DAY 1: Edinburgh to Port Ellen, Isle of Islay

We depart Edinburgh and head west to the picturesque village of Luss in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. We then visit the famous ‘Rest and Be Thankful’ beauty spot and indulge in spectacular views of the old Glen Croe valley road. Treat yourself with fresh local cuisine as we stop in Inveraray for lunch, a traditional county town which overlooks the water of Loch Fyne. Next, we board the ferry to Port Ellen on Isle of Islay, our home for the next few nights.

(Overnight: Port Ellen)

DAY 2: Isle of Islay

After breakfast, we start the day with a scenic beach walk and visit the ancient Kildalton Cross. As our first stop on the Three Distillery Path, we enjoy a fabulous whisky tour and lunch at Ardbeg distillery, winner of the 'World's Best Single Malt' from the World Whiskies Awards. The pathway continues with a visit at the Lagavulin and Laphroaig distilleries, where coastal views and more peat-smoked drams await. We finish the day back in Port Ellen.

(Overnight: Port Ellen)

DAY 3: Isle of Islay

Our morning is spent exploring Islay’s dramatic southern coastline on the Mull of Oa peninsula. Keep an eye out for wildlife in the RSPB Nature Reserve as you visit the impressive American Monument atop the sea cliff. We make a visit to Bowmore, the oldest running whisky distillery on Islay, and enjoy free time for lunch and shopping. Continuing along the coast, we visit the Islay Life Museum and head for another dram to Bruichladdich distillery - slàinte mhath! On the way home we stretch our legs along the white sands of Machir Bay and make a final stop at the farm-based distillery Kilchoman.

(Overnight: Port Ellen)

DAY 4: Port Ellen to Edinburgh

We bid farewell to Islay as we cross the sea back to the Scottish mainland. Journeying along the beautiful west coast to the seaside town of Oban, we get the chance to sample local seafood for lunch. We meet dramatic Glen Coe; one of Scotland’s most iconic and awe-inspiring landmarks. Take in the last of the scenery on our drive south, with a final stop at the majestic Kelpies, the largest equine sculptures in the world. We return to Edinburgh at approximately 7.30pm.

Departure and drop off point

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

See Map

PLEASE NOTE: from 5 February 2024, we will no longer depart from Edinburgh Bus Station. Our departure point will be from a city centre location. We will contact you via email and confirm the new departure point before your tour.

*departure gate subject to change. Please refer to the departure screens inside Edinburgh Bus Station for gate info. Check-in staff will be wearing high vis 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

Please check in at 7.45 for tour departure at 8.00.

Return Time

Tour returns at Edinburgh Bus Station at 20.00.

Accommodation Included

We book your accommodation and drop you off at the door to your 3* Hotel.

Highland Hotels are smaller than typical hotels ensuring a cosy and hospitable welcome. Facilities are more limited when compared with most hotels situated in large cities, however, you can be assured of a comfortable stay within close proximity to the centre of town. They are usually family run and have their own individual style and character. They serve a traditional Scottish breakfast and often offer a dinner option too.

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.

Single
One room with one bed suitable for one adult.

Accessibility and Facilities

For more information, see our Accessibility Statement.