Isle of Skye & Hebridean Hopper

Itinerary Item 1

Name: DAY 1: EDINBURGH TO INVERNESS

Short Description: We begin our Outer Hebrides tour from Edinburgh before we travel north and make our first stop at The Kelpies, two impressive steel sculptures of Clydesdale horses. Tales of William Wallace and the Wars of Independence will ignite your imagination as we pass Stirling Castle, before catching a quick glimpse of Doune Castle, featured in Outlander, Game of Thrones, and Monty Python & the Holy Grail. The atmospheric landscape of Glen Coe will blow your socks off, and on a clear day, you might spot the summit of Ben Nevis, on route to Loch Ness. Look out for ‘Nessie’, the Loch Ness Monster, when we stop at the loch, before we continue to our base for the night in Inverness. Walk along the River Ness and go in search of local food and live music. (Overnight: Inverness)

Description: We begin our Outer Hebrides tour from Edinburgh before we travel north and make our first stop at The Kelpies, two impressive steel sculptures of Clydesdale horses. Tales of William Wallace and the Wars of Independence will ignite your imagination as we pass Stirling Castle, before catching a quick glimpse of Doune Castle, featured in Outlander, Game of Thrones, and Monty Python & the Holy Grail. The atmospheric landscape of Glen Coe will blow your socks off, and on a clear day, you might spot the summit of Ben Nevis, on route to Loch Ness. Look out for ‘Nessie’, the Loch Ness Monster, when we stop at the loch, before we continue to our base for the night in Inverness. Walk along the River Ness and go in search of local food and live music. (Overnight: Inverness)

Highlights

• Kelpies (Kelpies)
• Glen Coe(GC)
• Loch Ness(LN)
• Inverness(Inverness)

Itinerary Item 2

Name: DAY 2: INVERNESS TO STORNOWAY

Short Description: Breathe in the fresh Highland air at Corrieshalloch Gorge to start the day, before we go on a stunning drive north to Ullapool to catch the ferry to Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis. Dolphins have been known to join us along the way, so keep a look out! On arrival to the island, we head straight for Harris in the south, where we’ll visit the world-famous Harris Distillery for a wee dram before we return to Lewis in the north for an overnight stay in the main town of Stornoway. (Overnight: Stornoway)

Description: Breathe in the fresh Highland air at Corrieshalloch Gorge to start the day, before we go on a stunning drive north to Ullapool to catch the ferry to Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis. Dolphins have been known to join us along the way, so keep a look out! On arrival to the island, we head straight for Harris in the south, where we’ll visit the world-famous Harris Distillery for a wee dram before we return to Lewis in the north for an overnight stay in the main town of Stornoway. (Overnight: Stornoway)

Highlights

• Black Water Falls(Blackwater)
• Ferry Ullapool to Stornoway(UllapoolFerry)
• Isle of Harris(Harris)

Itinerary Item 3

Name: DAY 3: STORNOWAY TO STORNOWAY

Short Description: An awesome day of sightseeing on the Isle of Lewis awaits. First, we travel back in time to the the Iron Age at the broch of Dun Carloway. Delve into island life in the 17th century at Gearrannan Blackhouse Village before we blaze a trail along the wild Atlantic coast to the most northerly point on the island - The Butt of Lewis and its lonely lighthouse feels like the edge of the earth, where powerful waves crash into the sea cliffs. Back in Stornoway, stroll around the harbour and sample some fresh seafood at a local restaurant. (Overnight: Stornoway)

Description: An awesome day of sightseeing on the Isle of Lewis awaits. First, we travel back in time to the the Iron Age at the broch of Dun Carloway. Delve into island life in the 17th century at Gearrannan Blackhouse Village before we blaze a trail along the wild Atlantic coast to the most northerly point on the island - The Butt of Lewis and its lonely lighthouse feels like the edge of the earth, where powerful waves crash into the sea cliffs. Back in Stornoway, stroll around the harbour and sample some fresh seafood at a local restaurant. (Overnight: Stornoway)

Highlights

• Dun Carloway, Lewis(Carloway)
• Blackhouse Village(Blackhouse)

Itinerary Item 4

Name: DAY 4: STORNOWAY TO PORTREE

Short Description: On departure from Stornoway we’ll visit a memorial to an event which highlights the darker side of island life. We’ll then spend the day exploring some straight-out-of-a-fairytale beaches and a medieval church on the Isle of Harris before catching our ferry ‘over the sea to Skye’. The main town of Portree is our base for the next two nights. (Overnight: Portree)

Description: On departure from Stornoway we’ll visit a memorial to an event which highlights the darker side of island life. We’ll then spend the day exploring some straight-out-of-a-fairytale beaches and a medieval church on the Isle of Harris before catching our ferry ‘over the sea to Skye’. The main town of Portree is our base for the next two nights. (Overnight: Portree)

