The "From Edinburgh: Magical Highlands Tour With Hogwarts Express" promises an enchanting adventure through Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes. Departing from The Elephant House, this 13-hour tour takes visitors on a scenic bus ride to iconic sites like Glenfinnan Viaduct and Loch Shiel, culminating in a memorable journey on the Jacobite steam train. With knowledgeable guides and stunning photo opportunities, this tour appeals to both Harry Potter enthusiasts and lovers of Scottish history. Whether you’re looking to learn about the wizarding world or explore the region’s rich cultural heritage, this tour offers an experience you won’t soon forget.
This experience made our list of the 3 Best Tours In Glencoe.
Key Points
- This 13-hour tour takes you from Edinburgh to the Highlands, featuring the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, Loch Shiel, and a journey on the Jacobite steam train.
- The tour includes transportation, a guided experience, a breakfast-type snack, and the Jacobite steam train ticket, but excludes hotel pickup/drop-off, lunch, and guide on the train.
- The tour is not recommended for individuals with food allergies or children under 6 years, and seating is standard class only with no upgrades available.
- The tour provides a comprehensive exploration of Scottish history and landscapes, captivating both Harry Potter fans and general travelers.
- The tour features a 30-minute stop at the Glenfinnan Viaduct, a key location that inspired the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter series.
Tour Overview and Details
The Magical Highlands Tour with Hogwarts Express departs from Edinburgh, offering an immersive journey through the picturesque Scottish Highlands. Priced from Kč4,877 per person, this 13-hour tour explores iconic sites from the Harry Potter series, including the Glenfinnan Viaduct and Loch Shiel.
Travelers can experience a single journey on the Jacobite steam train, known as the Hogwarts Express. The tour includes transportation, a guide, and a breakfast-type snack, though lunch and hotel transfers are excluded.
With limited availability and free cancellation up to 21 days in advance, this tour is likely to sell out quickly. While not exclusively Harry Potter-themed, the tour provides a rundown of Scotland’s history and natural wonders.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Glencoe.
Itinerary Highlights
Commencing at The Elephant House, the Magical Highlands Tour whisks travelers on a captivating journey through the Scottish Highlands.
The tour begins with a 2.67-hour bus ride to the picturesque village of Glencoe, where guests enjoy a 20-minute photo stop.
Next, the group travels to Mallaig for a 1-hour break before boarding the iconic Hogwarts Express steam train.
The journey continues to the Glenfinnan Viaduct, offering a 30-minute sightseeing opportunity to admire the stunning landscapes featured in the Harry Potter films.
After a 30-minute stop in Pitlochry, the tour returns to Edinburgh, covering approximately 13 hours of immersive exploration.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The Magical Highlands Tour includes a range of inclusions to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.
Travelers are provided transportation to Fort William, a single journey on the iconic Jacobite steam train, and a knowledgeable guide throughout the tour. A breakfast-type snack and return coach to Edinburgh are also included, along with gratuities.
However, the tour excludes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as a guide on the train or in Mallaig. Lunch is also not included in the tour price.
It’s important to note that the tour may not be suitable for those with food allergies or children under 6 years old due to the tour length.
Important Information
As per the important information provided, the Magical Highlands Tour may not be suitable for certain groups. The tour isn’t recommended for people with food allergies, children under 6 years, and children under 5 years due to the tour’s length.
While the tour covers general Scottish history, it isn’t exclusively Harry Potter-themed. Travelers should note that the train tickets are for standard class only, with no upgrade options available.
Plus, the tour may occasionally operate in reverse, and there’s no guarantee of seating on the train.
Despite these considerations, the tour provides a comprehensive experience, including transportation, guided commentary, and the iconic Jacobite steam train journey.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyCustomer Reviews
Customers have provided overwhelmingly positive reviews for the Magical Highlands Tour, with an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 523 reviews.
Highlights include the comfortable bus, engaging guide, and the stunning scenery through the Highlands. Reviewers appreciate the insightful historical commentary and the incredible experience of the Hogwarts Express train ride over the picturesque landscapes.
Although a few noted seating issues on the train, the overall feedback is very positive, with many customers expressing satisfaction despite the long bus travel time.
The tour offers an immersive journey through Scotland’s magical landscapes, captivating both Harry Potter fans and general sightseers alike.
Tour Departure and Duration
From Edinburgh, the Magical Highlands Tour departs on a 13-hour journey through the captivating landscapes of Scotland.
The tour starts at The Elephant House, making its way to Glencoe, Mallaig, Glenfinnan, and Pitlochry before returning to Edinburgh.
Along the way, guests enjoy a 30-minute photo stop in Glencoe, a 1-hour break in Mallaig, a 30-minute sightseeing stop at Glenfinnan Viaduct, and a 30-minute break in Pitlochry.
The highlight of the tour is the single journey on the iconic Jacobite steam train, known as the Hogwarts Express, offering stunning views of the Scottish Highlands.
With free cancellation up to 21 days in advance, this tour is a must-do for Harry Potter fans and nature enthusiasts alike.
Transportation and Accommodations
The tour includes transportation to the various locations via coach.
Guests are taken on a journey through the stunning Scottish Highlands, with stops at iconic sites like Glencoe, Mallaig, Glenfinnan, and Pitlochry.
The total bus travel time is around 6.5 hours, with breaks at each destination for sightseeing and photos.
The highlight is the single journey on the Jacobite steam train, also known as the Hogwarts Express, which takes travelers over the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct.
While the tour includes a guide, there’s no guide provided on the train or in Mallaig.
Snacks are provided, but lunch isn’t included, so guests should plan accordingly.
Iconic Sites and Experiences
The tour takes visitors on a spellbinding journey, immersing them in the captivating landscapes that have inspired the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Guests will experience iconic sites from the films, including the Glenfinnan Viaduct, which served as the backdrop for the Hogwarts Express, and Loch Shiel, which stood in for the Chamber of Secrets.
The tour also includes a stop at the Triwizard Tournament site from The Goblet of Fire.
The highlight of the day is the single journey on the Jacobite steam train, also known as the Hogwarts Express, offering stunning views of the Scottish Highlands.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Take Photos on the Hogwarts Express Train?
Passengers can take photos on the Hogwarts Express train. The tour includes a single journey on the iconic steam train, allowing guests to capture the stunning landscapes along the route.
Is There a Discount for Groups or Families?
There are no group discounts specifically mentioned for this Magical Highlands Tour. However, families and larger groups may be able to negotiate a lower per-person price by booking directly with the tour operator, subject to availability and tour requirements.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, but a breakfast-type snack is already included. Bringing additional provisions can help manage dietary needs or personal preferences during the long day on the road and the train ride.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but it’s recommended to dress comfortably and warmly. Wear layers and bring rain gear, as the weather in the Highlands can be unpredictable. Comfortable walking shoes are also advised for the tour’s activities.
Is There Wifi Available on the Bus and Train?
The tour does not provide Wi-Fi on the bus or train. Passengers should plan accordingly, as there may be limited connectivity during the journey through the remote Scottish Highlands.
Recap
The "From Edinburgh: Magical Highlands Tour With Hogwarts Express" is a captivating journey through Scotland’s enchanting landscapes. Combining scenic bus rides, iconic sites, and a memorable train journey, this tour offers an unforgettable experience for Harry Potter fans and history enthusiasts alike. With knowledgeable guides and stunning photo opportunities, it’s a must-do adventure for anyone visiting the Scottish Highlands.
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