A gentle fog rolling in from deep-blue lochs, the haunting sound of bagpipes drifting over the moors, historic stone castles set upon imposing clifftops—this is the southwest highlands of Scotland and one of the most divine walking tours on earth.

Get a kick out of kilts? Start in Edinburgh, home to Mary, Queen of Scots, walk to the resort town of Callander, through the hills and glens of Trossachs National Park to a wayside inn, where haggis, neeps and tatties await. Sound delish? Walk 3-8 expertly guided miles a day near lochs (“lakes” to you), through coniferous forests and moorlands, on panoramic clifftops, and tootle along in the waters of Loch Katrine in a 19th-century steamship to the odd, almost-village of Stronachlachar. The “Devil’s Staircase” will surely deliver most dramatic scenery, on past viaducts, a bog excursion, and 13th-century Inverlochy Castle.

Expert guides, welcoming hosts, and friendly locals. Hear tales of Highland battles, glimpse, if you are lucky, a sea monster, and knock off a coupl’a shots of malt whiskey enroute.

This summer the world-class Country Walkers, winner of every award in the book, including Top Tour Operator year after year by Travel + Leisure, will deliver the Scotland of your dreams — and discounted for solo travelers – a room of your own without, finally, a single supplement.  (Save $350 on the August 7-13, 2011 departure).  Call 800.464.9255 or click: www.countrywalkers.com for the Scotland Highlands Tour.