Isle of Skye, Fairy Pools and Highlands 3 Day Tour from Edinburgh

Day 1: Edinburgh - Isle of Skye

1. Glasgow
   Pass by
   Leaving Edinburgh, we travel west to Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city, where we welcome passengers joining the tour there. As we continue north, your driver-guide will introduce you to the journey ahead with stories and insights into the landscapes, history and culture that shape this remarkable part of Scotland.
2. Luss
   45m
   Our first scenic stop is the charming conservation village of Luss, set on the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond within Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. Here, you can stretch your legs, enjoy morning refreshments and take in the peaceful lochside setting, with its pretty cottages, beautiful views and classic Highland atmosphere.
3. Glencoe
   15m
   Travelling north, we cross the wild and remote expanse of Rannoch Moor before arriving in the dramatic valley of Glencoe, one of Scotland’s most famous and atmospheric landscapes. Surrounded by towering peaks and sweeping Highland scenery, this stop is the perfect chance to stretch your legs, take in the views and capture memorable photographs.
4. Glencoe Visitor Centre
   45m
   We stop at the Glencoe Visitor Centre for lunch, where you can relax and enjoy the spectacular Highland surroundings. This is also a great opportunity to learn more about Glencoe’s dramatic landscape, local wildlife and the story of the Glencoe Massacre of 1692, one of the most significant events in Highland history.
5. Fort William
   Pass by
   Continuing through the Highlands, we pass through Fort William, a popular Highland town nestled at the foot of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in Britain. Its spectacular setting makes it an important gateway on our journey towards the west coast and the Road to the Isles.
6. Glenfinnan
   1h 30m
   The sweeping arches of the Glenfinnan Viaduct curve across the Highland landscape and are famous around the world as the route of the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films. During our stop, you’ll have time to walk to the viewpoint for spectacular views over the viaduct, the surrounding glen and Loch Shiel. At ground level stands the Glenfinnan Monument, commemorating the Jacobites who fought for Bonnie Prince Charlie after he raised his standard here in 1745.
7. 15m
   As we continue west, we travel through the beautiful Highland glens of Clunie, Garry and Shiel before stopping for photos overlooking the striking Five Sisters of Kintail, one of the most famous mountain ridges in the Highlands. This short scenic stop offers sweeping views and a wonderful final taste of the dramatic landscapes before we cross to Skye.
8. Isle of Skye
   Pass by
   Continuing on, we follow the shores of Loch Duich before crossing the Skye Bridge onto the magical Isle of Skye. Arriving on the island is a special moment, as the scenery shifts from Highland glens to dramatic coastal landscapes and rugged mountain views. We then make our way to our overnight accommodation, where you can relax after a spectacular first day and look forward to a full day of exploring Skye.

