Isle Of Skye And The Highlands

Name: Day 1: Edinburgh to Portree

Short Description: In the summer months, from April to October, we leave the capital in the morning, we travel past the stunning Stirling Castle sitting dramatically atop a steep rock. After a wee stop in the quaint Highland village of Callander we venture into the wild landscapes of Rannoch Moor, a peaty moorland often recalled as the last remaining wilderness in Britain. Feast your eyes upon one of the most beloved landmarks in the Scottish Highlands, Glen Coe, characterised by rugged, towering mountains surrounding the glen. Our afternoon continues with a scenic ferry ride* to the famous Isle of Skye, where myths and legends of ancient faerie folk await! Our home for the next two nights is the island’s colourful capital town Portree, with free time to explore its picturesque harbour in the evening. *During April and October, the route goes in reverse, with the ferry ride to Isle of Skye taking place on day 3. In winter, from November to March, we leave Edinburgh in the morning and travel west to the impressive Kelpies, renowned as the largest equine sculptures on the globe. We travel further north through the Trossachs and over the wintry expanse of the wild Rannoch Moor. Marvel at the atmospheric Glen Coe, a true showstopper of a landscape during this time of year, before stopping at the Highland town of Fort William for lunch. The journey continues through the mountains to the mystical Isle of Skye past spectacular Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland’s most famous icons. Our home for the night is on the Isle of Skye, the ‘winged isle’ at the warm and friendly deluxe B&B The Skye Inn Portree. (Overnight: Portree)

Description: In the summer months, from April to October, we leave the capital in the morning, we travel past the stunning Stirling Castle sitting dramatically atop a steep rock. After a wee stop in the quaint Highland village of Callander we venture into the wild landscapes of Rannoch Moor, a peaty moorland often recalled as the last remaining wilderness in Britain. Feast your eyes upon one of the most beloved landmarks in the Scottish Highlands, Glen Coe, characterised by rugged, towering mountains surrounding the glen. Our afternoon continues with a scenic ferry ride* to the famous Isle of Skye, where myths and legends of ancient faerie folk await! Our home for the next two nights is the island’s colourful capital town Portree, with free time to explore its picturesque harbour in the evening. *During April and October, the route goes in reverse, with the ferry ride to Isle of Skye taking place on day 3. In winter, from November to March, we leave Edinburgh in the morning and travel west to the impressive Kelpies, renowned as the largest equine sculptures on the globe. We travel further north through the Trossachs and over the wintry expanse of the wild Rannoch Moor. Marvel at the atmospheric Glen Coe, a true showstopper of a landscape during this time of year, before stopping at the Highland town of Fort William for lunch. The journey continues through the mountains to the mystical Isle of Skye past spectacular Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland’s most famous icons. Our home for the night is on the Isle of Skye, the ‘winged isle’ at the warm and friendly deluxe B&B The Skye Inn Portree. (Overnight: Portree)

Highlights

• Dunkeld Cathedral (Dunkeld)
• Loch Ness (Ness)
• Portree(Portree)
• Eilean Donan Castle(Eilean)

Name: Day 2: Isle of Skye

Short Description: We spend the day exploring the dramatic Isle of Skye with its amazing scenery, myths and legends. Hear tales of Bonnie Prince Charlie’s escape from the mainland against the backdrop of the jagged Cuillin Mountains. Highlights include the mysterious rock formation of the Old Man of Storr and Kilt Rock with its cascading waterfall. (OvernightL Portree)

Description: We spend the day exploring the dramatic Isle of Skye with its amazing scenery, myths and legends. Hear tales of Bonnie Prince Charlie’s escape from the mainland against the backdrop of the jagged Cuillin Mountains. Highlights include the mysterious rock formation of the Old Man of Storr and Kilt Rock with its cascading waterfall. (OvernightL Portree)

Highlights

• Isle of Skye (Skye)
• Sligachan (Sligachan)
• Lealt Falls(Lealt)
• Kilt Rock(Kilt)
• Old Man of Storr(Storr)

