The Experience
Itinerary
Day 1: Inverness to Inverness
Start your Highland adventure with a leg-stretch at Rogie Falls before stopping to take in big, beautiful panorama views over Loch Carron. We cross the Skye Bridge to the legendary Isle of Skye and take time for some coffee in a charming wee village.
The day’s standout moment? A stroll along the Fairy Pools - a stunning river trail weaving through a rocky valley under the Cuillin Mountains. Walk the trail, keep your eyes peeled, and maybe you’ll spot a faerie…or at least a very photogenic sheep.
After the walk, Dunvegan Castle is up next. This isn’t just any castle - it’s Scotland’s oldest continuously inhabited one, home to the MacLeod clan for over 800 years. Exploring inside is optional, but if you do, you’ll discover grand rooms filled with fascinating artefacts, including the famous Fairy Flag, a mysterious banner said to bring good fortune when unfurled in battle.
After lunch in Dunvegan, we head to colourful Portree for a wander, then stop for photos at Sligachan Bridge, where you’ll get epic views of the Black Cuillin.
The return journey packs in more stunners like Eilean Donan Castle and Urquhart Castle on Loch Ness before rolling back into Inverness in the late evening.
Inverness → Inverness
Tour Highlights
What's Included
In the Moment
Frequently Asked Questions
Your Castles, Skye & Fairy Pools tour departs from Inverness city centre. Check out our departure info page for more details on your pick-up location.
It’s a full-on Highland adventure! Around 12.5 hours* from start to finish. That might sound like a long day, but it flies by when you’re exploring epic spots like the Fairy Pools on Skye, stopping for castle photo ops, and soaking in the scenery on the drive.
*Tour duration might change based on traffic and weather.
No, the entrance to Dunvegan Castle is not part of the tour price. You can choose to add it on when you book if you want to explore inside the castle and gardens.
The Fairy Pools are a series of super clear, blue pools and waterfalls located beneath the Cuillin Mountains on Skye. Some say fairies live there... we say bring your camera just in case.
The Fairy Pools walk on the Isle of Skye is typically a 75-minute round trip. It ‘s got stream crossings and jaw-dropping scenery from start to finish.
The Fairy Pools do look pretty tempting for a dip, but we don’t recommend swimming on our tours. The water’s icy cold, the currents can be tricky, and as your guides, we can’t supervise or take responsibility if you go for a swim. It’s best to enjoy the pools from the path and keep your feet dry. There’s plenty to admire without getting wet!