What's the Craic - What is this?
You may know already, but we've been running trips from Tellus360 since 2012, vast majority of them to Ireland but some also to Scotland, and now we also have Portugal on the horizon. It all started back in the early days of Tellus360 - Folks were visiting the store for shopping, art, furniture and gifts. Really, I think they were just visiting for the free wine and to hear Joe’s hearty laugh echo throughout the building.. Regardless of why they were there, nearly everyone would be talking about their connections to Ireland; how beautiful it is, and that they always wanted to visit, but never had the chance or that the timing was never right. Actually, the most frequent excuse was that it was too expensive, and took a month to fly there.In hearing this all too often: “Feck it, we should organise a trip to Ireland! It will be class!!!”
Mairtin made a few phone calls home to Ireland, arranged a bus, a driver, and all the accommodations. The first trip was in May 2012 and we've been running them ever since.
Although the trips are open to everyone and anyone who wants to join in, everyone who has been on the trip has had one thing in common - Tellus360! Between locals, regular to the store / bar, musicians, staff and just friends from around Lancaster we’ve managed to pull together groups of between 18 and 30 lunatics to come across the pond on what have been described as "best trips of our lives".
We've outlined the itinerary below, but please keep in mind a few keys things:
This is not your typical "big bus tour of Scotland"
Group is kept nice and small
There are plenty of double night stays, and the pace is chill
If you love Tellus you will love this trip
What's the Craic - What is this?
So we've been doing the Ireland trips for a bunch of years, with many friends coming back over a second and third time. So the next natural evolution is to wander a little further afield across into Scotland.
In the same Tellus360 style that we've roamed Ireland, we now embark on annual trips to the Highlands of Scotland.
Our first day! We will set off from Edinburgh morning - we will pick you up from either the airport, or if you have arrived prior to your tour we will pick you up from your hotel
Travel from Scotland’s historic capital into the breathtaking landscapes of the Highlands. The journey takes you past rolling farmland and picturesque villages before opening into the dramatic scenery of Perthshire, with its forests, rivers, and mountain views. Continue north through Cairngorms National Park, where rugged peaks and wide valleys create one of the most scenic drives in Scotland. As you approach Inverness, the “Capital of the Highlands,” the landscape softens into lochs and gentle hills, offering a beautiful and memorable arrival.
Set in a lovely historic space with exhibits detailing Blair Athol’s long story — it was founded in 1798 and stands at the gateway to the Scottish Highlands. You’ll get an introduction to the key ingredients of whisky (water from the Allt Dour burn, barley, yeast) and how the distillery’s Highland setting influences its style of whisky.
Enjoy a relaxed afternoon discovering Inverness, the welcoming capital of the Highlands. Stroll along the River Ness, browse charming shops and cafés, and explore landmarks such as Inverness Castle, the Victorian Market, and the historic Old Town. With its blend of culture, scenic riverside walks, and warm Highland atmosphere, Inverness offers the perfect balance of sightseeing and leisure.
Kicking off the first evening of this trip, a group dinner!
This day is about stretching as far north as can go! With a reasonable morning time departure, we will travel the gorgeous coastline from Inverness to Gills!
Travel north from Inverness along one of Scotland’s most scenic coastal routes. The journey follows the shoreline of the Moray Firth and Pentland Firth, offering sweeping views of rugged cliffs, sandy bays, and charming fishing villages. Pass through peaceful Highland landscapes, open moorland, and wide seascapes that stretch to the horizon. As you approach Gills, the gateway to the Orkney ferry, the coastline becomes wild and dramatic—perfect for photos and a true taste of Scotland’s northern edge.
