Isle of Skye and the Highlands 5-Day Tour from Edinburgh
Isle of Skye, Edinburgh
Spend 5 days experiencing Scotland’s breathtaking best. Soak up the romantic beauty of the Isle of Skye and the Far North.
This 5-day guided tour explores Scotland’s northern Highlands, Loch Ness, the Isle of Skye, and key historic sites, suitable for nature and history enthusiasts.
Highlights
- Visit Loch Insh and the world-famous Loch Ness
- Spot wildlife in the far northern Highlands
- Enjoy views from Bealach nam Bo
- See Eilean Donan Castle, featured in the movie Highlander
Description
Day 1: Travel north over the Firth of Forth to the Highland village of Dunkeld. Enter Cairngorms National Park and explore Rothiemurchus estate’s ancient pine forests. After lunch, enjoy panoramic views of Loch Ness and visit the village of Dores for potential “Nessie” sightings. End the day on the shores of Loch Broom with a two-night stay in Ullapool.
Day 2: Explore the northwest Highlands and the mountains of Assynt. Learn about the Assynt Crofters’ Trust and visit the 15th-century Ardvreck Castle ruins. See Europe’s oldest landscapes, relax on Achmelvich Bay’s white sand beach, and visit the fishing village of Lochinver. Return to Ullapool for the night.
Day 3: Travel south to witness the River Droma’s 60-meter plunge at Corrieshalloch Gorge. Pass Beinn Eighe nature reserve and the coastline of Loch Torridon. After lunch in Applecross, drive the Bealach na Ba road. Stop in Plockton to see palm trees by Loch Carron, then continue by sea to the Isle of Skye and the harbour town of Portree.
Day 4: Enjoy a flexible day on Skye with your driver-guide adapting the route to weather and interests. Possible visits include Trotternish Ridge, Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock, the Quiraing mountain pass, or Dunvegan Castle, home of Clan MacLeod. Return to Portree in the evening.
Day 5: Travel south from Skye to visit Eilean Donan Castle. Continue through Kintail and Glen Garry, passing Ben Nevis, before lunch in Fort William. In the afternoon, explore Glencoe, then begin the journey back to Edinburgh, arriving around 19:00.
Includes
- Tour transport in a top-of-the-range 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach
- Driver/guide
- 4 nights accommodation in bed and breakfasts
Excludes
- Lunch and dinner
- Refreshments
- Entry or admission fees to visitor attractions
Important Information
- The tour returns at approximately 19:00 on Day 5
- Children under 5 are not allowed; children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult
- Luggage limit is 20 kilograms (44 lbs) per person, ideally one carry-on size bag (approx. 55cm x 45cm x 25cm) plus a small personal item
- Accommodation is in small, locally owned guesthouses and B&Bs with en suite rooms, typically located 20-30 minutes on foot from local amenities
- If you have difficulty with stairs, notify in advance as lifts are not available in these properties
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 14 days before the tour start date for a full refund.
For the best experience, bring suitable outdoor clothing and footwear. Book early to secure your place, especially during peak travel seasons.
