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Isle of Skye and the Scottish Highlands Winter Small Group Tour - 3 day tour
Isle of Skye and the Scottish Highlands Winter Tour
3 day / 2 night tour
Scotland’s rural grandeur, myths and legends come to life on this epic quest that starts in Edinburgh and takes in the unrivalled beauty of the Scottish Highlands. Discover a spectacular landscape of snow-capped mountains reflected in still lochs. Enjoy a two-night stay on the magical Isle of Skye to discover its rich history, discover romantic castles and the stunning scenery. See fairytale Eilean Donan Castle and experience the splendour of Glen Coe. There’s even a visit to fabled Loch Ness - will you glimpse the elusive Monster?
Loch Ness - go monster-spotting from the banks of Scotland’s most mysterious lake
Eilean Donan Castle - tour this romantic castle situated on its little island at the head of Loch Duich
Isle of Skye - see island highlights including the Old Man of Storr; Kilt Rock and the mighty Cuillin Hills
Portree - enjoy a relaxed island stay in this picturesque harbour town
Glen Coe - visit the heart of this awesome valley to experience stunning scenery and hear tragic tales
Movie locations - The BFG, Loch Ness and Highlander
Guest house accommodation included
Full Tour Itinerary
Select Day:
Day 1 - Edinburgh - Glen Coe - Isle of Skye
After leaving the bustling centre of Edinburgh, we join the motorway and make the short drive to our first stop - the magnificent Kelpies. These towering equine statues are the largest in the World.
Get fabulous views of the mighty Stirling Castle and the towering Wallace Monument, and then enter the beauty of the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. We travel through the lands of Rob Roy MacGregor and hear tales of his exploits and fascinating life.
Enjoy spectacular views of Loch Tulla as the coach ascends the Black Mount to reach the sprawling Great Moor of Rannoch, a desolate landscape of rocky moorland and little lochans.
Make a stop to experience the haunting beauty of Glen Coe. With plenty of time for a few photos, our journey continues along the banks of Loch Linnhe to our next stop in Fort William.
We’ll stop to see the famous Commando Memorial and the snowy peaks of Ben Nevis, Britain’s tallest mountain.
The majestic splendour of the Great Glen – a jagged ridge slicing its way through the Highlands – takes our breath away next as mountains become lochs before our very eyes.
As we wind our way through Glen Shiel, look out for the towering peaks of the mountain range known as the “Five Sisters of Kintail.
A spectacular sight awaits as we head towards the fairytale castle of Eilean Donan. Perched on a little island in Loch Duich, it rises mysteriously through the mist. We’ll learn of its many secrets and legends before crossing the engineering marvel of the Skye Bridge.
Portree, the island’s capital, is the perfect base for our two-night stay on the island. There is time to explore our new home before seeking a tasty dinner in a local restaurant or tavern.
Overnight: Portree (2 nights)
Day 2 - Exploring Skye
A delicious breakfast sets us up for the second day of our adventure.
There is time to lose yourself in the little streets of Portree and browse unique and independent boutiques. Don’t miss the colourful houses that surround the harbour – the ideal backdrop for a keepsake photo.
Ready for more exploration, we travel to see The Old Man of Storr. It will leave you gasping in amazement. This pinnacle of rock proudly stands on the Trotternish Peninsula and can be seen for miles around. We then soak up more mystery and mythology, from The Quiraing and Kilt Rock to the spectacular Mealt Waterfall.
See the grave of Flora MacDonald, hear the story of this heroine who famously helped Bonnie Prince Charlie escape “Over the sea to Skye”.
As the stunning drive gives us one fantastic view after another, learn the stories of clan feuds and bloody battles that form part of this island’s often turbulent story.
The mighty Cuillin Hills dominate the landscape, and there will be a stop to savour some of the best views.
Return to Portree in time to relax before dinner.
Day 3 - Isle of Skye - Loch Ness - Edinburgh
The sun rises on our final day, and any sadness at leaving Skye after breakfast is quickly followed by excitement and anticipation as we return to the mainland.
Our first visit is to the fascinating Dundreggan Rewilding Centre, where the “Trees for Life” charity is on a mission to restore the ancient Caledonian Pine Forest and its wildlife.
Next, we reach the mysterious and alluring Loch Ness. Discover the legend of its most famous inhabitant during our stop in delightful Fort Augustus.
After travelling through the Cairngorms National Park, famed for its rugged beauty, we enter Glen Garry and head towards the Pass of Drumochter, look out for herds of deer often seen here dining on the lush heather.
Imposing Blair Castle, the home of the Dukes of Atholl, can be seen as we travel through the gently rolling countryside before making a stop in the quaint town of Dunkeld, nestled in glorious Perthshire woodland. The partially-ruined cathedral, overlooking the winding River Tay, radiates mystery. Discover its centuries-old history, but beware of the cursed effigy of the Wolf of Badenoch!
