Edinburgh: 5-Day Outer Hebrides and Highlands Tour

Set out on a captivating 5-day adventure through Scotland’s remarkable Outer Hebrides and Highlands. This all-inclusive tour from Edinburgh showcases the region’s stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. With a maximum group size of 16, you’ll enjoy an intimate experience guided by an experienced driver. Enjoy the enchanting Calanais Stone Circle, marvel at the serene Luskentyre Beach, and explore the past at the Arnol Blackhouse. From the grand Dunkeld Cathedral to the charming traditional sites, this tour promises an unforgettable journey that will leave you eager to uncover more of Scotland’s hidden gems.

Key Points

• A 5-day guided tour from Edinburgh exploring the scenic Outer Hebrides and Highlands regions of Scotland, with a maximum group size of 16 participants.
• The tour includes visits to historical and cultural sites such as Dunkeld Cathedral, Calanais Stone Circle, and Arnol Blackhouse, as well as natural wonders like Rogie Falls.
• The all-inclusive package covers accommodations, meals, admissions, and transportation via a top-of-the-range mini-coach with an experienced driver/guide.
• Guests can expect a refund if they cancel their booking up to 14 days in advance, and the tour is not recommended for those with mobility issues.
• Based on 11 reviews, the tour has an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, with positive feedback on the transportation, guides, and recommendations to pack suitable clothing and make dining reservations in advance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This 5-day Outer Hebrides and Highlands tour from Edinburgh offers an immersive journey through Scotland’s captivating landscapes and cultural heritage.

The tour lasts 5 days and costs from $1,187.25 per person, with a group size limited to 16 participants. It’s conducted in English and allows for full refunds if canceled up to 14 days in advance.

Highlights include visits to Dunkeld Cathedral, Rogie Falls, the Calanais Stone Circle, and Scone Palace, as well as exploring the Isle of Lewis and Harris.

Accommodations, admissions, and meals are included, making this an all-inclusive and convenient way to discover the wonders of the Scottish Highlands and islands.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins by departing Edinburgh and visiting Dunkeld Cathedral, a historic landmark in the heart of Scotland. Afterward, the group travels to Aviemore for lunch, then explores the stunning natural wonders of Rogie Falls and Corrieshalloch Gorge before taking a ferry to the Outer Hebrides island of Stornoway.

Day	Location	Activities
1	Dunkeld, Aviemore, Rogie Falls, Corrieshalloch Gorge, Stornoway	Visit cathedral, explore waterfalls and gorge, ferry to Outer Hebrides
2	Stornoway, Port of Ness, Arnol Blackhouse	Tour traditional towns, walk the coast, visit historic blackhouse
3	Harris, Luskentyre Beach	Explore the island, possible beach picnic
4	Calanais, Dun Carloway, Inverness	Discover ancient stone circle and broch, ferry to mainland
5	Loch Ness, Tomintoul, Braemar, Scone Palace, Edinburgh	Trace Loch Ness, visit historic sites, return to Edinburgh

Inclusions

The tour includes transportation in a top-of-the-range 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach, along with an experienced driver/guide.

The package also covers 4 nights’ accommodation with breakfast. Visitors will enjoy admission to the Arnol Blackhouse, a traditional thatched-roof dwelling that provides a glimpse into the past.

Plus, all meals and refreshments are included throughout the tour.

• Comfortable transportation in a modern 16-seat mini-coach
• Knowledgeable driver/guide to enhance the experience
• 4 nights’ accommodation with breakfast
• Admission to the Arnol Blackhouse historic site

Important Information

Participants are required to meet at Gate J & K in the Edinburgh Bus Station, located at St Andrew Square, as the departure point for the tour.

A luggage limit of 20 kg (44 lbs) per person is in place, with one medium suitcase and one small personal item allowed.

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 5 or individuals with mobility issues, as the minimum age is 5 years old.

Comfort and preparedness are key, with the recommended items including comfortable shoes, a camera, a jacket, and rain gear.

Participants should be aware of the limited dining options in small towns and may want to consider making advanced reservations.

