The Highlands are what happens when scenery and story refuse to separate: every glen has a battle, every castle a betrayal, every distillery an opinion. An escorted itinerary shines here for one unglamorous reason: the driving. Single-track roads, sheep with right of way, and whisky tastings do not mix with a rental car, and the best guides narrate the landscape in a way no audio app manages.

Eilean Donan and the road to Skye deliver the postcard; Glencoe delivers the lump in the throat. On whisky, taste by region rather than by fame: a light Speyside, a sherried Highland, and one peat monster from the islands will teach you more than five famous labels.

May and June bring the longest days and the fewest midges. Pack for four seasons per afternoon and you will be dressed correctly.