3-Day Budget Backpacker Isle of Skye and the Highlands Tour from Edinburgh

4.8 (278 reviews) Edinburgh, Scotland
Duration3 days
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesGerman, Portuguese, Chinese, English, Italian, French, Spanish
Group sizeUp to 30 travelers

Overview

The Skye High is a wee gem. Ideal for travelers short on time who want to get the most out of their trip to Scotland. All the best stuff is packed in: Nessie hunting, ruined castles, stunning Lochs and dramatic mountains. All this as you listen to tales of Celtic myths and legends before a couple of great nights in a Highland pub. Then there is the star of the show - the beautiful Isle of Skye.

What's included

  • 2 nights mixed gender multi-share dorm accommodation
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Local English Speaking Guide
  • Dundreggan Rewilding Centre
  • Food and drinks, unless specified
  • Gratuities
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Attraction entry fees

What to expect

Day 1: Edinburgh to Isle of Skye
  1. Forth Bridge
    Pass by
    View the iconic Forth Bridge while crossing over to the Kingdom of Fife
  2. Callander
    30m
    Visit the charming town of Callander for a moment, before we head into Rannoch Moor - Britain's last wilderness.
  3. Glencoe
    15m
    We stop for a photo opportunity of the incredibly stunning Glen Coe and the Three Sisters, learning about the events which inspired the "Red Wedding" from Game of Thrones
  4. Fort William
    1h
    Take in this classic Highland town while checking out some locals shops and eateries. Here, you will also have the chance to board the world famous Jacobite Steam Train, aka Hogwarts Express, between April and October - reach out to our team to learn more
  5. Portree
    1h
    During the summer months, we will board a ferry to the magical Isle of Skye, while during the winter months we will take a scenic route over the bridge. In the colourful town of Portree, we get comfortable for the next 2 nights
Day 2: Isle of Skye
  1. The Old Man of Storr
    30m
    Leaving Portree bright and early, we explore the windswept landscape, stunning coastline and dramatic mountain ranges. There will be time for a walk if weather and conditions permit.
  2. Kilt Rock
    20m
    View the incredible coastal rock formations known as Kilt Rock, and take in general epic views that nature has formed
  3. Dunvegan Castle & Gardens
    2h · Admission ticket not included
    In the summer months, the afternoon is spent exploring Dunvegan Castle, ancestral home of the Chiefs of Clan MacLeod, which still holds the legendary fairy flag. Learn about the legend surrounding this and get a feel of historical Clan life
  4. Sligachan Old Bridge
    20m
    Stop at various places on the Isle of Skye where your guide will recount the many myths and legends that come from the area, one of which is the magical benefits of the water by Sligachan Bridge
  5. Isle of Skye
    Pass by
    Finish off your day of exploring the Isle of Skye in Portree, the island’s vibrant harbor town.
Day 3: Isle of Skye to Edinburgh
  1. Eilean Donan Castle
    20m
    Leaving the misty isle behind, we head straight for a photo opportunity of the most romantic castle in Scotland.
  2. Dundreggan Rewilding Centre
    1h · Admission ticket included
    Scotland is focused on restoring the ancient Caledonian woodlands, and we make a stop at the rewilding centre to walk among the ancient pine forest and learn about the important work they do
  3. Fort Augustus
    1h
    See the incredible canals at Fort Augustus at the edge of Loch Ness where, if lucky, you might spot the infamous Nessie! You can also browse the many local shops or stop for a quick lunch.
  4. 20m
    After lunch, we make a photo stop at the Commando Memorial by Spean Bridge
  5. Dunkeld
    45m
    The last stop of our tour before heading back to Edinburgh is the quaint cathedral town of Dunkeld, where you can stroll the charming streets or have a quick visit at the gorgeous cathedral itself

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

This tour will depart at 7:45 am from 60 High Street, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH1 1TB. Meet 15 minutes before departure and look for the check-in staff wearing blue high-visibility vests there to greet you.

End point

This tour will depart at 7:45 am from 60 High Street, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH1 1TB. Meet 15 minutes before departure and look for the check-in staff wearing blue high-visibility vests there to greet you.

Additional information

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Minimum age to stay in the hostel is 18 years old.
  • If special assistance is required, passenger must provide their own carer
  • It is recommended to book transport to the departure point in advance. Please also allow extra time to get to the departure point for check-in. We advise you arrive at least 15 minutes before the tour departure to allow time to check-in for the tour. Unfortunately, we are unable to hold the bus or refund for any late arrivals.
  • Return times are approximate and subject to road conditions and weather. Please ensure you allocate sufficient time for any onward travel plans, allowing at least 3 hours after the scheduled return time for connections or activities.
  • This tour may run in conjunction with our sister company, Highland Explorer Tours.
  • During April and October, the Jacobite Steam Train and the ferry ride to Isle of Skye take place on day 3.
  • Not recommended for travelers with mobility concerns

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reviews

4.8 (278)
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