5-Day Highland Explorer and Isle of Skye Small-Group Tour From Edinburgh

Exploring the breathtaking landscapes of the Scottish Highlands and the enchanting Isle of Skye is an unforgettable experience. This 5-day small-group tour from Edinburgh promises an immersive journey through towering mountains, serene lochs, and historic sites. Travelers will marvel at the majestic Old Man of Storr, uncover the charm of Eilean Donan Castle, and discover the hidden gems of Cairngorms National Park. With comfortable accommodations, daily breakfasts, and a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers a hassle-free way to dive deep into the heart of Scotland’s natural and cultural wonders. What secrets await on this captivating adventure?

Key Points

• A 5-day guided tour exploring the Scottish Highlands and Isle of Skye, departing from Edinburgh with a small group of up to 16 passengers.
• Visit historic sites like Ardvreck Castle and Eilean Donan Castle, and witness the stunning natural beauty of Cairngorms National Park and the Old Man of Storr.
• Travel in a comfortable 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach with a knowledgeable driver-guide providing local insights.
• Accommodation in B&B or 3-star hotels with en-suite facilities, and daily breakfasts included.
• Suitable for families with a minimum age requirement of 5 years, with flexible schedules and opportunities for children to explore and learn.

Tour Overview

This 5-day guided tour offers an immersive exploration of the rugged Scottish Highlands and the picturesque Isle of Skye, departing from Edinburgh.

Traveling in a small group of up to 16 passengers, you’ll journey by 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach with a knowledgeable driver-guide.

Along the way, you’ll visit historic sites like the ruins of Ardvreck Castle, take in breathtaking scenery in Cairngorms National Park and Achmelvich Bay, and make stops at iconic landmarks such as the Old Man of Storr and Eilean Donan Castle.

With 4 nights of en-suite accommodation in either a B&B or 3-star hotel and daily breakfasts included, this tour provides a comprehensive and comfortable way to explore the best of the Scottish Highlands and the Isle of Skye.

Itinerary Highlights

The 5-day tour packs in an array of captivating highlights, starting with a visit to the ruins of Ardvreck Castle, a 16th-century stronghold situated on the banks of Loch Assynt. From there, the tour ventures into the breathtaking Cairngorms National Park, where travelers can soak in the serene beauty of the Scottish Highlands. One of the tour’s most iconic stops is the Old Man of Storr, a majestic rock formation on the Isle of Skye that offers panoramic views. The journey also includes a visit to the picturesque Eilean Donan Castle, a stunning 13th-century fortress perched on an island at the confluence of three lochs.

Highlights	Location	Description
Ardvreck Castle	Loch Assynt	16th-century castle ruins
Cairngorms National Park	Scottish Highlands	Serene natural beauty
Old Man of Storr	Isle of Skye	Majestic rock formation with panoramic views
Eilean Donan Castle	Western Highlands	13th-century castle on an island

Transportation and Accommodations

The tour provides transportation via a 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach, ensuring a comfortable and intimate travel experience for the small group of up to 16 passengers.

Travelers are accommodated in either a bed and breakfast or a 3-star hotel, with en-suite facilities and daily breakfasts included. This allows for a more personalized and immersive exploration of the Scottish Highlands and the Isle of Skye.

The driver/guide leads the group, sharing their local knowledge and ensuring a seamless journey. With hotel pickup and drop-off, travelers can relax and enjoy the scenic routes without the hassle of navigating on their own.

The logistics are designed for a hassle-free experience from start to finish.

Meeting Point and Start Time

Departing from the Edinburgh Bus Station, Gate J and Gate K at St Andrew Square, the tour begins promptly at 9:00 am. This centrally located meeting point ensures a convenient start to the adventure.

Meeting Point	End Point
Edinburgh Bus Station, Gate J and Gate K, St Andrew Square	Same as meeting point

The tour ends at the same location as the departure, making it easy for travelers to continue their journey after an immersive exploration of the Scottish Highlands and the Isle of Skye. With a minimum age requirement of 5 years, the tour caters to a wide range of participants, allowing families and groups to embark on this unforgettable excursion together.

