Highland Explorer: Skye & Far North
Trip Overview
Mountains, valleys, and forests: we cherish all the untamed locations. Moreover, there is nothing we enjoy more than sharing this enthusiasm with our travelers. From the wind-battered lighthouse at the edge of the Isle of Skye to the pristine beaches of the Northern Highlands, we guide you to discover Scotland’s magnificent wilderness. However, not every aspect of this journey is wild. In the evenings, we ensure you find comfort in Scotland’s tranquil and inviting small villages.
- Chauffeur
- 1 Country
- 5 Days
- 4 Nights
About This Tour
Day 1: Edinburgh - Fort Rail Bridge - Dunkeld - Black Linn Falls - Aviemore - Lochness - Ullapool
Departing Edinburgh, we cross the Queensferry Bridge, taking in views of the iconic Forth Rail Bridge (UNESCO World Heritage Site). Traveling through the Kingdom of Fife, the landscape transitions from rolling farmland to forested hills as we approach Perthshire’s Highland Fault Line.
Continuing through Perthshire, often known as “Big Tree Country,” you’ll pass through lush forests brimming with majestic Douglas firs and ancient oaks. Our journey includes a stop at the charming cathedral town of Dunkeld, nestled along the banks of the River Tay. Here, you can explore the captivating architecture of the historic cathedral or stroll through the quaint streets of this picturesque village. Next, we venture a short distance to the Hermitage, where you can choose to embark on a delightful woodland walk amidst towering Douglas firs, culminating in the breathtaking Black Linn Falls.
Leaving the lush forests behind, we ascend into the majestic Cairngorms National Park and arrive at Aviemore, a charming resort town surrounded by towering peaks. Here, you’ll enjoy lunch and have some free time to explore the area at your own pace. Our journey then takes us through breathtaking glens framed by rugged mountains, bringing us to the banks of the legendary Loch Ness for a short break. Keep your eyes peeled—you never know, you might just catch a glimpse of the elusive Loch Ness Monster! From Loch Ness, we continue through Inverness and traverse the dramatic landscapes of the Northern Highlands, arriving at the picturesque Rogie Falls.
We pause for a short break at Rogie Falls, where you can enjoy an optional walk to admire this breathtaking waterfall. Cross the suspension bridge for the best views of the dramatic cascade and soak in the tranquil, untamed beauty of this Highland treasure. In late summer and autumn, keep an eye out for salmon leaping upstream. This marks our final highlight before reaching Ullapool, a charming fishing village along the renowned North Coast 500. Here, we’ll stay for two nights, giving you plenty of time to explore the harbor and enjoy the local pubs.
Day 2: Knockan Geology Centre - Ardvreck Castle - Loch Assynt - Lochinver - Achhahaird Beach - Loch Broom
Today, we uncover hidden gems in the far northwest Highlands and the dramatic Assynt mountains. This region holds historical significance as the first crofting area purchased by local residents under the Assynt Crofters’ Trust. The landscape here is wild, rugged, and almost otherworldly with a timeless beauty.
Our first stop is the Knockan Crag Geology Centre, one of Scotland’s most extraordinary geological sites. Here, you’ll gain insight into ancient tectonic forces that reshaped Scotland’s landscape millions of years ago. We then step into history with a visit to the 15th-century Ardvreck Castle, perched on the shores of Loch Assynt. Once the stronghold of the MacLeods of Assynt, this haunting ruin is steeped in legendary tales of betrayal and the capture of the Marquis of Montrose, offering a glimpse into Scotland’s turbulent past.
For lunch, we head to Lochinver, a picturesque fishing village on Scotland’s wild west coast. Here, you can savour fresh seafood or the famous Lochinver pies while taking in the village’s breathtaking surroundings. Afterward, we journey to Achnahaird Beach, a secluded paradise known for its pristine white sands, turquoise waters, and dramatic mountain backdrop. You can choose to stroll along the beach or simply relax and soak in the serene beauty. As we travel, the route takes us through rolling moorlands and past the iconic silhouettes of towering mountains, with plenty of photo stops carefully selected by your driver-guide to capture the area’s astounding scenery.
We conclude the day with a scenic drive back to Ullapool, passing through untouched moorlands and peat bogs en route to the shores of Loch Broom. Enjoy a well-deserved rest among the charming, whitewashed cottages of this delightful fishing village.
Day 3: Corrieshalloch - Torridon Mountain - Plockton - Portree
Today, we continue uncovering the hidden gems of the Northwest Highlands, beginning with a journey south to witness the dramatic 60-meter plunge of the River Droma into Corrieshalloch Gorge. You can take a short walk through a picturesque forest to admire the powerful waterfall as it cascades into the depths of the gorge. Enjoy breathtaking views from one of the viewing platforms or experience the thrill of crossing the suspension bridge.
Our adventure leads us through vast moorlands and rolling hills, with plenty of opportunities for short breaks and photo stops along the way. As we near the majestic Beinn Eighe Nature Reserve and the towering Torridon Mountains, the landscape becomes more rugged, evoking a profound sense of wilderness and solitude. Following the route along dramatic sea lochs framed by craggy mountains and ancient forests, we’re treated to glimpses of Scotland’s raw, untamed, and timeless natural beauty. This scenic journey takes us to the picturesque village of Shieldaig, a true Highland gem.