Name: Day 3: Portree to Edinburgh

Short Description: In the summer months, from April to October, we bid farewell to the Isle of Skye as we depart the island via the Skye Bridge. On our way east, castle enthusiasts will fall in love with Eilean Donan Castle, arguably one of Scotland’s most romantic photo spots. Our journey leads us to the Dundreggan Rewilding Centre, nestled within the heart of the Highlands. Here, we delve into the admirable work of Trees for Life, a charity committed to the revival of Scotland's ancient Caledonian Pine Forest. It’s time to go monster spotting! Our destination is Loch Ness, where we take a break and attempt to catch a glimpse of the legendary Nessie while enjoying the shores of Fort Augustus. Next, we make a stop at the Commando Memorial, offering stunning views of Ben Nevis, the tallest peak in Britain. Heading further north, we explore the charming village of Dunkeld and its historic cathedral on the banks of the River Tay. As we journey back to Edinburgh, we're treated to one final awe-inspiring sight: the historic Forth Rail Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We arrive in the capital in the early evening. In winter, from November to March, we head south via the Skye Bridge and continue through majestic Glen Shiel to the Dundreggan Rewilding Centre, located in the heart of the Highlands. Here, we learn about the charity Trees for Life and their inspiring mission to restore Scotland’s ancient native woodlands. Our journey then takes us to the shores of monstrous Loch Ness, where we’ll stop in the charming village of Fort Augustus. Explore the lochside and then find a cosy inn for lunch. We travel further south, where quiet roads give way to serene Highland winter landscapes of the Great Glen. Our next stop is the quaint village of Dunkeld. Grab a warming tea and scone from the local bakery before taking a stroll by the village’s beautiful River Tay. Before our winter tour concludes, we cross the River Forth and marvel at the engineering wonders that are the three Forth Bridges.

Description: In the summer months, from April to October, we bid farewell to the Isle of Skye as we depart the island via the Skye Bridge. On our way east, castle enthusiasts will fall in love with Eilean Donan Castle, arguably one of Scotland’s most romantic photo spots. Our journey leads us to the Dundreggan Rewilding Centre, nestled within the heart of the Highlands. Here, we delve into the admirable work of Trees for Life, a charity committed to the revival of Scotland's ancient Caledonian Pine Forest. It’s time to go monster spotting! Our destination is Loch Ness, where we take a break and attempt to catch a glimpse of the legendary Nessie while enjoying the shores of Fort Augustus. Next, we make a stop at the Commando Memorial, offering stunning views of Ben Nevis, the tallest peak in Britain. Heading further north, we explore the charming village of Dunkeld and its historic cathedral on the banks of the River Tay. As we journey back to Edinburgh, we're treated to one final awe-inspiring sight: the historic Forth Rail Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We arrive in the capital in the early evening. In winter, from November to March, we head south via the Skye Bridge and continue through majestic Glen Shiel to the Dundreggan Rewilding Centre, located in the heart of the Highlands. Here, we learn about the charity Trees for Life and their inspiring mission to restore Scotland’s ancient native woodlands. Our journey then takes us to the shores of monstrous Loch Ness, where we’ll stop in the charming village of Fort Augustus. Explore the lochside and then find a cosy inn for lunch. We travel further south, where quiet roads give way to serene Highland winter landscapes of the Great Glen. Our next stop is the quaint village of Dunkeld. Grab a warming tea and scone from the local bakery before taking a stroll by the village’s beautiful River Tay. Before our winter tour concludes, we cross the River Forth and marvel at the engineering wonders that are the three Forth Bridges.

Highlights

• Views of Ben Nevis(Nevis)
• Ferry from Skye to Mallaig (Ferry)
• Glen Coe(Glencoe)
• Glenfinnan Viaduct(Glenfinnan)
• Jacobite Steam Train (Hogwarts Express)(Jacobite)

Inclusions

Item 1: Passionate local guide

Item 2: 2 nights B&B accommodation

Item 3: Ferry Crossing ‘Over the Sea’ from the Isle of Skye during summer months

Item 4: Dundreggan Rewilding Centre

Name: Views of Ben Nevis

NameShort: Views of Ben Nevis

Ben Nevis is the UK’s highest peak. This majestic mountain rises up from the landscape at 1345 meters above sea level. On a clear day the summit can be seen from the area around Fort William.

