3-Day Isle of Skye Inverness Highlands and Glenfinnan Viaduct Tour from Edinburgh
Overview
Scotland is a big place and with so many amazing places to explore you’ll be right to be excited about your 3 day Isle of Skye, Inverness & Highlands tour. With a guarantee of discovering new and interesting things and seeing breathtaking scenery and landscapes around every turn. You’ll see why so many movie locations were based and filmed here in Scotland, with views that inspired the likes of Harry Potter (Glenfinnan Viaduct) and James Bond (Glencoe), and more.
You’ll be spoilt for choice for getting that perfect picture, especially in the Isle of Skye where many of Scotland’s myths and legends come from. See mountains created by giants, enchanted waters that will give you eternal youth, and hear songs of the faerie folk in the wind.
This is a tour that will fill you with joy and leave you with a feeling that can only come from being truly immersed in the moment - something truly priceless.
Don’t just take our word for it, check out our reviews!
You’ll be spoilt for choice for getting that perfect picture, especially in the Isle of Skye where many of Scotland’s myths and legends come from. See mountains created by giants, enchanted waters that will give you eternal youth, and hear songs of the faerie folk in the wind.
This is a tour that will fill you with joy and leave you with a feeling that can only come from being truly immersed in the moment - something truly priceless.
Don’t just take our word for it, check out our reviews!
Inclusions
- All taxes, fees and handling charges
- Experienced 'Hairy Coo' Driver-Guide providing live commentary and story telling throughout
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Regular Comfort Breaks
- Accommodation included: 2 nights
What to expect
Itinerary
Day 1: Edinburgh to Inverness
Pass By: Stirling Castle, Castle Esplanade Upper Castle Hill, Old Town, Stirling FK8 1EJ Scotland
Pass by - Stirling Castle is the most important castle in Scottish history due to its strategic location as gateway between the Central Lowlands and the imposing Scottish Highlands to the North.
Pass By: National Wallace Monument, Hillfoots Road Abbey Craig, Stirling FK9 5LF Scotland
Pass by - Your guide will introduce you to our nation’s violent history with tales of William Wallace and Robert the Bruce
Stop At: The Kelpies & The Helix, 4 Stadium Way The Helix, Falkirk FK2 9EE Scotland
Standing 30 metres (100ft) tall, The Kelpies stand majestically above all around them and pay homage to the working horses of Scotland which used to pull barges along Scotland’s canals and worked in the fields in the area where they now stand. Towering over a new canal extension which links the Forth & Clyde Canal to the North Sea, The Kelpies are the result of a unique collaboration between the partners and Glasgow-based artist Andy Scott. Almost a decade in the making, the project has transformed 350 hectares of underused land between Falkirk and Grangemouth into a vibrant parkland, visitor attraction and marine hub with the canal and The Kelpies at its heart.
Duration: 45 minutes
Pass By: Loch Lomond, Stirling Scotland
Enjoy your first taste of the Highlands as we drive along the banks of picturesque Loch Lubnaig within the rugged ‘Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park‘. Admire the scenery as your tour guide explains the fascinating tribal ‘Clan’ history of the Highlands, as you hear about the most famous Highlander of them all, ‘Rob Roy MacGregor’.
Stop At: The Glencoe Massacre Monument, 8 Upper Carnoch, Glencoe Village PH49 4HU Scotland
After a short lunch, you will follow in the footsteps of James Bond (‘Skyfall’) and Harry Potter (‘Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban’), as you discover the beautiful and haunting ‘Glencoe’, the most magnificent and famous valley in Scotland. The spectacular scenery will stay with you forever. Your guide will recount the tale of the infamous ‘Massacre of Glencoe’ that took place here in February 1692.
