From Edinburgh: 4-day Skye & Jacobite Train

From Edinburgh: 4-day Skye & Jacobite Train

Edinburgh

Edinburgh city skyline from Calton Hill, Scotland

Day 1
Loch Ness, Scotland
Loch Ness

Loch Ness, Scotland

Day 2
Isle of Skye, Scotland
Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye, Scotland

Days 2-4
Fort William, Scotland
Fort William

Fort William, Scotland

Day 4
View of Edinburgh and Edinburgh Castle, Scotland
Edinburgh

View of Edinburgh and Edinburgh Castle, Scotland

Day 4

Map
3,440 Views
4 Days From

$1012

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating 4-day journey from Edinburgh to the Isle of Skye, featuring the iconic Jacobite Steam Train. This tour offers a blend of breathtaking landscapes and rich history, starting with the majestic Forth Railway Bridge and the serene Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. Explore the dramatic Glen Coe and the charming village of Fort Augustus on the shores of Loch Ness. Discover the historic Eilean Donan Castle and the enchanting Isle of Skye, with its stunning Cuillin Hills and Trotternish Peninsula. Experience the magic of the Jacobite Steam Train, passing over the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, before concluding your adventure in the picturesque town of Pitlochry. Enjoy guided tours, comfortable accommodations, and breakfast, with opportunities for walking, sightseeing, and wildlife spotting along the way. ...more ...less

Highlights

  • Eilean Donan Castle: Scotland’s most beautiful castle

  • Explore the Isle of Skye, including the Cuillin Mountains and Trotternish Peninsula

  • Visit Glen Coe, known for its stunning scenery and rich history

  • Ride the Jacobite Steam Train, featuring the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct

  • Loch Ness: Try monster spotting from the shores of the Loch

  • Discover the charming coastal town of Portree on the Isle of Skye

  • Experience the breathtaking landscapes of the Scottish Highlands

Places You'll See

Edinburgh city skyline from Calton Hill, Scotland

Edinburgh city skyline from Calton Hill, Scotland

Victoria Street in Edinburgh Old Town, Scotland

Victoria Street in Edinburgh Old Town, Scotland

View of Edinburgh and Edinburgh Castle, Scotland

View of Edinburgh and Edinburgh Castle, Scotland

View of Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle, Scotland

View of Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle, Scotland

Fort William, Scotland

Fort William, Scotland

Aerial view of Fort William, Scotland

Aerial view of Fort William, Scotland

Glenfinnan Railway Viaduct, Fort William, Scotland

Glenfinnan Railway Viaduct, Fort William, Scotland

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Edinburgh - Fort Augustus

Edinburgh city skyline from Calton Hill, Scotland
Princes Street Gardens
Royal Mile
Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle
Dean Village
Victoria Street in Edinburgh Old Town, Scotland
Victoria Street in Edinburgh Old Town, Scotland
Dean Village
St Giles Cathedral
View of Edinburgh and Edinburgh Castle, Scotland
View of Edinburgh and Edinburgh Castle, Scotland
Edinburgh city skyline from Calton Hill, Scotland
Princes Street Gardens
St Giles Cathedral
View of Edinburgh from Arthur's Seat
View of Edinburgh from Arthur's Seat
Royal Mile

Location: Edinburgh, Forth Bridge, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, Glen Coe, Fort Augustus

Accommodation: B&B with en-suite bathroom

Departing from the historic heart of Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital city, we will begin our journey north, stopping to see the impressive Forth Railway Bridge. This UNESCO world heritage site is one the most famous images of Scotland and is a spectacular example of Victorian engineering.



We will then embark on the next leg of our journey, venturing northwest into the breath-taking landscapes of the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. This stunning area, known for its serene lochs, rolling hills, and dense woodlands, offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and tranquillity. As we wind our way through this picturesque region, you’ll have the opportunity to take in the dramatic scenery.



We will then continue our expedition further north, where the landscape grows even more awe-inspiring. Our path leads us to the majestic Glen Coe, a place steeped in history and renowned for its rugged beauty. Surrounded by towering mountains and sweeping valleys, Glen Coe is often considered one of Scotland’s most iconic and evocative landscapes. As we approach this historic glen, you’ll be captivated by its wild, untamed beauty and the sense of grandeur that permeates the area.



We will then make our way to the pretty village of Fort Augustus. This village sits on the southern shores of Loch Ness, so you’ll have plenty of time and some fantastic vantage points to try to spot to the elusive monster, Nessie. There may be the option to join a cruise here if you’d like to explore further.



