5-Day Isle of Skye, Oban, St Andrews and North West Highlands Tour

Explore Scotland at a Relaxed Pace on a 5-Day Guided Tour

This 5-day Isle of Skye, Oban, St Andrews, and North West Highlands tour offers a thorough introduction to some of Scotland’s most iconic sights for $425.51 per person. Departing from Edinburgh, the journey takes you through ancient castles, stunning mountain landscapes, historic battlefields, and charming villages. The tour, rated 5.0 out of 5 with 83 reviews, is praised for its expert guides, well-planned itinerary, and memorable experiences.

Designed for those who want to see a lot without the hassle of planning, this tour features an organized route, comfort breaks, and a knowledgeable local guide. With an average booking time of 133 days in advance, it appeals to travelers looking for a comprehensive Scottish adventure that balances scenic exploration with cultural insights. A potential consideration is the active walking involved, so suitable footwear and moderate fitness are recommended.

Key Points

• Includes 5-day exploration of Scotland’s most famous locations and scenic routes
• Visit iconic sites such as Loch Lomond, Eilean Donan Castle, and Culloden Battlefield
• Special experiences like a Lochcarron seal-spotting cruise (optional) add a memorable touch
• Expert commentary from local guides enhances understanding of Scottish history and folklore
• The tour travels in a comfortable air-conditioned mini-coach with small groups (max 16)
• Accommodation in Oban, Portree, and Inverness is not included, so plan for your overnight stays

Starting the Journey at Edinburgh’s Regent Road

The tour begins early at 8:15am from 1759 Regent Rd, Edinburgh, hosted by The Hairy Coo. The vehicle is air-conditioned, providing a comfortable environment for the 5-day trip, which involves some active walking. The tour is ideal for adults and children over 7 with moderate physical fitness, as it includes up to an hour of walking at some stops.

Visiting the Kelpies and Loch Lomond’s Luss Pier

On Day 1, the adventure kicks off with a visit to The Kelpies, towering 30-foot-high sculptures symbolizing Scotland’s industrial heritage. These structures, at the entrance of the Forth and Clyde Canals, are free to view and perfect for photos. Next, the tour crosses the Kingston Bridge to reach Luss Pier, offering your first glimpse of Ben Lomond, one of Scotland’s 282 Munros.

The route then takes you to Rest and be Thankful, a well-known mountain pass, for a scenic lunch stop in Inveraray, famed for its seafood. After lunch, the group explores Dunadd Iron Age Fort, where you can step onto the same rock as ancient Gaelic monarchs during their coronations. The day wraps up in Oban around 6:30 pm, where the evening is free to explore or dine independently before overnight.

Taking in Scottish History at Glencoe and Glenfinnan

Day 2 begins with a visit to Glencoe, renowned for its dramatic valley and tragic history, including the 1692 massacre. The Glencoe Visitor Centre provides context, and visitors can enjoy a short hike or photography opportunities. The journey continues to Glenfinnan, famous for Bonnie Prince Charlie’s uprising in 1745 and the Harry Potter filming location for the Hogwarts Express crossing the viaduct.

Following this, an optional tour of Ben Nevis Distillery offers insight into Scotland’s whisky-making process, concluding with a tasting. The group then visits Fort William for lunch, with the optional Commandos Memorial nearby, dedicated to WWII commandos. The highlight of the day is Loch Ness, where you can admire Scotland’s most famous loch and perhaps glimpse the legendary Nessie. The day ends in Inverness, where the evening is yours.

Exploring the Isle of Skye’s Geology and Villages

Day 3 centers on Skye’s distinctive landscapes, starting with the Quiraing, an area shaped by folklore and geological forces, featuring Old Man of Storr and Kilt Rock. The Skye Museum of Island Life provides a glimpse into the traditional lifestyles of islanders, housed in Black Houses with historic artifacts.

