5-Day Iona, Mull and the Isle of Skye Small-Group Tour from Edinburgh

Day 1: West Highlands & Oban

1. Loch Lomond National Nature Reserve
   2h
   We leave Edinburgh and travel through the gentle Lowlands past Stirling Castle. As we cross the ancient geological fault line, the flat plains give way to the majestic Highlands, with rugged peaks and forest-filled glens that define Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park.
   
   We explore the lush landscapes of Scotland's first national park, renowned for its beauty and steeped in the legends of Rob Roy, the famed outlaw. Your driver-guide makes a stop by one of the shimmering lochs, where you can enjoy the tranquility and breathe in the crisp Highland air. As we journey on through the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, the scenery grows even more dramatic, with steep-sided mountains forming the Arrochar Alps. Along the way, we pause at the famous viewpoint 'Rest and Be Thankful', before continuing our route to Inveraray.
2. Inveraray Castle & Gardens
   30m · Admission ticket not included
   We stop for lunch in Inveraray, a charming town on Loch Fyne, known for its picturesque setting. Enjoy local seafood and the peaceful atmosphere while taking in views of the loch and surrounding hills.
3. Oban
   3h
   As the day winds down, we arrive in Oban, the "Gateway to the Isles", that was once home to powerful feuding clans. We'll stay in this picturesque port town for two nights, and tonight you can decide how to spend your first evening. Enjoy a fresh seafood dinner or try a hearty Scottish meal at a local restaurant before you stroll along the waterfront, taking in the stunning sunset views over the harbour.

Day 2: Iona and optional trip to Fingal's Cave

1. Isle of Mull
   3h
   Today begins with an early start as we take the ferry to Mull, a gem in the Inner Hebrides known for its rugged beauty, abundant wildlife, and charming villages. As we approach the island, take in the silhouette of Duart Castle before landing at Craignure. We'll be island hopping today, traveling through Mull's lush pastures, dense woodlands, and peat bogs on our way to Fionnphort, where you can choose your next adventure.
2. Isle of Staffa
   3h · Admission ticket not included
   At Fionnphort, you can decide what you want to do next. You can take the small ferry to Iona, the birthplace of Celtic Christianity and the ancient burial ground of Scottish kings. Spend your time exploring the island's rich history, visit the historic abbey with its intricately carved crosses in the churchyard or wander the rocky headlands and sandy coves. Alternatively, divide your time between discovering Iona and embarking on an optional trip to Staffa, where you can marvel at the dramatic basalt columns of Fingal's Cave, immortalized by Mendelssohn in his Hebridean Overture.
3. Oban
   3h
   No matter which islands you've chosen to explore, you'll return to Mull with memories that stay with you long after you leave. Perhaps you'll depart Iona feeling rejuvenated, introspective, and deeply connected to its tranquil magic. Or maybe you'll be inspired and in awe of Staffa's dramatic beauty and geological wonders. Next, we journey through Mull's rugged interior, where dramatic hills, serene lochs, and sweeping glens unfold as we make our way to Craignure, where a ferry awaits to take us back to Oban.

Day 3: Glencoe and Exploring the Highlands

1. Castle Stalker
   30m · Admission ticket not included
   Continuing along the shore, we stop at a viewpoint to admire Castle Stalker, a striking 14th-century tower on a small islet near Appin. Once a stronghold of the Clan MacDougall and later the Stewarts of Appin, it's one of Scotland's most picturesque castles, with a rich history of clan rivalries and intrigue.
2. Glencoe Mountain Resort
   30m
   Afterward, we continue our journey to the majestic Glencoe, renowned for its rugged slopes and dramatic history. Often featured in films, the valley offers breathtaking views. Here, you'll have time for photos or a short walk to fully appreciate the stunning landscape and learn about one of the most tragic episodes in Scottish history.
3. Fort William
   1h
   Next, we continue along Loch Linnhe and head to Fort William for lunch, a charming Highland town nestled at the foot of Ben Nevis. Enjoy local cuisine and take a leisurely stroll through the town center before we resume our journey through the Great Glen, a natural fault in the Earth's crust that runs through Scotland.
4. Plockton
   2h
   Enjoy a peaceful evening in Plockton, surrounded by loch views, woodlands, and mountain scenery. Stroll along the quaint harbour as it glows in the golden hour, or savour a hearty, comforting meal in one of the village’s welcoming inns or pubs.