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Customer Feedback

Customers have provided an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars for this tour based on 11 reviews. Positive remarks highlight the quality of transportation and the knowledgeable guides leading the tour.

Reviewers suggest:

• Making advance dining reservations in small towns, as restaurant availability can be limited.
• Bringing comfortable shoes and rain gear to fully enjoy the outdoor experiences.
• Packing light, as the luggage restriction of 20 kg per person is strictly enforced.
• Ensuring the tour is suitable for children under 5 and individuals with mobility impairments, as the minimum age is 5 and the tour may not be accessible for all.

Dunkeld Cathedral

Dunkeld Cathedral stands as a magnificent remnant of Scotland’s medieval past, its striking red sandstone facade a testament to the region’s rich history.

This 12th-century structure was once the seat of the Bishops of Dunkeld, and its nave, aisles, and transepts showcase the intricate craftsmanship of its original builders.

Visitors can explore the cathedral’s interior, admiring the detailed carvings, stained glass windows, and the impressive Romanesque architecture that blends Norman and Gothic elements.

The cathedral’s peaceful grounds, adorned with ancient yew trees, offer a tranquil respite from the bustling town.

As the tour group’s first stop, Dunkeld Cathedral sets the stage for the journey ahead, immersing guests in Scotland’s captivating past.

Arnol Blackhouse

The Arnol Blackhouse stands as a captivating relic of the Outer Hebrides’ traditional way of life. This restored 19th-century dwelling offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s history and the resilience of its people.

Visitors can explore the thatched-roof structure, designed to house both humans and livestock under the same roof. The experience includes:

• Wandering through the dimly lit interior, with its peat fire and simple furnishings
• Marveling at the craftsmanship of the stone walls and intricate thatching
• Learning about the daily routines and challenges faced by the Blackhouse’s former residents
• Appreciating the ingenious use of limited resources to create a sustainable, self-sufficient home.

Calanais Stone Circle

Towering over the windswept landscape of the Outer Hebrides, the Calanais Stone Circle stands as a captivating relic of the Neolithic era. This imposing arrangement of tall, slender stones dates back over 5,000 years, offering a glimpse into the spiritual and astronomical beliefs of ancient inhabitants. Visitors can explore the site’s central stone ‘avenue’ and admire the panoramic views across the surrounding hills and lochs.

Feature	Description
Site	Calanais Standing Stones
Location	Isle of Lewis, Outer Hebrides
Age	Approximately 5,000 years old
Purpose	Believed to have had ritual and astronomical significance

Immersed in the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands, the Calanais Stone Circle invites travelers to ponder the mysteries of the past and connect with the enduring spirit of this ancient land.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Time Does the Tour Depart From Edinburgh on Day 1?

The tour departs from the Edinburgh Bus Station, Gate J & K, in St Andrew Square. The departure time is not specified in the provided information, so the exact departure time is unknown.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Special Meal Requests Accommodated?

The tour accommodates dietary restrictions and special meal requests. Travelers can notify the tour operator of any dietary needs, and the staff will make arrangements to ensure their preferences are met during the included meals.

Can I Bring My Own Hiking or Camping Equipment on the Tour?

Participants can bring their own hiking or camping equipment on the tour. However, the luggage restriction of 20 kg per person applies, so travelers should pack carefully to ensure they stay within the limit.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour by a Day or Two?

While the tour is offered as a 5-day package, the operator doesn’t provide an option to extend the duration. However, travelers could explore arranging additional nights before or after the tour independently to extend their time in the region.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Change My Travel Dates?

The tour offers a full refund if canceled up to 14 days in advance. Guests can also change their travel dates, subject to availability and any price differences. However, there’s no option to extend the tour beyond the 5-day itinerary.

Recap

This 5-day Outer Hebrides and Highlands tour from Edinburgh offers travelers an immersive experience. Guests can explore stunning landscapes, historic sites, and cultural gems with the guidance of an experienced driver. With inclusive accommodations, meals, and admissions, the tour ensures a seamless and comfortable journey through Scotland’s captivating regions. Whether it’s the enchanting Calanais Stone Circle or the scenic Luskentyre Beach, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: