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Isle of Skye & Hebridean Hopper
Get ready to embark on an epic 6-day Outer Hebrides tour from Edinburgh, experiencing some of Scotland’s most mind-blowingly beautiful locations, from the scenic Highlands all the way to the remote corners of the Isle of Lewis and Harris, taking in Glen Coe, Loch Ness, and the Isle of Skye along the way. Expect dramatic mountains, enchanting rivers, ancient castles, quaint villages, lochs, waterfalls, battlefields, and stunning beaches that don’t need any filter. Have a few drams, ride the Jacobite Steam Train, and let us take you back in time with our awesome historic tales, myths and legends.
Tour Highlights
Dun Carloway, Lewis
A broch is an Iron Age building which is unique to Scotland, and Dun Carloway is one of the best preserved. Over 2000 years old and 9m tall, this statement structure was designed to defend, and show-off!
Blackhouse Village
Prepare to go back in time at the Gearrannan Blackhouse Village. Take a glimpse into the island way of life, and watch a demonstration of the famous Harris Tweed being woven in a traditional loom inside one of the houses.
Isle of Harris
The beaches on the Isle of Harris are world famous, and could easily be mistaken for a tropical destination. Translucent shades of blue hug the powdery white shores, while the shadowy mountains in the background provide that all important bit of Scottish character. Harris is an absolute dream.
Isle of Skye
The Isle of Skye is every bit as magical as it sounds. Our journey takes you around the coast and through the mists of time. In the shadow of the mighty mountains, we search for waterfalls, mischievous wee fairies, and remnants of a land long ago.
Portree
Pretty Portree is Skye’s main settlement and tourist town. The picturesque harbour with its colourful facades is where Bonnie Prince Charlie finally escaped on a French ship after the Battle of Culloden; never to return to Scotland.
Sligachan
Sligachan may be a small settlement, but the views are absolutely epic. The Cuillin mountains strike a pose behind the rocky river and picturesque stone bridge. When it comes to bonnie backdrops, it doesn’t get much better!
Eilean Donan Castle
Don’t believe in love at first sight? Eilean Donan Castle will soon change that. A picturesque stone bridge winds out to the stunning structure. Set upon a wee tidal island, against a backdrop of mountains and lochs, it is undoubtedly one of the most iconic and romantic sights in Scotland.
Hogwarts Express
All aboard the Hogwarts Express! The Jacobite Steam Train between Fort William and Mallaig is said to be the greatest rail journey in the world. The train crosses the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, and sweeps along the west coast, offering bonnie views of distant isles and white sand beaches.
Kelpies
The Kelpies are a stunning spectacle of modern engineering, designed by Scottish artist Andy Scott. Kelpies are mythological beasts in Scottish folklore, and this epic equine landmark is the largest of its kind in the world, “neighing” at a height of 30 meters and weighing a mighty 300 tonnes.
Glen Coe
As far as Scottish scenery goes, you don’t get more dramatic than the mighty Glencoe. ‘Glen’ is Gaelic for valley, and this jaw-dropper was deeply carved into the landscape during the Ice Age. From the sprawling peaks to crystal-clear rivers, Glencoe is guaranteed to blow your wee socks off.
Loch Ness
It’s time to tick Loch Ness off your Scotland bucket list, as we go in search of the infamous Loch Ness Monster. We promise you’ll get cool photos of Loch Ness and the surrounding scenery. A glimpse of ‘Nessie’ in the background is just an extra bonus!
Inverness
Inverness, known as the Capital of the Highlands, sits on the River Ness and is surrounded by wild landscapes. Discover the city’s connections to the Outlander series, and experience Highland hospitality like no other in the local pubs.
Cuillin Mountains
The Cuillin mountains are millions of years old, and they look damn fine for their age. The epic ruggedness of the red and black rock dominates the otherworldly landscape on Skye, and will be sure to block your wee socks off!
Cairngorms National Park
Sit back as we blaze a trail through the UK’s largest National Park. Scotland is famed for its wildly beautiful scenery, and the Cairngorms National Park has it all; from forests and lochs, to mighty mountains and roaring rivers.
Inclusions
Your Legendary Local HAGGiS Guide
5 Nights Mixed-Gender Multi-Share Hostel Accommodation
Gearrannan Blackhouse Village
Whisky Distillery Visit
All Ferry Crossings
Accommodation
Optional: Shared Hostel Dormitory
Enjoy our reduced rate option with a comfortable and sociable stay at a local hostel, where you'll be in a mixed-gender, shared dormitory-style room with other travellers. Our hostel dormitories provide a relaxed and authentic experience amidst the stunning Scottish Highlands. It’s the perfect setting to connect with fellow explorers and discover local dinner spots together! Please note that breakfast is not included in hostel accommodation.
