Edinburgh:5-Day Isle of Skye, Inverness & Loch Ness Tour w/Hostel

Day 1: Edinburgh to Oban

1. The Kelpies & The Helix
   30m
   We stop at a stunning spectacle of modern engineering, designed by Scottish artist Andy Scott: The Kelpies. Kelpies are mythological beasts in Scottish folklore, and this epic equine landmark is the largest of its kind in the world.
2. Stirling Castle
   Pass by
   Gaze upon the distant Highlands as we drive past Stirling Castle, a striking stone structure with an insanely interesting history.
3. National Wallace Monument
   Pass by
   Marvel at the stunning National Wallace Monument, Stirling's renowned landmark commemorating the life of Sir William Wallace.
4. Glencoe
   15m
   Stretch your legs at Glencoe and gaze at the sprawling peaks and crystal-clear rivers in the area.
5. Oban
   5h
   Oban is a bustling seaside town on Scotland’s west coast. Whether it’s fresh sea air or local seafood you’re craving, Oban’s got you covered.

Day 2: Oban to Isle of Skye

1. Glenfinnan Viaduct
   2h · Admission ticket not included
   Take in views of the world-famous Glenfinnan Viaduct! Whether you’re a fan of the wee wizard Harry Potter or not, this bonnie bridge – with its 21 arches against a scenic Highland backdrop – is an insane sight to behold! For an extra cost you can have the opportunity to travel on the steam train. Please note that that the steam train journey is not included in the tour price.
2. Eilean Donan Castle
   45m · Admission ticket not included
   Explore the surroundings of Eilean Donan Castle, where 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.
3. Portree
   5h
   We arrive in pretty Portree, 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.

Day 3: Isle of Skye to Inverness

1. Kilt Rock
   30m
   Explore the crinkle-cut sea cliff and an epic waterfall Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls and learn how they were formed.
2. Sligachan Old Bridge
   20m
   Stop at Sligachan, a small settlement with absolutely stunning views. 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!
3. The Old Man of Storr
   45m
   Gaze at this rock formation standing tall on Skye’s ancient landslip. Sometimes hidden by mist, this is a popular hangout for mischievous fairies!
4. Eilean Donan Castle
   30m · Admission ticket not included
   We visit one of the most iconic - and most photographed - castles in Scotland.
5. Dundreggan Rewilding Centre
   1h · Admission ticket included
   Learn about the Scottish Caledonian Forest and Trees for Life's rewilding efforts to restore the native pine woodland of the Highlands.

Day 4: Inverness

1. Loch Ness Region
   Pass by
   It’s time to tick Loch Ness off your Scotland bucket list, as we head along the shores of the loch. A glimpse of ‘Nessie’ in the background is just an extra bonus!
2. Beauly
   50m
   Spend some time exploring picturesque Beauly Priory. Used in the filming of Outlander. Beauly Priory from the French beau lieu meaning ‘beautiful place’ and abbey church which remains today is nestled in a charming, wooded, riverside location.
3. Culloden Battlefield
   2h · Admission ticket included
   Visiting the battlefield is an evocative experience, as you learn about the Jacobite defeat against the Hanoverian army, and the destruction of the highland clan culture in the aftermath.
4. Clava Cairns
   15m
   We stop at the Clava Cairns, prehistoric burial cairns and the modern-day inspiration for Outlander's time travel plot.

Day 5: Inverness to Edinburgh

1. Highland Folk Museum
   1h
   We visit the Highland Folk Museum to get a real taste of Highland life from the past centuries. This open-air attraction brings to life the domestic and working conditions of earlier Highland peoples.
2. Dunkeld
   45m
   Explore the wee town Dunkeld and its beautiful cathedral. Discover all from rom the peaceful countryside setting to the impressive, arched ruins. Look inside the main building for the cursed tomb of the wicked ‘Wolf of Babenoch’, and wander down to the banks of the fast-flowing River Tay to soak up the surroundings.

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• 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.
• Minimum age to stay in the hostel is 18 years old.
• In cases of extreme weather, the Loch Ness boat cruise may be cancelled on short notice. If you have purchased ticket for this you will be refunded.