Full Day Private Executive Isle of Skye Tour

Experience the Isle of Skye in Complete Luxury

The Full Day Private Executive Isle of Skye Tour offers a seamless and lavish way to explore this breathtaking region. Priced at $631.92 per person, this 11 to 12-hour tour departs from Inverness and promises a personalized experience in a top-of-the-line Mercedes-Benz V Class 7-seater. The vehicle features comfortable leather seats, dual-zone air conditioning, and complimentary bottled water, ensuring a smooth and refreshing journey.

What sets this tour apart is its flexibility. Travelers can choose to focus on either the West Coast or the East Coast of Skye, and the itinerary can be customized based on interests. The guide is happy to include lesser-known spots if time allows, making this a truly bespoke experience. With pickup offered and options for group discounts, it appeals to those seeking comfort and exclusivity.

While the tour covers many iconic sights, it notably does not include the cost of attractions or meals. However, stops at lovely villages, historic castles, and stunning natural landscapes make every moment worthwhile. This tour suits those who want to enjoy the scenery without the stress of driving, and who appreciate a tailored, high-quality experience.

Key Points

• Luxury private tour in a Mercedes-Benz V Class with air conditioning and bottled water
• Flexible itinerary including East or West Coast of Skye and lesser-known locations
• 12+ stops such as Eilean Donan Castle, Fairy Glen, Kilt Rock, and Old Man of Storr
• Customizable route with opportunities for hiking or relaxing at scenic spots
• Departure at 7:30 am from Inverness, with pickup included
• Not included: attraction fees, meals, or professional photography

Starting from Inverness: A Scenic Drive to Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle

The tour begins with a scenic drive south from Inverness, passing the world-famous Loch Ness. A stop at Urquhart Castle offers a chance to admire spectacular views of Loch Ness and learn about its legendary status. Visitors can walk over the castle bridge and explore the ruins, with admission costs of £10 for interior access or £3 for just the bridge view.

This initial leg sets a tone of scenic grandeur, with the journey heading westward into the Highlands, where the landscape becomes increasingly dramatic and picturesque.

Exploring Loch Cluanie and Glen Shiel

Next, the tour takes travelers to Loch Cluanie, a stunning man-made loch framed by the Five Sisters of Kintail. The views here highlight the rugged beauty of the Highlands. Continuing through Glen Shiel, the route winds past towering cliffs and scenic valleys, offering perfect photo opportunities.

The guide shares insights into the Battle of Glen Shiel in 1719, an important but lesser-known event in Highland history, adding a layer of cultural context to the landscape.

Visiting the Iconic Eilean Donan Castle

A highlight of the tour is the stop at Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland’s most photographed and recognizable landmarks. Sitting on a small island where Loch Alsh, Loch Duich, and Loch Long converge, the castle’s picturesque setting makes it a must-see. Visitors can walk across the stone bridge and explore the castle’s interior for an add-on fee, with £10 for full access or £3 for just the exterior view.

Spending about an hour here gives ample time for photos and a quick look inside before the journey continues towards Skye.

Scenic Stops at Sligachan Old Bridge and the Mackenzie Collie Statue

On the way to Skye, the tour makes a memorable stop at Sligachan Old Bridge, known for its spectacular views of the Red and Black Cuillin mountain ranges. The area is also home to the Mackenzie Collie bronze statue, a striking piece of art that adds character to the landscape.

This stop lasts around 15 minutes and offers a chance to take in the scenery and snap photos of the rugged mountains.

Lunch and Village Charm in Portree

The tour pauses at Portree, the largest town on Skye, for a one-hour break. This picturesque village boasts a pretty harbor designed by Thomas Telford, lined with cafés and shops. Visitors can enjoy local cuisine, browse boutique stores, or simply soak in the coastal atmosphere.

Portree acts as a perfect spot to recharge, offering an authentic taste of Skye’s community and charm before heading into more remote landscapes.

Fairy Glen: A Bizarre and Magical Landscape

Next, the tour visits Fairy Glen, a quirky and fantasy-like landscape filled with cone-shaped hills and miniature waterfalls. It looks as though fairies might still live here, and the scene is truly unlike any other on Skye.

This 30-minute stop invites wandering among its bizarre formations and taking whimsical photos, making it a favorite among visitors seeking a touch of magic.