(Images for illustrative purposes only – accommodation may vary by location and availability.)
Room Types
Accessibility and Facilities
For more information, see our Accessibility Statement.
What Other Explorers Say
As first time visitors to Scotland (and our first bus tour) we didn’t know what to expect - but this 6 day trip far exceeded our expectations! Tiegan, our bus driver, tour guide, story teller, and music DJ was absolutely incredible. She kept us entertained, taught us more history than we thought possible. We came away with a deeper appreciation for our father’s homeland and memories that we will cherish forever.
Faye
01/01/0001This 6 day tour never has a dull moment. We were completely satisfied with the tour guide, bus and lodging. Tiegan is the guide to request if at all possible. Pure Scottish delight.
Theresa
01/01/0001Really enjoyed my tour! Steve was our guide and he made it so engaging and fun, I couldn't have asked for a better tour or guide experience.
Kate
01/01/0001Fantástico!!!! From the beginning to the end. Alastair could explain all what we were seeing or visiting as a unique experience. Harris and Skye islands are amazing!!! We were a small group of travelers who has enjoyed each moment. I have learn some Gaelic words 😊 and a lot of Scotland!!! I strongly recommend the 6 days journey with Alistair. Thank for your patience and your knowledge. It has been an extraordinary trip. GRACIAS
Edith
01/01/0001This tour has been amazing, discovering such a beatiful part of Scotland with a small group of travellers has been so pleasant!. Alistair did a great job, being so kind and professional, and his depth knowledge of places, wildlife and stories was key to enjoy even more the experience. Not to forget the music, his playlist was a perfect matching soundtrack for the trip.
Elvira
01/01/0001Frequently Asked Questions
Your 6-Day Isle of Skye & Outer Hebrides tour departs from the city centre in Edinburgh. Check out our departure info page for more details on your pick-up location.
Yes, hostel accommodation (mixed-gender, multi-share dorm) is included in the tour price. Our tours often team up with Highland Explorer Tours, which means that some of your fellow travellers will stay at B&B accommodation instead of hostels.
If staying at a B&B sounds more like your cup of tea, go check out Highland Explorer Tour’s itineraries.
The 2-hour ride on the Jacobite Steam Train and Eilean Donan Castle entry are optional experiences and are not included in the tour price. You can add the Jacobite Steam Train at the time of booking, whereas the entry for Eilean Donan Castle can be paid on arrival at the destination.
Our hostels are handpicked by our crew to ensure that all our travellers enjoy a warm Scottish welcome. The specific hostel may vary, so we can't provide the exact details in advance. Rest assured, wherever you stay will be a cosy introduction to Scotland!
Find more info on our Accommodation page.
Meals are not included in your tour. Most hostels offer cooking facilities, allowing you to prepare your own meals. Essential ingredients and ready-made meals are available near your hostel and the stops we make during the day. Alternatively, your guide can provide fantastic restaurant and bar recommendations for a taste of local delights!
Some of our tours run in conjunction with our mates at Highland Explorer Tours, creating a diverse mix of couples, friends, and solo adventurers.
While our coaches don't offer onboard toilets, rest assured that our itineraries include regular comfort stops, allowing frequent access to restroom facilities.
Our guides are unable to assist with wheelchairs or provide physical assistance during boarding or disembarking from the coach. Passengers should be capable of boarding and disembarking independently using the access stairs or with the help of a traveling companion. Foldable wheelchairs can be stored in our onboard luggage storage during travel.
Please note that some stops on our tours may involve rough terrain or only be accessible by steps.
It's important to be aware that your accommodation may have limited accessibility for wheelchair users. More info can be found on our Accessibility page.
Yes! Our routes include stops where you can grab a snack or recharge with a drink. Occasionally, we pause at shops offering local souvenirs as well. For precise details about timing and stops, don't hesitate to inquire with your guide.
Although our tours follow a structured plan with key stops, part of the excitement comes from unexpected surprises! We refrain from providing additional details beyond what's outlined here, as factors like weather, traffic, and the preferences of our driver guides may lead to slight deviations. Trust that your journey through Scotland will be unlike any other!