We continue along the coast to Applecross for lunch in this remote village, which still retains the charm of traditional Highland life, with some residents speaking Gaelic. Enjoy local dishes at the Applecross Inn, renowned for its hearty Highland cuisine and cozy atmosphere. Next, prepare for the thrilling drive along Bealach na Bà, one of Scotland’s highest and most dramatic roads, once used to move cattle between the Applecross Peninsula and markets across the country. Our journey then takes us to the “tropical” village of Plockton, where palm trees grow along the shores of Loch Carron. Enjoy a short break and take a moment to soak in the tranquility of this haven.
We cross the bridge to the Isle of Skye, one of Scotland’s most captivating islands, and follow its dramatic coastline, stopping at viewpoints to admire the striking outlines of the Red and Black Cuillins. We then continue toward the island’s capital, Portree, where you’ll be dropped off at your accommodation in the early evening, giving you plenty of time to explore this charming town at your leisure.
Day 4: Trotternish Ridge - Old Man Storr - Kilt Rock - Quiraing - Dunvegan Castle
Known as the “Misty Isle,” Skye captures the heart and imagination with its dramatic landscapes and ever-changing skies. Here, every horizon reveals something breathtaking, and today, your driver-guide will make the most of your time and the day’s weather to explore this wonder-filled landscape.
Every corner of Skye feels like stepping into a dream, with countless places to explore. You might head north to the Trotternish Ridge and beyond, where you’ll encounter geological wonders such as the Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock, and the breathtaking Quiraing mountain pass. This part of the island enchants visitors with surreal rock formations, dramatic cliffs, vast open spaces, and an overwhelming sense of wilderness. The ever-changing weather adds to the island’s dramatic scenery, with mist often shrouding the peaks and sunlight breaking through to illuminate the landscape, creating a magical atmosphere.
After all this exploration, we’ll pause in one of the island’s towns for lunch to recharge for the second part of the day. In the late afternoon, your driver-guide may take you back in time, sharing stories about the legends and clan culture surrounding Dunvegan Castle, or perhaps lead you to a different hidden gem.
In the evening, we’ll return to Portree, where you can decide how to spend your time. Will you enjoy a relaxing dinner and a stroll along the picturesque harbor, or perhaps explore local pubs offering traditional Scottish music sessions? The choice is yours.
Day 5: Eilean Donan Castle - Sisters of Kintail - Fort William - Ben nevis - Glencoe - Castle Stalker - Rannoch Moor - Trossachs Park - Edinburgh
We travel south through the Misty Isle, passing the Cuillin Hills and Sligachan Bridge, before returning to the mainland for a closer look at Eilean Donan Castle.
Perched on a small island, the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, made famous as a movie location, holds many fascinating stories. Enjoy refreshments at a local café and take a stroll along the loch to admire the castle from the outside. Alternatively, explore its chambers, where you can discover artifacts belonging to the MacKenzie and MacRae clans. Next, we continue past shimmering lochs, framed by the rugged peaks of the Five Sisters of Kintail. After this visual feast of towering mountains, we head to Fort William for a break.
We stop for lunch in Fort William at the foot of Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain. Sample local cuisine and wander the town center before continuing south through the Highlands. Next is the majestic Glencoe, a valley renowned for its rugged slopes and rich history. Here, you’ll have time for photos or a short walk to appreciate the stunning landscape and learn about one of the most tragic tales in Scottish history. Then, we journey through the wild, desolate landscapes of Rannoch Moor, crossing into the Trossachs National Park. Here, you’ll pass shimmering lochs, towering mountain peaks, and forest-filled glens, with a short break along the way to take it all in.
Heading further south, we cross the ancient natural fault line that runs through Scotland, watching as the rugged, majestic Highlands gradually give way to the flat, fertile plains of the Lowlands on our return to Edinburgh.
Tour Highlights
- Gaze in awe at Scotland’s most beautifully rounded peaks.
- This loch holds more fresh water than all of the lakes in England and Wales combined.
- Explore outstanding natural scenery and breathtaking views in these beautiful locations.
- Looking for some serenity? This peaceful spot offers unblemished landscapes in their most natural state.
- Located on its own little island, this famous castle is sure to be a favourite.
- Famous for an ancient massacre, this beautiful spot offers intriguing tales and mystical views.
- Gaze in awe at the powerful peaks and rising ridges of this impressive mountain chain.
- The beauty of this island has inspired movie makers, poets and travellers from all round the world
What’s Included?
- 8 Seaters luxury private Minivan
- Professional Chauffeur/Guide
- Complimentary bottle of water
- Free Wi-Fi onboard
- Admission Tickets (if option selected)
- City Congestion and Parking
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- 10 hour full-day private tour
- Chauffeur accompanies the clients on tour.
- Driver can't enter sites
- Tips / Gratuities