Day 4: Touring around Isle of Skye

1. Isle of Skye
   1h
   We leave Plockton and head towards the Skye Bridge, crossing into the Misty Isle. Every horizon in Skye conceals something astoundingly beautiful. So today, your driver-guide makes the most out of your time and weather in this marvel-studded landscape.
2. Quiraing
   1h
   Exploring Skye feels like stepping into a dream, with countless places to explore. You might head north to the Trotternish Ridge and beyond, where you'll encounter geological wonders such as the Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock, and the breathtaking Quiraing mountain pass. This part of the island enchants visitors with surreal rock formations, dramatic cliffs, vast open spaces, and an overwhelming sense of wilderness.
3. Isle of Skye
   1h
   After all this exploration, we'll pause in one of the island's towns for lunch to recharge for the second part of the day. In the late afternoon, your driver-guide may take you back in time, sharing stories about the legends and clan culture surrounding Dunvegan Castle, or perhaps lead you to a different hidden gem.
   
   After taking in the stunning sights of Skye, you'll bid farewell to the island and return to Plockton for another peaceful evening.

Day 5: Eilean Donan Castle

1. Eilean Donan Castle
   1h · Admission ticket not included
   Perched on a small island, the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, which has recently gained fame as a movie location, has many old stories to tell. You can enjoy refreshments at a local café and stroll along the loch to admire the castle from the outside. Alternatively, you can explore its chambers, where you'll discover a collection of artifacts belonging to the MacKenzie and MacRae clans.
2. Fort Augustus
   1h
   Next, we travel past shimmering lochs framed by rugged mountains and arrive in the charming village of Fort Augustus, nestled on the banks of Loch Ness. Here, you can savor local specialties, stroll to the shores of the mysterious loch and try to catch sight of the elusive monster. As we travel south past the broad peaks of Cairngorms National Park, you'll enjoy various photo stops along the way.
3. Edinburgh
   Pass by
   We continue south through the rolling hills and fertile farmlands of the Kingdom of Fife. Your last highlight is the view of the iconic UNESCO listed Forth Rail Bridge on your way to Edinburgh.

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• We apologise, but we cannot accommodate children under 5 years old on our tours. Children under 18 need to be accompanied by an adult. Please note that if this policy is not followed, we will have to refuse travel without issuing a refund. Thank you for understanding
• You stay two nights in Oban and two nights in Plockton.
• Booking three or more people: we can accommodate up to 8 guests in a group, please add each required room to your basket separately
• When booking three or more people, efforts will be made to book a combination of suitable rooms (double/twin/family). Preferences should be noted upon booking in the Special Requirements section
• Luggage Allowance: You're restricted to 20kg of luggage (44lbs); one medium sized suitcase/bag similar to airline standard carry-on luggage (approximately 55cm x 45cm x 25cm / 22in x 17in x 10in) plus a small bag for onboard personal items.
• Eilean Donan Castle – We reserve tickets for you. If you want to visit this attraction, please purchase your ticket whilst on tour.
• Staffa Boat Trip – You may choose to join a boat trip to Staffa. This departs at 1.45pm and returns at 5pm. We reserve tickets for you, so please purchase your ticket whilst on tour.
• Iona Abbey – You have free time on Iona between 12:00pm and 16:30pm. If you'd like to visit the Abbey, we recommend you book in advance to avoid disappointment, using the link on your voucher.
• B&Bs tend to be located on the outskirts of towns and you should be prepared for a 20-30 minute walk to local facilities like pubs and restaurants. If you have difficulty with stairs, please mention it to us as lifts will not be available in this type of property.
• Hotels usually have a relatively central location but may be up to a 20-30 minute walk from local facilities. If you have difficulty with stairs, please let us know so that we can either book a ground floor room or a hotel with lift access, if available.
• Please note from 1-31 October, the Quiraing on the Isle of Skye will be inaccessible due to road works. Unfortunately, this means you won’t be able to visit the Quiraing during this time, but you may still be able to catch a glimpse of it from a distance.
• Please note that the last sailing of the optional Staffa trip for the 2026 season is on 17 October. For departures after this date, you will be spending more time on Iona.