Duration: 10 minutes
Stop At: Glenfinnan Viaduct, Glenfinnan Lodge A830 Rd, Glenfinnan PH37 4LT Scotland
If we manage to get our timing right, we try our best to offer guests of the 3-Day tour the opportunity to watch the Hogwarts Express (Jacobite Steam Train) crossing the magnificent Glenfinnan Viaduct. This stunning viewpoint also marks the spot where Prince Charles Edward Stuart (Bonnie Prince Charlie) raised his standard prior to the 1745 Jacobite Rebellion. Go to the top of the monument for the best views of the Glen, as your guide introduces you to the dramatic story of the ‘Young Pretender’ and how his actions changed the course of European history forever.
Duration: 30 minutes
Pass By: Fort Augustus Abbey, Fort Augustus Scotland
We travel through the Great Glen towards the Southern banks of Loch Ness and the charming village of Fort Augustus. Get your cameras ready to get some pictures of the infamous ‘Nessie’ Monster!
Stop At: Urquhart Castle, A82, Drumnadrochit IV63 6XJ Scotland
One of Scotland's most picturesque castles! We'll stop nearby the castle to give you the best angle for the perfect Instagram snap - or to just take a moment to be in awe of this breathtaking site.
Duration: 10 minutes
Stop At: Inverness Castle, Castle Street, Inverness IV2 3EG Scotland
You will arrive in Inverness at approximately 6:30PM at our city-centre drop off - Inverness Cathedral on Ardross Street, IV3 5NN. The evening is then your own to explore the city or meet up with your fellow travellers and enjoy a meal in a local restaurant or traditional Highland pub. Inverness has a huge variety of establishments to choose from, whether you’d like to try our national dish of Haggis, Neeps & Tatties, washed down with a wee dram of Scotch Whisky or a Local Organic Beer (try the Black Isle Brewery Bar!). During peak season, it is advisable to book a table ahead if you’re a larger group. After dinner, we recommend you head to the world-famous Hootenanny bar which has traditional Scottish musicians playing every night.
You will be required to book your own accommodation in Inverness, but we're more than happy to help if needed!
Duration: 14 hours
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Drop off point to check places to stay
Inverness Cathedral, Ardross Street, IV3 5NN
List of providers can be sent
Day 2: Inverness to the Isle of Skye
Stop At: Black Cuillin, Scotland
Pass by - The Sligachan River flows majestically from the Black Cuillin Mountains, a truly magical location for your guide to introduce you to the local folklore of the island’s Fairies and Giants!
Duration: 5 minutes
Stop At: Skye Bridge, A87, Kyle of Lochalsh Scotland
We stop at the Kyle of Lochalsh for morning coffee and a photograph opportunity of the famous Skye Bridge, with views of Skye’s Cuillin Mountain range providing a beautiful backdrop. Opened in 1995, this bridge has a remarkable history.
Duration: 10 minutes
Stop At: Portree Harbour, Off the Sound of Rassay, Portree Scotland
Enjoy lunch in the picturesque harbour town of Portree, the largest settlement on Skye. There are numerous cosy pubs, restaurants and bakeries for you to try seafood and other local dishes. Enjoy fish and chips by the harbour as the fishing boats deliver their latest catch!
Duration: 1 hour
Pass By: Trotternish Ridge, Scotland
Pass by - We explore the dramatic Trotternish Peninsula, with iconic rock formations which have made this area the perfect backdrop for recent movies such as ‘BFG’, ‘Prometheus’ and ‘Stardust’.
Stop At: Quiraing Viewfield Road, Portree IV51 9ES Scotland
One of the best stops for an amazing picture - jaw dropping scenery
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Eilean Donan Castle, Kyle of Lochalsh IV40 8DX Scotland
Having explored Skye, we head back towards the mainland, arriving at Eilean Donan Castle, which is thought to be the most beautiful castle in Scotland! Built upon a rocky island at the head of three Sea Lochs (similar to Fjords), you will be impressed by this breathtaking Scottish landmark and the beautiful mountains and glistening waters that surround it.
