allowing for the loading of goods, some of which were illicit. The town's twisting flagstone lanes and harbour once teemed with activity, and today Lerwick remains an active port where most visitors to the Shetland Islands arrive and explore its many charms.

Day 6 - Nordfjordeid

Nordfjordeid, Norway: Nestled in the verdant heart of the Western Fjords, Nordfjordeid is a picturesque village known for its stunning natural surroundings and rich Viking history. Visitors can explore exhibits at the Sagastad Viking Center or enjoy outdoor pursuits like hiking and kayaking, all set against a backdrop of awe-inspiring fjord landscapes.

Day 7 - Flåm

Flåm, Norway: Renowned for its breathtaking fjord scenery, Flåm offers stunning landscapes that are truly captivating. Visitors can board the Flåm Railway, one of the world’s steepest railway lines, for a journey through dramatic mountains and sprawling valleys. The area also offers ample hiking opportunities and serene boat trips on the Aurlandsfjord.

Day 8 - Bergen

Bergen, Norway: Surrounded by mountains and sparkling fjords, the waterside city of Bergen boasts a spectacular setting. Settled since medieval times, the colourful waterfront buildings of the Hanseatic wharf, known as Bryggen, evidence its rich history of trade. As Norway’s most famous medieval settlement, the Bryggen is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Our excursions provide a comprehensive look at Bergen, including its fish market, narrow cobbled streets, and stunning views from the summit of Mt Fløyen. Alternatively, seasoned visitors may prefer a tour to the surrounding areas, such as the nearby Fortress Museum, which offers intriguing World War II collections just a short walk from the main piers.