Rosendal is famous for the Barony, an historic manor house and Renaissance garden that was home to some of Norway’s most distinguished nobles between 1655 and 1927. Rosendal is also near to the beautiful Hardangerfjord and Folgefonna National Park.

Lerwick is the only town of any size in the Shetland islands, and originally grew up around the herring trade. Highlights include the charming 18th century architecture along the waterfront and the informative Shetland Museum, which provides an excellent introduction to the history and culture of the islands.

The little Isle of Noss, part of the Shetlands, is a nature reserve that hosts over 150,000 seabirds during the breeding season, a truly spectacular sight. Species you can expect to see include gannets, puffins, guillemots and razorbills, and the island is also home to otters, seals, whales and dolphins.

Stromness is the second biggest town in the Orkney Islands, an atmospheric and friendly place with a proud seafaring heritage. Enjoy local music in a cosy pub, explore independent shops and galleries or head out to one of the nearby prehistoric sites, such as the intriguing Ring of Brodgar.

The outlying Shiant Isles are a key breeding site for seabirds, home to species including Atlantic puffins, razorbills, common guillemots and northern fulmars. The islands are also a haven for seals and basking sharks, and are said to be haunted by mythical creatures known as ‘kelpies’.

Loch Ewe is a sea loch off the coast of Wester Ross, and the shores were traditionally inhabited by Gaelic speakers who lived in crofting villages. The loch had an important role during the Second World War as the base for Arctic shipping convoys, and is also home to Scotland’s smallest whisky distillery.

Lunga is the largest of the Treshnish Isles, a small archipelago off the west coast of Mull. The island has been uninhabited since the 19th century, and provides a haven for wildlife including puffins and seals. Lunga is also home to rare and endangered plants such as primroses and orchids.