Highlights

• Isle of Harris(Harris)

Itinerary Item 5

Name: DAY 5: PORTREE TO PORTREE

Short Description: Today is all about soaking up the magic of Skye – plus a wee trip over to the mainland to visit a special castle. First, we stop at Sligachan for epic views of the old bridge and the Cuillin mountain range, with some local folklore thrown in about the enchanting river below. Next, we drive over the iconic Skye Bridge towards Eilean Donan Castle; the ultimate, absolute stunner of a Scottish castle. Back in Portree, you have time to explore the colourful harbour, peaceful coastline and the town centre shops and eateries for lunch. We’ll then head north onto the Trotternish peninsula to marvel at iconic landmarks such as The Old Man of Storr and Kilt Rock. (Overnight: Portree)

Description: Today is all about soaking up the magic of Skye – plus a wee trip over to the mainland to visit a special castle. First, we stop at Sligachan for epic views of the old bridge and the Cuillin mountain range, with some local folklore thrown in about the enchanting river below. Next, we drive over the iconic Skye Bridge towards Eilean Donan Castle; the ultimate, absolute stunner of a Scottish castle. Back in Portree, you have time to explore the colourful harbour, peaceful coastline and the town centre shops and eateries for lunch. We’ll then head north onto the Trotternish peninsula to marvel at iconic landmarks such as The Old Man of Storr and Kilt Rock. (Overnight: Portree)

Highlights

• Isle of Skye(Skye)
• Sligachan(Sligachan)
• Cuillin Mountains(Cuillin)
• Eilean Donan Castle(Eilean)
• Portree(Portee)

Itinerary Item 6

Name: DAY 6: PORTREE TO EDINBURGH

Short Description: We have the chance to explore a wee bit more of the stunning Isle of Skye before taking the ferry to the fishing village of Mallaig on the west coast, where you can choose to swap the bus for the Jacobite Steam Train (which starred as the ‘Hogwarts Express’ in Harry Potter) and travel on one of the world’s most scenic railway journeys to Fort William. Reunited with your legendary guide and tour bus, we continue our journey south through the Cairngorms National Park, and arriving into Edinburgh in the evening.

Description: We have the chance to explore a wee bit more of the stunning Isle of Skye before taking the ferry to the fishing village of Mallaig on the west coast, where you can choose to swap the bus for the Jacobite Steam Train (which starred as the ‘Hogwarts Express’ in Harry Potter) and travel on one of the world’s most scenic railway journeys to Fort William. Reunited with your legendary guide and tour bus, we continue our journey south through the Cairngorms National Park, and arriving into Edinburgh in the evening.

Highlights

• Cairngorms National Park(Cairngorms)
• Hogwarts Express (Jacobite)

Inclusions

Item 1: Your Legendary Local HAGGiS Guide

Item 2: 5 Nights Mixed-Gender Multi-Share Hostel Accommodation

Item 3: Gearrannan Blackhouse Village

Item 4: Whisky Distillery Visit

Item 5: All Ferry Crossings

Highlight 1

Name: Dun Carloway, Lewis

NameShort: Dun Carloway, Lewis

A broch is an Iron Age building which is unique to Scotland, and Dun Carloway is one of the best preserved. Over 2000 years old and 9m tall, this statement structure was designed to defend, and show-off!

A broch is an Iron Age building which is unique to Scotland, and Dun Carloway is one of the best preserved. Over 2000 years old and 9m tall, this statement structure was designed to defend, and show-off!

Image Name: Dun Carloway, Lewis

Image Alt: Dun Carloway Lewis

Highlight 2

Name: Blackhouse Village

NameShort: Blackhouse Village

Prepare to go back in time at the Gearrannan Blackhouse Village. Take a glimpse into the island way of life, and watch a demonstration of the famous Harris Tweed being woven in a traditional loom inside one of the houses.

Prepare to go back in time at the Gearrannan Blackhouse Village. Take a glimpse into the island way of life, and watch a demonstration of the famous Harris Tweed being woven in a traditional loom inside one of the houses.

Image Name: Blackhouse Village

Image Alt: Blackhouse Village

Highlight 3

Name: Isle of Harris

NameShort: Isle of Harris

The beaches on the Isle of Harris are world famous, and could easily be mistaken for a tropical destination. Translucent shades of blue hug the powdery white shores, while the shadowy mountains in the background provide that all important bit of Scottish character. Harris is an absolute dream.

