Isle of Skye and the Highlands 5-Day Tour From Edinburgh

The Isle of Skye and Highlands 5-day tour from Edinburgh provides an enthralling exploration of Scotland’s captivating landscapes and rich heritage. Priced at $1,073.65 per person, this intimate tour accommodates up to 16 travelers, offering a chance to experience iconic sites like Loch Ness and Eilean Donan Castle. With comfortable local B&B stays and guided excursions, the tour promises an unforgettable journey through Scotland’s breathtaking natural wonders. But what makes this tour truly exceptional may just surprise you.

Key Points

• A 5-day guided tour from Edinburgh exploring the scenic Isle of Skye and the Scottish Highlands, including Loch Ness, Applecross, and Trotternish Ridge.
• Price of $1,073.65 per person with free cancellation up to 14 days in advance and a maximum group size of 16 participants.
• Accommodation in locally-owned B&Bs, with meals, transportation, and entry fees included in the tour package.
• Highlights include visits to historic sites, national parks, charming towns, and opportunities to spot wildlife like red deer and golden eagles.
• Flexible itinerary on the Isle of Skye to customize the experience, such as exploring the Trotternish Ridge and the Quiraing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This 5-day tour from Edinburgh takes travelers to the Isle of Skye and the Scottish Highlands. Priced from $1,073.65 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 14 days in advance.

With a small group size of maximum 16 participants, it’s led by a live English-speaking guide. The itinerary features must-see highlights like Loch Ness, Applecross, and the Trotternish Ridge.

Accommodation is in locally-owned B&Bs, with options for single, double, or twin rooms. Meals, transportation, and entry fees are included.

While the tour isn’t suitable for children under 5, it’s highly rated by past travelers for its guides and scenic landscapes.

Itinerary Highlights

On the first day, the tour visits Dunkeld, a charming town in Perthshire, before venturing into the Cairngorms National Park.

Traversing through Perthshire’s charming Dunkeld, the tour then delves into the captivating landscapes of the Cairngorms National Park.

It then stops at Loch Ness, Dores, and Ullapool.

The second day explores Assynt, including Ardvreck Castle and Achmelvich Bay, ending in Lochinver.

Corrieshalloch Gorge, Beinn Eighe nature reserve, Applecross, Plockton, and Portree are the highlights on day three.

The fourth day offers flexibility to visit Trotternish Ridge, Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock, Quiraing, or Dunvegan Castle on the Isle of Skye.

The final day includes Eilean Donan Castle, Kintail, Ben Nevis, and Glencoe before returning to Edinburgh.

Day 1: Exploring the Highlands

The tour begins with a visit to the charming town of Dunkeld in Perthshire. Here, you’ll explore the historic cathedral and stroll along the River Tay.

Next, the group travels into the Cairngorms National Park, Scotland’s largest national park, stopping to admire the rugged mountain scenery.

The tour then heads north to the legendary Loch Ness, where you’ll have the opportunity to search for the famous Loch Ness Monster.

After a stop in the village of Dores, the day concludes in the coastal town of Ullapool, your base for the night.

Day 2: Discovering Assynt and Lochinver

After departing Ullapool, the tour ventures into the rugged and isolated region of Assynt.

Highlights include:

• Exploring the dramatic ruins of Ardvreck Castle, a 15th-century stronghold perched on the shores of Loch Assynt.

• Discovering the breathtaking Achmelvich Bay, a remote stretch of white sandy beaches and turquoise waters.

• Hiking in the Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve, home to ancient Caledonian pine forests and stunning mountain landscapes.

• Visiting the charming fishing village of Lochinver, known for its renowned pie shop.

• Enjoying a delicious locally-sourced lunch while taking in the stunning coastal scenery.

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Day 3: Traversing the Applecross Peninsula

Departing the charming fishing village of Lochinver, the tour heads south towards the remote and rugged Applecross Peninsula.

Traversing the winding coastal road, passengers gaze upon the dramatic Corrieshalloch Gorge and its thundering waterfall.

Entering the Beinn Eighe nature reserve, the group explores this ancient Caledonian pine forest, home to red deer and golden eagles.

Reaching the village of Applecross, they visit the historic Applecross Priory before continuing to the picturesque fishing hamlet of Plockton.

The final stop is Portree, the lively capital of the Isle of Skye, where the group prepares for the next day’s flexible exploration of the island.

Day 4: Flexibility on the Isle of Skye

With the previous day’s scenic drives and highlights fresh in their minds, the group eagerly looks forward to the flexible exploration of the Isle of Skye.

Today’s itinerary allows them to customize their experience, visiting sites that pique their individual interests:

• The Trotternish Ridge, with its dramatic rock formations and the iconic Old Man of Storr

• Kilt Rock, a stunning seaside cliff with a waterfall cascading over its mossy edge

• The Quiraing, a magnificent landslip with towering pinnacles and hidden valleys

• Dunvegan Castle, the ancestral seat of the Clan MacLeod

• Picturesque harbor towns like Portree, brimming with local charm and Gaelic culture

Day 5: Returning to Edinburgh

As the group bids farewell to the Isle of Skye, they make their way back to Edinburgh, stopping at a few captivating landmarks along the way.

First, they visit the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland’s most photographed castles.

Then, they explore the scenic Kintail region before reaching the imposing Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK.

Passing through the dramatic Glencoe valley, the group takes in the breathtaking scenery before arriving back in Edinburgh, concluding their 5-day adventure through the Highlands and Isle of Skye.

The tour provides an unforgettable experience filled with history, nature, and Scottish charm.

Accommodation and Meals

The tour provides 4 nights of accommodation in locally-owned bed and breakfasts across the region.

Guests can choose from single, double, or twin rooms. The B&Bs are located on the outskirts, requiring a 20-30 minute walk to local facilities.

Meals included are:

• Breakfast each morning

• Packed lunches

• Hearty dinners

Accommodations may have stairs, so guests should inform the tour if they require assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on this 5-day tour. The tour specifies that it’s only suitable for children aged 5 and above, and does not mention any provisions for bringing pets along.

Do You Provide Any Special Dietary Accommodations?

The tour provider offers some dietary accommodations. Guests with dietary restrictions or preferences can request vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free meals, which the B&Bs and tour stops can accommodate with advance notice.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Change My Plans?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 14 days in advance for a full refund. This provides flexibility to change plans if needed without penalty. Travelers should review the policy carefully to understand the terms and conditions.

Is There Wi-Fi Available on the Mini-Coach During the Tour?

The tour does not provide WiFi on the mini-coach. Travelers should plan accordingly, as internet access may be limited during the tour when traveling through remote areas of the Highlands and Isle of Skye.

Can I Upgrade the Accommodation to a Higher-End Hotel?

Yes, you can upgrade the accommodation to higher-end hotels. This will incur an additional cost, so you’ll need to discuss the options and pricing with the tour operator when booking the tour.

The Sum Up

The 5-day Isle of Skye and Highlands tour from Edinburgh provides a captivating exploration of Scotland’s stunning landscapes and rich history. Travelers will enjoy comfortable accommodations, guided excursions, and the flexibility to customize their experience on the magical Isle of Skye. At $1,073.65 per person, this intimate tour offers an unforgettable journey through some of Scotland’s most breathtaking regions.

You can check availability for your dates here: