Scottish Isles and Norwegian Fjords Voyage – with Smithsonian Journeys

Day 1 - Glasgow

Glasgow, Scotland: Begin your expedition holiday in Scotland’s largest city, Glasgow, known for its historic landmarks and vibrant culture. The city features a unique blend of classic 19th-century and modern early 20th-century architecture, often referred to as ‘Glasgow Style’. Its checkerboard layout makes navigation simple, with lively street performances at almost every juncture.

Day 2 - Tobermory, Isle of Mull

Tobermory, Isle of Mull, Scotland: Revel in a warm welcome as the vibrant cafes, houses, and shops line Tobermory's picturesque harbour to salute your arrival. Located in the rugged Scottish Inner Hebrides, Tobermory is the capital of the Isle of Mull. Its colourfully-painted buildings are famously featured in various TV shows, most notably the children's series Balamory. Discover tales of the area, including the legend of a sunken Spanish galleon filled with gold beneath the harbour waters. Visit the Mull Museum for a dive into local history, or enjoy wildlife watching on a boat tour where you might spot white-tailed and golden eagles or dolphins and Minke whales. Before leaving, try a sample of the island's finest whisky at the Tobermory Distillery, one of Scotland's oldest, established in 1798.

Day 3 - Portree, Isle of Skye

Portree, Isle of Skye, Scotland: The Isle of Skye, with its association with Bonnie Prince Charlie and the misty Cuillin Hills, holds a special allure. This island of lingering sunsets and ethereal mists is mysterious and mountainous. The old crofts, some still inhabited, have thick stone walls and thatch roofs adding to its charm. Exploring Skye is straightforward; simply follow the main roads around the northern loops and along the Sleat Peninsula to the south, with detours as you wish. The single-lane roads add to the adventure but pose no significant challenge.

Day 4 - Kirkwall

Kirkwall, Orkney Islands, Scotland: Kirkwall, the main town on Orkney, offers much to explore among its narrow and winding streets originating from the harbour. The cathedral and several museums are must-see highlights.

Day 5 - Lerwick

Lerwick, Shetland Islands, Scotland: Established by Dutch fishermen in the 17th century, Lerwick is now a bustling town and administrative centre. The harbour is lined with handsome stone buildings known as lodberries, historically used for loading goods. The town’s twisting flagstone lanes and the bustling harbour once hosted thriving trade. Today, Lerwick continues to be an active port where visitors often disembark to explore its charming streets.

Day 6 - Olden

Olden, Norway: Marvel at the stunning aqua-blue ice of the Jostedal Glacier in Olden, situated in the awe-inspiring fjords of Norway. Experience the dramatic landscapes as the fjord scenery and interlocking valleys captivate you. The village of Olden provides access to some of Norway's most majestic natural wonders, from the mainland's largest glacier to nearby sloshing waterfalls and bowing forests. Trek through trails dotted with wildflowers and stay enchanted by the panoramas of Briksdalsbreen glacier, only an hour away by foot or a short bus ride from the village.

Day 7 - Flåm

Flåm, Norway: Nestled amidst Norway's finest natural beauty, Flåm offers expansive views of spectacular fjords. Explore the quaint village, traverse stunning hiking trails, or opt for an exhilarating ride on the Flåmsbana railway—one of the world's most beautiful train journeys. Uncover the charm of this Norwegian gem as verdant landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and tranquil waters unfold before you.

Day 8 - Bergen

Bergen, Norway: Bounded by mountains and sparkling fjords, Bergen boasts a breathtaking setting. As Norway’s famous medieval site, the Bryggen waterfront, listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage site, stands testament to its rich history of trade. Our curated selection of excursions ensures a full experience of Bergen, from the fish market and cobbled streets to sweeping city views from Mt Fløyen. Explore the nearby Fortress Museum showcasing WWII artefacts or venture further afield if you're revisiting the city.