5-Day Highland Explorer and Isle of Skye Small-Group Tour from Edinburgh
Overview
Available languages
5 days
Mobile ticket
Discover the Scottish Highlands and the Isle of Skye on this 5-day tour from Edinburgh. Traveling in a luxury minivan with a knowledgeable guide, see some of Scotland’s most iconic sights. Visit quintessential villages such as Dunkeld and Lochinver, and explore beauty spots like Cairngorms National Park, Loch Ness and Glencoe. You’ll also travel along the scenic Quiraing mountain pass for jaw-dropping views of rural Scotland. Relax with 2 nights’ accommodation in Ullapool and a 2-night stay in Portree in the Isle of Skye. Numbers limited to 16, ensuring a small-group experience.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
We apologise, but we cannot accommodate children under 5 years old on our tours. Children under 18 need to be accompanied by an adult. Please note that if this policy is not followed, we will have to refuse travel without issuing a refund. Thank you for understanding
You stay two nights in the fishing village of Ullapool and two nights in the harbour town of Portree, on the Isle of Skye
Please note: you will be required to choose between either a 3-star bed and breakfast or 3-star hotel at time of booking
Booking three or more people? We can accommodate up to 8 guests in a group, please add each required room to your basket separately
When booking three or more people, efforts will be made to book a combination of suitable rooms (double/twin/family). Preferences should be noted upon booking in the Special Requirements section
Luggage Allowance: You're restricted to 20kg of luggage (44lbs); one medium sized suitcase/bag similar to airline standard carry-on luggage (approximately 55cm x 45cm x 25cm / 22in x 17in x 10in) plus a small bag for onboard personal items.
Eilean Donan Castle – We reserve tickets for you. If you want to visit this attraction, please purchase your ticket whilst on tour.
B&Bs tend to be located on the outskirts of towns and you should be prepared for a 20-30 minute walk to local facilities like pubs and restaurants. If you have difficulty with stairs, please let us know so that we can either book a ground floor room or a hotel with lift access, if available.
What To Expect
Dunkeld & Loch Ness
Accommodations
Overnight in Ullapool
South Queensferry
Departing Edinburgh, we cross the Queensferry Bridge, taking in views of the iconic Forth Rail Bridge (UNESCO World Heritage Site). Traveling through the Kingdom of Fife, the landscape transitions from rolling farmland to forested hills as we approach Perthshire's Highland Fault Line.
Dunkeld
Continuing through Perthshire, often known as "Big Tree Country," you'll pass through lush forests brimming with majestic Douglas firs and ancient oaks. Our journey includes a stop at the charming cathedral town of Dunkeld, nestled along the banks of the River Tay. Here, you can explore the captivating architecture of the historic cathedral or stroll through the quaint streets of this picturesque village.
Aviemore
Leaving the lush forests behind, we ascend into the majestic Cairngorms National Park and arrive at Aviemore, a charming resort town surrounded by towering peaks. Here, you'll enjoy lunch and have some free time to explore the area at your own pace.
Loch Ness
Our journey then takes us through breathtaking glens framed by rugged mountains, bringing us to the banks of the legendary Loch Ness for a short break. Keep your eyes peeled you never know, you might just catch a glimpse of the elusive Loch Ness Monster!
Ullapool
We pause for a short break at Rogie Falls, where you can enjoy an optional walk to admire this breathtaking waterfall. Cross the suspension bridge for the best views of the dramatic cascade and soak in the tranquil, untamed beauty of this Highland treasure. In late summer and autumn, keep an eye out for salmon leaping upstream. This marks our final highlight before reaching Ullapool, a charming fishing village along the renowned North Coast 500. Here, we'll stay for two nights, giving you plenty of time to explore the harbor and enjoy the local pubs.
Achmelvich Bay and the fishing village of Lochinver
Accommodations
Overnight in Ullapool
Food and Drinks
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
Assynt
Today, you explore the far northwest Highlands and the mountains of Assynt. This area is famous as being the first crofting area to be bought by the local crofters, the Assynt Crofters’ Trust. The landscape here is wild, rugged, and almost otherworldly with a timeless beauty.