Day 2: Exploring the Isle of Skye

1. Isle of Skye
   Pass by
   oday is dedicated to exploring the enchanting Isle of Skye. With its ever-changing weather and dramatic landscapes, your driver-guide will shape the day to make the most of the conditions and show you some of the island’s most iconic sights. From rugged mountains and coastal cliffs to hidden glens and legendary landmarks, today offers a memorable journey through one of Scotland’s most extraordinary landscapes.
2. 30m
   We stop at the historic Sligachan Old Bridge, one of the Isle of Skye’s most iconic and picturesque locations. Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Black Cuillin mountains, this beautiful stone bridge is a favourite spot for photographs and a wonderful place to pause and take in the island’s wild scenery.
3. Fairy Pools
   2h
   One of Skye’s most famous natural attractions, the Fairy Pools lie beneath the dramatic Black Cuillin mountains near Glenbrittle. These crystal-clear blue pools and waterfalls are among the island’s most magical sights and are a highlight for photographers, walkers and nature lovers alike. You’ll have time to enjoy the walk out to the pools, take in the spectacular mountain scenery and capture some truly memorable views. Please note that the walk includes uneven ground, but the scenery and atmosphere make it well worth the effort.
4. Portree
   1h 30m
   We stop in Portree, Skye’s colourful harbour town and cultural heart, where you’ll have free time to enjoy lunch and explore at your own pace. Stroll along the waterfront, browse local shops, or relax in one of the town’s cafés or restaurants while taking in the harbour views. This is a great chance to soak up the atmosphere of Skye’s main town and enjoy a break in one of the island’s most picturesque settings.
5. Fairy Glen
   30m
   Hidden among Skye’s rolling hills, the Fairy Glen is a small but enchanting landscape of grassy knolls, unusual rock formations and winding paths. Its miniature, otherworldly appearance has inspired legends and folklore, making it one of the island’s most unusual and atmospheric spots. This short stop is perfect for stretching your legs, taking photos and experiencing another side of Skye’s unique beauty.
6. Quiraing
   30m
   The Quiraing is one of Skye’s most spectacular landscapes, famous for its dramatic cliffs, pinnacles and sweeping views across the Trotternish Peninsula. Formed by an ancient landslip, this extraordinary scenery is one of the island’s true geological wonders. During our stop, you’ll have time to admire the panoramic views, take photographs and appreciate one of the most breathtaking locations in the Scottish Highlands.
7. Kilt Rock
   10m
   We also stop at Kilt Rock, where towering basalt cliffs resemble the pleats of a kilt and create one of Skye’s most distinctive coastal landmarks. From the viewpoint, you can enjoy spectacular sea views and watch Mealt Falls cascade over the cliff edge into the Sound of Raasay below.
8. The Old Man of Storr
   10m
   We pause for photos at the Old Man of Storr, one of Skye’s most recognisable and most photographed landmarks. Rising dramatically from the landscape, this iconic rock formation has become a symbol of the island and offers a striking introduction to the dramatic scenery of the Trotternish Peninsula.
9. Isle of Skye
   Pass by
   After stopping for photos at the iconic Old Man of Storr, we begin our journey back to our overnight accommodation, taking in more of Skye’s rugged scenery along the way. As the day draws to a close, you can reflect on a memorable day of mountain views, coastal landmarks, folklore and natural beauty before relaxing for the evening.

Day 3: Isle of Skye - Edinburgh

1. Isle of Skye
   Pass by
   Leaving the Isle of Skye behind, we cross the Skye Bridge back to the mainland and continue through some of the Highlands’ most beautiful scenery. As we travel east, lochs, mountains and glens accompany us on the next stage of the journey, with more iconic Scottish landscapes still to come.
2. Eilean Donan Castle
   1h · Admission ticket not included
   Our first stop of the day is Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland’s most photographed and recognisable landmarks. Set on a small island where three sea lochs meet, this iconic castle is famous for its breathtaking setting and appearances in films including Highlander and James Bond: The World Is Not Enough. You’ll have the chance to admire this dramatic historic site from the surrounding viewpoints, take photographs, or choose to explore the castle itself.
3. Fort Augustus
   1h 15m
   We continue to Fort Augustus, a charming Highland village at the southern tip of Loch Ness. Here you’ll have free time to enjoy lunch, explore the village, browse local shops and stroll beside the Caledonian Canal, where you can often watch boats passing through the locks. With its relaxed atmosphere and lochside setting, Fort Augustus is the perfect place to pause and soak up the Highland surroundings.
4. Loch Ness
   50m · Admission ticket not included
   While in Fort Augustus, you may choose to join an optional Loch Ness cruise and experience Scotland’s most famous loch from the water. With sweeping views and stories of the myths and mysteries that surround Loch Ness, it is a memorable way to enjoy this legendary location. Those who prefer not to take the cruise can spend more time exploring Fort Augustus, visiting local shops and cafés, or relaxing beside the Caledonian Canal as boats pass through the locks.
5. 45m
   As we continue south through the Highlands, we make a final stop in Perthshire for an early evening refreshment break. This gives you the chance to stretch your legs, relax and reflect on the incredible landscapes and experiences of the past three days before the final part of the journey back to the city.
6. Edinburgh
   Pass by
   Travelling south, we arrive back in Edinburgh, where your tour comes to an end. After three days of iconic landscapes, Highland history and island scenery, this marks the close of a remarkable journey through some of Scotland’s most spectacular regions.

• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• We cannot accommodate children under the age of 5
• Your tour departs from Waterloo Place, Edinburgh, opposite Howies Restaurant. Please arrive in good time before departure. Check-in closes at 07:45 to allow your driver-guide to complete the safety briefing. If you arrive after this time we may not be able to accommodate you on the tour.