Isle of Skye Fairy Pools , Fairy Glen and Portree

Key Points

• Private, full-day tour from Inverness offers an intimate experience of the Isle of Skye’s highlights.
• Visit Eilean Donan Castle and Urquhart Castle with scenic stops along Loch Ness and the Kintail Mountains.
• Hike at the Fairy Pools and explore the Fairy Glen, two of Skye’s most magical natural attractions.
• Includes a stop in Portree, the island’s main town, perfect for lunch and sightseeing.
• All guides are local Highlanders, providing authentic insights into the area’s history and landscape.
• Tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness and offers plenty of opportunities for photos and short walks.

Exploring the Isle of Skye: An 11-Hour Private Adventure from Inverness

This private tour, operated by Skye Fairy Tours, takes you on a full day of discovery, showcasing some of Scotland’s most famous landmarks and natural wonders. With up to 7 participants at a cost of $1,175.40 per group, it’s designed for travelers seeking a personalized experience. The tour departs from Inverness and lasts approximately 11 hours, including travel and sightseeing time.

The adventure begins with a visit to Urquhart Castle, a centuries-old ruin on the shores of Loch Ness. Afterward, the journey continues through Glenmoriston and the Kintail Mountains to reach the iconic Eilean Donan Castle. The stops combine scenic beauty with fascinating history, all led by local Highland guides known for their friendly and knowledgeable approach.

While the tour involves some long drives, it balances travel with plenty of time at key attractions. It’s ideal for those who want a comprehensive, private look at Skye’s highlights without the hassle of self-driving or crowded tours.

Urquhart Castle: Starting with Loch Ness Views

The tour begins with a 20-minute drive from Inverness to Urquhart Castle, a famous Scottish landmark on Loch Ness. The visit is primarily for photo opportunities, offering a glimpse of the castle’s impressive ruins and breathtaking lake views. Admission is free, making it a quick but memorable start to the day.

This stop sets the tone for the trip, emphasizing scenic landscapes and Scotland’s historic castles. While no entry fees are involved here, it provides a perfect chance to stretch your legs before the day’s longer visits.

Eilean Donan Castle: Scotland’s Most Photographed Fortress

Next, the tour heads westward along Loch Ness through the Glenmoriston area and into the Kintail Mountains for about an hour of travel. The highlight here is Eilean Donan Castle, renowned as the most photographed castle in Scotland.

Visitors spend about 30 minutes exploring the exterior and capturing photos of this picturesque fortress situated on a small island. Entry tickets are not included, so visitors can choose to explore further if desired, but the viewing from outside offers ample photo opportunities. This stop offers a striking view of medieval architecture set against rugged Highland scenery.

Sligachan Old Bridge and the Legend of Eternal Beauty

From Eilean Donan, the journey continues for another hour to the Sligachan Old Bridge, a site famed for local lore that claims washing your face in the river for 7 seconds grants eternal beauty.

This stop lasts 30 minutes, providing a chance to enjoy the scenic riverside and take photos of the historic bridge. It’s a brief but atmospheric spot, adding a touch of Highland legend to the day.

The Fairy Pools: Nature’s Magical Waterfalls

Leaving Sligachan behind, the tour proceeds 45 minutes to the Fairy Pools, a highlight of the trip. You spend around 90 minutes at this natural wonder, where crystal-clear pools and waterfalls cascade through rugged terrain.

Legend says Selkies, seal-like creatures from Scottish folklore, shed their skins here to bathe, adding an enchanting feel to the landscape. Visitors can enjoy short walks around the pools and marvel at the scenery. The admission is free, making this a highlight for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Portree: The Heart of Skye’s Town Life

Following the Fairy Pools, the group travels 45 minutes to Portree, the main town on Skye. This stop lasts an hour, offering a chance to enjoy lunch and explore the colorful harbor town. Portree’s charming streets, local shops, and cafes make it an ideal spot to relax and absorb the island’s atmosphere.

While the tour does not include lunch, the free time allows for personal choice, and the town provides a welcoming setting to unwind after the morning’s sightseeing.

Fairy Glen: A Landscape from Another World

From Portree, the tour heads 15 minutes up the Trotternish Peninsula to visit the Fairy Glen. This surreal landscape features miniature mountains, lush green slopes, and hidden valleys, resembling a scene from a fairy tale.

Spending about 60 minutes here allows plenty of time to walk around, take photos, and enjoy the magical scenery. The area is completely free to visit and offers a unique, otherworldly experience that sticks with many visitors.

Return Journey via Skye Candle Visitor Centre

After enjoying Fairy Glen, the group begins the return to Inverness, stopping briefly at the Skye Candle Visitor Centre in Portree for a restroom break. The drive back takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, providing ample opportunity to relax and reflect on the day’s sights.

The journey back is scenic and comfortable, with the guides offering insights into Highland culture and history along the way.

Practical Details and Inclusions

The tour includes bottled water and snacks (note that specific dietary needs are not provided). The English-speaking guides are all local Highlanders, bringing authentic knowledge and friendly storytelling to the experience.

It is important to note that lunch and entry fees to attractions are not included, so planning for meals is advisable. The tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, as some walking and outdoor activity are involved.

The tour operates between April and October, with departure hours from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily, offering flexible options to fit different schedules. It’s a private experience, meaning only your group participates, ensuring a personalized and relaxed atmosphere.

The Experience of a Lifetime on Skye

This private tour from Inverness offers a well-rounded experience of Scotland’s natural beauty and historic castles. The combination of stunning scenery, legendary sites, and local guides creates a balanced journey that appeals to travelers seeking both adventure and cultural insight.

The stops at Eilean Donan Castle, Fairy Pools, Fairy Glen, and Portree are highlights, each offering unique views and stories that elevate the trip. Despite the long drives, the itinerary is paced to provide enough time at each location without feeling rushed.

Most importantly, the personalized nature of the tour ensures a comfortable pace and plenty of photo opportunities, making it a great choice for those wanting an exclusive, scenic day out.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many people can join this tour?
Up to 7 participants per group, making it ideal for small, private experiences.

What is included in the price?
The tour price includes transport, bottled water, snacks, and a local English-speaking guide.

Are attraction entry fees included?
No, entry fees to attractions such as Eilean Donan Castle are not included and must be paid separately if chosen.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, but young children should be prepared for some outdoor walking.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

How long does the entire trip take?
The total duration is approximately 11 hours, including travel time and sightseeing.

Do I need to prepare anything special?
Bringing comfortable footwear and weather-appropriate clothing is recommended, as outdoor stops are involved.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Snacks are provided but special dietary needs are not specifically catered for; plan accordingly.

What makes this tour stand out?
The private experience, combined with local Highland guides and visits to famous castles and legendary landscapes, offers a personalized and authentic journey.

Is there a chance to see wildlife or local legends?
Yes, the Fairy Pools are linked to Scottish folklore about Selkies, adding a touch of magic to the natural beauty.

This tour balances scenic exploration, cultural stories, and comfortable pacing, making it an excellent way to experience the best of the Isle of Skye from Inverness with a private, friendly touch.