2023 Winter Itinerary (until 31st March 2024)

Please visit our 3 Day Winter Highlands & The Isle of Skye page for itinerary and to book this tour.

2024 Summer Itinerary (from 1st April 2024)

DAY 1: Edinburgh to Portree

Leaving the capital in the morning, we travel past the stunning Stirling Castle sitting dramatically atop a steep rock. We travel through the wild landscapes of Rannoch Moor before stopping at one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks, Glen Coe. Continuing to Fort William, we get the chance to embark on a magical 2-hour ride on the Jacobite Steam Train*. By the time you cross the striking arches of the Glenfinnan Viaduct you will understand why the Jacobite Steam Train is often referred to as the world’s greatest rail journey. Our afternoon continues with a scenic ferry ride* from Mallaig to the famous Isle of Skye, where we arrive at the capital town of Portree with its colourful harbour. (Overnight: Portree)

* Summer only. See above for winter itinerary from November to March. During April and October, the route goes in reverse, with the Jacobite Steam Train and the ferry ride to Isle of Skye taking place on day 3. 

DAY 2: Isle of Skye

We spend the day exploring the dramatic Isle of Skye with its amazing scenery, myths and legends. Hear tales of Bonnie Prince Charlie’s escape from the mainland against the backdrop of the jagged Cuillin Mountains. Highlights include the mysterious rock formation of the Old Man of Storr and Kilt Rock with its cascading waterfall. In the afternoon you have time to explore Dunvegan Castle*, stronghold and ancestral home of the Chiefs of Clan MacLeod for the past 800 years. (Overnight: Portree)

DAY 3: Portree to Edinburgh 

We bid farewell to the Isle of Skye as we depart the island via the Skye Bridge. On our way east, castle enthusiasts will fall in love with Eilean Donan Castle, arguably one of Scotland’s most romantic photo spots.

Our journey leads us to the Dundreggan Rewilding Centre, nestled within the heart of the Highlands. Here, we delve into the admirable work of Trees for Life, a charity committed to the revival of Scotland's ancient Caledonian Pine Forest.

It’s time to go monster spotting! Our destination is Loch Ness, where we take a break and attempt to catch a glimpse of the legendary Nessie while enjoying the shores of Fort Augustus. Next, we make a stop at the Commando Memorial, offering stunning views of Ben Nevis, the tallest peak in Britain. Heading further north, we explore the charming village of Dunkeld and its historic cathedral on the banks of the River Tay.

 As we journey back to Edinburgh, we're treated to one final awe-inspiring sight: the historic Forth Rail Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We arrive in the capital in the early evening.

*Summer itinerary, April to end October 

EXPLORE MORE

*Summer itinerary, April to end October.

World-famous Jacobite Steam Train (optional - only available at the time of booking)*

Starting in Mallaig, the train travels on the west coast where you can see the ‘Small Isles’ of Rum, Eigg, Muck and the stunning white beaches used in films such as Local Hero and Highlander. The Jacobite then passes through Glenfinnan where Bonnie Prince Charlie raised his Standard to begin his ill-fated claim to the throne in 1745. We then cross over 21 arches of the impressive Viaduct with amazing views down Loch Sheil before heading to Fort William in the shadow of Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain. The steam train was featured in a number of Harry Potter movies as the ‘Hogwarts Express’ and is an outstanding way to take in the beautiful scenery of the Scottish west coast.

Dunvegan Castle (optional)*

A visit to the Isle of Skye is incomplete without learning the fascinating history and clan legend of Dunvegan Castle. Built during 13th and 14th centuries this Hebridean stronghold is the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland and has been the ancestral home of the Chiefs of Clan MacLeod for the past 800 years.

Departure and drop off point

Edinburgh Bus Station (inside, Gate J*)
St. Andrew Square 
Edinburgh
Scotland
EH1 3DQ  

See Map

IMPORTANT NOTE: from 5th February 2024 onwards, all tours from Edinburgh will depart from 60 High Street, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH1 1TB. Please refer to your e-ticket for full departure details.

*Check-in staff will be wearing blue high visibility vests to greet you.
Edinburgh Bus Station can be accessed through two entrances: St Andrew Square and Elder Street. Please refer to the image below.

Departure Time

Check-in closes at 7.30am for tour departure at 7.45am.

Return Time

Tour returns at 8.30pm (summer)
Tour returns at 5.30pm (winter)

IMPORTANT NOTE: from 5th February 2024 onwards, this tour will depart at 7.45am and returns 6pm (except between 3-27 April and 2-23 October, returns at 8pm).

Please refer to your e-ticket for full departure details.

3* Bed & Breakfast (B&B) / Guest House

In most cases you are staying in a B&B (Bed and Breakfast), which is renowned for offering visitors a warm Highland welcome. Most B&Bs offer a traditional Scottish cooked breakfast and is included in the price. On occasion, you are staying with a family who let out rooms in their home to visitors, giving you the opportunity of experiencing Scotland in a more authentic way. B&B’s and guest houses are both generally located within one mile of the centre of town, although during peak season, this distance may be slightly further.

ROOM TYPES

Twin Room
One room with two separate beds suitable for one adult in each bed.

Double Room
One room with one bed suitable for two adults.

Family 3
One room with two separate beds. One bed suitable for two adults and one bed suitable for one adult/child.

Family 4
One room with three separate beds. One bed suitable for two adults and two separate beds suitable for one adult/child in each.

Accessibility and Facilities
For more information, see our Accessibility Statement.