Iona, Mull, and Isle of Skye: 5-Day Tour From Edinburgh

Set out on a captivating 5-day journey through Scotland’s enchanting Hebrides islands. This tour from Edinburgh showcases the rugged beauty of Iona, Mull, and the Isle of Skye. Explore historic sites, scenic landscapes, and charming seaside towns. With personalized experiences and comfortable accommodations, discover why these islands captivate travelers from around the world. Enjoy the rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural wonders that make this corner of Scotland truly remarkable.

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Key Points

This 5-day tour from Edinburgh takes visitors to the Scottish islands of Iona, Mull, and Isle of Skye, showcasing the region’s natural wonders and historic sites.
The tour is priced from $1,480.63 per person and includes a guide, accommodation, transportation, and ferry fares, with a maximum group size of 16 participants.
Highlights of the itinerary include exploring Iona Abbey, discovering Glencoe and Fort William, and having a flexible day to personalize the experience on the Isle of Skye.
Accommodation is provided in locally owned guesthouses and bed & breakfasts, with transportation via a luxury 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach.
The tour offers free cancellation up to 14 days in advance for a full refund, making it a flexible and accessible option for travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This 5-day tour from Edinburgh takes travelers on an immersive journey through the picturesque landscapes of Iona, Mull, and the Isle of Skye.

Priced from $1,480.63 per person, the tour includes a guide, 4 nights’ accommodation with breakfast, mini-coach transport, and ferry fares.

The group size is limited to 16 participants, with a live tour guide in English. Travelers can enjoy free cancellation up to 14 days in advance for a full refund.

The tour features a small group size of up to 16 participants and a live English-speaking guide. Flexible cancellation policy allows for full refunds up to 14 days in advance.

The tour features a mix of natural wonders, historic sites, and flexibility to explore the Scottish Highlands at their own pace.

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Itinerary Highlights

What better way to start the tour than by traveling north past Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond, and Trossachs National Park?

The itinerary continues:

Explore the historic Iona Abbey on the island of Mull, with an optional boat trip to the basalt columns of Staffa.
Discover the scenic wonders of Glencoe, Fort William, and Ben Nevis.
Enjoy a flexible day on the Isle of Skye, where you can choose from options like the Quiraing, Loch Corruisk, or the Red Cuillin.
Visit iconic landmarks like Eilean Donan Castle, Loch Ness, and Dalwhinnie on the journey back to Edinburgh.

Day 1: Travel North

The tour departs Edinburgh, traveling north through the scenic landscapes of central Scotland.

First, you’ll pass Stirling Castle, a majestic 15th-century stronghold.

Then, the route winds through the picturesque Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, known for its tranquil lochs and rugged mountains.

The route winds through the picturesque Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, known for its tranquil lochs and rugged mountains.

Along the way, your guide will share insights into the rich history and natural beauty of the region.

The day ends with an overnight stay in the charming harbor town of Oban, where you can explore the waterfront and local pubs.

Day 2: Exploring Mull and Iona

After an early breakfast, the group boards the ferry to Mull, a rugged island off Scotland’s west coast.

Their first stop is the historic Iona Abbey, where they explore the medieval structures and learn about the island’s rich spiritual heritage.

Next, they visit the white sand beaches and dramatic cliffs of Iona, stopping for photos and a short hike.

For those seeking a more adventurous experience, an optional boat trip to the nearby island of Staffa is offered, allowing them to marvel at the basalt columns and Fingal’s Cave.

As the day winds down, the group returns to Oban for the night.