Harris makes up the southern part of the Isle of Lewis & Harris, and is known worldwide for its famous fabric, Harris Tweed. The island has also been in the spotlight thanks to its award-winning Harris Gin, which is produced in the main town of Tarbert. Harris is an idyllic road-trip destination, with scenic splendours around every corner. The landscape boasts stark and striking contrasts, from the chunky mountains in the north and the lunar-like scenery to the east, to radiant shores of the west. West Harris is a wee slice of Hebridean paradise. Beautifully untouched and often deserted, the bonnie beaches are characterised by soft sand, golden machair, and wild turquoise waves. Whether its Luskentyre or Seilebost, Traigh Scarista or Horgabost, a walk on the beach is essential, and those who are brave enough can go for a paddle in the Atlantic.

Image Name: Isle of Harris

Image Alt: Isle of Harris

Highlight 4

Name: Isle of Skye

NameShort: Isle of Skye

The Isle of Skye is every bit as magical as it sounds. Our journey takes you around the coast and through the mists of time. In the shadow of the mighty mountains, we search for waterfalls, mischievous wee fairies, and remnants of a land long ago.

Skye is Scotland’s most popular isle, and you’ll quickly understand why. The iconic Skye Bridge transports you from the mainland into a whole new world of insane geology, beguiling mythology, and picturesque settlements; the colourful facades of pretty Portree make the perfect postcard. Rainbows plunge into peaty lochs, like waterfalls from the dramatic cliff tops. The Cuillin Mountains are an epic scale of awesome, carved by ancient volcanos and glaciers; for our viewing pleasure, of course. Skye has a rich cultural heritage, with a history coloured by rival clans, Viking settlers, and a fugitive Prince. Ruined castles hold secrets of the past, while Norse place names ensure that we don’t forget it. Even dinosaurs roamed the land, leaving footprints on the beach. Try a local beer or Talisker whisky, and don’t forget to toast the faeries! Skye is where the magic happens.

Image Name: The Isle of Skye

Image Alt: Isle of Skye tour

Highlight 5

Name: Portree

NameShort: Portree

Pretty Portree is Skye’s main settlement and tourist town. The picturesque harbour with its colourful facades is where Bonnie Prince Charlie finally escaped on a French ship after the Battle of Culloden; never to return to Scotland.

Pretty Portree is Skye’s main settlement and tourist town. The picturesque harbour with its colourful facades is where Bonnie Prince Charlie finally escaped on a French ship after the Battle of Culloden; never to return to Scotland.

Image Name: Portree Skye

Image Alt: Portree Skye

Highlight 6

Name: Sligachan

NameShort: Sligachan

Sligachan may be a small settlement, but the views are absolutely epic. The Cuillin mountains strike a pose behind the rocky river and picturesque stone bridge. When it comes to bonnie backdrops, it doesn’t get much better!

Sligachan may be a small settlement, but the views are absolutely epic. The Cuillin mountains strike a pose behind the rocky river and picturesque stone bridge. When it comes to bonnie backdrops, it doesn’t get much better!

Image Name: Sligachan Isle of Skye

Image Alt: Sligachan Isle of Skye

Highlight 7

Name: Eilean Donan Castle

NameShort: Eilean Donan Castle

Don’t believe in love at first sight? Eilean Donan Castle will soon change that. A picturesque stone bridge winds out to the stunning structure. Set upon a wee tidal island, against a backdrop of mountains and lochs, it is undoubtedly one of the most iconic and romantic sights in Scotland.

Eilean Donan Castle is perfectly formed and instantly recognisable. From every angle the castle boasts a bonnie backdrop, from misty or snow-sprinkled peaks, to glassy-still lochs which mirror the sun and clouds. The castle sits in a unique position, at a point where three sea lochs meet. This was a deliberate defence strategy to protect the area from Viking raids, when the castle was fortified in the 13th century. Later in history, the castle was used as a garrison for Spanish troops, who supported the Jacobite cause during the 1719 uprising. They arrived with over 300 barrels of gunpowder, which they never got the chance to use. Instead, their military opponents gained access to the castle, and used the gunpowder to blow it up from the inside-out. Oh, the irony! The castle lay as a romantic ruin until it was restored to its former glory and reopened in 1932.

Link to Highlight resource:

Eilean Donan Castle)

Image Name: Eilean Donan Castle

Image Alt: Eilean Donan Castle

Highlight 8

Name: Hogwarts Express

NameShort: Hogwarts Express

All aboard the Hogwarts Express! The Jacobite Steam Train between Fort William and Mallaig is said to be the greatest rail journey in the world. The train crosses the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, and sweeps along the west coast, offering bonnie views of distant isles and white sand beaches.

All aboard the Hogwarts Express! The Jacobite Steam Train between Fort William and Mallaig is said to be the greatest rail journey in the world. The train crosses the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, and sweeps along the west coast, offering bonnie views of distant isles and white sand beaches.