Lunch is in Portree, the island’s charming capital, where visitors can explore local shops and enjoy views across the harbor. The afternoon features a visit to Sligachan Old Bridge, famous for local legends of Faeries and Giants. The day concludes with a scenic drive through Kyle of Lochalsh and the pretty village of Plockton, with an optional seal-spotting cruise (seasonal and currently unavailable due to Covid-19).

Discovering North West Highlands’ Geological Wonders

Day 4 explores the rugged North West Highlands, starting with Corrieshalloch Gorge, a stunning natural feature with a suspension bridge for brave visitors. The journey continues through Assynt, with views of Suilven, Canisp, and Stac Pollaidh peaks, ending at Ardvreck Castle.

Next, the group visits Knockan Crag, a site renowned for its geological significance. Visitors can learn about the area’s millions of years of geological history or opt for a high-level hike for panoramic views. Afterward, the tour heads to Ullapool for a seafood lunch, followed by a visit to Rogie Falls to see Atlantic Salmon leaping (seasonal).

The evening brings a stop at Beauly Priory and the famous Urquhart Castle for photos overlooking Loch Ness. The group then returns to Inverness for the night.

Final Day: From Ancient Cairns to the Historic Battle of Culloden

Day 5 begins with a visit to Clava Cairns, dating back over 4000 years, offering a fascinating look at prehistoric Scotland. The tour continues to Culloden Battlefield, a pivotal site marking the last pitched battle on British soil in 1746. The guide shares stories about Bonnie Prince Charlie and the dramatic end of the Jacobite rising.

Next, the group stops in Pitlochry for a brief break before heading to St Andrews, known as The Home of Golf. Visitors can walk across the famous Old Course, visit St Andrews Cathedral, and explore the town’s historic university. The day concludes with a scenic drive back to Edinburgh, arriving around 6:00 pm.

The Practicalities and Special Features of the Tour

Throughout the trip, live commentary from local guides enriches each stop, sharing stories about Scottish history, legends, and sights. The small group size (max 16) ensures a more personal experience and easier access to scenic spots. The air-conditioned mini-coach provides comfort, but note that there are no restrooms or WiFi onboard.

Accommodation costs are not included in the tour price, so travelers should arrange their own stays in Oban, Portree, and Inverness. The tour’s pacing allows for photo opportunities, short walks, and exploration time in towns, making it suitable for active participants, especially those prepared for moderate walking.

Who Will Appreciate This Scottish Adventure?

This tour is well-suited for history enthusiasts, scenic landscape lovers, and those who enjoy storytelling with a local touch. The carefully curated itinerary offers a balanced mix of nature, culture, and history, with highlights like Eilean Donan Castle, Loch Lomond, and Culloden Battlefield. It’s perfect for travelers who want an organized, immersive experience without the stress of planning every detail themselves.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Scottish Experience

The 5-day Isle of Skye, Oban, St Andrews, and North West Highlands tour provides a comprehensive view of Scotland’s diverse scenery and historical sites. The tour’s expert guides, scenic routes, and memorable stops make it a valuable choice for those seeking an in-depth, hassle-free exploration.

While accommodation and some optional activities remain your responsibility, the organized itinerary and small group size ensure a personal and relaxed pace. This tour stands out for its balance of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and historical storytelling, making it a strong recommendation for anyone eager to experience Scotland’s highlights in one trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the minimum age to travel is 7 years old, and children should have moderate physical fitness due to active walking involved in some stops.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there are opportunities for lunch and dinner in towns along the route.

Do I need to arrange my own accommodation?
Yes, accommodation in Oban, Portree, and Inverness is not included. The tour ends in Edinburgh, and travelers are responsible for booking their overnight stays.

How physically demanding is the tour?
The tour involves up to an hour of walking at certain stops, so moderate fitness and suitable footwear are recommended.

What are the main highlights?
Expect visits to Eilean Donan Castle, Loch Ness, Culloden Battlefield, Glencoe, and the Quiraing. Optional experiences include a whisky distillery tour and seal cruise.

How many people are on the tour?
The maximum group size is 16 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.