Explore the picturesque Hebrides and Highlands of Scotland on this 5-day group tour that starts and ends in Edinburgh. Uncover Lewis and Harris Island, discovering traditional farming life, Dun Carloway Fort, and the prehistoric Calanais Stone Circle. Spend an evening in Inverness the 'Capital of the Highlands' before searching for 'Nessie' in Loch Ness, visiting the Highlands' highest village, and passing through the beautiful Cairngorms National Park.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Edinburgh to the Western Isles
Edinburgh - Ullapool - Stornoway. Departing from Edinburgh we journey past the iconic Forth Rail Bridge and into the Highlands. Our first stop is in Dunkeld, where we can stretch our legs and admire the unique architecture of the cathedral.
Following this we travel through the majestic Grampian Mountains, stopping for lunch in the Highland town of Aviemore. We then drive out to Rogie Falls and enjoy this lovely sight. Moving on we explore the lesser-known gem of Corrieshalloch Gorge with its stunning waterfall, before reaching the picturesque fishing port of Ullapool where we have a 2.5 hour ferry journey through the Summer Isles to Stornoway, the main town of the Western Isles.
Please note: Check-in closes at 08:15 (tour departs at 08:30) - Edinburgh Bus Station Pick Up, Gate J and Gate K, inside Edinburgh Bus Station, St Andrew Square, Edinburgh, EH1 3DQ
Accommodation: Dunroamin B&B, Hebridean Guest House or similar
Overnight: Stornoway
Exploring Lewis
After breakfast, we journey to the Butt of Lewis, the northernmost point of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides, known as one of the windiest locations in the United Kingdom.
We continue our exploration of the island's charms, passing through traditional crofting towns and picturesque seaside ports. We enjoy a stroll along the shores of Port of Ness, and history buffs can delve into the past at Arnol Blackhouse, offering a glimpse into traditional farming life on these islands.
After lunch in Stornoway, we explore Lewis's west side, including a visit to Uig Bay, before returning to Stornoway for the night. Don't miss the opportunity to sample Scotland's finest black pudding in this charming port town.
Accommodation: Dunroamin B&B, Hebridean Guest House or similar
Overnight: Stornoway | Breakfast
Mountains and Beaches
Prepare for the dramatic as we venture into the realm of Harris. With its towering peaks and stunning white-sand beaches such as Luskentire, Harris showcases nature's grandeur at its finest. The region is steeped in history, from the renowned Harris Tweed to its captivating myths and legends.
After a morning of exploring the dramatic landscapes, we stop for lunch. Depending on the weather, we may even go for a picnic on the beach – so don’t forget to pack your sunglasses. We then head back to Stornoway in the late afternoon.
Accommodation: Dunroamin B&B, Hebridean Guest House or similar
Overnight: Stornoway | Breakfast
Returning to the Mainland
Stornoway - Inverness. To start the day we head to the Calanais Stone Circle, one of the most famous sites on the island. Following this we head to the fort of Dun Carloway. Built in 100AD it has a rich history for us to discover. We then head back to Stornoway to catch the ferry back to the mainland where we head straight to Inverness, the Capital of the Highlands.
*Please note the Calanais Standing stone site will be closed between 1st September 2024 and 31st March 2025 and we will be unable to visit the site during these dates. We apologise for any inconvenience.
Accommodation: Dalmore, Pine Guest House or similar
Overnight: Inverness | Breakfast
Inverness to Edinburgh
Inverness - Loch Ness - Cairngorms National Park - Edinburgh. Leaving Inverness, our journey follows the scenic shores of Loch Ness, make sure you have your cameras ready for any glimpse of Nessie. Next, we reach Tominoul, the Highlands' highest village, boasting charming 18th-century buildings and a picturesque central square.
Continuing into Royal Deeside, we traverse the majestic valley of the River Dee, leading us to the quaint village of Braemar in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park. Here, amidst stunning mountain views and serene forests, we enjoy a leisurely lunch. Our route south takes us through Highland Perthshire, crossing Scotland's highest mountain pass, before reaching Scone Palace, home to Scotland's historic Coronation Stone.
2025 Itinerary change: Please note that from 1st April 2025, the tour will also include a visit to Scone Palace's Gardens. Admission included.
From here it’s a short journey back to Edinburgh where our journey comes to an end.
Please note: This tour ends at 18:30 - Edinburgh Bus Station Drop Off, Gate J and Gate K, Edinburgh Bus Station, St Andrew Square, Edinburgh, EH1 3DQ
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.
Hotels
The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
Dunroamin B&B , Stornoway
Dunroamin is a small, family-run bed and breakfast, centrally located in the heart of Stornoway, set around a bustling and picturesque harbour. All rooms are equipped with central heating, colour TVs, radio alarms, hairdryers, and tea and coffee-making facilities, along with free Wi-Fi access.
Dalmore Guest House, Inverness
Dalmore Lodge Guest House is conveniently located along a main bus route with direct links to Edinburgh city centre and the airport. Opposite Edinburgh Zoo, this Victorian terraced villa is just over 5 km from central Edinburgh and a 10-minute drive from Edinburgh Airport. Murrayfield Rugby Stadium is a 20-minute walk away, and the Edinburgh Corn Exchange is 3.2 km away. The rooms feature flat-screen TVs, tea and coffee making facilities, and en suite shower rooms with complimentary toiletries and a hairdryer. Free WiFi is available throughout the house, and guests can check themselves in between 2pm and 10pm. Additional amenities include free parking, free high-speed internet, breakfast, a bar/lounge, and private check-in/check-out. Non-smoking rooms are available.
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.
At a Glance