Image Name: Jacobite Steam Train

Image Alt: Jacobite Steam Train

Highlight 9

Name: Kelpies

NameShort: Kelpies

The Kelpies are a stunning spectacle of modern engineering, designed by Scottish artist Andy Scott. Kelpies are mythological beasts in Scottish folklore, and this epic equine landmark is the largest of its kind in the world, “neighing” at a height of 30 meters and weighing a mighty 300 tonnes.

The Kelpies are a stunning spectacle of modern engineering, designed by Scottish artist Andy Scott. Kelpies are mythological beasts in Scottish folklore, and this epic equine landmark is the largest of its kind in the world, “neighing” at a height of 30 meters and weighing a mighty 300 tonnes.

Image Name: Kelpies

Image Alt: Kelpies

Highlight 10

Name: Glen Coe

NameShort: Glen Coe

As far as Scottish scenery goes, you don’t get more dramatic than the mighty Glencoe. ‘Glen’ is Gaelic for valley, and this jaw-dropper was deeply carved into the landscape during the Ice Age. From the sprawling peaks to crystal-clear rivers, Glencoe is guaranteed to blow your wee socks off.

Glencoe translates as the ‘weeping glen’, and it certainly lives up to its name. Waterfalls run from misty peaks through the glen’s gorges and creases, and are particularly dramatic after a downpour of “liquid sunshine”. Glencoe’s name also reflects the sad history of the clan who once lived there. In 1692, the government redcoats murdered Clan MacDonald in their beds, as punishment for their Jacobite allegiance. This bloody and brutal betrayal of Highland hospitality is remembered in history as the Massacre of Glencoe. Glencoe is dominated by majestic mountains which completely contrast the vast and flat expanse of its neighbouring Rannoch Moor. Buachaille Etive Mòr, which overlooks the moor, is a bonnie brute of a mountain, and a fond favourite with photographers. We think that Glencoe is the most photogenic when the weather is moody and atmospheric.

Image Name: Glen Coe

Image Alt: Glen Coe

Highlight 11

Name: Loch Ness

NameShort: Loch Ness

It’s time to tick Loch Ness off your Scotland bucket list, as we go in search of the infamous Loch Ness Monster. We promise you’ll get cool photos of Loch Ness and the surrounding scenery. A glimpse of ‘Nessie’ in the background is just an extra bonus!

Loch Ness is not the biggest or the deepest loch in Scotland, but it is definitely the most well-known. For this, we can thank the legend of the Loch Ness Monster. The first sighting of ‘Nessie’ was in 565AD by St Columba, when the monster reared its ugly head and launched an attack on his man servant. Much later, the ‘Surgeons Photograph’ from 1934 was considered the best and most famous capture of the beast, until it was later revealed to be a fake.! Of all Scotland’s lochs, Loch Ness has the highest volume of water. Glaciers carved the crazy-deep cavity of the loch, which holds more water than all the lakes in England and Wales. The water is so full of peat from the surrounding hills, its depths are almost pitch-black. Perfect hiding place for a monster if you ask us!

Image Name: Loch Ness

Image Alt: Loch Ness tour

Highlight 12

Name: Inverness

NameShort: Inverness

Inverness, known as the Capital of the Highlands, sits on the River Ness and is surrounded by wild landscapes. Discover the city’s connections to the Outlander series, and experience Highland hospitality like no other in the local pubs.

Inverness, known as the Capital of the Highlands, sits on the River Ness and is surrounded by wild landscapes. Discover the city’s connections to the Outlander series, and experience Highland hospitality like no other in the local pubs.

Image Name: Inverness

Image Alt: Inverness

Highlight 13

Name: Cuillin Mountains

NameShort: Cuillin Mountains

The Cuillin mountains are millions of years old, and they look damn fine for their age. The epic ruggedness of the red and black rock dominates the otherworldly landscape on Skye, and will be sure to block your wee socks off!

The Cuillin mountains are millions of years old, and they look damn fine for their age. The epic ruggedness of the red and black rock dominates the otherworldly landscape on Skye, and will be sure to block your wee socks off!

Image Name: Cuillin Mountains Isle of Skye

Image Alt: Cuillin Mountains Isle of Skye

Highlight 14

Name: Cairngorms National Park

NameShort: Cairngorms National Park

Sit back as we blaze a trail through the UK’s largest National Park. Scotland is famed for its wildly beautiful scenery, and the Cairngorms National Park has it all; from forests and lochs, to mighty mountains and roaring rivers.

Sit back as we blaze a trail through the UK’s largest National Park. Scotland is famed for its wildly beautiful scenery, and the Cairngorms National Park has it all; from forests and lochs, to mighty mountains and roaring rivers.

Image Name: Cairngorms National Park

Image Alt: Cairngorms National Park