Scotland advanced: with Highlands, Isle of Skye, Loch Ness and Edinburgh

Perhaps best known for its legendary monster, Inverness is a city set on the banks of the River Ness that serves as the gateway to the breathtaking landscapes of the Scottish Highlands. A visit to nearby Loch Ness is clearly the main draw of the city, but Inverness itself is worth spending a day or two exploring and boasts a compact centre that is home to some excellent restaurants, accommodation options and a few cultural and historic sights like the 19th century cathedral and a great museum and art gallery.

In the north of Scotland, where the weather is usually rough and stormy, lies the small but beautiful town of Thurso. Enjoy the peace and quiet and the view of the beach, stroll through the small old streets of the town and visit the ruins of the Old St. Peter's Church.

Set on the pretty shores of Loch Broom, the small village of Ullapool is the gateway to some of Scotland's most picturesque landscapes. The charming harbour, lined with fishing boats and whitewashed houses, is a lovely place to spend a day, and there are also a few excellent restaurants and traditional pubs serving local specialities. With hiking trails, white sand beaches and ferries to the islands of the Outer Hebrides right on your doorstep, visitors are sure to fall in love with Ullapool and the Scottish Highlands.

Kyle of Lochalsh is a small village in Wester Ross in the Scottish Highlands. It is just across the water from Kyleakin on the Isle of Skye and was the traditional route to Skye by ferry. Nowadays the toll-free Skye Bridge carries the A87 across. Kyle has become a bit of a backwater, and doesn't have "sights" or visitor attractions, but is a good base for the countryside around. This includes for Skye, which gets booked solid in July and August.

The charming seaside town of Oban is the gateway to some of Scotland's most picturesque islands, attracting flocks of crowds in the summer months who come to marvel at the region's unspoiled beauty and rich traditions. From the colourful fishing boat-lined harbour and abundance of fresh seafood restaurants, cosy pubs and whisky distilleries to the historic castles, scenic lochs and dramatic mountains of the surroundings, Oban is undoubtedly one of Scotland's must-see destinations.

As Scotland's biggest city and its beating heart, Glasgow prides itself on its rich cultural scene, vibrant atmosphere and friendly locals. There's truly something for everyone here, from high street, designer and independent shops, buzzing nightlife, world-class eateries and hip cafes to green parks, elegant Victorian architecture and incredible museums. Soak up some culture at the Kelvingrove Museum, wander the quaint lanes of the West End or do as the locals and enjoy the countless pubs of the city centre - you won’t be disappointed.