Fort Augustus will be your overnight stop. It is a charming village, known for its scenic views and the Caledonian Canal’s impressive flight of locks. The village offers a peaceful retreat with its quaint atmosphere, surrounded by lush landscapes and steeped in history.



Overnight: Fort Augustus, Loch Ness
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Day 2 : Explore Loch Ness and the surrounding area

Urquhart Castle and Loch Ness, Scotland
View of Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle, Scotland
Loch Ness, Scotland
Loch Ness, Scotland
Urquhart Castle and Loch Ness, Scotland
View of Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle, Scotland
Isle of Skye, Scotland

Location: Fort Augustus, Loch Ness, Eilean Donan Castle, Isle of Skye

Accommodation: B&B with en-suite bathroom

Meals Included: Breakfast

Explore Loch Ness and the surrounding area



We’ll spend the morning in Fort Augustus, where you can decide to join a cruise of Loch Ness if you’d like to explore further. Or just enjoy your time in this pretty village.



On this day we will also make a visit to the iconic Eilean Donan Castle. Perched on a small tidal island where three sea lochs meet, the castle is one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks. Surrounded by stunning Highland scenery, the castle has a rich history dating back to the 13th century and has played a key role in various historical events, including the Jacobite rebellions. Restored in the early 20th century, Eilean Donan now offers visitors a glimpse into Scotland’s past with its well-preserved interiors, exhibits, and breath-taking views of the surrounding landscape.



After exploring the castle you will head over the bridge to the Isle of Skye to your base for the evening.



Overnight: Isle of Skye

Day 3 : A full day on the Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye, Scotland

Location: Isle of Skye

Accommodation: B&B with en-suite bathroom

Meals Included: Breakfast

On the third day, you’ll have the entire day to explore the Isle of Skye with your expert driver-guide, who will tailor the itinerary to ensure you make the most of your time on this enchanting island. Your journey may include stops at remarkable sites such as the Cuillin Mountains, Dun Beag Broch, the Black Houses, the Kilt Rock Waterfall, The Old Man of Storr, and the breathtaking Trotternish Peninsula, as well as a visit to the island’s charming capital, the coastal town of Portree. This unforgettable Scottish experience offers the perfect opportunity to discover waterfalls, natural springs, and historic landmarks, all set against some of the most stunning landscapes in Scotland.



Overnight: Isle of Skye

Day 4 : A ride on the Jacobite Steam Train

Edinburgh Castle
Fort William, Scotland
Dean Village
Victoria Street in Edinburgh Old Town, Scotland
Isle of Skye, Scotland
Royal Mile
Princes Street Gardens
View of Edinburgh from Arthur's Seat
Edinburgh Castle
Princes Street Gardens
View of Edinburgh and Edinburgh Castle, Scotland
Dean Village
Victoria Street in Edinburgh Old Town, Scotland
Royal Mile
Edinburgh city skyline from Calton Hill, Scotland
View of Edinburgh from Arthur's Seat
St Giles Cathedral
St Giles Cathedral
View of Edinburgh and Edinburgh Castle, Scotland
Edinburgh city skyline from Calton Hill, Scotland
Glenfinnan Railway Viaduct, Fort William, Scotland
Aerial view of Fort William, Scotland

Location: Isle of Skye, Mallaig, Glenfinnan Viaduct, Fort William, Pitlochry, Edinburgh

Meals Included: Breakfast

After a second restful night on Skye, we will head to the south of Skye then join a ferry from Armadale to the beautiful fishing village on Mallaig (subject to availability), located on the West Coast of the Scottish mainland, which will be our lunch stop for the day.



A ride on the Jacobite Steam Train* subject to availability



We will enjoy a 1-way journey on the Jacobite Steam Train or Hogwarts Express made famous by the Harry Potter films. As you pass through the breath-taking Scottish Highlands, the views of lochs, mountains, and the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct are truly unforgettable.



Your driver-guide will meet you at Fort William train station where you will re-board the bus. We will journey to Pitlochry, which offers the chance to explore its charming Victorian architecture and vibrant local shops set against the backdrop of the picturesque Scottish Highlands. Visitors can enjoy a stroll along the River Tummel or visit the historic Pitlochry Dam and Fish Ladder, providing a glimpse into the town’s unique blend of natural beauty and engineering, before returning to Edinburgh to finish our tour.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation is included in the tour package.

  • Fully Guided

    The tour is fully guided by an expert driver-guide.

  • Train Tickets

    One-way journey on the Jacobite Steam Train is included.

What's Not Included

  • Tipping and Gratuities

    Tipping and gratuities are not included in the tour package.

  • Entrance Fees

    Entrance fees to attractions are not included in the tour package.