Ardvreck Castle
Our first stop is the Knockan Crag Geology Centre, one of Scotland's most extraordinary geological sites. Here, you'll gain insight into ancient tectonic forces that reshaped Scotland's landscape millions of years ago. We then step into history with a visit to the 15th-century Ardvreck Castle, perched on the shores of Loch Assynt. Once the stronghold of the MacLeods of Assynt, this haunting ruin is steeped in legendary tales of betrayal and the capture of the Marquis of Montrose, offering a glimpse into Scotland's turbulent past.
Achnahaird Bay
For lunch, we head to Lochinver, a picturesque fishing village on Scotland's wild west coast. Here, you can savour fresh seafood or the famous Lochinver pies while taking in the village's breathtaking surroundings. Afterward, we journey to Achnahaird Beach, a secluded paradise known for its pristine white sands, turquoise waters, and dramatic mountain backdrop.
Ullapool
We conclude the day with a scenic drive back to Ullapool, passing through untouched moorlands and peat bogs en route to the shores of Loch Broom. Enjoy a well-deserved rest among the charming, whitewashed cottages of this delightful fishing village.
Corrieshalloch Gorge & Bealach na Ba
Accommodations
Overnight in Portree.
Food and Drinks
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
Corrieshalloch Gorge National Nature Reserve
Today, we continue uncovering the hidden gems of the Northwest Highlands, beginning with a journey south to witness the dramatic 60-meter plunge of the River Droma into Corrieshalloch Gorge.You can take a short walk through a picturesque forest to admire the powerful waterfall as it cascades into the depths of the gorge. Enjoy breathtaking views from one of the viewing platforms or experience the thrill of crossing the suspension bridge.
Torridon
Our adventure leads us through vast moorlands and rolling hills, with plenty of opportunities for short breaks and photo stops along the way. As we near the majestic Beinn Eighe Nature Reserve and the towering Torridon Mountains, the landscape becomes more rugged, evoking a profound sense of wilderness and solitude. Following the route along dramatic sea lochs framed by craggy mountains and ancient forests, we're treated to glimpses of Scotland's raw, untamed, and timeless natural beauty. This scenic journey takes us to the picturesque village of Shieldaig, a true Highland gem.
Plockton
We continue along the coast to Applecross for lunch in this remote village, which still retains the charm of traditional Highland life, with some residents speaking Gaelic. Enjoy local dishes at the Applecross Inn, renowned for its hearty Highland cuisine and cozy atmosphere. Next, prepare for the thrilling drive along Bealach na Bà, one of Scotland's highest and most dramatic roads, once used to move cattle between the Applecross Peninsula and markets across the country. Our journey then takes us to the “tropical” village of Plockton, where palm trees grow along the shores of Loch Carron. Enjoy a short break and take a moment to soak in the tranquility of this haven.
Isle of Skye
We cross the bridge to the Isle of Skye, one of Scotland's most captivating islands, and follow its dramatic coastline, stopping at viewpoints to admire the striking outlines of the Red and Black Cuillins. We then continue toward the island's capital, Portree, where you'll be dropped off at your accommodation in the early evening, giving you plenty of time to explore this charming town at your leisure.
Exploring the Isle of Skye
Accommodations
Overnight in Portree
Food and Drinks
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
Isle of Skye
Every corner of Skye feels like stepping into a dream, with countless places to explore. You might head north to the Trotternish Ridge and beyond, where you'll encounter geological wonders such as the Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock, and the breathtaking Quiraing mountain pass. This part of the island enchants visitors with surreal rock formations, dramatic cliffs, vast open spaces, and an overwhelming sense of wilderness. The ever-changing weather adds to the island's dramatic scenery, with mist often shrouding the peaks and sunlight breaking through to illuminate the landscape, creating a magical atmosphere. After all this exploration, we'll pause in one of the island's towns for lunch to recharge for the second part of the day. In the late afternoon, your driver-guide may take you back in time, sharing stories about the legends and clan culture surrounding Dunvegan Castle, or perhaps lead you to a different hidden gem.