Ben Nevis is the UK’s highest peak. This majestic mountain rises up from the landscape at 1345 meters above sea level. On a clear day the summit can be seen from the area around Fort William.

Image Name: Views of Ben Nevis

Image Alt: Views of Ben Nevis

Name: Dunkeld Cathedral

NameShort: Dunkeld Cathedral

Dunkeld Cathedral is a beautiful, partly ruined structure, which sits in a peaceful location overlooking the River Tay. Look out for the cursed effigy of the ‘Wolf of Badenoch’ inside, and read about the cathedral’s history spanning hundreds of years.

Dunkeld Cathedral is a beautiful, partly ruined structure, which sits in a peaceful location overlooking the River Tay. Look out for the cursed effigy of the ‘Wolf of Badenoch’ inside, and read about the cathedral’s history spanning hundreds of years.

Image Name: Dunkeld Cathedral

Image Alt: Dunkeld Cathedral

Name: Eilean Donan Castle

NameShort: Eilean Donan Castle

Eilean Donan Castle is perfectly formed and instantly recognisable. A charming stone bridge leads out to the island, which is surrounded by three lochs and a backdrop of mountains. The castle is one of the most photographed sights in Scotland.

Eilean Donan Castle is perfectly formed and instantly recognisable. A charming stone bridge leads out to the island, which is surrounded by three lochs and a backdrop of mountains. The castle is one of the most photographed sights in Scotland.

Image Name: Eilean Donan Castle

Image Alt: Eilean Donan Castle

Name: Dunvegan Castle

NameShort: Dunvegan Castle

Dunvegan Castle is the seat of Clan Macleod, who have lived in the castle for over 800 years. Soak up the stunning loch side scenery, and discover fascinating treasures inside, including the Fairy Flag and Bonnie Prince Charlie’s waistcoat.

Dunvegan Castle is the seat of Clan Macleod, who have lived in the castle for over 800 years. Soak up the stunning loch side scenery, and discover fascinating treasures inside, including the Fairy Flag and Bonnie Prince Charlie’s waistcoat.

Image Name: Dunvegan Castle

Image Alt: Dunvegan Castle

Name: Ferry from Skye to Mallaig

NameShort: Ferry from Skye to Mallaig

Image Name: Ferry from Skye to Mallaig

Image Alt: Ferry from Skye to Mallaig

Name: Glen Coe

NameShort: Glen Coe

This jaw-dropping landscape is the most atmospheric and evocative place in Scotland. Glen Coe translates as the ‘weeping glen’, and the name reflects the sad history of the area, as well as the many waterfalls which cascade from misty peaks.

This jaw-dropping landscape is the most atmospheric and evocative place in Scotland. Glen Coe translates as the ‘weeping glen’, and the name reflects the sad history of the area, as well as the many waterfalls which cascade from misty peaks.

Image Name: Glen Coe

Image Alt: Glen Coe

Name: Glenfinnan Viaduct

NameShort: Glenfinnan Viaduct

The Glenfinnan Viaduct is known to many as the ‘Harry Potter Bridge’ after featuring in two of the famous films. The iconic bridge has twenty-one arches which curve around the dramatic Highland landscape, with views over the stunning Loch Shiel.

The Glenfinnan Viaduct is known to many as the ‘Harry Potter Bridge’ after featuring in two of the famous films. The iconic bridge has twenty-one arches which curve around the dramatic Highland landscape, with views over the stunning Loch Shiel.

Image Name: Glenfinnan Viaduct

Image Alt: Glenfinnan Viaduct

Name: Isle of Skye

NameShort: Isle of Skye

Skye is Scotland’s most popular isle, and you’ll quickly understand why. Skye exudes magic from every mountain, waterfall and rainbow, while its unique geology and beguiling mythology are unlike anywhere else in Scotland. Skye is an ancient and truly enchanting island.

