3 Day Winter Isle of Skye and Loch Ness Tour from Inverness

Day 1 · Inverness to Isle of Skye

1. 1

   Stop 1

   10 min

   We make a photo stop at Loch Ness with views of the 13th century Urquhart Castle, now derelict.

2. 2

   Invermoriston Falls

   15 min

   The name River Moriston translates to ‘river of waterfalls’. From the car park, a scenic trail follows the river as it cascades toward Loch Ness, then loops back through peaceful woodland to complete the route. Towering Scots pines and a lush undergrowth of mosses and ferns create a serene and enchanting forest walk.

3. 3

   Fort Augustus

   35 min

   The village of Fort Augustus sits at the southern tip of Loch Ness. Wander along one of the most picturesque sections of the Caledonian Canal and look down the length of the loch from the Loch Ness Viewpoint.

4. 4

   Commando Monument

   15 min

   We stop at the Commando Memorial which pays tribute to the men of the original British Commando Forces who lost their lives during World War II. The monument was built in 1951 and stands proudly with views of Ben Nevis in the distance.

5. 5

   Glenfinnan Viaduct

   50 min

   The Glenfinnan Viaduct is known to many as the ‘Harry Potter Bridge’ after featuring in two of the famous films. The iconic bridge has twenty-one arches which curve around the dramatic Highland landscape, with views over the stunning Loch Shiel.

6. 6

   Sligachan Old Bridge

   20 min

   According to legend, the waters under Sligachan Old Bridge offer eternal youth. Why not give it a go for yourself? Sligachan also offers beautiful views of the Cuillin Hills.

Overnight in Portree, 3-star deluxe B&B

Day 2 · Isle of Skye

1. 1

   Fairy Pools

   1 h 45 min

   We stop to take in the natural beauty of the Fairy Pools. The crystal-clear waters will take your breath away. Your guide will tell you stories about the folklore of the island, and the fairy stories which bring the island to life.

2. 2

   Stop 2

   one hour

   We enjoy a lunch stop in Dunvegan, a tiny village on the isle of Skye famous for Dunvegan Castle.

3. 3

   Quiraing

   30 min

   Enjoy the spectacular view of the Quiraing; a stunning display of dramatic cliffs, rock pinnacles and breath-taking views on Skye’s Trotternish peninsula.

4. 4

   Kilt Rock

   15 min

   Soak up the iconic view of Kilt Rock, a rugged cliff which resembles – you’ve guessed it – a kilt. Marvel at the breathtaking Mealt Waterfall as it runs into the ocean.

5. 5

   The Old Man of Storr

   15 min

   When it comes to cool geology, this natural wonder is the absolute pinnacle. Standing tall on Skye’s ancient landslip, the Old Man of Storr is such a poser. Sometimes hidden by mist, this is a popular hangout for mischievous fairies.

Overnight in Portree, 3-star deluxe B&B

Day 3 · Isle of Skye to Inverness

1. 1

   Eilean Donan Castle

   1 h 30 min Admission not included

   We stop at the most photographed castle in Scotland, Eilean Donan. Eilean Donan Castle has links to both clans MacKenzie and MacRae. Pay entrance on arrival.

2. 2

   Beauly

   one hour

   Next we stop in the charming highland village of Beauly for the chance to explore. Beauly Priory, which lies at the heart, is a now-derelict monastic community with origins tracing back to the 13th century.

3. 3

   Muir of Ord

   45 min

   Our next stop takes us to Glen Ord for a Highland whisky experience! Enjoy a dram whilst your guide explains exactly how it is made, and teaches you about the history of whisky in Scotland.

4. 4

   Culloden Battlefield

   45 min

   One of the most somber locations in Scotland, Culloden Battlefield remains mostly untouched to pay respect to those who lost their lives in the final Jacobite Uprising of 1746.

   Visitor Centre is not included, pay locally.

5. 5

   Clava Cairns

   20 min

   Visit one of the inspirations behind Outlander - the Clava Cairns standing stones. These stones stand proudly at 10 feet tall and are known for being a bronze age burial ground.