Eilean Donan Castle & Glencoe
Food and Drinks
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
Eilean Donan Castle
Perched on a small island, the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, made famous as a movie location, holds many fascinating stories. Enjoy refreshments at a local café and take a stroll along the loch to admire the castle from the outside. Alternatively, explore its chambers, where you can discover artifacts belonging to the MacKenzie and MacRae clans. Next, we continue past shimmering lochs, framed by the rugged peaks of the Five Sisters of Kintail. After this visual feast of towering mountains, we head to Fort William for a break.
Fort William
We stop for lunch in Fort William at the foot of Ben Nevis, Britain's highest mountain. Sample local cuisine and wander the town center before continuing south through the Highlands. Next is the majestic Glencoe, a valley renowned for its rugged slopes and rich history. Here, you'll have time for photos or a short walk to appreciate the stunning landscape and learn about one of the most tragic tales in Scottish history. Then, we journey through the wild, desolate landscapes of Rannoch Moor, crossing into the Trossachs National Park. Here, you'll pass shimmering lochs, towering mountain peaks, and forest-filled glens, with a short break along the way to take it all in.
Edinburgh
Heading further south, we cross the ancient natural fault line that runs through Scotland, watching as the rugged, majestic Highlands gradually give way to the flat, fertile plains of the Lowlands on our return to Edinburgh.
Options
Hotel Single Occupancy Room
Stay in single room (1 x single bed) hotel accommodation.
Hotel Twin Room
Stay in twin en-suite room (2 x separate single beds) hotel accommodation.
B&B Twin Room
Stay in an en-suite twin room (2 x separate single beds) guesthouse accommodation.
B&B Single Occupancy Room
Stay in single room (1 x single bed) guesthouse accommodation.
B&B Double Room
Double en-suite room with breakfast in a B&B (1 large bed).
What‘s Included
Driver/guide
4 nights en-suite accommodation in either a B&B or 3-star hotel (breakfast included)
Small-group tour (maximum 16 passengers)
Transportation by top of the range 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Gratuities
Meals and refreshments
Admission fees
Cancellation Policy
If you cancel at least 21 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel within 21 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
Reviews
170 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Wonderful trip to the Highlands!
Doidare2rb,May 7, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00This tour was incredible! Our guide, Ashleigh, was wonderful-she was incredibly personable, extremely knowledgeable about Scottish history and folklore, and a very safe and experienced driver. She was a wonderful storyteller and shared many of the Scottish stories/histories that were relevant to the areas we were visiting. She made sure to find out what everyone was interested in and to make sure our experience was exactly what we wanted and hoped for. The trip was well organized and the bed and breakfasts we stayed in were both very nice. My husband and I enjoyed every aspect of this trip!
A memorable adventure
867khinw,Sep 24, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00My friend and I are unfamiliar with the Scottish Highlands and neither of us drive, so for us, a tour seemed like the most reasonable option. Our guide, Keith, was a very knowledgeable and articulate guide. My friend and I enjoyed listening to him share Scottish history and folklore, and how they intertwine with its geography, as well as the music that he’d play for us during particular stretches of silence. Scotland is a beautiful place, and exploring its relatively remote areas can seem daunting, so I highly recommend a tour like Rabbie’s if you want to explore its terrain under the guidance of someone intimately familiar with the land.
If you are English don’t bother
justineb417,Sep 21, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
1.00Be warned if you are English You will be hated by the tour guide for being English & Will be listening to how bad our government & royal family are & how we are all to blame for Brexit etc…. Got very boring . Also if you are a couple it’s a gamble if you will sit next each other as its first come first served. 6 seats are single seats. You are given several emails regarding the size of suitcase you are allowed. But 4 people turned up with enormous cases & nothing was said. Bed & Breakfast accommodation is a gamble. One B&B had damp plaster hanging from the bedroom ceiling & black mould all over the curtains.
