Isle of Skye and the West Highland Line - 3 day tour from Edinburgh

This Isle of Skye tour begins with a drive across the Firth of Forth, enjoying close-up views of the historic Forth Bridge, then onwards through the ancient Kingdom of Fife to our first stop in the heart of Highland Perthshire.

Historic Dunkeld and Highland Perthshire

Dunkeld is a historic village on the banks of the River Tay, famous for its attractive 17th- and 18th-century houses and its romantic cathedral dating from the mid-1200s.

Next, we pass Blair Castle and climb through the Grampian Mountains to reach the scenic Cairngorms National Park.

Visit Loch Ness and Fort Augustus

We stop by the deep and dark waters of Loch Ness. There’s time to stretch our legs in Fort Augustus, and keep an eye out for the ever-elusive Nessie, the Loch Ness Monster.

Discover the Ancient Caledonian Pine Forest

Continuing through the Highlands, there’s a stop at the Dundreggan Rewilding Centre to learn about the inspiring conservation work of Trees for Life and their efforts to restore the ancient Caledonian pine forest. 

See Iconic Eilean Donan Castle

Before long, we pause at iconic Eilean Donan Castle, sitting proudly on an island where three sea lochs meet. It’s one of the most photographed castles in the country, and once seen reflected in the water, you’ll understand why.

Cross the Bridge to the Isle of Skye

The final part of today’s journey leads us “over the sea to Skye” using the graceful bridge crossing the waters of Loch Alsh. Our island base for the next two nights is in Portree. Here, there is time to explore the colourful harbour front houses and sea views before dinner.

Today, we experience the breathtaking scenery, history and vibrant Gaelic culture of the Isle of Skye. 

Admire the Cuillin Hills

The skyline of the Cuillin Hills forms a constant background to our island travels, their dark peaks rising sharply from the landscape. With the highest concentration of summits in Britain, they’re a magnet for climbers. There are plenty of stops to step out, admire the scenery and take photographs you’ll treasure. 

Visit Dunvegan Castle - The McLeod Stronghold

There’s an option to visit Dunvegan Castle, beautifully set on the shores of Loch Dunvegan. Home to the Chiefs of Clan MacLeod for over 800 years, it is the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland. Inside, discover Jacobite relics and the legendary Fairy Flag, while outside, the walled and water gardens offer pleasant woodland walks. 

See The Old Man of Storr and Kilt Rock

Travelling around the Trotternish Peninsula feels as if stepping back in time. We’ll hear the story of Flora MacDonald before encountering some of Skye’s most iconic landmarks - the Old Man of Storr, the landslipped cliffs of the Quiraing and the towering sea cliffs of Kilt Rock.

It’s an early start this morning as we retrace our trip through the Isle of Skye. Today, we’re heading to the little ferry port of Armadale, where a ferry awaits to transport us across the Sound of Sleat to Mallaig. During the short sail, admire the views of the Cuillin Hills and look out for the dolphins that sometimes join the ferry on the crossing.

Travel the route of the Hogwarts Express

At Mallaig, we join the ScotRail train for a scenic journey on the West Highland Line. The train follows the same route as the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter movies.

Departing the busy fishing port of Mallaig, the diesel train hugs the coastline past the silver sands of Morar, a filming location for “Local Hero”, before turning inland through dramatic Highland scenery. 

Look out for the little island of Eilean na Moine as the train travels along the banks of Loch Eilt. It’s a Harry Potter filming location, as the site of Dumbledore's grave.

Cross the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct

Next comes the highlight of the trip, the crossing of the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, where the line curves gracefully above Loch Shiel. The banks of Loch Eil guide us towards journey’s end in Fort William.

Experience Awe-inspiring Glen Coe

Back on the coach, we travel to Glen Coe, where we learn the tragic story of the infamous massacre in 1692, when we stop to view the eerily majestic grandeur of Scotland’s most famous glen. 

Next, we travel through Rannoch Moor, a land of heather, peat and lochs extending over 50 square miles. There are wonderful views of Loch Tulla as the coach descends The Black Mount.

Return to the Lowlands

After a refreshment break in Tyndrum, travel through the Pass of Leny, a narrow gorge with a fast-flowing river. As we reach the southern end, we leave the Highlands behind and return to the Lowlands.

Views of Stirling Castle

Next, we take the historic cattle drovers’ route towards Stirling, where there are sweeping views of its mighty castle, once a great Royal residence of the Stuart kings and queens.

The last segment of our journey is by motorway back to the centre of Edinburgh and the end of our Highland adventure.