Explore the medieval Iona Abbey
Admire the white sand beaches and cliffs of Iona
Optional boat trip to the island of Staffa
Return to Oban for the evening

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Day 3: Visiting Landmarks in the Highlands

As the tour continues, the group departs Oban and travels northeast, passing by the iconic Castle Stalker before arriving in the dramatic landscapes of Glencoe. The morning is spent exploring this historic glen, the site of the infamous 1692 massacre. Afterward, the tour continues to Fort William, the outdoor capital of the Highlands, and stops at the foot of Ben Nevis, the highest peak in the UK. The group then journeys to the charming seaside village of Plockton or Balmacara, where they will spend the night.

| Destination | Highlights |

| — | — |

| Castle Stalker | Picturesque 14th-century castle on Loch Laich |

| Glencoe | Scenic glen with rich history and stunning scenery |

| Fort William | Gateway to outdoor adventures in the Highlands |

| Ben Nevis | Towering mountain offering panoramic views |

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Day 4: Flexible Day on Skye

On the fourth day, the tour takes a flexible approach to exploring the Isle of Skye.

Travelers can choose from several options to tailor their experience:

Flexible options to personalize the Isle of Skye experience, from hiking to coastal villages.

Hiking through the Quiraing, a dramatic landscape of cliffs, pinnacles, and rock formations
Visiting Loch Corruisk, a remote and picturesque freshwater loch nestled in the heart of the Cuillin mountains
Conquering the Red Cuillin hills for panoramic views of the island
Enjoying a free evening in the charming village of Plockton or Balmacara, taking in the local atmosphere and scenery.

Day 5: Returning to Edinburgh

The final day of the tour begins with a visit to the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, a picturesque 13th-century castle situated on an island where three lochs meet.

Leaving the castle, the group heads to the legendary Loch Ness, where they’ll have the opportunity to search for the mythical Loch Ness Monster.

Continuing through the Grampian Mountains, the tour makes a stop at Dalwhinnie, home to Scotland’s highest distillery, before returning to Edinburgh.

With stunning scenery, historic sites, and a taste of Scottish culture, this 5-day tour offers an unforgettable experience exploring the best of western Scotland.

Accommodation and Transportation

Participants on the 5-day tour from Edinburgh will stay at small, locally owned guesthouses and bed & breakfasts for 4 nights. The rooms are en suite and located on the outskirts of towns, about a 20-30 minute walk to local facilities.

The tour utilizes a luxury 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach for transportation:

Luggage is restricted to 20kg (44lbs) per person, plus one carry-on size bag.
Comfortable shoes and rain gear are recommended to enjoy the scenic outdoor activities.
The mini-coach is modern and well-equipped to handle the diverse terrain.
Group size is limited to 16 participants to provide a more intimate and personalized experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Itinerary to My Preferences?

The tour provider offers some flexibility to customize the itinerary based on your preferences. You can discuss options with the guide and work together to create a personalized experience within the tour’s overall structure and duration.

What if I Have Special Dietary Requirements?

The tour provider accommodates a range of dietary requirements. They’ll work with you to ensure your meals are suitable, so you can enjoy the tour without worry. Just let them know your needs when booking.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Beyond 5 Days?

Unfortunately, this 5-day tour doesn’t offer an option to extend it. The tour itinerary and logistics are designed specifically for the 5-day duration. Extending the tour would require booking a separate, longer tour.

How Much Free Time Is Allotted for Exploring on My Own?

The tour includes some free time for independent exploration, with a flexible day on the Isle of Skye and free evenings in Plockton or Balmacara. However, the exact amount of free time may vary depending on the tour’s daily schedule.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

No, pets are not allowed on the tour. The tour is restricted to human participants only and has a luggage limit of 20kg per person. Bringing a pet would not be feasible for this group tour.

The Sum Up

This 5-day tour from Edinburgh to Iona, Mull, and the Isle of Skye offers a unique opportunity to explore Scotland’s stunning landscapes and rich heritage. With guided visits to historic sites, breathtaking natural wonders, and comfortable accommodations, it’s an unforgettable adventure for a maximum of 16 participants. Priced from $1,480.63 per person, this tour promises a captivating journey through Scotland’s captivating scenery and culture.

You can check availability for your dates here: