Scottish Highlands and Isle of Skye - Private

This private tour will take you from Edinburgh, Scotland's historic capital, into the stunning Highlands and to the mythical Isle of Skye. With 8 days travelling around the country, you'll get to see the top highlights and more. Your private guide will recommend and adjust stops along the way based on your interests.

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN EDINBURGH

Upon your arrival in Edinburgh, you will be greeted by a private driver who will take you to your hotel in the city centre. For those arriving early in the day, we recommend spending the afternoon walking through the city, strolling along the Royal Mile and exploring the Old Town and New Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are also plenty of museums and landmarks to visit within the city centre, including the majestic Edinburgh Castle.

Spend the night in Edinburgh.

DAY 2: INTO THE HIGHLANDS

Today your private tour guide will pick you up from your hotel in a comfortable vehicle. On the way you can stop at the charming village of Dunkeld, Blair Castle or the Highland Folk Museum. Arriving near Inverness, you have the option to visit the Battlefield of Culloden Moor, to see where the last battle on British soil occurred in 1746, marking "the beginning of the end for the Highlands." Nearby you could also roam around Clava Cairns, a series of tombs and standing stones dating back roughly 4,000 years.

Spend the night in the Inverness area.

Driving distance: 251 km / 156 miles

Average travel & exploring duration: estimated 8-9 hours

DAY 3: LOCH NESS AND THE ISLE OF SKYE

Your guide will take you from Inverness to the Isle of Skye today, passing by the mysterious Loch Ness. If there is time, you could go on a boat tour or explore the nearby Urquhart Castle ruins. Later, you'll make a stop at the picturesque Eilean Donan Castle. Arriving on Skye, your first stop will be to wander around the main town, Portree, with its colourful harbour and delicious seafood restaurants.

Spend the night on the Isle of Skye or nearby.

Driving distance: 185 km / 115 miles  

Average travel & exploring duration: estimated 7-8 hours

DAY 4: THE ISLE OF SKYE

You have all day to visit the Trotternish Peninsula with your guide. This is where some of Skye's most famous sights are located. Go for a walk at the "Old Man of Storr" rock formation or to the Quiraing. Admire the sea from the Kilt Rock waterfall, spot ancient dinosaur footprints at the Staffin beach, and learn about the myths of the island at the Fairy Glen.

Spend another night on the Isle of Skye or nearby.

Driving distance: 70 km / 45 miles

Average travel & exploring duration: estimated 6-7 hours

DAY 5: SLEAT PENINSULA AND GLENFINNAN

This morning, spend some time exploring the Sleat Peninsula in the south of the island. This region is characterised by its beautiful beaches, lochs and expansive glens. You could stop by the Fairy Pools or even sample local whisky at Talisker Distillery. Then say goodbye to Skye as you hop on a ferry back to the mainland. Before you reach Fort William, you'll get to stop at Glenfinnan to admire its famous viaduct, featured in the Harry Potter films, and visit the Glenfinnan monument.

Spend the night in the Fort William area.

Ferry included: Armadale to Mallaig, duration 30 minutes

Driving distance: 135 km / 85 miles

Average travel & exploring duration: estimated 7-8 hours

DAY 6: TRAVEL ALONG DRAMATIC GLENS

Today’s drive will take you past some of Scotland's most famous and historical valleys. First, take some time to marvel at Glen Coe, which offers world-famous scenery. You’ll then travel along the scenic route via the seaside town of Oban and onto the historical valley of Kilmartin Glen. This region is considered to have one of the most important concentrations of Neolithic and Bronze Age remains in Scotland, including cairns, standing stones, and castles. Later, you'll stop by the charming town of Inveraray.

Spend the night in the Trossachs National Park area.

Driving distance: 285 km / 180 miles

Average travel & exploring duration: estimated 8-9 hours

DAY 7: TROSSACHS NATIONAL PARK TO EDINBURGH

Today’s drive will take you through the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park back to Edinburgh. You could also opt to spend your last night in Glasgow to visit Scotland's largest city. You'll have a choice of a few activities, from a walk in nature, to a boat tour on Loch Katrine, or a visit to Deanston Whisky Distillery. Later on, stop for a fun photo opportunity at Doune Castle, featured in many movies and TV series. If time allows, you could also stop by Stirling Castle or at the Kelpies sculpture.

Spend the night in Edinburgh.

Driving distance: 130 km / 80 miles

Average travel & exploring duration: estimated 6-7 hours

DAY 8: DEPARTURE FROM SCOTLAND

On your day of departure, a private driver will pick you up from your hotel to take you directly to the airport. If your flight is in the afternoon, you may take your last few hours to do some last-minute shopping, visit one of Edinburgh’s many museums, or take one last stroll through the charming city centre.