From Edinburgh: Isle of Skye and Outer Hebrides 6-Day Tour
Stirling Council Area, Edinburgh
Embark on a 6-day trip from Edinburgh through the Scottish Highlands and Scotland's scenic islands. Visit Loch Ness, explore the remote and wild Hebrides, and ride on the Hogwarts Express (optional).
Overview
This 6-day guided tour from Edinburgh explores the Outer Hebrides, Isle of Skye, and the West Highland Line, ideal for history and nature enthusiasts.
Highlights
- Experience the isolated Outer Hebrides
- Discover the myths and scenery of the Isle of Skye
- Explore the wild Atlantic coastline
- Ride the world-famous West Highland Line
Itinerary
Day 1: Edinburgh to Inverness
Start with a visit to the Kelpies and the historic Stirling Castle. View Doune Castle, featured in Monty Python, Outlander, and Game of Thrones. Travel through Glen Coe’s landscapes and see Ben Nevis. Learn about Loch Ness and its legend. Arrive in Inverness and enjoy free time by the River Ness or Inverness Castle. (Overnight in Inverness)
Day 2: Inverness to Stornoway
Visit Rogie Falls and take a ferry from Ullapool to the Isle of Lewis, watching for dolphins. Tour the Harris Distillery before arriving in Stornoway for the night. (Overnight in Stornoway)
Day 3: Stornoway
Explore the Iron Age Dun Carloway and Gearrannan Blackhouse Village. Visit the Butt of Lewis lighthouse. Enjoy free time in Stornoway to visit the harbour and sample local food. (Overnight in Stornoway)
Day 4: Stornoway to Portree
Visit a memorial honoring island history, then explore Harris’ beaches and medieval church. Take a ferry to Portree on the Isle of Skye. Enjoy seafood, whisky, or a scenic walk. (Overnight in Portree)
Day 5: Portree
See the Sligachan River and the Cuillin mountains. Visit Eilean Donan Castle, known from Highlander and James Bond films. Enjoy free time exploring Portree’s shops and harbour. Visit Skye landmarks including Kilt Rock and the Old Man of Storr. (Overnight in Portree)
Day 6: Portree to Edinburgh
Take the ferry to Mallaig and experience the Glenfinnan Viaduct and west coast by train on the West Highland Line (not the Jacobite Steam Train). Travel through Cairngorms National Park to Edinburgh, ending the tour.
Note: The Jacobite Steam Train is available April to October and must be booked separately. From September 3rd, train services are replaced by coach travel along the Road to the Isles.
What’s Included
- Passionate local guide
- 5 nights accommodation in B&B with breakfast
- Transportation in air-conditioned coach
- Ferry crossings
- Jacobite Steam Train ticket if chosen when booking
What’s Excluded
- Additional entrance fees
- Meals and drinks except breakfast
- Tips
Important Information
- Tour return time is approximately 8:30pm
- Jacobite Steam Train service may be altered or canceled without notice
- Callanish Standing Stones are closed from September 1st 2024 for conservation work
- Minimum age is 5 years; ages 5 to 17 must be accompanied by an adult
- Itinerary order may change
- Travel insurance is recommended
- Arrive at least 15 minutes before departure; late arrivals cannot be refunded
- Allow at least 3 hours after tour end for onward travel
- One suitcase (max 15kg) and one carry-on allowed per traveler
- Collapsible wheelchairs allowed with assistance for boarding
Booking and Preparation
Cancel up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund. Bring suitable clothing for variable weather and comfortable walking shoes. The best time to visit is from spring to early autumn for ferry and train availability.