From Perth, we journey through the ancient Kingdom of Fife, and then three marvels of engineering loom into view. The three bridges spanning the Firth of Forth – The Forth Bridge, the Queensferry Crossing and the Forth Road Bridge - provide us with our last awe-inspiring sight before making the final part of the journey to reach Edinburgh and the end of this scenic adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I expect on this Small Group Tour?
With a maximum of just 16 passengers, a Small Group Tour provides a more personal and flexible travelling experience. You’ll enjoy more time off the bus, with freedom to explore free from the crowds.
While you will see all the highlights, these tours are carefully planned to travel off the highways, so you’ll discover quaint villages and picturesque vistas that other tours cannot reach.
Small group tours are operated by purpose-built mini-coaches with air-conditioning, panoramic windows and comfortable seating.
Each group is led by an experienced driver/guide who will entertain and inform you with stories of our history, nature and folklore.
Many travellers prefer small group touring as it’s considered more authentic and there is a better chance to connect with locals as well as their fellow explorers.
What options are available on this tour and what is the cost?
To give you complete choice admission fees are not included in the cost of this tour. The tour itinerary has been carefully designed to provide sufficient time for you to visit these attractions:
If you click on the links above they will provide you with more information on each attraction including current admission prices. In some cases a special discount is offered to tour passengers, your driver/guide will provide details if this applies.
Please note that credit/debit cards are not always accepted so it is recommended that you carry sufficient cash with you should you want to make a visit.
Will there be a tour commentary?
Each tour is led by an experienced guide who will provide an informative and entertaining commentary in English.
You’ll hear tales of the Clans, bloody battles and the famous characters that have shaped the history of Scotland.
You will learn too of the landscape that surrounds you and of the nature that makes Scotland so special.
Be ready to have a laugh as well - you’re bound to be told some really corny jokes!
Where does my tour depart from and return to?
Our tours depart from a central location in Edinburgh’s famous Royal Mile/High Street which is easily reached by public transport.
Full information on the departure time and place of your tour will be shown on your tour confirmation.
Should I make dinner reservations for an evening meal in Portree?
Yes! Portree is the capital and main town on the Isle of Skye, and therefore is a very popular destination, especially in the summer months. There are many excellent restaurants in Portree, and they tend to get pretty busy, so we strongly recommend making reservations for your evening meal to avoid disappointment.
We advise not making your dinner reservations for any earlier than 7pm to allow plenty of time for the coach to return to Portree, after a full day of exploring the wonders of the Magical Isle.
You can also check out our Portree blog for more tips and information.
Inclusions
Accommodation
- 2 nights guest house accommodation - all rooms with private bathrooms
- Locations: Portree (2)
Meals
- Scottish/Continental breakfast (2)
Tour Essentials
- Transport by air-conditioned vehicle
- Live commentary in English
- Services of an experienced driver/guide
- Service charges and taxes
Exclusions
- Admission charges unless stated above
- Meals, snacks or items of a personal nature
- Gratuity to your driver/guide
Departure information
60 High Street
Edinburgh
EH1 1TB
Check-in: 0730 hrs
Tour Departs: 07:45 hrs
Tour Returns: 18:00 hrs
Child details
Concession discounts apply to adults aged 60 years and above; students and children aged 5 to 16 years inclusive.
We’re really sorry but children aged under 5 years cannot travel on this tour.
Photo-ID may be requested to confirm discount entitlement.
Price Notes
Book Assured
Book by paying a 20% deposit. Make date changes or get a full refund with 8 days notice before travel. Click here for more information.
Small Group Tour
Enjoy a more personal travelling experience with a maximum of just 16 passengers.
Accommodation
The price of this tour includes guest house accommodation with en-suite bathroom.
Luggage Allowance
One medium sized suitcase/bag per person (maximum weight: 15 kilos)
Admission Prices
In order to give you maximum flexibility admission fees are not included in the cost of this tour. See the FAQ section below for more information and guidance on prices.
Product code
HET02993
Blogs and Guides - discover insider tips and ideas
Customer Reviews Overall Rating:
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Rating: (5 /5) 11 Apr 2025
As a solo traveler, I highly recommend this tour company. I booked the Isle of Skye and the Scottish Highlands Winter Tour leaving from Edinburgh in March 2025, and the trip was fantastic from start to finish. I was lucky enough to have three amazing and charismatic tour guides leading the group, and their stories and banter were delightful. Tim, Matt and Keith all added their own personal flair and expertise to the tour, and their commentary was lovely. And of course the scenery is world-class and unforgettable. Book this tour! It's incredible.
Julie from St. Louis, US
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Rating: (5 /5) 26 Jan 2024
Great tour. Weather was a bit temperamental but it is Scotland in the winter. Our guide, Sophie, was excellent. Thoroughly enjoyed the tour.
Gregory from Christ Church , BB
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Rating: (5 /5) 01 Dec 2023
This tour exceeded our expectations! Our guide was great - knowledgeable and fun. The Skye in was perfect - the accommodations and the food. And, the Highlands and Isle of Skye were absolutely breathtaking. If my family and I are lucky enough to come back to Scotland, we'd love to take another tour with you.
KIMBERLY from Burlington, US
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