Optional Extras

Booking Notes

What to bring


It is always advisable to be prepared for any weather in Scotland so a jacket is always a good idea! A bottle of water for hydration and a camera to capture the spectacular views and you are set to go!

It is not necessary for you to bring your own meals, as we will stop throughout the day in small towns or villages where you can purchase food, however you are more than welcome to bring along snacks or a packed lunch.

Children policy: Unfortunately we do not accept children under the age of 3 on any of our tours. We do accept children of 3 years old and above on all tours, providing valid proof of age, such as passport or birth certificate.

For any luggage storage needs, Stasher can help! Visit https://stasher.com/?ref=otjiyjk to find out more, and for our customers there is a 10% discount: type in the voucher code ‘highland10’

Mode of Transport

Travel in style with a one-way journey on the iconic Jacobite Steam Train, complemented by scenic bus rides through the breathtaking Scottish Highlands. Enjoy the convenience of a ferry crossing from Armadale to Mallaig, ensuring a seamless and memorable travel experience.

Accommodation

Enjoy comfortable stays in charming B&Bs with en-suite bathrooms, offering a cozy retreat after a day of exploration. Experience the quaint atmosphere of Fort Augustus and the enchanting Isle of Skye, surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich history.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour provides accommodation in a Bed & Breakfast with an en-suite bathroom.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    The tour includes breakfast only. Other meals are not included, but there will be opportunities to purchase food in small towns or villages during the tour.

  • Is the Jacobite Steam Train ride guaranteed during the tour?

    The ride on the Jacobite Steam Train is subject to availability, so it is not guaranteed.

  • What is the minimum age requirement for children on this tour?

    Children must be at least 3 years old to join the tour, and valid proof of age such as a passport or birth certificate is required.

  • What should I bring with me on the tour?

    It is advisable to bring a jacket for the unpredictable Scottish weather, a bottle of water for hydration, and a camera to capture the views. You can also bring snacks or a packed lunch, although there will be stops to purchase food.

  • How much luggage can I bring?

    Due to the size of our vehicles, on our multi-day tours, we guarantee to carry one piece of luggage per passenger of 55cm x 40cm x 20cm, with a maximum of 15 kg. This is equivalent to hand luggage allowed in an aircraft cabin.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    If you are delayed due to a flight cancellation for example, we will do our best to help you catch up with the tour. However, we cannot allow the tour to be affected negatively for the other passengers.

  • Should I take out travel insurance?

    We highly recommend you take out travel insurance.

Reviews of this operator

Tito Munoz (Google Reviewer)  

Terry the tour guide, she...

31-Oct-2024

Terry the tour guide, she was amazing.. Full of life and personality we could tell how much she loves her job… and John the driver both were a great team. Terry very friendly and very knowledgeable and she is so beautiful… ! John very funny guy and very friendly we felt like we were with family taking a road trip. We spent 12 amazing hours sightseeing the beautiful Scottish Highlands. We will do it again. Thank you Terry and Thank you John. Keep up the great work. 👍👍👍👍👍 ...more ...less

James Huben12 (Google Reviewer)  

Went on the Highland Experience...

30-Mar-2024

Went on the Highland Experience tour today. Started in Edinburgh, drove up the center of Scotland and returned on the western highway. We stopped in several places, most notably Loch Ness and the Three Sisters of Glencoe. The trip was absolutely incredible and what made it even better was our comedic and informative tour guide Steven B (not Steven A). I highly recommend doing the tour with Steven B as he was thorough and concise with his explanations of what we were seeing, also adding a few clever jokes along the way. Make sure to ask if he’s a “True Scotsman” if you do the tour with him. ...more ...less

Rachel Zein (Google Reviewer)  

I was honestly worried this...

03-Jan-2024

I was honestly worried this would be too long of a day. Alex made it perfect. He stopped just enough times for some AMAZING photo spots. He gave great info without talking TOO much. The music was not too loud either. I am so glad I chose this specific tour because you really had enough time to do everything. JUST USE THE BATHROOM WHEN HE SAYS. Also, the food options at the first stop was actually really good (but pack snacks if you get hungry like me). Dinner coming home was harder so if you need dinner before 830PM pack food. Do you HAVE to do boat and castle tour? No, but I got some great photos and the boat had alcohol and a bathroom. The bus was the least comfortable I’ve been on with all of my tours on my trip, but not a reason to not go. Highly recommend!! ...more ...less

Agnese Berger (Google Reviewer)  

My boyfriend and I had...