A Break in Uig and the Quiraing Panorama

As the journey continues into the north of Skye, the tour makes a photo-stop at Uig for a quick visit to the Uig Beer Brewery. Then, the quintessential view of Skye’s prehistoric landscape appears at the Quiraing, a rugged terrain that looks as if dinosaurs once roamed here.

The 15-minute stop offers panoramic views of the stark, dramatic rocks and rolling hills, perfect for picture takers eager to capture Skye’s wild beauty.

Kilt Rock and Lealt Falls: Coastal Marvels

The next stops showcase Skye’s striking coastal formations. Kilt Rock features a dramatic sea cliff that resembles a pleated kilt, with the sea crashing at its base. Spotting whales and dolphins is sometimes possible here, adding a marine element to the scenery.

Following this, Lealt Falls provides a short walk to a viewpoint overlooking the waterfall plunging into the sea, with 15 minutes allotted for photos and soaking in the views.

The Old Man of Storr: Optional Hike

A highlight for many is the Old Man of Storr. The tour offers an option to hike up to the Storr upon request, which requires about two hours — including a one-hour ascent and descent. Those who prefer a shorter visit can simply view the formation from a distance.

This iconic rock formation is a symbol of Skye, and the optional hike appeals to those wanting an active experience amidst extraordinary scenery.

Coastal Towns and Historic Sites on the Return Journey

As the tour winds back south, it makes stops at Broadford for a quick refresh, then at Plockton, a charming Victorian fishing village with views of Duncraig Castle and even palm trees—a rare sight in Scotland.

The journey then continues to Lochcarron, with a stunning viewpoint overlooking Loch Carron and the surrounding mountains. The final stops include Ledgowan Lodge, a lovely Victorian hunting lodge converted into a hotel, where travelers can enjoy afternoon tea and facilities.

Lastly, the tour visits Rogie Falls, where a suspension bridge spans the river, offering the chance to see salmon leaping from July to September, adding a lively wildlife element to the day.

Practical Details and Amenities

Throughout the day, passengers benefit from WiFi on board, in-car chargers for mobile devices, and bottled water supplied in the climate-controlled vehicle. The tour is private, meaning only your group participates, and it includes pickup from Inverness at 7:30 am.

While lunch and attraction entry fees are not included, the stops at villages, castles, and nature sites make for a fulfilling day of sightseeing. Optional professional photography service is available for an extra £60.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This full-day private tour suits travelers who prefer a luxury, stress-free experience with personalized touches. It is ideal for those wanting to see the main sights like Eilean Donan Castle and Old Man of Storr without the hassle of driving.

Nature lovers will appreciate the spectacular landscapes, while history buffs enjoy stops like Urquhart Castle and the Battle of Glen Shiel story. The flexibility to customize the route makes it perfect for hikers, photographers, and curious travelers seeking a tailored adventure.

The Sum Up: The Perfect Blend of Comfort and Customization on Skye

The Full Day Private Executive Isle of Skye Tour offers a luxurious, flexible way to explore one of Scotland’s most scenic regions. The top-quality vehicle, knowledgable guide, and customizable itinerary ensure a comfortable and personalized experience.

While the cost is higher than group tours, the private nature, luxury amenities, and attention to individual interests justify the price for those seeking an exclusive journey. Perfect for designing your own adventure with stops at both famous landmarks and hidden gems, this tour caters to travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and a curated experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes private transportation, a driver-guide, WiFi, air conditioning, and bottled water.

Are attraction fees included?
No, entry fees for attractions such as castles are not included and are paid separately if you choose to visit inside.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is flexible and can be tailored to your interests and preferred locations, provided it fits within the time frame.

What stops are part of the standard itinerary?
Key stops include Urquhart Castle, Loch Cluanie, Eilean Donan Castle, Sligachan Old Bridge, Portree, Fairy Glen, Quiraing, Kilt Rock, Lealt Falls, Old Man of Storr, Plockton, Rogie Falls, and others.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch and snacks are not included, but stops at villages and cafes provide opportunities for refreshments.

What is the best time of year to take this tour?
While specific seasonal details are not provided, the tour operates in good weather conditions, and salmon-leaping at Rogie Falls is visible from July to September.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 11 to 12 hours, starting at 7:30 am from Inverness.

Can I hike the Old Man of Storr?
Yes, hiking up to the Storr is optional and requires about two hours. The guide can accommodate this upon request.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour’s stops and vehicle comfort suggest it is suitable for families with children over 5, especially those who enjoy outdoor activities.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to bad conditions, you are offered a different date or a full refund.