Set sail from Gills on a short and scenic ferry crossing to the Orkney Islands. Enjoy fresh sea air and panoramic views as you glide across the Pentland Firth, with chances to spot seabirds and marine wildlife along the way. As the islands come into view, their rugged cliffs, wide skies, and rich Viking heritage create an exciting sense of arrival. A smooth and memorable journey to one of Scotland’s most captivating island groups. Don't worry - this ferry is also a car and bus ferry, so the bus will be coming with us to the Orkneys
Hotel in the Main town of the Orkneys
Today, we set out to explore the very best of Orkney. Orkney is very naturally spread out, our comfortable coach will allow us to take in the beautiful landscapes, sweeping coastal views and rich island scenery with east
Our journey also brings us to the west side of the island, where we'll enjoy a stop at the spectacular Old Man of Hoy and visit the remarkable Italian Chapel - two of Orkney's most iconic and unforgettable sights
Hotel in the Main town of the Orkneys
Begin your day with a scenic morning ferry crossing from Orkney to Gills on the Scottish mainland. As the boat glides across the Pentland Firth, enjoy fresh sea air and panoramic views of rugged coastlines, sea stacks and wide northern skies
Keep an eye out for seabirds and marine wildlife as you sail toward the Highlands. A smooth and refreshing start to the day, offering a final look back at Orkney's beautiful island landscape
Travel from Gills into the heart of the Scottish Highlands on one of the country's most breathtaking routes. The journey winds through rugged moorland, shimmering lochs, and dramatic mountain passes, showcasin gthe wild beauty that defines the north of Scotland. As you continue south and west, the landscape becomes increasingly majestic, with sweeping glens and iconic Highland vistas at every turn
Arriving at the Isle of Skye, you cross into a world of towering peaks, sea cliffs, and enchanting island scenery - setting the stage for an unforgettable visit
Just outside of Skye - Minimising drive-time
Today, we will spend the day discovering the dramatic beauty of the Isle of Skye.
Travel through its rugged landscaped to the extraordinary Quiraing, where towering cliffs, pinnacles, and sweeping views create some of Scotlands most iconic scenery. Enjoy plenty of time to take in the breathtaking vistas and capture unforgettable photos
Later, continue to theisland's colourful, Portree, for a relaxed late lunch by the harbour, an ideal way to unwind and soak up Skye's charming atmosphere
Just outside of Skye - Minimising drive-time
Depart the Isle Isle of Skye and travel through some of Scotland's most awe inspiring landscapes. Your journey begins with a scenic drive off the island, passing lochs, mountains and dramatic Highland vistas. Continue south to the legendary Glencoe, a glacial valley renowned for its towering peaks and haunting natural beauty - a unforgettable stop for photos and fresh Highland air
Travel onward to Fort William, the outdoor capital of the Highlands, where you'll pause andexplore and visit a nearby waterfall, a peaceful spot framed by lush forest and tumbling water
The final stretch leads you along the rugged west coast to Oban, a vibrant harbour town known as the Gateway to the Isle, offering a warm welcome and charming seaside atmosphere
Town center, a stroll from everything
If you decide you would like to just travel to the Isle of Mull with us, it will also be a fantastic day out!
Start with a ferry from Oban to Craignure, we will drive north and explore the colourful harbour town of Tobermory,
After exploring the town, head west through Mull’s dramatic landscapes to Sciob Ruadh Farm Shop near. This is a family-run croft offers local meats, preserves, and a taste of authentic island life.
After a visit to the farm shop, we will visit the Tobermory Distillery for a tour and tasting of their unique island whisky. We will then catch the 5.05pm , evening ferry back to Oban. A perfect blend of wild beauty, local flavour, and island charm
Journey through the stunning scenery of the Isle of Mull, delve into the ancient history of Iona then onto the unique Isle of Staffa to see the geological wonders of Fingal’s Cave.
The Three Isles Tour departs at 09:55 from Oban Ferry Terminal on the CalMac ferry, crossing the Firth of Lorn to Craignure on Mull where you join your coach. On the coach journey, you’ll hear fascinating commentary about the beautiful scenery you’re travelling through and the history of the island. The route through Mull is via Glen More to Fionnphort where you board the ferry for the Isle of Staffa. After landing on Staffa and visiting Fingal’s Cave, we sail south to the Isle of Iona. Visit Iona Abbey, the Benedictine nunnery and the Reilig Oran – the burial place of kings
Town center, a stroll from everything
As we reach our final day and night we will travel from the coastal charm of Oban into the heart of Scotland as you journey toward Glasgow. The route winds through rolling hills, tranquil lochs and classic Highland scenery before opening into the picturesque landscapes of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park.
As we approach Glasgow, the scenery shifts to the vibrant energy of Scotland's large city - rich in culture, architecture and urban character
We'll be staying city center, giving you the second half of the day to explore the town
One last farewell dinner to wrap up the trip before we part ways the next morning
City Center 4 Star Hotel
Departure day - Glasgow is very well connected to Edinburgh City and Airport, and our hotel is right next to the Coach and Train Stations. Depending on your onward plans, we will set you up with a train to Edinburgh, or a coach straight to Edinburgh Airport
Let us know if you are staying in Scotland for an extended time and we'll help you make plans!