Skye Island Escape from Inverness
New
Set off from Inverness for a three day escape that loops back to the Highland capital – a scenic circuit packed with legends and landscapes. You’ll trace Loch Ness to Urquhart Castle, pause in Fort Augustus and take in Ben Nevis views, then swing by the Glenfinnan Viaduct and Glen Shiel before crossing to Skye. Based around Portree, you’ll explore the Fairy Pools, the Quiraing, Kilt Rock and the Old Man of Storr – with the Cuillin as your backdrop. Return via Eilean Donan Castle and Beauly, visit a Highland whisky distillery, and uncover Culloden Battlefield and Clava Cairns – finishing in Inverness.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more.
Tour Overview
Duration
3 daysHotel Rating
Accommodation as per the InclusionsStarts
InvernessEnds
InvernessMinimum Age
No minimum ageMaximum Age
Tours have upper age limits for several reasons, such as but not limited to: tour pace, activity level, and accommodation standards. If you fall outside of this age limit, we do have lots of other tours in United Kingdom that are suitable for all ages!
Arrival Transfer
NoDeparture Transfer
NoTour Guide
Yes - for included sightseeing.Country
United KingdomMeals Included
Breakfast: 2Tour Style
Group Size
Up to 16 travellers
Min 6 / Max 16
Trip Type
Group Tours
Travel Style
Worldwide Touring
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
Guiding Style
Partially Guided
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical rating
A moderate amount of walking is required during sightseeing, with some free time, offering a balance between activity and relaxation. As a general rule, you should be able to walk 2-kilometres without stopping.
These ratings are a general guide and may vary from tour to tour.
Tour Guide
Yes - for included sightseeing.Group Size
Min 6 / Max 16Range
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
A moderate amount of walking is required during sightseeing, with some free time, offering a balance between activity and relaxation. As a general rule, you should be able to walk 2-kilometres without stopping.
Trip Type
Group ToursPassengers
$970.00
Tour Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Day 1 - Inverness to Portree
We depart Inverness to follow the misty shores of Loch Ness – keeping an eye out for Nessie – and pause at the evocative ruins of Urquhart Castle above the deep, dark water. We continue to the charming village of Fort Augustus, then thread south through dramatic glens to the Commando Memorial for sweeping views towards Ben Nevis.
We carry on to the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, famed from the Harry Potter films, where we admire the Glenfinnan Monument at the head of Loch Shiel. We traverse the rugged Glen Shiel, rich with Jacobite stories, cross the Skye Bridge onto the Isle of Skye, and wind through the marvellous Cuillin Mountains before arriving in Portree.
Meeting Point: 60 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1TB, The check-in closes 15 minutes before the departure time
Day 2 - Isle of Skye
We begin with a refreshing walk to the Fairy Pools – where dark basalt and the rushing River Brittle create a moody, magical scene – then hear tales of Bonnie Prince Charlie’s daring escape before reaching Dunvegan for lunchtime.
Our Isle of Skye journey continues through the haunting landscapes of the Quiraing, shaped by ancient landslips, before we head north to the cliffs of Kilt Rock and the windswept viewpoint of the Old Man of Storr. We return to Portree in the late afternoon, and you have free time to enjoy the peaceful harbour and local shops before dinner. Due to its remote location, our visit to the Fairy Pools is subject to weather and road conditions.
Day 3 - Portree to Inverness
We bid farewell to Skye and make for the romantic Eilean Donan Castle, reputedly Scotland’s most photographed. We continue south west to relish the scenery before pausing for lunch in the picturesque village of Beauly. With energy restored, we visit a Highland whisky distillery to warm our bellies and learn how uisge beatha is crafted.
We hear the story of the last battle fought on British soil as we explore the grounds of Culloden Battlefield, then visit the standing stones of Clava Cairns, made famous by the TV series Outlander. Our Isle of Skye journey concludes as we return to Inverness in the early evening. Return times are approximate and depend on road and weather conditions – please allow at least 3 hours after the scheduled return for any onward plans.
Tour Reviews
Extras and add-ons
If you'd like to add extras or add-ons to your booking, you can do this easily during checkout. Just review the available options and select any additional services or upgrades you'd like before completing your purchase.
Hotels
The hotels listed below are examples which we frequently use on this tour. Alternative hotels of a similar standard may be used instead.
Prices & Dates
"Adult" prices are per person and "Child" prices are per person for those aged 5-16.
Can't find a date that works for you?
Looking for a date not yet released?
Similar Tours
Explore more exciting tours in United Kingdom to discover even more unforgettable adventures!
On The Go Tours
Our agents are waiting to chat to you...
Are you a Travel Agent or Customer?
Do you have an booking reference?