Edinburgh to Inverness

The Kelpies - We travel north stopping to visit the Kelpies, a stunning spectacle of modern engineering designed by Scottish artist Andy Scott. Kelpies are mythological beasts in Scottish folklore, and this fantastic equine landmark is the largest of its kind in the world, “neighing” at a height of 30 meters and weighing a mighty 300 tonnes.

Stirling Castle - We pass Stirling, the ancient capital of Scotland and its mighty castle.

Tyndrum - As we enter the highlands, we stop for lunch in a picturesque village.

Glencoe - Glencoe is dominated by majestic mountains which completely contrast the vast and flat expanse of its neighbouring Rannoch Moor. Buachaille Etive Mòr, which overlooks the moor, is a bonnie brute of a mountain, and a fond favourite with photographers. Your guide will take you through Glencoe’s sad history; you will truly feel like you have been transported through time.

Loch Ness - We stop in Fort Augustus to visit the legendary Loch Ness for a photo break before we finish our day in Inverness.

Inverness to Stornoway

Corrieshalloch Gorge National Nature Reserve - Today we head for the Hebrides! Our first stop of the day is at Corrieshalloch Gorge, one of the most impressive gorges in the UK. The gorge was formed from melted glacial water and stands approximately 1.5 km long, 60m deep, and 10m wide.

Ullapool - We drive to Ullapool to catch our ferry and depart the mainland.

Stornoway - Take to the water on the ferry from Ullapool to Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis – keeping an eye out for wildlife along the way!

St Clement’s Church - Marvel at the impressive St. Clement’s Church, the 16th century church built for the Chiefs of the Clan MacLeod.

Stornoway to Stornoway

Callanish Standing Stones - Visit one of the inspirations behind Outlander - the Callanish standing stones. These stones stand proudly at 10 feet tall and were used in bronze age ritual activity. Please note that from September 1st 2024, there will be no access to the stones due to conservation work.

Carloway Broch - Then fast-forward to the Iron Age at the broch of Dun Carloway. A broch is a structure found only in Scotland. At 9m tall, Dun Carloway Broch still stands close to its impressive full height.

Butt of Lewis Lighthouse - We explore the remote coastline and visit the Butt of Lewis – the most northerly point on the island – to see the isolated lighthouse and dramatic force of the sea against the cliffs.

Stornoway to Portree

Tarbert - We travel “over the sea to Skye”!

Isle of Skye - Spend the afternoon exploring the Trotternish peninsula. Soak up the enchanting scenery and learn about Skye’s myths and legends.

Portree to Portree

Isle of Skye - We spend the day exploring Skye, visiting iconic locations such as Kilt Rock, the Old Man of Storr and the Quiraing.

Eilean Donan Castle - Next we stop at the most photographed castle in Scotland, Eilean Donan. Eilean Donan Castle has links to both clans MacKenzie and MacRae. No entry - photo stop only

Portree to Edinburgh

Armadale Castle, Gardens & Museum of the Isles - Start the day by exploring Armadale Castle, once home to Clan MacDonald. £5 admission

Mallaig - Explore Mallaig, a charming fishing village. Treat yourself to some fish and chips before our next exciting adventure – the Jacobite Steam Train journey.

Glenfinnan Viaduct - Being able to ride the Jacobite Steam Train, aka Hogwarts Express, over the Glenfinnan Viaduct has become a bucket-list experience for many since starriing in the Harry Potter films. The West Highland Line between Mallaig and Fort William is famous for its wildly beautiful scenery and dreamy sands of the west coast. Along the coast, you can see the silhouette of the Small Isles, and the bonnie beaches at Arisaig and Morar. You’ll quickly understand why it’s been voted the most scenic rail journey in the world.

If you choose not to jump on this historical steam train, you will instead drive along a similar scenic route with the bus, making your way to the meeting point for all. If there is time and space, we will make a stop at the Glenfinnan Viaduct to see the magnificent arches, made famous in Harry Potter.

Pitlochry - We make a final comfort stop in the southern Highland village of Pitlochry before concluding our tour in Edinburgh at approx. 5:30pm.

• Jacobite Steam Train (if option chosen at point of purchase)
• Local English Speaking Guide
• 5 Nights in a mixed-gender multi-share hostel dorm

• Admission to Armadale Castle £5
• Admission to Isle of Harris Distillery £12
• From Sept 1st 2024, there is no access to the Callanish Standing Stones due to conservation work.

Get ready to embark on an epic 6-day adventure, experiencing some of Scotland’s most mind-blowingly beautiful locations, from the scenic Highlands all the way to the remote corners of the Outer Hebrides, taking in Glen Coe, Loch Ness, and the Isle of Skye along the way.

Expect dramatic mountains, enchanting rivers, ancient castles, quaint villages, lochs, waterfalls, battlefields, and stunning beaches that don’t need any filter. Have a few drams, ride the Jacobite Steam Train (optional), and let us take you back in time with our awesome historic tales, myths and legends.

• Minimum age to stay in the hostel is 18 years old.
• 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.
• Please note that the Jacobite Steam Train service may be subject to alterations and cancellations at short notice, outwith our control.
• This tour may run in conjunction with our sister company, Highland Explorer Tours.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.