Isle of Skye and the Highlands 5-Day Tour From Edinburgh

Exploring the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands and the Isle of Skye is a dream for many travelers. This 5-day tour from Edinburgh offers an immersive experience, showcasing the region’s stunning landscapes, from the iconic Loch Ness to the dramatic Assynt coastline. Guests can expect a blend of breathtaking natural wonders, historic sites, and opportunities to connect with the local culture, all while enjoying comfortable accommodations and expert guidance. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or a history buff, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure that will leave you captivated by the enduring charm of this remarkable corner of Scotland.

Key Points

1. Five-day tour starting from Edinburgh exploring the breathtaking landscapes of the Scottish Highlands and Isle of Skye.
2. Includes visits to Cairngorms National Park, Loch Ness, Ardvreck Castle, Corrieshalloch Gorge, Trotternish Ridge, and Eilean Donan Castle.
3. Accommodations, meals, and transportation in a 16-seat mini-coach provided, with a maximum of 16 participants.
4. Flexible day on the Isle of Skye to visit attractions like Dunvegan Castle, Fairy Pools, and Talisker Distillery.
5. Cancellation policy allows free cancellation up to 14 days prior to the tour start date.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This 5-day tour from Edinburgh offers an immersive exploration of Scotland’s iconic Isle of Skye and the captivating Highlands region.

Priced from £85,816 per person, the tour accommodates a small group of up to 16 participants and is conducted in English.

Travelers can enjoy the convenience of free cancellation up to 14 days in advance.

The itinerary covers stunning natural landscapes, historic sites, and quaint villages, with highlights like Loch Ness, Cairngorms National Park, and the Ardvreck Castle ruins.

Comfortable transportation, quality accommodations, and included meals and refreshments ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour’s itinerary showcases a captivating blend of natural wonders, historic marvels, and quaint villages across the Scottish Highlands and the Isle of Skye.

Highlights include:

• Exploring Cairngorms National Park and Rothiemurchus estate, where visitors can enjoy the region’s stunning landscapes.

• Visiting Loch Ness and the village of Dores for a chance to spot the elusive Loch Ness Monster.

• Discovering the ruins of Ardvreck Castle and the breathtaking Achmelvich Bay.

• Exploring the Trotternish Ridge, the Old Man of Storr, and Dunvegan Castle on the Isle of Skye, weather permitting.

• Visiting the iconic Eilean Donan Castle and experiencing the dramatic scenery of Glencoe.

Day 1: Dunkeld to Ullapool

The tour begins with a journey northward over the Firth of Forth to the charming town of Dunkeld.

Travelers then explore the scenic Cairngorms National Park and the historic Rothiemurchus estate.

The adventure continues with a visit to the legendary Loch Ness, where the group will have the opportunity to spot the elusive Loch Ness Monster, known as "Nessie".

The day concludes with an overnight stay in the coastal town of Ullapool, setting the stage for the exploration of the rugged northwest Highlands on the following day.

Day 2: Northwest Highlands and Assynt

On the second day, the tour explores the rugged northwest Highlands and Assynt region. Travelers visit the evocative ruins of Ardvreck Castle, once a stronghold of the Clan Mackenzie.

They then head to the sandy beaches of Achmelvich Bay, known for their scenic beauty. The itinerary also includes:

• Discovering the geological wonders of the Assynt peninsula
• Admiring the dramatic landscapes shaped by glaciers and erosion
• Keeping an eye out for wildlife like red deer, golden eagles, and otters
• Learning about the region’s rich history and clan rivalries
• Enjoying the tranquility and remoteness of this unspoiled corner of Scotland

The day ends with another overnight stay in the charming town of Ullapool.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Day 3: Corrieshalloch Gorge to Portree

From Ullapool, the tour continues its journey towards the Isle of Skye, making several stops along the way.

First, the group visits the breathtaking Corrieshalloch Gorge, a natural wonder carved out by glacial meltwater.

Next, they explore the Beinn Eighe nature reserve, home to an ancient Caledonian pine forest.

Driving along the picturesque Loch Torridon, the tour reaches the charming fishing village of Plockton, where they can wander the streets and admire the colorful cottages.

Day 4: Flexible Day on Skye

Arriving in Portree, the group enjoys a flexible day on the Isle of Skye, allowing them to explore the island’s highlights based on the weather and their interests.

The itinerary offers a range of options, including:

• Trotternish Ridge, home to the iconic Old Man of Storr
• Dunvegan Castle, the ancestral seat of the Clan MacLeod
• Fairy Pools, a series of crystal-clear, turquoise-colored pools
• Quiraing, a dramatic landscape of towering cliffs and rock formations
• Talisker Distillery, where they can sample the renowned single-malt whisky

With the freedom to tailor their experience, the group can enjoy Skye’s natural wonders and cultural heritage, creating lasting memories of their time on the island.

Day 5: Eilean Donan Castle to Edinburgh

The final day of the tour sees the group depart Portree and head southeast, making a stop at the iconic Eilean Donan Castle. This 13th-century castle, situated on an island at the confluence of three lochs, is a picturesque and historic destination.

After exploring the castle, the journey continues through the scenic Kintail and Glen Garry regions. The tour pauses for lunch in Fort William before exploring Glencoe, the dramatic glacial valley famous for its natural beauty.

As the day draws to a close, the mini-coach makes its way back to Edinburgh, concluding the 5-day adventure through the Isle of Skye and the Scottish Highlands.

Inclusions and Important Information

The tour package includes a 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach for transportation, allowing participants to explore the remote landscapes comfortably.

Accommodation is provided for 4 nights in local guesthouses and B&Bs, with ensuite rooms ensuring privacy. Meals are included, with lunch and dinner offerings, and refreshments are provided throughout the tour.

Entry fees to all visitor attractions are also covered, eliminating additional costs.

Regarding important information, the tour has a minimum age of 5 years, and children 4 and younger aren’t permitted.

Accommodation options include double, single, and twin rooms, and suitable clothing and footwear are recommended for the nature walks.

• 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach
• 4-night accommodation in local guesthouses/B&Bs
• Included meals (lunch, dinner) and refreshments
• Covered entry fees to visitor attractions
• Minimum age of 5 years; no children under 4

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

According to the tour details, refreshments are provided. However, participants are welcome to bring their own food and non-alcoholic drinks to consume during the tour if they prefer. The tour doesn’t prohibit this.

Is There Wi-Fi Available on the Mini-Coach and at the Accommodations?

The tour does not specify if there is Wi-Fi available on the mini-coach or at the accommodations. Guests should check with the tour provider for the latest information on connectivity during the tour.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Vegan Meal Option?

The tour provider offers vegetarian and vegan meal options upon request. Travelers can inquire about dietary requirements when booking to ensure their needs are accommodated throughout the tour.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Nature Walks?

The tour recommends bringing suitable clothing and footwear for the nature walks. While no special equipment is required, comfortable layers and sturdy shoes are advised to fully enjoy the scenic outdoor activities.

Is There a Discount for Booking the Tour as a Group?

The tour doesn’t offer a group discount. Pricing is the same per person regardless of group size, which is limited to 16 participants. Travelers can expect a small group experience on this 5-day tour of the Scottish Highlands and Isle of Skye.

Recap

This 5-day tour from Edinburgh offers an immersive experience exploring the breathtaking landscapes and rich history of the Isle of Skye and Scottish Highlands. Travelers will be captivated by the dramatic scenery, enchanting castles, and opportunities for wildlife observation and whisky tasting. With comfortable accommodations and expert guidance, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure for nature and history enthusiasts.

You can check if your dates are available here: