Discover the Scottish Highlands and the Isle of Skye on this 3-day tour. Journey from Edinburgh through the Trossachs and along the shores of Loch Lomond before reaching the dramatic landscapes of Glen Coe and Fort William. Explore the Isle of Skye’s rugged beauty, from the Cuillin Mountains and Portree to the Trotternish Peninsula’s iconic formations. On the final day, visit the legendary Loch Ness and historic Culloden Battlefield, then travel south through Pitlochry, with the tour concluding in Edinburgh.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Journey into the Highlands
Edinburgh - Glen Coe - Fort William - Inverness. Arrive in Edinburgh and make your way to the designated meeting point before 08:15 AM. From here, we begin our scenic journey north towards the Isle of Skye. Travelling through the Trossachs National Park, we stop in a charming village where you can enjoy a coffee or take some time to explore. Along the way, we pass the tranquil waters of Loch Lomond, the UK’s largest freshwater loch. As we admire the landscape, your driver-guide will share stories behind the famous song ‘The Bonnie Banks o’ Loch Lomond’.
We continue across the wild, open expanse of Rannoch Moor and into the dramatic landscapes of Glen Coe. Known for its haunting beauty and tragic past, Glen Coe was the site of the 1692 massacre of the MacDonald Clan. You’ll have time to take in the atmospheric views and learn about this pivotal event in Scottish history.
Next, we stop in Fort William for lunch. This Highland town sits at the foot of Ben Nevis – the UK’s tallest mountain at 1,345 meters – and marks the end of the West Highland Way, Scotland’s most popular long-distance walking route.
Please note: Scottish weather is unpredictable, so bring suitable clothing for all conditions, a waterproof jacket, suitable walking shoes, sunglasses, and your cameras. Most places accept card payments, but we recommend bringing some cash as well.
Meeting Point: Caffe Nero, besides St Giles Cathedral, 1 Parliament Sq, Royal Mile, EH1 1RE before 08:15.
Overnight: Inverness
Discovering the Isle of Skye
Inverness - Isle of Skye - Portree - Inverness. Today is dedicated to exploring the Isle of Skye in depth. Our experienced guide will tailor the day’s itinerary to suit the weather, group interests, and any local events. Among the highlights are the Cuillin Mountains, a jagged range that dominates the island’s skyline and offers spectacular views from across Skye.
We’ll stop in Portree, the island’s colorful capital nestled in a sheltered bay, where you’ll have time to enjoy lunch at your leisure.
In the afternoon, we venture to the Trotternish Peninsula – the most northerly on Skye and home to some of its most striking scenery. Photo stops include the dramatic cliffs of Kilt Rock, the plunging Mealt Waterfall and the iconic rock formation known as the Old Man of Storr.
Overnight: Inverness | Breakfast
Loch Ness, Culloden & Highland charm
Inverness- Loch Ness - Culloden - Edinburgh. We begin with a visit to the legendary Loch Ness, one of the largest and deepest lochs in Scotland. It’s so vast that all the lakes in England and Wales could fit inside – and perhaps even the mythical Nessie herself.
You’ll have the option to join a Jacobite Cruise for a chance to spot the elusive monster from the water, while enjoying impressive views and learning more about the loch’s history and mystery.
Next, you will have the option of visiting the Culloden Battlefield, where the Jacobites made their final stand in 1746. This poignant site marks one of the most decisive and tragic battles in British history. The visitor center features an engaging exhibition that brings the events to life, and you can walk on the very ground where the battle took place.
We then head south to the picturesque town of Pitlochry. Nestled beside the River Tummel, it has attracted visitors since the Victorian era, thanks to Queen Victoria and Sir Walter Scott’s romantic promotion of the Highlands. After a short break to explore, we continue to Edinburgh, where the tour concludes.
Please note: availability for the Jacobite Cruise may vary by season
Drop off Point: inside Caffe Nero, besides St Giles Cathedral, 1 Parliament Sq, Royal Mile, EH1 1RE at approximately 7 PM.
Breakfast