Duration: 15 minutes
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Drop off point to check places to stay
Inverness Cathedral, Ardross Street, IV3 5NN
List of providers can be sent
Day 3: Inverness to Edinburgh
Stop At: Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre, Culloden Moor IV2 5EU Scotland
Your guide will take you to the fields of Culloden Moor, where you will hear the story of the infamous battle which took place here in 1746, the very last battle to be fought on British soil. This marked the end of Bonnie Prince Charlie’s hopes of becoming King. Walking on one of the most sombre sites in the country where many thousands of Highlanders died, for many Scots, this is where “the old Scotland died”. The battle changed Scotland, Britain and Europe forever.
Duration: 45 minutes
Stop At: Clava Cairns, Balnuaran of Clava, IV2 5EU Scotland
After Culloden you’ll arrive at Clava Cairns where Diana Gabaldon found inspiration for ‘Craig Na Dun’ in the Outlander series. These fascinating Bronze-Age Standing-Stones and burial chambers are thought to be over 4, 000 years old! Walk between the stones and hear about who built this intriguing place, and why.
Duration: 20 minutes
Stop At: Highland Folk Museum, Aultlarie Croft Kingussie Road, Newtonmore PH20 1AY Scotland
You’ll then have the opportunity to experience Highland life in the 18th century and visit authentic Highland blackhouses at the ‘Highland Folk Museum’ (donation-based entry) in Newtonmore. You’ll see the simple homes people lived in 300 years ago, the clothes they wore and how they conducted their daily lives. The folk museum also has an on-site cafe where you can have lunch during our 90-minute visit. Also used as a filming location for ‘Outlander’, this place gives you a unique insight into the lives and struggles of the Highland people.
This optional extra is available in Summer only.
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Stop At: Dunkeld, Dunkeld, Perth and Kinross, Scotland
The final stop on our 3-day adventure is in the Highland village of Dunkeld, which sits on the longest river in Scotland, the River Tay. You’ll take a short walk to the town’s beautiful Dunkeld Cathedral. This cathedral, with a history stretching back over 1200 years, provides a final chance for photographs before we depart for Edinburgh, arriving back in the city-centre around 6.00pm.
Duration: 30 minutes
No meals included on this day.
No accommodation included on this day.
Day 1: Edinburgh to Inverness
Pass By: Stirling Castle, Castle Esplanade Upper Castle Hill, Old Town, Stirling FK8 1EJ Scotland
Pass by - Stirling Castle is the most important castle in Scottish history due to its strategic location as gateway between the Central Lowlands and the imposing Scottish Highlands to the North.
Pass By: National Wallace Monument, Hillfoots Road Abbey Craig, Stirling FK9 5LF Scotland
Pass by - Your guide will introduce you to our nation’s violent history with tales of William Wallace and Robert the Bruce
Stop At: The Kelpies & The Helix, 4 Stadium Way The Helix, Falkirk FK2 9EE Scotland
Standing 30 metres (100ft) tall, The Kelpies stand majestically above all around them and pay homage to the working horses of Scotland which used to pull barges along Scotland’s canals and worked in the fields in the area where they now stand. Towering over a new canal extension which links the Forth & Clyde Canal to the North Sea, The Kelpies are the result of a unique collaboration between the partners and Glasgow-based artist Andy Scott. Almost a decade in the making, the project has transformed 350 hectares of underused land between Falkirk and Grangemouth into a vibrant parkland, visitor attraction and marine hub with the canal and The Kelpies at its heart.
Duration: 45 minutes
Pass By: Loch Lomond, Stirling Scotland
Enjoy your first taste of the Highlands as we drive along the banks of picturesque Loch Lubnaig within the rugged ‘Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park‘. Admire the scenery as your tour guide explains the fascinating tribal ‘Clan’ history of the Highlands, as you hear about the most famous Highlander of them all, ‘Rob Roy MacGregor’.
Stop At: The Glencoe Massacre Monument, 8 Upper Carnoch, Glencoe Village PH49 4HU Scotland
After a short lunch, you will follow in the footsteps of James Bond (‘Skyfall’) and Harry Potter (‘Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban’), as you discover the beautiful and haunting ‘Glencoe’, the most magnificent and famous valley in Scotland. The spectacular scenery will stay with you forever. Your guide will recount the tale of the infamous ‘Massacre of Glencoe’ that took place here in February 1692.
