Day 1: Mountains, Massacres, and Monsters
This spectacular Highlands tour begins with a journey west through the beautiful scenery of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. The route then takes you through the haunting landscape of Glen Coe, the scene of the terrible massacre of the MacDonald Clan and then on through Fort William and the great Glen to arrive at the fabled shores of Loch Ness. You will then continue north to Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, for your overnight stay.
Day 2: North to Lewis and Harris
Depart Inverness and travel through some of the country’s most beautiful and remote Highland scenery on the way to the coast. Arrive in the charming seaside town of Ullapool, known as one of the main gateways to the Northern Highlands. Surrounded by mountains and sea, Ullapool is celebrated for its unspoiled natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere. From here, board the ferry to the Outer Hebrides, with time to enjoy lunch on board as you sail past the Summer Isles, keeping an eye out for seabirds and marine life. Once on the island, begin your Isle of Lewis and Harris experience with a visit to a traditional Blackhouse—a fully furnished, thatched stone home offering insight into historic island life and culture. Your day concludes in Stornoway, the largest town in the Western Isles. Enjoy the evening at leisure in this welcoming harbour town.
Day 3: Ancient History and Island Scenery
Discover the highlights of the Isle of Lewis and Harris, starting with Carloway Broch, one of Scotland’s best-preserved Iron Age towers, set above Loch an Duin. Continue to the iconic Callanish Standing Stones, where we stop for lunch surrounded by open moorland and Atlantic views.
In the afternoon, enjoy time at Luskentyre Beach, famous for its white sand, turquoise waters, and mountain backdrop, before a scenic drive along the coastal Golden Road back to Stornoway.
Day 4: Wild Coasts and Atlantic Views
Travel to the far north of the island to visit the dramatic Butt of Lewis Lighthouse, perched high above crashing Atlantic waves. Continue to Port of Ness, a beautiful coastal village known for its wild beaches, powerful swells, and unforgettable scenery. Return to Stornoway for lunch before taking the ferry back to the mainland and enjoying a scenic drive through the Scottish Highlands to Inverness.
Day 5: Historic Battlefields
Depart Inverness and visit Culloden Battlefield*, the site of the final Jacobite uprising in 1746 and one of the most significant locations in Scottish history. Explore the battlefield and visitor centre* to learn about the dramatic events of this pivotal moment. We then begin our journey south with a stop at a local whisky distillery for an optional tasting*. Our final stop is the charming town of Pitlochry, known as the gateway to the Highlands, before returning to Edinburgh.
* indicates optional extras