Skye is Scotland’s most popular isle, and you’ll quickly understand why. Skye exudes magic from every mountain, waterfall and rainbow, while its unique geology and beguiling mythology are unlike anywhere else in Scotland. Skye is an ancient and truly enchanting island.

Image Name: Isle of Skye

Image Alt: Isle of Skye

Name: Jacobite Steam Train (Hogwarts Express)

NameShort: Jacobite Steam Train (Hogwarts Express)

The Jacobite Steam Train shot to worldwide fame as the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films. The route between Fort William and Mallaig on the West Highland Line has been voted the most scenic rail journey in the world.

The Jacobite Steam Train shot to worldwide fame as the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films. The route between Fort William and Mallaig on the West Highland Line has been voted the most scenic rail journey in the world.

Image Name: Jacobite Steam Train

Image Alt: Jacobite Steam Train

Name: Loch Ness

NameShort: Loch Ness

Loch Ness is the most well-known loch in Scotland, thanks to tales of the Loch Ness Monster. Glaciers carved the deep cavity of the loch, which holds more water than all the lakes in England and Wales.

Loch Ness is the most well-known loch in Scotland, thanks to tales of the Loch Ness Monster. Glaciers carved the deep cavity of the loch, which holds more water than all the lakes in England and Wales...

Image Name: Loch Ness

Image Alt: Loch Ness

Name: Portree

NameShort: Portree

Portree is Skye’s central hub and most populated town, with numerous shops and places to eat. The main square is a hive of activity, while the quaint harbour with its brightly coloured facades is lifted straight from a postcard.

Portree is Skye’s central hub and most populated town, with numerous shops and places to eat. The main square is a hive of activity, while the quaint harbour with its brightly coloured facades is lifted straight from a postcard.

Image Name: Portree

Image Alt: Portree

Name: Sligachan

NameShort: Sligachan

Sligachan is a tiny settlement in a breath-taking location. The views are truly stunning, from the beautiful old bridge and enchanting river, to the dramatic backdrop of red and black Cuillin mountains.

Sligachan is a tiny settlement in a breath-taking location. The views are truly stunning, from the beautiful old bridge and enchanting river, to the dramatic backdrop of red and black Cuillin mountains.

Image Name: Sligachan Isle of Skye

Image Alt: Sligachan Isle of Skye

Name: Lealt Falls

NameShort: Lealt Falls

Lealt Falls runs through a deep gorge, past the ruins of an old diatomite mine, and out to the sea. Soak up scenic views of the waterfall and rocky shoreline from the elevated viewing platforms.

Lealt Falls runs through a deep gorge, past the ruins of an old diatomite mine, and out to the sea. Soak up scenic views of the waterfall and rocky shoreline from the elevated viewing platforms.

Image Name: Lealt Falls

Image Alt: Lealt Falls

Name: Kilt Rock

NameShort: Kilt Rock

Kilt Rock is a breath-taking sight on Skye’s dramatic coastline. Marvel at the magic of Mealt Falls, as it cascades down the striking cliff face - which is said to be shaped by a mythical giant’s kilt.

Kilt Rock is a breath-taking sight on Skye’s dramatic coastline. Marvel at the magic of Mealt Falls, as it cascades down the striking cliff face - which is said to be shaped by a mythical giant’s kilt.

Image Name: Kilt Rock

Image Alt: Kilt Rock

Name: Old Man of Storr

NameShort: Old Man of Storr

The Old Man of Storr is a striking pinnacle of rock, perched high upon Skye’s otherworldly landscape. This geological wonder is one of the island’s most iconic sights - it looks even more impressive on a misty day.

The Old Man of Storr is a striking pinnacle of rock, perched high upon Skye’s otherworldly landscape. This geological wonder is one of the island’s most iconic sights - it looks even more impressive on a misty day.

Image Name: Old Man of Storr

Image Alt: Old Man of Storr