Luggage Allowance

For this tour, travelers are allowed to bring up to 20kg (44lbs) of luggage per person. This luggage allowance ensures ample space for participants to pack their essentials while maintaining the comfort and maneuverability of the mini-coach during the journey.

Pack light and smart, focusing on versatile and weather-appropriate clothing.

Bring any necessary medications, toiletries, and personal items.

Consider compact and lightweight camera equipment to capture the stunning landscapes.

Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain.

Ensure all luggage is clearly labeled and easy to identify upon arrival at each destination.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This tour package includes the services of a knowledgeable driver/guide, 4 nights of en-suite accommodation with daily breakfasts, and round-trip transportation via a 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach from the meeting point in Edinburgh.

However, it excludes gratuities, additional meals and refreshments beyond breakfast, as well as any admission fees to the various attractions visited during the tour.

Passengers have the freedom to explore these sites at their own pace and expense, allowing for a customizable experience.

The tour’s inclusions ensure a seamless and comfortable journey through the stunning landscapes of the Scottish Highlands and the Isle of Skye, while the exclusions provide flexibility for travelers to personalize their spending and activities.

Minimum Age Requirement

The tour has a minimum age requirement of 5 years, allowing families with young children to experience the breathtaking scenery of the Scottish Highlands and the Isle of Skye. This age limit ensures that all participants can safely and comfortably enjoy the tour’s activities.

Some key considerations for families include:

• Age-appropriate activities and accommodations
• Flexible schedule to accommodate young travelers
• Knowledgeable guides who can engage with children
• Opportunities for children to explore and learn
• Appropriate transportation options for families

This modest age requirement makes the tour an excellent choice for those looking to introduce their children to the wonders of Scotland’s stunning landscapes.

Additional Information

Travelers can expect a range of flexible booking and cancellation policies for the Highland Explorer and Isle of Skye Tour from Edinburgh, allowing for hassle-free planning and adjustments as needed.

The tour operator offers online booking and payment through secure platforms, and customers can easily manage their reservations through the company’s website or by contacting their friendly customer service team.

In the event of cancellations or changes, flexible policies ensure minimal disruption, with options for full refunds or rescheduling available.

Participants can also inquire about add-on activities or customizations to personalize their tour experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Extend My Stay on the Isle of Skye After the Tour?

Yes, travelers can extend their stay on the Isle of Skye after the tour. The tour company doesn’t handle post-tour arrangements, but they can provide recommendations for accommodation and activities on the island to extend one’s visit.

Is There a Discount for Booking Multiple Tours With the Same Company?

The company may offer discounts for booking multiple tours, but this is not guaranteed. Customers should check with the tour operator directly to inquire about any multi-tour discount policies or promotions they currently have available.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for This Tour?

The cancellation and refund policy generally allows for a full refund if cancelled at least 30 days prior to the tour, with partial refunds for cancellations closer to the tour date. Specific policies may vary by tour operator.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks on the Mini-Coach?

Yes, passengers can bring their own food and snacks on the mini-coach. The tour does not provide meals beyond the included breakfasts, so bringing personal provisions is allowed and encouraged to have on hand during the tour.

Are There Any Additional Costs for Single Travelers on This Tour?

According to the tour details, there are no additional costs for single travelers. The tour price is the same regardless of whether travelers are solo or in a group.

Recap

The 5-Day Highland Explorer and Isle of Skye Small-Group Tour from Edinburgh offers an unforgettable journey through Scotland’s stunning landscapes.

Travelers will explore the Cairngorms National Park, marvel at the Isle of Skye’s iconic landmarks, and enjoy the country’s rich history and culture.

With comfortable transportation, daily breakfasts, and the flexibility to customize the experience, this tour promises a hassle-free and memorable adventure for families and travelers of all ages.