Duration: 10 minutes
Stop At: Glenfinnan Viaduct, Glenfinnan Lodge A830 Rd, Glenfinnan PH37 4LT Scotland
If we manage to get our timing right, we try our best to offer guests of the 3-Day tour the opportunity to watch the Hogwarts Express (Jacobite Steam Train) crossing the magnificent Glenfinnan Viaduct. This stunning viewpoint also marks the spot where Prince Charles Edward Stuart (Bonnie Prince Charlie) raised his standard prior to the 1745 Jacobite Rebellion. Go to the top of the monument for the best views of the Glen, as your guide introduces you to the dramatic story of the ‘Young Pretender’ and how his actions changed the course of European history forever.
Duration: 30 minutes
Pass By: Fort Augustus Abbey, Fort Augustus Scotland
We travel through the Great Glen towards the Southern banks of Loch Ness and the charming village of Fort Augustus. Get your cameras ready to get some pictures of the infamous ‘Nessie’ Monster!
Stop At: Urquhart Castle, A82, Drumnadrochit IV63 6XJ Scotland
One of Scotland's most picturesque castles! We'll stop nearby the castle to give you the best angle for the perfect Instagram snap - or to just take a moment to be in awe of this breathtaking site.
Duration: 10 minutes
Stop At: Inverness Castle, Castle Street, Inverness IV2 3EG Scotland
You will arrive in Inverness at approximately 6:30PM at our city-centre drop off - Inverness Cathedral on Ardross Street, IV3 5NN. The evening is then your own to explore the city or meet up with your fellow travellers and enjoy a meal in a local restaurant or traditional Highland pub. Inverness has a huge variety of establishments to choose from, whether you’d like to try our national dish of Haggis, Neeps & Tatties, washed down with a wee dram of Scotch Whisky or a Local Organic Beer (try the Black Isle Brewery Bar!). During peak season, it is advisable to book a table ahead if you’re a larger group. After dinner, we recommend you head to the world-famous Hootenanny bar which has traditional Scottish musicians playing every night.
You will be required to book your own accommodation in Inverness, but we're more than happy to help if needed!
Duration: 14 hours
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Drop off point to check places to stay
Inverness Cathedral, Ardross Street, IV3 5NN
List of providers can be sent
Day 2: Inverness to the Isle of Skye
Stop At: Black Cuillin, Scotland
Pass by - The Sligachan River flows majestically from the Black Cuillin Mountains, a truly magical location for your guide to introduce you to the local folklore of the island’s Fairies and Giants!
Duration: 5 minutes
Stop At: Skye Bridge, A87, Kyle of Lochalsh Scotland
We stop at the Kyle of Lochalsh for morning coffee and a photograph opportunity of the famous Skye Bridge, with views of Skye’s Cuillin Mountain range providing a beautiful backdrop. Opened in 1995, this bridge has a remarkable history.
Duration: 10 minutes
Stop At: Portree Harbour, Off the Sound of Rassay, Portree Scotland
Enjoy lunch in the picturesque harbour town of Portree, the largest settlement on Skye. There are numerous cosy pubs, restaurants and bakeries for you to try seafood and other local dishes. Enjoy fish and chips by the harbour as the fishing boats deliver their latest catch!
Duration: 1 hour
Pass By: Trotternish Ridge, Scotland
Pass by - We explore the dramatic Trotternish Peninsula, with iconic rock formations which have made this area the perfect backdrop for recent movies such as ‘BFG’, ‘Prometheus’ and ‘Stardust’.
Stop At: Quiraing Viewfield Road, Portree IV51 9ES Scotland
One of the best stops for an amazing picture - jaw dropping scenery
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Eilean Donan Castle, Kyle of Lochalsh IV40 8DX Scotland
Having explored Skye, we head back towards the mainland, arriving at Eilean Donan Castle, which is thought to be the most beautiful castle in Scotland! Built upon a rocky island at the head of three Sea Lochs (similar to Fjords), you will be impressed by this breathtaking Scottish landmark and the beautiful mountains and glistening waters that surround it.
