This tour gives you the opportunity to explore the beauty of Scotland with the best local guides. You will discover the diverse landscape of the Highlands, enjoy the wonderful coastal scenery, fall in love with the magical isle of Skye and, of course, experience an absolute bucket list activity in Scotland, the Jacobite Train.
After the tour, you will understand why our wee country has been officially voted the most beautiful country in the world!
We’ll pick you up nice and early from Edinburgh’s high street before we make our way to Glasgow -Scotland’s biggest city and industrial capital - where we will meet the rest of the group.
Our wide-ranging tour starts by heading west through the beautiful scenery of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. Loch Lomond is one of the top nature attractions in Scotland, surrounded by beautiful villages and stunning landscapes, it’s an absolute paradise for those who want to experience the Scottish nature.
Next, we will stop at Kilmartin Glen, famous for its rich archeological legacy. With over 5,000 years of history laid out before us, we will walk in the footsteps of the first Scots and decipher the mysteries of an area soaked in history. Take a big step back in time and stroll through Dunadd Hill Fort and the Temple Wood Stone Circle or uncover some extraordinary Neolithic rock art at Achnabreck.
Then, we will have an scenic journey to the picturesque seaside town of Oban, home to Scotland’s best seafood!
As we drive through it, your guide will provide you with an overview of the history of the town, its most famous sights and where to eat, drink and enjoy a traditional Scottish ceilidh night.
Day two takes you over the Connel Bridge through Appin to the haunting landscape of Glen Coe (scene of the terrible massacre of the MacDonald Clan).
Experience the magical journey aboard the Jacobite Train
We’ll stop in Fort William; a town dominated by Ben Nevis—the UK’s tallest peak. Then you will jump aboard the Jacobite Steam Train*, and enjoy a truly magical experience certainly not to be missed!
The Jacobite train is one of the world’s greatest train journeys and will take you over the Glenfinnan Viaduct, made famous by the Harry Potter films.
You will continue to the end of the line, Mallaig, a pretty fishing port, bustling but remote. You will have the opportunity to have an early dinner and enjoy some excellent seafood before taking a short ferry ride over the sea to Skye, where you’ll spend your second night.
Overnight: Isle of Skye
* Indicates an Optional Extra
You’ll have the whole of the third day to explore Skye’s mysteries and landscape with your knowledgeable driver-guide, who will ensure you get the most out of your time on the island based on the weather and group.
Stops often include the likes of Cuillin Mountains, Dun Beag Broch, the Black Houses, the Kilt Rock Waterfall, The Old Man of Storr and the Trotternish Peninsula, and of course the capital of the island, Portree.
It’s the perfect Scottish experience giving you a chance to visit waterfalls, springs, historic sights and trek through the most beautiful landscapes.
We’ll leave Skye and head straight to one of Scotland’s most photographed castles, Eilean Donan* which you’ll have ample time to explore. Eiliean Donan is one of the greatest medieval castles in Scotland. With a history that dates back to the 13th century, this fortress will take you back in time to the bloodiest times of our past.
Our route then takes you over the pretty Lochside village of Drumnadrochit for lunch. Here, you can choose between navigating the world-famous Loch Ness or enjoying some time to explore the surroundings. For those who want to cruise* on Loch Ness, the boat trip also includes a visit to Urquhart Castle*. An opportunity to catch a glimpse of our famous Loch Ness monster, and immerse yourself in the history of the area. We’ll then head to the south end of the Loch for our overnight stop in Fort Augustus.
Overnight: Fort Augustus
* Indicates an Optional Extra
Today you’ll head to visit the battlefield of Culloden* the site of the defeat of the Jacobite forces. We’ll also have time to explore the nearby Clava Cairns, a group of Prehistoric Burial Cairns – fans of Outlander will love this location due to its similarity to the fictitious stone circle, Craigh na Dun. Then you’ll pass the stunning Cairngorm Mountains.
On your way south you can choose to enjoy a wee dram at a local whisky distillery* or explore the picturesque town of Pitlochry before arriving back in Edinburgh*
* Indicates an Optional Extra
Departure Days:
Departs/Returns: 9:45am / 8:00pm
If you are continuing to Glasgow, your guide will take you to Edinburgh Waverley railway station for the 50-minute journey by ScotRail trains, courtesy of Highland Experience.