02-Mar-2025

My boyfriend and I had an amazing time exploring Scotland with them! We chose the Glencoe - Lochness experience and it was remarkable! Our guide, Hugh, was amazing: passionate about Scotland, entertaining, friendly. He spoke for almost the entire trip telling us all about the history of those places, tales and myths. Highly recommended :) ...more ...less

Erica Mulkern (Google Reviewer)  

My friend and I booked...

09-Apr-2024

My friend and I booked on, and we had the lovely Brodie as our guide! From start to finish, he was lovely. Very knowledgeable, and we felt the day had a great pace. Loved every stop and photo op. Would highly recommend this tour, and Brodie, you won't regret it! ...more ...less

Kim Martin (Google Reviewer)  

This trip was soooo interesting...

15-Dec-2024

This trip was soooo interesting and fun! Highly recommended! Thank you Alex and thank you Highland Experience Tours! Our tour guide Alex was very knowledgeable about so many historic topics and he shared all of this information in such a fun and story Like. We had just the right amount of time at each place, the bus was clean and warm and the amount of people was perfect! Alex also played lovely music to keep the fun atmosphere alive The whole day! Absolutely fantastic! Kim & Debbie. ...more ...less

Richard Blair (Google Reviewer)  

Outstanding tour. Guide Terry...

24-Jun-2024

Outstanding tour. Guide Terry and Driver Alex were exceptional. Good historical and fun information about the sights and places. Yes, there is a lot of time on the bus, but any one-day tour of the highlands from Edinburgh will be long. The journey was enjoyable and paced adequately! Comfort stops and sightseeing stops were planned perfectly. What an enjoyable day. Being able to see so many different things in one day is wonderful. I had thought of renting a car and driving it myself, but this was so much better. We never would have been able to do it on our own in the time. I highly recommend Highland Experience Tours. They took use through some of the most beautiful areas on earth! So happy we chose this tour. Value for price spent, and experiences had was top notch! Thanks for a wonderful day in Scotland. ...more ...less

nancy (Google Reviewer)  

My time in Scotland would...

08-May-2024

My time in Scotland would have been remiss without this experience!! I could not have asked for a better tour experience or a better tour guide! I did the 'Scottish Highlands and Loch Ness Tour'. Firstly, the buses are very easy to find and check-in to the bus is extremely simple! My tour guide was Keith and he was both tour guide and bus driver. Immediately, we hit the road and got so much information throughout the 13 hour trip! He was extremely knowledgeable, very funny, and extremely warm. He sprinkled in personal stories from his life and his family's that truly made the history come alive. I went on a similar tour to this one in Ireland and this one had significantly more stops and views! I also felt like I had sufficient time at each stop along the path to take photos as well as to sit and just take in the splendor of the Scottish countryside. Keith was also a very safe driver (he mentioned being a bus driver before being a tour guide) and I never felt nervous or as if he was driving too fast!! I highly recommend taking the Loch Ness cruise and exploring Castle Urquhart! Along the journey, there were ample rest stops for snacks and restrooms and so I never felt overly uncomfortable. I will think about this tour for a long time and Keith was a perfect shepherd throughout all of it! I highly recommend this experience! ...more ...less

Michael Horsey (Google Reviewer)  

Amazing trip through the Highlands...

24-Jun-2024

Amazing trip through the Highlands to Isle of Skye. Breathtaking iconic Scottish scenery and memorable experiences. Fairy Pools are a great addition to this one day tour (where other tours only add it on two day trips). Owen was a fantastic guide. Pleasant, funny, good story teller. ...more ...less

gabriella sarkadi (Google Reviewer)  

I spent five wonderful days...

17-May-2024

I spent five wonderful days in the Scottish Highlands. Every day was full with experience. The tour was very well organized, the accommodations are very comfortable. I have a lot of good memories. Thank you so much!

1 Select your preferred date

Saturday - Tuesday

Apr 19, 2025 - Apr 22, 2025
$1012 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Highland Experience Tours requires a minimum deposit of 10% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of highland experience tours charges.

    Up to 15 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 8 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

From Edinburgh: 4-day Skye & Jacobite Train

4 Days Starting and ending in Edinburgh, UK

Visiting: Edinburgh, Forth Bridge, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, Glen Coe, Fort Augustus, Loch Ness, Eilean Donan Castle, Isle of Skye, Mallaig, Glenfinnan Viaduct, Fort William, Pitlochry ...more ...less

Tour operator:

Highland Experience Tours

Tour code:

424404

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

16 - 32

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

3-99

Special diets catered:

Please advise requests

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

From: $1012 (USD)

NB: Prices correct on 19-Mar-2025 but subject to change.

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