If you need to cancel your tour, you will need to inform us in writing by sending an email to info@highlandexplorertours.com. You can find our cancellation and refunds policy in section 3 in our Terms and Conditions.
Feel free to visit our general Frequently Asked Questions page for answers to common queries, or reach out to us directly via our Contact Us page.
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(Overnight: Inverness)
(Overnight: Stornoway)
(Overnight: Stornoway)
(Overnight: Portree)
(Overnight: Portree)
6 Day Tour Itinerary & Map
We begin our Outer Hebrides tour from Edinburgh before we travel north and make our first stop at The Kelpies, two impressive steel sculptures of Clydesdale horses. Tales of William Wallace and the Wars of Independence will ignite your imagination as we pass Stirling Castle, before catching a quick glimpse of Doune Castle, featured in Outlander, Game of Thrones, and Monty Python & the Holy Grail. The atmospheric landscape of Glen Coe will blow your socks off, and on a clear day, you might spot the summit of Ben Nevis, on route to Loch Ness. Look out for ‘Nessie’, the Loch Ness Monster, when we stop at the loch, before we continue to our base for the night in Inverness. Walk along the River Ness and go in search of local food and live music.
(Overnight: Inverness)
Day Highlights
Breathe in the fresh Highland air at Corrieshalloch Gorge to start the day, before we go on a stunning drive north to Ullapool to catch the ferry to Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis. Dolphins have been known to join us along the way, so keep a look out! On arrival to the island, we head straight for Harris in the south, where we’ll visit the world-famous Harris Distillery for a wee dram before we return to Lewis in the north for an overnight stay in the main town of Stornoway.
(Overnight: Stornoway)
Day Highlights
An awesome day of sightseeing on the Isle of Lewis awaits. First, we travel back in time to the the Iron Age at the broch of Dun Carloway. Delve into island life in the 17th century at Gearrannan Blackhouse Village before we blaze a trail along the wild Atlantic coast to the most northerly point on the island - The Butt of Lewis and its lonely lighthouse feels like the edge of the earth, where powerful waves crash into the sea cliffs. Back in Stornoway, stroll around the harbour and sample some fresh seafood at a local restaurant.
(Overnight: Stornoway)
Day Highlights
On departure from Stornoway we’ll visit a memorial to an event which highlights the darker side of island life. We’ll then spend the day exploring some straight-out-of-a-fairytale beaches and a medieval church on the Isle of Harris before catching our ferry ‘over the sea to Skye’. The main town of Portree is our base for the next two nights.
(Overnight: Portree)
Day Highlights
Today is all about soaking up the magic of Skye – plus a wee trip over to the mainland to visit a special castle. First, we stop at Sligachan for epic views of the old bridge and the Cuillin mountain range, with some local folklore thrown in about the enchanting river below. Next, we drive over the iconic Skye Bridge towards Eilean Donan Castle; the ultimate, absolute stunner of a Scottish castle. Back in Portree, you have time to explore the colourful harbour, peaceful coastline and the town centre shops and eateries for lunch. We’ll then head north onto the Trotternish peninsula to marvel at iconic landmarks such as The Old Man of Storr and Kilt Rock.
(Overnight: Portree)
Day Highlights
We have the chance to explore a wee bit more of the stunning Isle of Skye before taking the ferry to the fishing village of Mallaig on the west coast, where you can choose to swap the bus for the Jacobite Steam Train (which starred as the ‘Hogwarts Express’ in Harry Potter) and travel on one of the world’s most scenic railway journeys to Fort William. Reunited with your legendary guide and tour bus, we continue our journey south through the Cairngorms National Park, and arriving into Edinburgh in the evening.
Day Highlights
Departure Point
Edinburgh - Royal Mile
We’ll leave from our shop at 60 High Street (Royal Mile) which is 5 minutes from the train station, 10 minutes from the bus station and in the heart of Edinburgh. Return times are approximate and depend on road conditions and weather. Whilst we will do everything to get you back on time make sure you give yourself plenty of time to make your connection if you're travelling onward that night. We recommend at least 3 hours after the scheduled return time.
Not sure how to get here? Find more info on our Departure Info page.
Departure & Return Time
Tours Dates & Prices
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Eilean Donan Castle
Pay locallyEilean Donan Castle is situated on a sea loch surrounded by magnificent Highland scenery. This magical and idyllic setting is what makes this one of Scotland’s most iconic attractions. Take a tour to find out about the castle's colourful history. Please note there are days when Eilean Donan Castle is closed to the public. Adult from £12. Tickets are subject to availability.
