2 Day tour to the Isle of Skye and the Highlands
Explore the best of Scotland with our 2-day tour of the Isle of Skye and the Highlands. This tour departing from Edinburgh is ideal for adventure seekers looking to discover Scotland’s most breathtaking landscapes in a short amount of time.
We start in Edinburgh, heading into the magical Highlands, where we will make a brief stop in the picturesque village of Dunkeld. Next, we will visit the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland’s most photographed castles, where you will also have time to enjoy lunch with unforgettable views.
Our Isle of Skye tour will take you through the island’s most iconic landscapes, from the waterfalls of Lealt Falls to the rock formations of Kilt Rock and the towering Old Man of Storr. Staying overnight in Portree, Skye’s capital, you will experience authentic Scottish life in a charming fishing village.
On the second day, we will explore mythical Loch Ness. We will visit the ruins of Urquhart Castle (admission included), and you will have the opportunity to take a boat cruise (tickets not included in the tour price) or relax by the pier at the Clansman Harbour. Before returning to Edinburgh, we will stop in the vibrant city of Inverness and take in the beauty of Pitlochry.
This tour of Scotland is the perfect opportunity to discover the essence of the Highlands in just two days. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience—book your two-day tour today!
Mandatory Entry Requirement for the UK (ETA)
Starting April 2025, all EU travelers need to obtain an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) before flying to Scotland. This electronic permit can be requested quickly through the official app or the UK Government website.
- Price: £20 (approx. €23).
- Validity: Valid for 2 years for multiple entries of up to 6 months each.
- Documentation: Traveling with a valid passport is mandatory (national ID cards are no longer valid for entry into the country). It is recommended to apply for the ETA at least 72 hours in advance.
Day 1
Departure from 190 High Street
We begin the tour at our meeting point in Edinburgh.
Coach travel time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Short stop in Dunkeld
Stop duration: 15 minutes
This charming Perthshire village is renowned for its cathedral, a majestic structure that is part church and part ruin. Dunkeld offers a brief yet impressive stop, ideal for photographing Thomas Telford’s picturesque bridge and admiring the colorful 18th-century cottages restored by the National Trust for Scotland. A fantastic way to start your adventure across the Highlands!
Coach travel time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Short stop at Spean Bridge
Stop duration: 15 minutes
We will make a relaxing stop at Spean Bridge to stretch our legs and breathe in the fresh Highland air, enjoying a moment of rest amidst scenic landscapes before continuing toward Skye.
Coach travel time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Eilean Donan Castle (Lunch stop)
Stop duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland’s most iconic castles, is the perfect setting for a lunch break. Situated on its own island and surrounded by mountains and lochs, this castle offers unforgettable views. Relax and enjoy a meal in this legendary location before continuing your journey toward Skye.
Coach travel time: 20 minutes
Skye Bridge
Stop duration: 15 minutes
A stop to take in and photograph this iconic bridge that connects the mainland to the Isle of Skye.
Coach travel time: 30 minutes
Sligachan and the Cuillins
Stop duration: 30 minutes
Sligachan provides some of the most stunning views of the Cuillin mountains—a dream destination for photography enthusiasts. Its charming stone bridge, the river flowing below, and the towering peaks make this stop an authentically Scottish experience. An ideal spot to immerse yourself in the wild nature of the Highlands!
Coach travel time: 20 minutes
Portree, Isle of Skye
Portree, the capital of the Isle of Skye, is a vibrant fishing village nestled among rolling hills. Overlooking a sheltered bay, Portree invites you to explore its streets, sample local cuisine, and experience an authentic slice of island life. A wonderful place to recharge before day two of your adventure.
Day 2
We start Day 2 departing from Portree.
Coach travel time: 30 minutes
Lealt Falls (Photo stop)
Stop duration: 15 minutes
Lealt Falls drops 90 meters down a rugged gorge, creating an impressive natural spectacle. From the observation platform, you can capture incredible photos of this lesser-known yet enchanting spot on the Isle of Skye. A quick glimpse into the raw power of nature!
Coach travel time: 10 minutes
Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls
Stop duration: 15 minutes
Kilt Rock, with its basalt columns resembling the pleats of a Scottish kilt, is one of Skye’s most iconic sights. The waterfall cascading directly into the sea is simply breathtaking. An unmissable stop for nature lovers and photographers alike, situated in one of the island’s most rugged regions.
