Discover Scotland's wild beauty, ancient history and island charm on this unforgettable 8-day adventure.Travel through Loch Lomond and the Trossachs to the heart of prehistoric Kilmartin Glen, trace the Jacobite trail past Glenfinnan Viaduct, and explore the rugged landscapes of Skye. Cross to the Outer Hebrides to uncover the unique heritage of Lewis and Harris – from Iron Age brochs and traditional blackhouses to world-famous Harris Tweed. With visits to Eilean Donan Castle, Loch Ness and Culloden Battlefield, this tour offers a deep and varied look at Scotland’s storied past and spectacular natural scenery.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Through the Trossachs to Oban
Our journey begins with a scenic drive west through Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, known for its lochs, forests and dramatic hills. We continue to Kilmartin Glen, one of Scotland’s most important prehistoric landscapes. With over 5,000 years of history underfoot, you’ll have time to explore the Temple Wood Stone Circle and walk in the footsteps of early Scots.
From here, we make our way to the coastal town of Oban – our base for the night and a hub for some of Scotland’s freshest seafood. As we arrive, your driver-guide will share stories of the town’s past and highlight key landmarks for you to discover at your leisure.
Meeting Point: Caffe Nero, 192 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1RW, United Kingdom - 08:00 - 08:15
Overnight: Oban
Glen Coe and the Glenfinnan Viaduct
We leave Oban behind and head north via the Connel Bridge and Appin to the atmospheric Glen Coe, scene of the infamous 1692 massacre of the MacDonald Clan. Our route continues to Fort William, set beneath Ben Nevis, the UK’s tallest mountain.
Travelling along the famous route of the Jacobite Steam Train, we pause for photos at the Glenfinnan Monument and Viaduct, a must-see for fans of Highland history and Harry Potter alike. We reach the fishing port of Mallaig, where you’ll have time to explore before taking a short ferry ride to the Isle of Skye – our home for the next two nights.
Overnight: Skye | Breakfast
A Full Day on Skye
Today is dedicated to discovering the wild beauty of Skye with your driver-guide. Highlights may include the dramatic Cuillin mountains, traditional black houses, and coastal sights such as the Kilt Rock waterfall and the Old Man of Storr. We also explore the Trotternish Peninsula before rounding off the day in Portree, the island’s colorful harbor town.
Overnight: Skye | Breakfast
Eilean Donan and Loch Ness
We bid farewell to Skye and visit one of Scotland’s most iconic castles – Eilean Donan – where you’ll have time to explore and capture photos. We then head to the village of Drumnadrochit on the shores of Loch Ness for lunch.
In the afternoon, you have the option to enjoy a cruise* on Loch Ness and visit the ruins of Urquhart Castle*. Our day ends in the Highland capital of Inverness.
Overnight: Inverness | Breakfast
To Lewis and Harris
We leave Inverness and journey through the remote and rugged landscapes of Sutherland, arriving in the fishing port of Ullapool. From here, we take the ferry across the Minch to the Isle of Lewis and Harris.
Upon arrival, we visit the Arnol Blackhouse, a traditional thatched home offering a glimpse into island life of the past. We then continue to Stornoway, the largest town in the Outer Hebrides and our base for exploring the islands.
Overnight: Stornoway | Breakfast
The Harris Tweed
Today we explore the rich history of Lewis and Harris. We visit the Carloway Broch, a remarkably well-preserved Iron Age tower, and view the ancient Callanish Standing Stones from a distance. You'll also visit Luskentire Beach, often ranked among the UK’s most beautiful.
We end the day learning about the island’s famed Harris Tweed – a cloth still woven by hand in local homes.
Please note: Due to closures, we will not stop at Callanish Standing Stones but will pass by and, where possible, offer a short drop-off.
Overnight: Stornoway | Breakfast
Northern Coast and Return to Inverness
This morning we head to the Butt of Lewis, marked by its remote lighthouse and known as the windiest place in the UK. After a short walk, we return to Stornoway for lunch before catching the ferry back to the mainland.
A scenic drive takes us through the Highlands back to Inverness for our final night in the north.
Overnight: Inverness | Breakfast
Culloden and the Cairngorms
Our final day begins with a visit to Culloden Battlefield, where the Jacobite uprising came to a brutal end in 1746. You’ll have time to explore the visitor center and walk the historic site.
We then visit a local distillery for a taste of Scotch whisky before heading south through the Cairngorms National Park. After a stop in the charming town of Pitlochry, we return to Edinburgh in the early evening.
Drop Off Point: Deacon Brodies Tavern, 435 Lawnmarket, Edinburgh, EH1 2NT, United Kingdom
Breakfast
Prices & Dates
Departure dates are guaranteed with 2 travellers. 'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to solo travellers and anyone wanting the privacy of their own room.