DAY 1: Edinburgh to Inverness

We travel north stopping to marvel at the stunning Kelpies, the world’s largest equine sculptures dedicated to the horse powered heritage of Central Scotland, designed by Andy Scott. Learn about William Wallace as we pass Stirling Castle, and catch a glimpse of Doune Castle, which appears in Monty Python & the Holy Grail, Outlander and Game of Thrones.

Soak up the atmospheric scenery in Glen Coe and look out for Ben Nevis – the UK’s highest mountain – on our journey towards Loch Ness. Learn about the legend of the ‘Nessie’, the Loch Ness monster, on our visit to the loch, before we continue onto Inverness. We arrive in Inverness, where we will be spending the night. Enjoy free time with a walk along the River Ness or to Inverness Castle for views of the city, then wander round the various bars and restaurants. (Overnight: Inverness)

DAY 2: Inverness to Stornoway

Start the day with fresh air and stunning scenery at Corrieshalloch Gorge. We continue north on a beautiful stretch of road and take to the water on the ferry from Ullapool to Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis – keeping an eye out for dolphins along the way! On arrival to the island, we head straight for Harris in the south, where we’ll visit the world-famous Harris Distillery before we return to Lewis in the north for an overnight stay in the main town of Stornoway. (Overnight: Stornoway)

DAY 3: Stornoway

Prepare for an exciting day touring the cultural attractions on the Isle of Lewis. First, go back to the Neolithic period on our visit to the mysterious 5000-year old Callanish Standing Stones*, and then fast-forward to the Iron Age at the broch of Dun Carloway. Experience 17th century island life at the Gearrannan Blackhouse Village and explore the remote and rugged Atlantic coastline. Visit the Butt of Lewis, the most northerly point on the island to see the isolated lighthouse and dramatic force of the sea against the cliffs. Free time back in Stornoway; wander around the harbour and go in search of fresh seafood in the local restaurants. (Overnight: Stornoway)

*Please note that from 1st Sept 2024 there will be no access due to conservation work

DAY 4: Stornoway to Portree

On departure from Stornoway we’ll visit a memorial to an event which highlights the darker side of island life. We’ll then spend the day exploring some beautiful beaches and the oldest medieval church on the Isle of Harris before catching our ferry ‘over the sea to Skye’. The main town of Portree is our base for the next two nights. Head into town to enjoy the local seafood and whisky or stretch your legs on a scenic walk. (Overnight: Portree)

DAY 5: Portree

Enjoy a magical day of island exploration on the Isle of Skye. Visit the enchanted waters of the Sligachan River with views of its old bridge and the breathtaking Cuillin mountains. We drive over the Skye bridge to view the iconic – and absolutely beautiful – Eilean Donan Castle; used in the filming of Highlander and James Bond, The World is Not Enough. Free time back in Portree; visit the shops, restaurants, and picturesque harbour with its colourful facades before we end the day by exploring Skye’s most iconic landmarks, Kilt Rock and the Old Man of Storr. (Overnight: Portree) 

DAY 6: Portree to Edinburgh

We have the chance to explore a wee bit more of the beautiful Isle of Skye before taking the ferry to the fishing village of Mallaig on the west coast. Experience one of the most spectacular railway journeys in the world and travel over the Glenfinnan Viaduct on the Jacobite Steam Train; made famous by Harry Potter. We take the scenic route back to the city through the Cairngorms National Park and arrive at Edinburgh in the evening.

EXPLORE MORE

Eilean Donan (pay locally)

Eilean Donan Castle is perfectly formed and instantly recognisable. A charming stone bridge leads out to the island, which is surrounded by three lochs and a backdrop of mountains. The castle is one of the most photographed sights in Scotland.

World-famous Jacobite Steam Train (only available at the time of booking)

Starting in Mallaig, the train travels on the west coast where you can see the ‘Small Isles’ of Rum, Eigg, Muck and the stunning white beaches used in films such as Local Hero and Highlander. The Jacobite then passes through Glenfinnan where Bonnie Prince Charlie raised his Standard to begin his ill-fated claim to the throne in 1745. We then cross over 21 arches of the impressive Viaduct with amazing views down Loch Sheil before heading to Fort William in the shadow of Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain. The steam train was featured in a number of Harry Potter movies as the ‘Hogwarts Express’ and is an outstanding way to take in the beautiful scenery of the Scottish west coast.  

*Please note: Jacobite Steam Train tickets have limited availability and we only offer standard class seating, we are unable to offer first class seating or upgrades. 

Departure point

60 High Street (The Royal Mile)

Edinburgh

EH1 1TB

Scotland

See Map

Departure Time

Check-in closes at 8.15am for tour departure at 8.30am.

We are unable to hold the bus or refund for any late arrivals. Please refer to your e-ticket for full departure details.

Return Time

The tour returns at 8.30pm.

Accommodation Included

We book your accommodation and drop you off at the door to your 3* Bed & Breakfast (B&B) / Guest House.

In most cases you are staying in a B&B (Bed and Breakfast), which is renowned for offering visitors a warm Highland welcome. Most B&Bs offer a traditional Scottish cooked breakfast and is included in the price. On occasion, you are staying with a family who let out rooms in their home to visitors, giving you the opportunity of experiencing Scotland in a more authentic way. B&B’s and guest houses are both generally located within one mile of the centre of town, although during peak season, this distance may be slightly further.

ROOM TYPES

Twin Room
One room with two separate beds suitable for one adult in each bed.

Double Room
One room with one bed suitable for two adults.

Family 3
One room with two separate beds. One bed suitable for two adults and one bed suitable for one adult/child.

Single
One room with one bed suitable for one adult.

Accessibility and Facilities

For more information, see our Accessibility Statement.