Coach travel time: 20 minutes
Old Man of Storr
Stop duration: 20 minutes
The Old Man of Storr is one of Scotland’s most famous rock formations. Its towering stone pinnacle commands unparalleled views and provides a prime location for travelers eager to experience nature at its purest. Get your camera ready to capture one of Skye’s most iconic vistas!
Coach travel time: 2 hours 10 minutes (including a 20-minute photo stop in Dornie)
Urquhart Castle / Clansman Beach (Loch Ness)
Stop duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Explore the historic ruins of Urquhart Castle, steeped in history and folklore, overlooking mysterious Loch Ness. Afterward, you can take a scenic cruise across this famous loch or unwind along the tranquil Clansman shoreline right by the water’s edge. Both options let you soak in the beauty and mystery of Loch Ness, with the chance to catch a glimpse of Nessie.
Coach travel time: 30 minutes
Inverness, Capital of the Highlands
Stop duration: 1 hour 15 minutes
The city of Inverness is the heart of the Highlands, and you will have time to explore its historic center. Visit its cathedral, wander down charming streets, or relax in one of its cozy cafés while soaking up the welcoming atmosphere of this compact Highland city.
Coach travel time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Pitlochry
Stop duration: 30 minutes
Pitlochry is a Victorian gem in the Highlands, renowned for its Scottish Baronial architecture with buildings that look like something out of a fairy tale. During this stop, you can wander its streets photographing turreted rooftops and conical houses. This delightful town provides the perfect relaxing break on your journey back to Edinburgh.
Coach travel time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Arrival in Edinburgh
As we approach Edinburgh, we will see the Forth Bridge—the 19th-century railway cantilever bridge listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and pass through the scenic neighborhoods bordering Scotland’s capital before concluding our tour in central Edinburgh.
If you have selected the “Tour Only” option, it is very important to contact LochNessBus.com to confirm the location where we will be staying for your chosen departure. Please note that with this option, the driver-guide will drop you off in the town center on the first day and pick you up there on the second day. You will need to make your own way to the reserved accommodation from that point. Please be in touch if you have any doubt or enquires.
Basic Accommodation
It is a hostel, where both the room and the bathroom are shared with other travelers. Beds are usually arranged in bunk beds, and dormitories are typically mixed. Breakfast is NOT included.
Price starting from: 230£ Shared Room
Bed & Breakfast
In this accommodation category, we will stay in a Bed&Breakfast. Both the room and the bathroom are private, although the bathroom may be en-suite (inside the room) or outside, but it will still be for the exclusive use of the guest. Breakfast is included.
The Isle of Skye has very limited accommodation availability, so booking triple rooms will always depend on availability at the time of booking.
Prices starting from :
- 295£ Double room
- 335£ Single room
IMPORTANT
We will primarily be staying in the towns of Portree, Kyleakin, and Kyle of Lochalsh. However, due to the limited accommodation in this part of Scotland, it may be necessary to choose other locations for some departures.
If you have chosen the “Tour only” option, it is very important that you contact ViajarporEscocia.com to confirm the town where we will be staying on your chosen departure. Please note that with this option, the driver-guide will drop you off in the town center on the first day and pick you up here on the second day, and you will need to travel from this point to your reserved accommodation on your own.
- Duration
- 2 days and 1 nights
- Travel
- Transportation in vehicles of 19, 36 or 55 seats
- Guide
- Yes
- Language
- English
- Lowest Price Guarantee
- 185£
- Departure Point
- 190 High Street (Royal Mile)
- e-ticket
- Printed or mobile voucher accepted
- Cancellation
- Free (up to 10 days before the tour)
- Departure time
- 7:30 - Please remember to arrive 15 minutes before the meeting point
- Return Details
- 20:00 / 21:00 approximately on the second day
- What's Included
- Transportation i 8, 19, 36 or 55-seater vehicle
- 1 night of accommodation in hostel or Bed&Breakfast*
- Urquhart Castle ticket
- Professional English speaking guide/driver-guide
*Breakfast only included in the Bed&Breakfast option
- What's No Included
- Entrance fees to monuments or attractions – except Urquhart Castle, which is included. Alternatives are available in case you do not wish to visit the optional attractions.
- Meals:
- Eating on the bus is allowed (sandwiches, snacks, fruit and similar).
- It is recommended, especially on long-distance tours, to opt for the option of snack or light lunch. In this way, the time is used more.
- Travel insurance.
