Silversea Expedition Cruises À PORTREE (Isle of Skye)

Waternish is the central of the three most prominent peninsulas to project North West into the Minch from the Isle of Skye.

This oft-overlooked but fascinating rural area offers a range of magnificent vistas and unspoiled countryside and is home to traditional crafts and charming historic villages. Today there are plenty of breath-taking views and photo opportunities along the way.

Panoramic drive through Skeabost, Camuslusta and Lusta, Village of Stein please remove

Crossing the island pass through Skeabost, at the head of Loch Snizort Beag in the southern end of the Trotternish peninsula and on to Camuslusta and Lusta before admiring views of the pretty village of Stein, the main harbor on the Waternish Peninsula.

Skyeskyns Tannery for demonstration of leather making

As you continue up the peninsula (from Stein )please remove, visit Skyeskyns tannery for a demonstration on how real sheepskins are made using time-honored methods of leather making, one of the oldest crafts known to man.

Guided tour of the workshop, visit of the showroom, Refreshment at the Skeabost Hotel

Enjoy a guided tour of the workshop and see the traditional implements used by the Tanner: the beam, paddles, racks and buffing wheel, horse and iron as well as the lengthy hand finishing processes, which help to create the world famous Highland hand-combed fleece, which is exclusive to Skyeskyns. If you wish, visit the showroom and browse through the comprehensive range of luxurious fleeces and quality leather goods. With luck you may find the perfect exclusive and lasting keepsake of your visit to the magical Isle of Skye!

En route back to Portree, stop for refreshments at The Skeabost Hotel, a lovingly restored and stunningly refurbished former hunting lodge set in an idyllic location with spectacular views.

Discover ancient Dunvegan Castle and enjoy a scenic drive on this half-day tour. Depart the port of Portree and drive 45 scenic minutes across the lovely Isle of Skye to its west coast to the castle of Dunvegan; seat of the Clan MacLeod chiefs since the 13^th Century.

Dunvegan Castle, Freeflow tour

One of the greatest and most renowned among the Hebridean strongholds, Dunvegan Castle is the only one to have been continuously owned and occupied by the same family over a period now spanning 8 centuries. Within the castle are priceless heirlooms, some of which have come down through the hands of the Chiefs of MacLeod since medieval times, including such treasures as the Dunvegan cup, the mysterious Fairy Flag and Rory Mor's Horn.

Explore the picturesque gardens also that surround the waterfall known as Rory Mor's cascade. Appreciate the varied landscape including the famous Cuillin mountains as you return to Portree.

Head North from Portree onto the Trotternish Peninsula. During your scenic tour today you will learn much of the fascinating history of the Isle of Skye and its geography and social history - in particular its crofting history.

Old Man of Storr, Lealt viewpoint

Passing the curious rock outcrop known as the Old Man of Storr, continue to Lealt viewpoint to admire the stunning waterfall. Two viewing platforms offer fantastic vistas towards the falls and over the cliffs.

Journey north to Kilt Rock - a dramatic 200-foot high cliff marked in an almost tartan-like pattern by the rock strata and with a waterfall tumbling sheer to the pebbled shore below. Enjoy some time here to absorb the scenery and take photographs.

Township of Staffin, Staggin Bay,Kilmuir, Graveyard to Flora McDonald's

Continuing your journey north, you will pass the crofting township of Staffin which overlooks the sandy Staffin Bay and drive around the northern tip of the island, hearing more of the myths and legends of Skye. On arrival at the settlement of Kilmuir your guide will give you a brief talk outside the thatched cottages, you will then continue on to the Graveyard to Flora McDonald's (Bonnie Prince Charlie's fame) grave. When visitors stand on this windswept and beautiful spot they are looking out over the Minch in the direction of the archipelago of the Western isles. It was from there that Flora and Bonnie Prince Charlie were brought over the sea to Skye on a stormy Saturday night at the end of June 1746. Continue through Uig and back to Portree.

Refreshment at Skeabsot Hotel,

A refreshment stop will be made at Skeabost Hotel, lovingly restored and stunningly refurbished former hunting lodge set in an idyllic location with spectacular views.

At the conclusion of the refreshment, re-board your coach and commence the short drive of approx.. 30 minutes back to the pier

Departing Portree your route takes you through some beautiful coastal and hilly scenery as you head towards "Old Man of Storr" car park on the Trotternish Peninsula.

On arrival at the car park, the Ranger will give a quick safety brief before setting off. This very popular walk climbs up for a close look at the massive pinnacle "Old Man of Storr", one of Isle of Skye iconic landmarks. The walk is challenging in places but is achievable to the average walker.

En-route the ranger will talk about the geography and describe the next part of the walk. As you catch your breath, revel in the fresh air and fabulous vistas; Cameras out as snap shots are a must to keep the memories alight. At the top view scenes of the Islands of Raasay and Rona and beyond to the mainland, looking south, see "Storr Lochs", Portree Harbour and the magnificent Cuillin Hills (described as the hikers' dream).

On completion of your walk, return by coach to Portree.

The tiny island of Rona is only a few miles long, off the coast of the Isle of Skye.

Cruise to Rona Harbour

Board the 40ft catamaran Seaflower, welcomed with a glass of Prosecco and enjoy an hour leisurely cruise to the stunning Rona Harbour. Sitting on the deck or flybridge, whatever the weather, is an invigorating experience offering fantastic views and photo opportunities. Take in the landscape with the iconic Storr and Cuillins along the way.

Landing on Rona, Seafood Lunch with refreshments

Landing on Rona the seafood lunch will be served on board MV Seaflower. Enjoy a fresh, locally caught, seafood lunch with refreshments. Langoustines, squat lobster tails, hot and cold smoked salmon will be accompanied by crusty bread, oatcakes, cream cheese, salad and wine.

Option of hike to the ruins of historical site of 'An Teampull'

Rona will offer many wildlife spotting opportunities. From seabirds to marine life, Rona also has a resident seal colony, so make sure you take a pair of our binoculars to hopefully view them basking on the rocks. The historical site of 'An Teampull', a small 14th century chapel, can be accessed on foot. Take a hike to the ruins of a settlement that dates back to the Scottish Clearances. Alternatively walk to the dramatic Church Cave, which was used for Sunday worship until 1912.

Return to Seaflower for the return journey to Portree.

Portree (or Port an Righ in Gaelic) meaning Kings Harbour, was named after James V visited with his fleet in 1540. Today it is a bustling fishing town with pretty painted buildings huddled round a charming harbour. Meet your guide here for a beautiful circuit on the north side of Portree bay, popular with both visitors and residents.

Hear some of the history behind the buildings and street names of Portree before reaching the wooded shore and then pausing briefly by Apothecary's tower, built as a sign to passing seafarers that medical supplies and expertise are available in the village. The route will lead past the sailing club and memorial with a flagpole. The plaque commemorates the members of Clan Nicolson who contributed to buying this land. Stop here briefly to admire the views across the bay towards the distant Cuillin Hills.

Continuing along the route you'll reach a steep section, ascending a steep section of zig - zags. The reward is some fantastic views over the salmon farms to Raasay, with Dun Caan prominent like a little volcano.

Completing the circular route at the Cuillin Hills Hotel for some Chilled Chocolate Fondant with Chocolate Curd or Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Icing and Walnuts served with Tea and/or Coffee, to then return to Portree harbour and your ship.