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Clan Campbell
The Campbell Clan has long
been one of the most numerous and powerful clans, gaining allegiances
from many smaller clans over the centuries by both diplomatic
and other means. Their success is owed to the remarkable succession
of clan chiefs referred to as MacCailein Mor in Gaelic.
The early Campbell homelands
cover the area to the north and west of Glasgow, from Argyll
northwards into the Grampian mountains and on into Perthshire.
The itinerary takes you around the beautiful and rugged northern
area of Scotland where the Campbells have left their marks, and
mentions only a few of the many Campbell castles and strongholds.
Day 1
Today you arrive in the cosmopolitan city of Glasgow, Scotland's
largest urban centre.
Day 2
Head west passed Greenock to Gourock and take the ferry to Dunoon
on the Cowal Peninsula. Holy Loch nearby was home to American
nuclear submarines and their mother ships during the Cold War.
Head north and travel along the coast of Loch Eck to Strachur,
continue north then south around Loch Fyne to sample the hospitality
of Inveraray overnight.
Day 3
The town of Inveraray is one of Scotland's earliest and best
preserved planned towns. Inveraray Castle, the permanent base
for the now world-wide association of Clan Campbell. It is also
the family home of the 13th Duke of Argyll, the 27th chief of
the clan.
Day 4
Travel north to Glencoe ("narrow glen") the majestic
mountain scenery is as famous as the events which took place
there in 1692. A stunning new Visitor Centre can be found at
nearby Inverigan where the whole bloody story unfolds in a memorable
audio-visual experience. Spend an evening enjoying the restaurants
and nightlife of Inverness, or relax by an open fire with a dram.
Day 5
Now in Inverness, you can experience the beautiful, bustling
capital of the Highlands. A fine introduction to the area can
be found at Inverness Museum. Then, for a truly atmospheric experience,
make the short journey to the battleground of Culloden where,
in April 1746, 'Bonnie' Prince Charlie's Jacobite rebellion was
crushed by Government forces supported by the Campbells.
Day 6
Leaving Inverness, your road south leads to the villages of Kingussie
and Newtonmore. Travel on to Stirling to stay overnight and if
time allows visit the impressive Stirling Castle, it was a favoured
royal retreat for the Stuart dynasty and the childhood home of
Mary Queen of Scots. To the east of Stirling lies Clackmannan,
which was the chief lowland stronghold of the Campbell clan.
Originally called Castle Gloom, Castle Campbell is an awe-inspiring
site.
Day 7
Before returning to Glasgow, spend a couple of days in Edinburgh,
Scotland's historic capital. The Campbell chiefs combined their
role of clan chiefs with taking a leading part in the affairs
of Scotland, Great Britain and the Empire over the centuries.
Many Campbell clansmen have served the Crown and there have been
16 regiments associated with the Campbells. Here in Edinburgh,
you'll be spoilt for things to do and places to visit.
Day 8
Before leaving Scotland, and Edinburgh, behind you might like
to relax and enjoy one of the excellent bus tours of the city,
visit the imposing Edinburgh Castle *, explore the famous Royal
Mile in the old Town or take a stroll through the elegant New
Town.
Day 9
Travel to the airport for your return flight.
Prices are available on request
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