This tour gives you an extended tour of the Isle of Skye. This is probably the best overview of Scotland that you can get in a Small Group Tour. Travel in a small VIP minibus with a maximum of eight like-minded travelling companions, taking in Edinburgh, Inverness, Skye and the Trossachs.
Highlights include Culloden Battlefield, Clava Cairns, Loch Ness & Glencoe...and of course, the magnificent Kelpies.
Your adventure begins in the vibrant heart of Edinburgh. After arriving and settling into your city centre hotel, take the opportunity to explore one of Europe's most historic and lively cities. Whether strolling along the Royal Mile or relaxing at a local café, the energy of Edinburgh is sure to enchant. If you'd prefer a smooth transition from the airport, we can arrange a private chauffeur to meet you upon arrival. Alternatively, you can take a Tram, Bus or Taxi to your hotel in the heart of Edinburgh. If you arrive early, you can deposit your luggage so you can explore the city at your leisure.
Overnight: Ibis Hotel (Royal Mile or Similar)
We depart from Edinburgh and head north, crossing over to the Kingdom of Fife, passing the magnificent Forth Bridge, a World UNESCO Heritage site. We take a scenic walk through Scotland's 'big tree' country to a stunning waterfall. Lunch will be in the pretty Victorian town of Pitlochry, where there are a myriad of Cafe's, restaurants and pubs. On through the Cairngorms National Park, where the scenery changes dramatically. The Awe Inspiring Clava Cairns are next, Tombs and Standing Stones, erected some 4500 years ago. For our last stop of the day, we experience one of Scotland's more sacred of places, the Battlefield of Culloden Moor (1746). The repercussions of the outcome of this battle was felt worldwide.
Glenmhor Hotel or Similar
Today, we travel down the shores of Loch Ness, visiting the Loch Ness Visitor Centre and Urquhart Castle before heading into the Wild West Highlands. After a waterfall walk and a stop in Fort William, we board the Jacobite Express steam train for a scenic ride to Mallaig. (This was the 'Hogwarts Express'. If possible, the guide will film you crossing the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct.) After a short while in Mallaig, we'll board the Ferry, 'over the sea to Skye'.
Cross the sea to the Isle of Skye, where you'll discover an embarrassment of riches. Our first stop is Sligachan, where, legend has it, if you wash your face in the flowing waters, you will never age. On to the beautiful capital of Skye with it's multi coloured harbour and quaint shops…time for a wander! Now to the Trotternish Peninsula, which arguably holds Skye's most dramatic scenery, from the striking Quiraing to the Old Man of Storr, the island offers an abundance of natural beauty and historical intrigue. Dinner will be served at the Plockton Inn, and you'll rest again in this beautiful village.
2nd Night in Plockton
This is one of our favourite days. Our first Port of Call is Eilean Donan Castle, 27 movies filmed here including 'Goldeneye & Highlander.' From here we head around the Loch and start climbing over the mountains. A spectacular viewpoint of the 'Five Sisters of Glenshiel' at the Ratagan before making our way through the remote village of Glenelg. Here we view two magnificent Brochs, traditional and sophisticated 2000 year old dwellings which populated the Highlands. Lunch at the famous Glenelg Inn. We then make our way to the highlight of the day. We board the Old Glenelg Ferry link in the old days, the only operating type of this Ferry in the world, using the strong currents to maneuver on this treacherous crossing. Be sure to look out for wildlife, both on land, sea, and the air. This is surely the most romantic way to cross 'Over the Sea to Skye.' A simply stunning drive on the mainland of Skye before heading back to the mainland. Hopefully we'll get to see and pet the Highland Cows at Duirinsh before heading back to Plockton.
3rd Night in Plockton
Leaving Skye behind, we take the ferry to Mallaig and continue our journey through the Silver Sands of Morar, where you can walk on flawless white beaches with views over small Isles. The day also includes a visit to the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct (seen in the Harry Potter films) before we travel through stunning Glencoe, a land forged through fire and ice. We then hug the coastline to Oban, gateway to the Isles and seafood capital of Scotland.
Overnight Perle Hotel or Similar
In the morning we Climb McCaigs Tower for a spectacular view over the town and the Inner Hebrides. We then head west and our first stop would be at the hidden gem of St. Conans Kirk, Scotland's mini Notre Dame. A low level walk to the Forboding Kilchurn Castle is next and another chance to see the Highland Cows. The beautiful village of Killin and their 'Falls o' Dochart' awaits us. Here we have time for lunch, either at a Salmon smokery or an 18th century tavern. We then head down to Callander, where we can have an early check in in order that you can explore the town.
Overnight Abbotsford Hotel or Similar
Today, you'll explore the treasures of the Trossachs Trail, including a scenic drive through the Dukes Pass. We'll stop at Loch Katrine for a lovely boat ride on the Loch and a visit Brig o' Turk to see the unique bicycle tree. One of the day's highlights will be feeding the adorable Hairy Highland Cows. After lunch at a 17th-century inn, we'll pop into Doune Castle, famous for its appearances in Outlander, Game of Thrones, and Monty Python & the Holy Grail. We'll return to Callander for some free time, followed by a Whisky Tasting Masterclass in the evening, offering a fun and educational end to the day.
2nd Night in Calllander
We begin our journey back to Edinburgh with a visit to Stirling Castle, "He who holds Stirling, holds Scotland." The tour continues with a stop at the magnificent Kelpies, giant steel horse sculptures symbolizing Scotland's industrial strength. If time allows, we'll also visit the medieval town of Culross before arriving in Edinburgh, mid-late afternoon at either your city centre hotel or the airport.
Overnight, Edinburgh City Centre hotel or Airport Hotel.
Depending on your schedule, you make your own way to the airport by tram or bus or taxi. Alternatively, or we can arrange a private transfer. Safe travels, and we hope to see you again in Bonnie Scotland!
Fare thee well & Haste Ye Back!