Duration: 15 minutes
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Drop off point to check places to stay
Inverness Cathedral, Ardross Street, IV3 5NN
List of providers can be sent
Day 3: Inverness to Edinburgh
Stop At: Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre, Culloden Moor IV2 5EU Scotland
Your guide will take you to the fields of Culloden Moor, where you will hear the story of the infamous battle which took place here in 1746, the very last battle to be fought on British soil. This marked the end of Bonnie Prince Charlie’s hopes of becoming King. Walking on one of the most sombre sites in the country where many thousands of Highlanders died, for many Scots, this is where “the old Scotland died”. The battle changed Scotland, Britain and Europe forever.
Duration: 45 minutes
Stop At: Clava Cairns, Balnuaran of Clava, IV2 5EU Scotland
After Culloden you’ll arrive at Clava Cairns where Diana Gabaldon found inspiration for ‘Craig Na Dun’ in the Outlander series. These fascinating Bronze-Age Standing-Stones and burial chambers are thought to be over 4, 000 years old! Walk between the stones and hear about who built this intriguing place, and why.
Duration: 20 minutes
Stop At: Highland Folk Museum, Aultlarie Croft Kingussie Road, Newtonmore PH20 1AY Scotland
You’ll then have the opportunity to experience Highland life in the 18th century and visit authentic Highland blackhouses at the ‘Highland Folk Museum’ (donation-based entry) in Newtonmore. You’ll see the simple homes people lived in 300 years ago, the clothes they wore and how they conducted their daily lives. The folk museum also has an on-site cafe where you can have lunch during our 90-minute visit. Also used as a filming location for ‘Outlander’, this place gives you a unique insight into the lives and struggles of the Highland people.
This optional extra is available in Summer only.
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Stop At: Dunkeld, Dunkeld, Perth and Kinross, Scotland
The final stop on our 3-day adventure is in the Highland village of Dunkeld, which sits on the longest river in Scotland, the River Tay. You’ll take a short walk to the town’s beautiful Dunkeld Cathedral. This cathedral, with a history stretching back over 1200 years, provides a final chance for photographs before we depart for Edinburgh, arriving back in the city-centre around 6.00pm.
Duration: 30 minutes
No meals included on this day.
No accommodation included on this day.
Additional information
- Minimum age to travel is 7 years old. Photo ID, such as a passport, may be required. Children (8-17) must be accompanied by an adult.
- Not wheelchair accessible
- There are opportunities to take short nature walks, it is recommended to bring suitable clothing and footwear.
- Near public transportation
- Most travelers can participate
- This tour in an air-conditioned mini/midi-coach, hosted by a local Scottish guide, rated 5-stars by the official Scottish Tourist Board
- You will require a two night stay in the City of Inverness for this tour. Accommodation is not included in the price of your tour but we are happy to provide recommendations where needed. Please contact us if you need help!
- When booking accommodation, we advise that you use our Inverness pick up and drop off location as a reference of where to stay. This is located at 26 Queensgate, Inverness IV1 1DJ.
- We strongly recommend you book accommodation with a flexible cancellation policy in the event that you need to self-isolate or our tour does not meet the minimum number of passengers to go ahead - we'd hate for you to lose out!
- We would also expect everyone to bring one larger piece of luggage, a suitcase or backpack, which we will put in the hold of the bus during transit. This can weigh up to 15kgs per passenger and does not need to stick to any dimension restrictions as we understand those vary.
- Capacity will be based on the most up-to-date guidelines. Guests can choose whether to wear a mask as this is no longer required.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 28 travelers
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Ticket delivery
You can present either a paper or an electronic voucher for this activity.
Cancellation
If you cancel at least 7 day(s) in advance of the scheduled departure, there is no cancellation fee.
