Explore the very north of Scotland, where the winds whip the wild edge of the United Kingdom. We'll also see highlands highlights such as Loch Ness, the Great Glen, and more!
Tour Details
Day 1
We’ll leave Edinburgh behind after meeting up on 60 High Street to start this highland adventure. As we ride along, we'll enjoy incredible views of the Forth Bridge as we reach the Highlands. We’ll see Perthshire, a land of forests, rivers, and mountains. Our first stop will be to visit the quaint village of Dunkeld, which has a beautiful cathedral and sits on the banks of the River Tay. Then, we’ll continue our journey even further north as we enter the Great Glen - a valley that runs a total of 62 miles (100 km)! Finally, we'll come to Fort Augustus, where we'll leave you some time to explore the shores of Loch Ness and a chance to spot Nessie - the infamous Loch Ness monster!
Then, we'll continue our journey to the famous Isle of Skye, but not before admiring the Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland’s most famous icons. Our home for the night will be the Isle of Skye, also known as the 'Winged Isle'. We'll spend the night in the capital city of the isle: Portree.
Day 2
We'll get to spend the day exploring the dramatic scenery of the Isle of Skye. But that's not all, as we'll also get to learn about this island through its myths and legends. Learn how Bonnie Prince Charlie escaped from the mainland against the backdrop of the jagged Cuillin Mountains! We'll also see the mysterious rock formation of the Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock with its cascading waterfall, and Dunvegan's impressive castle. Finally, we'll rest up for the next day and spend the night in Portree.
Day 3
On our third and final day, we'll have some more time to explore the beauty of Skye before taking the ferry to the west coast fishing village of Mallaig. We'll be able to enjoy incredible views from the coach, such as the Glenfinnan Viaduct, where a monument to Bonnie Prince Charlie’s campaign now stands.
Before starting our return journey, we'll visit the Dundreggan Rewilding Centre, a tree nursery and conservation center with picturesque walking paths. Finally, we'll head south through the dramatic scenery of Glencoe, wild Rannoch Moor, then the heart of Rob Roy country. Finally, we'll arrive back in Edinburgh at approximately 8:30 pm, where we'll say goodbye at Waterloo Place in the city center.
Jacobite Steam Train
Want to follow in the footsteps of Harry Potter? With this option, you can enjoy a magical ride on the Jacobite Steam Train, also known as the Hogwarts Express! You'll follow the same itinerary mentioned above, but in this case, you'll enjoy a train ride on the Jacobite Steam Train. Traveling between Fort William and Mallaig, this steam train is said to be the most beautiful rail journey in the world and crosses the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct and sweeps along the west coast, offering magnificent views of distant isles and white sand beaches.
Itinerary Changes
Please note that in the Winter season, the itinerary will be different and that the Dunvegan Castle is only visited in summer. In the Winter season, which starts in mid-October and ends in mid-April, on the third day, we'll see the Skye Bridge, and Commando Memorial, where we'll enjoy views of Ben Nevis, Britain's highest mountain.
Please also keep in mind that the tour may occasionally run in reverse and routes are subject to change. However, you will still see the same attractions.
Tour Accommodation
All packages are Bed and Breakfast only, and we use many different accommodation providers. Please keep in mind that it's a small island with limited availability. All accommodations are based in Portree. Breakfast is included, but no other meals are.
Additional Info
- Some of the featured castles are open between April and October, with alternatives offered between October and April, which may alter the route.
- Dunvegan Castle and Eilean Donan Castle are optional extras on the tour, with payment on the day.
