Take in the breathtaking Cawdor Castle, home to the Thanes of Cawdor for many centuries and famously linked to Shakespeare’s Macbeth. Step inside to admire the beautiful interiors, filled with period furnishings, art, and history that tell the story of the Campbell/Cawdor family. Outside, explore three stunning gardens – a vibrant flower garden, a tranquil walled garden, and a wild garden, plus a delightful hedge maze for a touch of adventure. The castle remains one of the few in Scotland still inhabited throughout winter, giving it a unique living-history charm. Pause at the castle café, where you can enjoy wonderful soup, freshly baked cheese scones, and light refreshments while taking in views of the gardens and surrounding countryside. A visit to Cawdor Castle is a perfect mix of history, beauty, and Highland elegance.

Visit Fort George – Britain’s mightiest artillery fortress. After the Jacobite defeat at Culloden in 1746, King George II ordered the creation of the ultimate stronghold to prevent further uprisings. Fort George, an immense 18th-century fortress bristling with defences, the largest of its kind in Britain. Its formidable ramparts, powder magazines, and vast parade grounds remain almost completely intact, offer one of the most impressive military sites in the country. It also has one of only two Dog cemetery's in Scotland. Today, Fort George is an active army base, home to the legendary Black Watch regiment. It is a fascinating blend of past and present. Visitors can explore the grounds, museum and shop, or take a break in the café, serving light refreshments within the fortress walls. Set on a dramatic headland overlooking the Moray Firth, It is not only steeped in history but also a prime spot for dolphin watching, with bottlenose dolphins often spotted playing just offshore.

At James Pringle Weavers, just outside Inverness on Dores Road, travellers can enjoy a leisurely stop combining shopping, local culture, and Scottish charm. This well-known Highland outlet offers a wide selection of goods – from high-quality knitwear, tweed, and tartan to souvenirs, homeware, and Scottish food and drink. Browse traditional crafts and clothing, perhaps picking up a locally woven scarf or a piece of fine cashmere to take home. There’s also a whisky section, perfect for sampling or purchasing a bottle of Scotland’s most famous spirit. On site, you’ll also find a welcoming café serving traditional Scottish cuisine, along with fresh baking, hearty lunches, and a chance to enjoy a pot of tea or a rich coffee. It’s the perfect spot to relax while soaking up the Highland atmosphere. The outlet has a relaxed, unhurried feel, giving travellers time to wander, shop for gifts, enjoy a meal or refreshment, and take in a slice of local culture before continuing their journey.

Dores Beach is one of Loch Ness’s best-kept secrets, a peaceful spot that locals treasure but many visitors never see. Tucked away on the southern shore, it offers sweeping views right down the length of the loch – some of the most breathtaking anywhere in the Highlands. Because large tour buses can’t access this area, it remains quiet and unspoiled, making it a truly special stop for smaller groups. Here, guests can stroll along the pebbled beach, take in the dramatic scenery, and even try their luck at spotting Nessie from one of the best vantage points on the loch. You may also encounter Steve Feltham, the world-famous Nessie hunter who has lived at Dores for decades, dedicating his life to watching the waters for signs of the monster. It’s a beautiful, off-the-beaten-path place to pause, soak up the landscape, and join in the fun of the ongoing search for the Loch Ness Monster.

At Robertson’s The Larder Farm Shop, guests can enjoy a genuine taste of the Highlands. The shelves are packed with local produce, home baking, jams, chutneys, and unique Scottish gifts – all sourced from the surrounding area. The real stars of the visit, though, are the farm’s friendly Highland cows, with their long horns and shaggy ginger and black coats. They’re a perfect photo opportunity and a favourite with visitors of all ages, making this a fun and authentic stop before returning to the ship.