If you cancel between 3 and 6 day(s) in advance of the scheduled departure, there is a 50 percent cancellation fee.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, there is a 100 percent cancellation fee.
If you cancel between 3 and 6 day(s) in advance of the scheduled departure, there is a 50 percent cancellation fee.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, there is a 100 percent cancellation fee.
rounak19
May 2022
It was an amazingly fun trip, needless to say a beautiful one as well. Isle of Skye has breathtaking views throughout. Steve, our guide, was the cherry on the cake - he has a lot of fun activities and stories for every place that passes by. Thanks Hairy coo for making our Scotland trip so easy an...
It was an amazingly fun trip, needless to say a beautiful one as well. Isle of Skye has breathtaking views throughout. Steve, our guide, was the cherry on the cake - he has a lot of fun activities and stories for every place that passes by. Thanks Hairy coo for making our Scotland trip so easy and relaxed.pavneetk2018
May 2022
Brilliantly organised your. Our guide, Marty was absolutely phenomenal. Funny, considerate and accomodating Highly recommended
Brilliantly organised your. Our guide, Marty was absolutely phenomenal. Funny, considerate and accomodating Highly recommendedjalishr
May 2022
What an absolute blast this trip has been!!! Thanks to The Hairy Coo for packing in so much in these unforgettable three days. Marty, our tour guide+driver, was awesome and super cool. We visited so many different stops and learnt so much about Scottish history and folk tales from Marty. I highly...
What an absolute blast this trip has been!!! Thanks to The Hairy Coo for packing in so much in these unforgettable three days. Marty, our tour guide+driver, was awesome and super cool. We visited so many different stops and learnt so much about Scottish history and folk tales from Marty. I highly, highly recommend this trip. The Highlands just blew my mind!Barb B
May 2022
The BEST of the best! I was so excited to visit Scotland (truly was #1 on my "bucket list") and see the Highlands, etc. We booked a tour with Hairy Coo tours and I will never forget it!! Great tour, amazing sites, and all topped off with the best tour guide I've ever experienced!! John (i.e. The ...
The BEST of the best! I was so excited to visit Scotland (truly was #1 on my "bucket list") and see the Highlands, etc. We booked a tour with Hairy Coo tours and I will never forget it!! Great tour, amazing sites, and all topped off with the best tour guide I've ever experienced!! John (i.e. The King of the North) was so KNOWLEDGEABLE, friendly, kind (though I'm not sure he likes to admit that), funny, attentive, and upbeat for all 3 days. He took us to so many scheduled stops as well as "Johnny bonus stops" and we felt as though we were thoroughly immersed in the experience of the Scottish Highlands, Glencoe, the Jacobite Steam Train, Isle of Skye (incredible), Ft William, Ben Nevis, Loch Ness (and all the other Lochs along the way), multiple castles & fairy falls, many historic sites, Dalwhinnie distillery, etc. Our weather was incredible too - though I don't think The King of the North was in control of that... but, come to think of it, he might have thought he was 🙂. If you're going to Scotland and looking to see these parts of the country....BOOK THIS TOUR!!richb163
May 2022
The favorite part of the 3 day experience was our guide, John - The King of the North. Great sense of humor, he read the crowd well and incorporated all of us in stories and gently jabbing. John was extremely knowledgeable and shared his knowledge and experiences freely. The 3 days we spent wi...
The favorite part of the 3 day experience was our guide, John - The King of the North. Great sense of humor, he read the crowd well and incorporated all of us in stories and gently jabbing. John was extremely knowledgeable and shared his knowledge and experiences freely. The 3 days we spent with John provided a complete overview of the Highlands, its culture, the people and history. Highly recommend!Trail596090
May 2022
John was the perfect guide on a fantastic 3 day tour in Scotland! He was insightful, informative and humorous-all great things! Wonderful and unforgettable experience!!
John was the perfect guide on a fantastic 3 day tour in Scotland! He was insightful, informative and humorous-all great things! Wonderful and unforgettable experience!!