Edinburgh to Inverness

The Kelpies - The journey north includes a visit to the Kelpies, a breathtaking example of modern engineering by Scottish artist Andy Scott. These mythological creatures from Scottish folklore are represented in this remarkable equine landmark, which stands as the largest of its kind globally, reaching 30 meters in height and weighing an impressive 300 tonnes.

Stirling Castle - The route passes through Stirling, the historic capital of Scotland, showcasing its formidable castle.

Tyndrum - Upon entering the highlands, a lunch break is taken in this charming village.

Glencoe - Glencoe is characterized by its majestic mountains, contrasting sharply with the vast, flat Rannoch Moor nearby. Buachaille Etive Mòr, overlooking the moor, is a stunning mountain and a favorite among photographers. The guide will share Glencoe’s poignant history, offering a sense of time travel.

Loch Ness - A stop in Fort Augustus allows for a photo opportunity at the legendary Loch Ness before concluding the day in Inverness.

Inverness to Stornoway

Corrieshalloch Gorge National Nature Reserve - The journey to the Hebrides begins with a visit to Corrieshalloch Gorge, one of the UK’s most impressive gorges, formed by glacial meltwater. It stretches approximately 1.5 km in length, 60m in depth, and 10m in width.

Ullapool - The drive continues to Ullapool to catch the ferry departing the mainland.

Stornoway - The ferry from Ullapool to Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis offers opportunities to spot wildlife along the way.

St Clement’s Church - Admire the remarkable St. Clement’s Church, a 16th-century structure built for the Chiefs of the Clan MacLeod.

Stornoway to Stornoway

Carloway Broch - Travel back to the Iron Age at Dun Carloway Broch, a unique Scottish structure. Standing at 9m tall, it remains close to its original height.

Butt of Lewis Lighthouse - Explore the remote coastline at the Butt of Lewis, the island’s northernmost point, to witness the solitary lighthouse and the dramatic sea against the cliffs.

Stornoway to Portree

Tarbert - The journey continues “over the sea to Skye.”

Isle of Skye - Spend the afternoon exploring the Trotternish peninsula, enjoying the captivating scenery and learning about Skye’s myths and legends.

Portree to Portree

Isle of Skye - The day is dedicated to exploring Skye, visiting iconic sites such as Kilt Rock, the Old Man of Storr, and the Quiraing.

Eilean Donan Castle - A stop is made at Scotland’s most photographed castle, Eilean Donan, associated with clans MacKenzie and MacRae. This is a photo stop only, with no entry.

Portree to Edinburgh

Armadale Castle, Gardens & Museum of the Isles - The day begins with a visit to Armadale Castle, the former home of Clan MacDonald. Admission is £5.

Mallaig - Discover Mallaig, a delightful fishing village, and enjoy some fish and chips before embarking on the next adventure – the Jacobite Steam Train journey.

Glenfinnan Viaduct - Riding the Jacobite Steam Train, also known as the Hogwarts Express, over the Glenfinnan Viaduct is a dream for many, made famous by the Harry Potter films. The West Highland Line between Mallaig and Fort William is renowned for its stunning scenery and the beautiful sands of the west coast. The silhouette of the Small Isles and the lovely beaches at Arisaig and Morar are visible along the coast. It’s easy to see why it’s considered the world’s most scenic rail journey.

If opting out of the steam train, the scenic route is still enjoyed by bus, leading to a meeting point for all. If time and space allow, a stop at the Glenfinnan Viaduct will be made to view the magnificent arches, celebrated in Harry Potter.

Pitlochry - A final comfort stop is made in the southern Highland village of Pitlochry before the tour concludes in Edinburgh at approximately 5:30 pm.

• 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.
• It is not possible to upgrade your Standard steam train ticket to a First Class ticket

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