Edinburgh: Isle of Skye, Loch Ness, & Highlands 5-Day Tour

Explore the captivating landscapes of Scotland’s Isle of Skye and Highlands on this 5-day tour from Edinburgh. Priced from $580.11 per person, the adventure showcases iconic sites like Stirling Castle and Eilean Donan Castle, while offering the chance to hunt for the elusive Loch Ness monster. With flexible booking and free cancellation, it’s an opportunity to learn about the region’s whisky culture and scenic beauty alongside up to 16 fellow travelers.

Key Points

• This 5-day tour from Edinburgh explores the Scottish Highlands, Isle of Skye, and Loch Ness, offering scenic drives, historic sites, and a whisky tasting.
• The tour is priced from $580.11 per person with flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Accommodations are in mixed-gender hostels, with a maximum group size of 16 participants and a guide included.
• Key highlights include the Kelpies statues, Wallace Monument, Stirling Castle, Glenfinnan Viaduct, Eilean Donan Castle, and a Loch Ness monster hunt.
• The itinerary may be adjusted due to weather and road conditions, allowing for a flexible and adaptable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This 5-day tour from Edinburgh takes travelers on an exploration of the Scottish Highlands and the Isle of Skye.

Priced from $580.11 per person, the tour offers a flexible booking policy with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Accommodations are in mixed-gender hostels, with a maximum group size of 16 participants.

The tour includes a guide, whisky tasting, and entry fees to select attractions.

Travelers can expect scenic drives, visits to historic sites, and opportunities to experience Scottish culture and nature.

The itinerary may adjust due to weather and road conditions.

Itinerary Highlights

The 5-day tour begins in Edinburgh, traveling west to Oban on the first day.

Along the way, visitors see the Kelpies statues, Wallace Monument, and Stirling Castle. They’ll enjoy scenic views of Rannoch Moor and Glen Coe before overnight in Oban.

On day two, the group travels to the Isle of Skye, visiting the Glenfinnan Viaduct and Eilean Donan Castle.

Journeying to the Isle of Skye, visitors marvel at the Glenfinnan Viaduct and Eilean Donan Castle.

Over the next two days, they explore Skye’s landscapes and folklore, then head to Inverness.

On the final day, they visit Clava Cairns and a whisky distillery before returning to Edinburgh.

Day 1: Edinburgh to Oban

After departing Edinburgh, the tour group travels west to the coastal town of Oban. Along the way, they:

• Visit the iconic Kelpies statues, towering 30-meter-high horse-head sculptures representing Scottish mythology.

• Stop at the Wallace Monument, a 220-foot tower commemorating the legendary Scottish hero William Wallace.

• Explore the historic Stirling Castle, one of Scotland’s most important strongholds.

• Take in scenic views of the barren, windswept Rannoch Moor and the dramatic Glen Coe valley.

• Arrive in Oban, a picturesque harbor town, where they spend the night.

Day 2: Oban to Isle of Skye

Leaving Oban, the tour group heads north, traveling through stunning landscapes towards the Isle of Skye. They pass the Glenfinnan Viaduct, made famous by the Harry Potter films.

Next, they stop at the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland’s most photographed landmarks.

After a picturesque drive, the group arrives in the charming town of Portree on the Isle of Skye. Here, they’ll spend the night, exploring the island’s dramatic coastline, ancient castles, and captivating folklore the following day.

With the scenic drive and visits to iconic sites, Day 2 promises an immersive experience in the Scottish Highlands.

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Day 3: Isle of Skye to Inverness

Having spent the night in the charming town of Portree, the tour group departs the Isle of Skye, heading north towards Inverness.

The journey through the Highlands offers breathtaking scenery:

• Traversing the dramatic landscapes of the Cuillin mountain range

• Stopping at the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, a picturesque 13th-century fortress

• Exploring the historic town of Broadford, known for its traditional Scottish crafts

• Enjoying a scenic drive along the shores of Loch Carron, admiring the serene waters

Arriving in Inverness, the "Capital of the Highlands," to spend the night and prepare for the next day’s Loch Ness adventure.

Day 4: Inverness

On the fourth day, the tour group arrives in Inverness, the "Capital of the Highlands." Their first stop is a Loch Ness monster hunt, where they’ll have the chance to spot the legendary creature. After, they visit Beauly, a charming town, and Culloden Battlefield, site of the final Jacobite rising. The group is then free to explore Inverness at their leisure.

| Activity | Duration |

| — | — |

| Loch Ness Monster Hunt | 2 hours |

| Beauly | 1 hour |

| Culloden Battlefield | 1.5 hours |

| Free Time in Inverness | 2 hours |

The day ends with the group overnighting once more in Inverness, resting up for the final leg of their Highlands adventure.

Day 5: Inverness to Edinburgh

The final day of the tour begins as the group departs Inverness, heading back to Edinburgh.

Along the way, they’ll:

• Visit the ancient Clava Cairns, a Bronze Age site featuring mysterious stone circles and burial chambers.

• Stop at a local whisky distillery for a guided tasting and insight into Scotland’s famous spirit.

• Enjoy views of the scenic Highlands countryside as they travel through the picturesque landscape.

They will arrive back in Edinburgh, their tour complete, with memories of the breathtaking Isle of Skye, historic Highlands, and legendary Loch Ness.

Depart with a deeper appreciation for the natural wonders and cultural heritage of this enchanting region.

Inclusions and Important Information

The tour package includes four nights of hostel accommodation in mixed-gender dormitories for participants aged 18 and older.

A guide leads the group and provides a whisky tasting. Visitors can download audio guides and enjoy entry to Culloden Battlefield and Clava Cairns.

The maximum luggage is 1 suitcase (33 pounds) and 1 carry-on. Travelers should arrive 15 minutes before departure for check-in.

Return times are approximate and subject to weather and road conditions. The itinerary order may change, and the Loch Ness boat cruise may cancel due to extreme weather.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Request a Specific Room Type or Bunk Assignment?

Unfortunately, no. The tour operates on a shared hostel accommodation basis, with mixed-gender dormitory rooms. Specific room types or bunk assignments cannot be requested. Travelers are assigned beds on arrival at the hostels each night.

What Meals Are Included in the Tour Price?

The tour price doesn’t include any meals. Travelers are responsible for their own food expenses throughout the 5-day trip. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are not provided, allowing participants flexibility in choosing their dining options.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Outdoor Gear?

The tour recommends bringing sturdy walking shoes, waterproof jackets, and layers for the changeable Scottish weather. Warm and windproof clothing is advised, as the tour explores rugged Highland landscapes. Packing a small daypack is also helpful for carrying essentials.

How Much Free Time Is There to Explore on My Own?

The tour provides some free time for independent exploration, but the exact amount varies by day. Travelers should expect a balance of guided activities and opportunities to wander on their own during the 5-day itinerary.

Can I Leave My Luggage With the Tour Company Before/After the Tour?

The tour company doesn’t provide luggage storage before or after the tour. However, travelers can leave their luggage with their accommodation if needed. It’s best to plan ahead and pack light for the tour.

The Sum Up

This 5-day tour from Edinburgh provides a fantastic opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes of the Isle of Skye and the Scottish Highlands. With visits to iconic sites, whisky tasting, and a Loch Ness monster hunt, it’s an adventure-packed getaway. Flexible booking and free cancellation options make it a hassle-free experience, perfect for up to 16 participants in mixed-gender hostels.

You can check availability for your dates here: