3 Day Isle of Skye & The Highlands Tour (B&B Single Room) from Edinburgh

Overview

Itinerary

Day 1: Edinburgh to Portree (1 April to 22 October)
Leaving the capital in the morning, we travel past the stunning Stirling Castle sitting dramatically atop a steep rock. After a wee stop in the quaint Highland village of Callander we venture into the wild landscapes of Rannoch Moor, a peaty moorland often recalled as the last remaining wilderness in Britain. Feast your eyes upon one of the most beloved landmarks in the Scottish Highlands, Glen Coe, characterised by rugged, towering mountains surrounding the glen.

Next, we head to Fort William, where those with Jacobite Steam Train tickets will embark on a magical 2-hour ride on the 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. (Those who do not have tickets will continue on the coach to the next destination.)
Our afternoon continues with a scenic ferry ride* to the famous Isle of Skye, where myths and legends of ancient faerie folk await! Our home for the next two nights is the island’s colourful capital town Portree, with free time to explore its picturesque harbour in the evening. (Overnight: Portree)
*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 1: Edinburgh - Isle of Skye (1 November to 31 March)
Leaving Edinburgh in the morning, we travel west, making our first stop at the impressive Kelpies, renowned as the largest equine sculptures on the globe. We travel further north through the Trossachs and over the wintry expanse of the wild Rannoch Moor. Marvel at the atmospheric Glen Coe, a true showstopper of a landscape during this time of year, before stopping at the Highland town of Fort William for lunch. The journey continues through the mountains to the mystical Isle of Skye past spectacular Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland’s most famous icons. Our home for the night is on the Isle of Skye, the ‘winged isle’ at the warm and friendly deluxe B&B The Skye Inn Portree. (Overnight: Portree)
Day 2: Isle of Skye (1 April to 22 October)
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 2: Isle of Skye (1 November to 31 March)
We set off early and make the most of the winter daylight to explore the magical Isle of Skye. Highlights include the jagged Cuillin Mountains, the mysterious rock formation of the Old Man of Storr and Kilt Rock with its cascading waterfall. Hear tales of Bonnie Prince Charlie’s escape from the mainland while taking in Isle of Skye’s rugged winter wonderland. We arrive back at The Skye Inn early evening with time to relax by the fire in the Grand Room with a warming dram before dinner. (Overnight: Portree)

Day 3: Portree to Edinburgh (1 April to 22 October)
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.

Day 3: Isle fo Skye to Edinburgh (1 November to 31 March)
We head south via the Skye Bridge and continue through majestic Glen Shiel to the Dundreggan Rewilding Centre, located in the heart of the Highlands. Here, we learn about the charity Trees for Life and their inspiring mission to restore Scotland’s ancient native woodlands. Our journey then takes us to the shores of monstrous Loch Ness, where we’ll stop in the charming village of Fort Augustus. Explore the lochside and then find a cosy inn for lunch. We travel further south, where quiet roads give way to serene Highland winter landscapes of the Great Glen. Our next stop is the quaint village of Dunkeld. Grab a warming tea and scone from the local bakery before taking a stroll by the village’s beautiful River Tay. Before our winter tour concludes, we cross the River Forth and marvel at the engineering wonders that are the three Forth Bridges.