The From Edinburgh: Outer Hebrides & Isle of Skye 6-Day Tour offers an immersive journey through some of Scotland’s most breathtaking scenery. Priced at $1,550 per person, this tour is ideal for travelers seeking a well-organized adventure with expert guides and a small group experience limited to 16 participants. The tour begins in Edinburgh and spans 6 days, covering iconic locations such as Loch Ness, Lewis and Harris, and Portree on Skye. Expect a mix of scenic drives, visits to historic sites, and memorable moments on the stunning beaches of the Outer Hebrides.

While the tour features many highlights, it also involves quite a bit of time spent in the van, which may be a consideration for those sensitive to long travel hours. The itinerary is thoughtfully designed to maximize sightseeing without feeling rushed, though some stops may be impacted by ongoing site developments, such as the Calanais Standing Stones.

This tour suits travelers eager to explore Scotland’s wild landscapes in a small-group setting, with the added benefit of knowledgeable guides known for their friendliness and depth of local knowledge. It is especially recommended for those who appreciate scenic drives, historic sites, and local culture, with a focus on authentic experiences rather than just sightseeing.

Key Points

Small group size limited to 16 participants for a personal experience.
6-day itinerary covering the Outer Hebrides and Isle of Skye, starting from Edinburgh.
Included activities feature Loch Ness, Arnol Blackhouse, Calanais Stones, and Luskentyre Beach.
Expert driver-guides like Sean and Mark are praised for their knowledge and safety.
Accommodation is in bed and breakfast inns, mostly on the outskirts of towns.
Long travel days are balanced with interesting stops, but some sites are temporarily inaccessible, like Calanais until Spring 2026.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting the Adventure from Edinburgh

The tour departs from Edinburgh, with flexible meeting points at either the Bus Station or other designated locations. It uses a 16-seat Mercedes mini coach, ensuring a cozy and intimate atmosphere. The journey begins with a drive north into the Scottish Highlands, passing through notable areas such as Dunkeld with its waterfalls, the Grampian Mountains, and the Spey Valley for a scenic lunch stop.

Traveling through Loch Ness, travelers get a chance to spot the legendary beast and enjoy views of the famous loch. The route continues through Inverness and Corrieshalloch Gorge before reaching Ullapool for the overnight stay, setting the tone for a trip filled with stunning vistas.

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Exploring the Outer Hebrides: Lewis and Harris

After a ferry ride across Loch Broom, travelers arrive on Lewis and Harris, where the landscape shifts dramatically. The tour guides lead groups through traditional crofting towns and seaside ports, offering insights into rural life in the islands. The town of Stornoway, the capital of the Outer Hebrides, is a highlight, famous for its black puddings and lively harbor.

A visit to the Arnol Blackhouse provides a rare look into traditional farming life, although access may be limited during certain periods for site preservation. The Dun Carloway ancient stone fort, dating back to before 100 AD, showcases the island’s ancient roots. The Calanais Stone Circle, although temporarily inaccessible until Spring 2026 for re-development, remains a key highlight with plenty of alternative beach visits planned.

Harris: Mountains, Beaches, and Harris Tweed

Harris is home to the highest mountains in the Outer Hebrides and some of the UK’s most celebrated beaches, such as Luskentyre. The tour emphasizes the striking contrast between rugged peaks and pristine white sands. Travelers get to see how Harris Tweed is made and learn about local myths connected to this beautiful island.

A highlight of the Harris section is the opportunity for a picnic on the beach, weather permitting, giving participants a chance to relax amid some of Britain’s most scenic coastlines. The day concludes with a ferry crossing to Portree on the Isle of Skye, where the group settles into cozy bed and breakfast accommodations for two nights.

Discovering Skye’s Natural Wonders and Iconic Spots

Skye is famous for its dramatic landscapes, and the tour makes the most of these with options to visit Quiraing, Kilt Rock, or take a boat trip to Loch Coruisk. The Quiraing offers spectacular walking opportunities, with jaw-dropping views of the surrounding valleys. Kilt Rock impresses visitors with its towering waterfall and unique cliff formations.

The final evening in Portree provides ample time to enjoy local seafood restaurants, celebrating the day’s adventures. The small-group setting allows guides to personalize the experience, ensuring everyone sees the best of Skye’s scenery.

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Visiting Eilean Donan Castle and Glencoe on the Return

On the journey back to Edinburgh, travelers cross the Skye Bridge to view the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, a quintessential image of Scotland. The trip then passes Ben Nevis, Britain’s tallest mountain, frequently shrouded in clouds, and travels through the historic Glencoe valley, known for its tragic past.

The route concludes with a scenic drive through the Lowlands, arriving back in Edinburgh in the early evening, completing an unforgettable week of exploration.

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Practical Details and Travel Logistics

The tour’s small group size, combined with the use of a Mercedes mini coach, ensures a comfortable and intimate atmosphere. The bed and breakfast accommodations are primarily located on the outskirts of towns, requiring a 20-30 minute walk to local facilities, which is worth considering for those with mobility challenges.

The tour includes admission to Arnol Blackhouse, but other attractions are not included, allowing flexibility in how the time is spent. The tour is conducted in English, with the guides known for their knowledgeable and friendly style, ensuring that passengers gain insights into the history and culture of the regions visited.

Honest Limitations and Considerations

The tour involves significant time in the van, which could be tiring for some. The itinerary is designed to cover many highlights, meaning some days are quite full. Plus, the Calanais Stones are temporarily inaccessible due to site redevelopment until Spring 2026, but the itinerary compensates with extra beach exploration.

This tour is not suitable for children under 5 years and requires some walking on uneven surfaces, typical of outdoor explorations in rural and coastal areas.

Final Thoughts on the 6-Day Outer Hebrides & Skye Tour

This tour offers a comprehensive and personal way to explore the Scottish Highlands, Outer Hebrides, and Skye. The expert guides are frequently praised for their friendliness and local knowledge, adding depth to the experience. The scenic highlights—from lochs and beaches to ancient stone circles—are stunning and well-chosen.

While the long travel hours and site restrictions are worth noting, the carefully curated stops and included accommodation make this a strong choice for travelers wanting an authentic glimpse of Scotland’s wild beauty. The small group size enhances the feeling of camaraderie and personalized service, making it especially appealing for those who prefer an intimate adventure over large group tours.

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From Edinburgh: Outer Hebrides & Isle of Skye 6-Day Tour

4.8

(30)

“Excellent. Our local Islander Iain was a fount of intelligent information. Nothing was too hard and the tour was really interesting.”

— Richard, April 23, 2024

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The accommodations are mainly on the outskirts of towns with a 20-30 minute walk to facilities. If you have difficulty with stairs or walking, please inform the operator, as lifts are not available in these properties.

Are meals included during the tour?
No, meals and refreshments are not included, allowing flexibility to explore local eateries and enjoy regional cuisine at your own pace.

What attractions are currently accessible on the Outer Hebrides?
The Arnol Blackhouse is included in the itinerary, though access may be limited when the tour departs between 28th April and 9th June 2025 due to maintenance. The Calanais Stone Circle is temporarily unavailable until Spring 2026, with the itinerary focusing on beaches and other sites instead.

What is the group size, and how does it affect the experience?
The tour is limited to 16 participants, fostering a more personalized experience and allowing guides to cater to individual interests.

How long is each travel day, and what should travelers expect?
Days involve long drives through scenic areas, with frequent stops. The journey from Edinburgh to Ullapool, for example, includes sightseeing, lunch, and sightseeing in Loch Ness, making for a full but rewarding schedule.