4-Day Isle of Skye & Jacobite Steam Train (train ride included)

The 4-Day Isle of Skye & Jacobite Steam Train tour offers a comprehensive exploration of some of Scotland’s most breathtaking scenery, all for $1,090.39 per person. Spanning four days, this activity is designed for anyone eager to see iconic sights like Loch Lomond, Glencoe, Loch Ness, and the Old Man of Storr. The tour includes 3 nights of accommodation and a one-way journey on the famous Jacobite Steam Train, also known as the Hogwarts Express. Guides with deep local knowledge lead the way, and reviews highlight their storytelling and enthusiasm as key strengths.

While the itinerary covers a lot, the tour’s pace and group size—up to 16 travelers—make it manageable and intimate. The main limitation is that food and drinks are not included, so budget accordingly. This tour suits those who want a well-organized journey with plenty of scenic highlights, memorable stops, and a chance to see the Glenfinnan Viaduct and Eilean Donan Castle.

Key Points

• Includes a scenic journey on the Jacobite Steam Train, renowned as the Hogwarts Express from Harry Potter films
• Visits iconic Scottish sites such as Loch Lomond, Glencoe, Eilean Donan Castle, and Portree
• Four days of guided sightseeing, with 3 nights of accommodation and breakfast included
• Tour is designed for small groups of up to 16 people, ensuring a personal experience
• Highlights include the Old Man of Storr and Kilt Rock on the Isle of Skye
• Stops are carefully planned, but food and drinks are at your own expense

Starting Point and Tour Logistics in Edinburgh

The tour begins at 192 High St, Edinburgh, at 8:30 am. Travelers meet at Caffè Nero on Parliament Square, making it easy to join using public transportation. The tour concludes back in Edinburgh at 22 St Andrew Square.

While there is no hotel pickup included, the meeting point is centrally located, simplifying access for most travelers. The minimum age is suitable for most people, and service animals are permitted. The maximum group size is 16, which helps keep the experience intimate and engaging.

Exploring the Scottish Highlands on Day 1

Day 1 starts with a visit to Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. This area is famed for its tranquil lochs, rolling hills, and lush forests, making it perfect for those seeking natural beauty. The stop lasts 40 minutes and is free of charge.

Next, the tour moves to Glencoe, known for its dramatic landscape. Here, the scenery becomes more rugged, with towering mountains and striking cliffs. Visitors spend 1 hour exploring this awe-inspiring part of the Highlands.

The day ends at Fort Augustus, a charming village on Loch Ness. This stop lasts 15 hours—a typo likely meant to be 1 hour—and offers scenic views along with opportunities to look out for Nessie, the legendary Loch Ness Monster. Visitors can freely enjoy the village and its surroundings.

Day 2: From Loch Ness to Isle of Skye

The morning at Fort Augustus allows time to revisit Loch Ness or relax in the village. Afterward, the group visits Eilean Donan Castle, a renowned and picturesque fortress on Loch Duich. The castle’s 20-minute stop provides a chance to admire its stunning setting beneath the mountains of Kintail. The castle’s entrance fee is not included.

Later, the tour crosses the famous bridge onto the Isle of Skye, which becomes the base for the next two nights. The journey onto Skye is a highlight, offering scenic vistas and the chance to explore this rugged island at a relaxed pace.

Day 3: Discovering Isle of Skye’s Natural Wonders

The third day is dedicated to Portree, the largest village on the island. This 1-hour stop lets visitors stroll through the colorful harbor town and soak in the local atmosphere.

Next, the Old Man of Storr draws visitors to the Trotternish Peninsula. The iconic rock formation is a must-see, and the stop lasts 30 minutes, offering ample time for photos and a brief walk.

The tour also makes a stop at Kilt Rock, a striking cliff formation named for its columns of rock resembling a pleated kilt. This 30-minute visit provides breathtaking views of the coastline and is perfect for photography.

Day 4: From Skye to the Jacobite Steam Train and Mallaig

In the morning, the group departs Skye, heading south to Armadale for a ferry to Mallaig. This 1-hour crossing offers scenic views of the West Coast and marks the start of the highlight activity on this day.

The Jacobite Steam Train then takes center stage. This 2-hour ride offers spectacular views of loch landscapes, mountains, and the Glenfinnan Viaduct, famous from Harry Potter. Passengers enjoy the experience of a historic steam train through the Scottish Highlands, with unbeatable photo opportunities.

After the train ride, the tour stops at Mallaig, a lively fishing village, for lunch. The village is known for its fresh seafood, and the stop lasts 1 hour.

The final stop is the charming village of Pitlochry, often considered the gateway to the Highlands. Here, travelers have a chance to explore before returning to Edinburgh, concluding the tour.

Accommodation and Included Amenities

The tour provides 3 nights of accommodation along with breakfast on all three mornings. The accommodation details are not specified, but reviews suggest the quality is satisfactory.

A professional guide accompanies the group throughout, with reviews praising guides like Cameron and Rose for their knowledge, storytelling, and enthusiasm. They go out of their way to add local flavor with stories, music, and costumes, making the experience more engaging.

What’s Not Included and Additional Costs

Food and drinks are not included in the tour price, so travelers should budget for meals outside the scheduled stops. Entrance fees for Eilean Donan Castle are not included either, so plan accordingly if visiting.

The tour excludes hotel pickup and drop-off at the start and end, but the central Edinburgh meeting point makes joining straightforward. The maximum group size of 16 helps maintain a personal atmosphere.

Review Highlights: Guide Quality and Scenic Beauty

The tour receives an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 57 reviews. Highlights include guides like Cameron, praised for his deep knowledge, storytelling ability, and passion for Scottish landscapes.

Reviewers appreciate the well-planned itinerary, featuring amazing sights like Glenfinnan Viaduct, Kilt Rock, and Loch Ness. The scenery consistently impresses, with many noting the out-of-this-world views and the value of the steam train ride.

Some minor criticisms mention communication issues with guides at certain stops, but overall, guests find the experience worth the cost, especially considering the included activities and accommodations.

Final Thoughts on the 4-Day Isle of Skye & Highland Adventure

This tour offers a comprehensive journey through Scotland’s most stunning landscapes, blending guided sightseeing with a memorable steam train ride. The small group size and expert guides make it personal and engaging, well-suited for travelers who want a structured but flexible experience.

While it requires a bit of planning for meals and optional entrance fees, the scenic highlights—from Loch Lomond to the Old Man of Storr—and the famous Jacobite Steam Train justify the price. This adventure is ideal for those who want to see iconic sights and enjoy storytelling along the way, all within a manageable four-day schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is food included in this tour?
No, food and drinks are not included; travelers should budget for meals during stops.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour accommodates up to 16 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Are accommodation details provided?
The tour includes 3 nights of accommodation, but specific hotels are not detailed.

Does the tour include entrance fees?
Entrance fees for sites like Eilean Donan Castle are not included in the tour price.

What is the tour starting point and time?
The tour starts at 192 High St, Edinburgh at 8:30 am.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are possible up to 6 days in advance for a full refund.

What’s the highlight of the tour?
The Jacobite Steam Train ride and visits to Loch Ness and the Old Man of Storr are standout features.

Is this suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
Most stops involve walking or standing, but the itinerary’s physical demands are moderate.

How long is the train journey?
The Jacobite Steam Train ride lasts about 2 hours, offering scenic views and photo opportunities.

Are guides knowledgeable about Scottish history?
Yes, guides like Cameron and Rose are praised for their depth of knowledge and storytelling skills.