It’s Magical!
annabntgs,Sep 14, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We went all over the Highlands and doing this small group tour with Rabbie's a great way to see a lot of the beauty of it. Although, I wish we could have stayed a lot longer in certain areas but I understand that it's a group tour and there's a lot of other cool places we still have to explore. We fell in love and would love to go back and do more hiking in the Quiraing and see the Old Man of Storr up close. Duncan M is an amazing tour guide and an excellent driver! Shared a lot of serious and funny histories of Scotland. Never a dull moment with him. We also had a great group and this is a very memorable trip because we met strangers all over the world that turns into friends.
Navigate28069606900,Jul 23, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This 5 day tour with Rabbie's was our favorite sights of our month-long travels in the UK. Driver and narrator Sinclair was topnotch. He made "coffee" stops regularly, meal stops, and gave the mini van tour enough time for photos and hikes.
Best way to experience the Highlands!
Mohamed A,Jun 18, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I booked the 5-day tour of the Scottish Highlands and it was extraordinary. Everything was perfectly organized: punctual departures, chosen attractions and high-quality accommodations. Our guide was called Andrew and he made the trip exceptional. He was super friendly and his attention to each travelers' needs was superb. His storytelling about the highland legends and history was very informative. Our accommodation chosen in Portree was Dunborrodale which had stunning views, delicious breakfast and relaxing outdoor garden. All in all, I highly recommend this tour as it's the best way to experience the Highlands!
Epic
NorthStar52697284378,Jun 12, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Thank you so much! The 4 day Outlander tour with Martin was brilliant. Martin was charming, knowlegeable of history and events and relevance to the series. He was responsible and had a great sense of humour. The 3 day Isle of Skye trip was beautiful. Rhys was a joy to travel with, with his great historical knowledge and engaging personality and humour, made for a remarkable experience. I have to add that there were two disruptive passengers on the trip who were handled effectively and considerately.
Great tour of the Scottish Highlands!
Z2530QIlindan,May 31, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Rabbie’s 5 day Highlands explorer tour was amazing! Ross, our guide, was extremely knowledgeable, and fun. He explained everything we were seeing, and often added a humorous story. We had plenty of time to explore each site we visited, and plenty bathroom and food breaks. We stayed in lovely B&B’s. Although keeping on schedule was important, we adjusted our itinerary several times to meet the differing needs of our group members. Small groups, comfortable vehicle, great accommodations, great tour guide, all made for an unforgettable experience. We highly recommend!
Excellent 5-day Tour
Steve Linda H,May 21, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Excellent 5-day Highlands Explorer tour in a comfortable, new 16-passenger coach. Our tour guide, Sinclair, was fantastic. His narrative was filled with relevant historical information, a variety of interesting topics including the culture, horticulture, weather, cuisine, etc. He was very interactive and promoted inclusive conversation. His main objective was for the comfort and happiness of our group. He gave us detailed information, including daily options and solicited input from the group ensuring fairness of all decisions. His music selection was enjoyable and was in sync with the tour. Sinclair is a confident and respectful driver, which was appreciated on the single track roads. Sinclair was exceptional and it is evident that he loves his job. We thoroughly enjoyed the tour despite some inclement weather. The reservation process was easy and efficient, and everyone we dealt with was pleasant and helpful. The Sheiling Guest House in Ullapool was magnificent. Maureen & Michael, the view, the immaculate accommodations, and the breakfast were phenomenal. It is definitely worth the short, flat walk into town. The Tongadale Hotel on the Isle of Skye was clean, friendly staff, good location, food was fair, tiny room, expensive, just OK. We highly recommend this tour with Rabbies. You will not be disappointed.
Incredible small group tour of the breathtaking Scottish Highlands and Isle of Skye
Jack M,Apr 20, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00We had an AMAZING experience with Alan on the highlands tour. It was a fantastic experience all around, breathtaking countryside, fun conversations, great information and restful periods of quiet. Our tour guide Alan brought a wealth of local knowledge on history, culture, geography and so many facts and tidbits of information (including 70s and 80s rock music!). He had a nice way of mixing stories with music and the stunning Scottish scenery as we drove through the Highlands and the Isle of Skye. And it was an outstanding itinerary, with just the right mix of touring, stopping, countryside and towns. We loved it. Having a smaller-sized bus (minivan) was also a huge advantage versus the big coach busses that can’t navigate or access all the key points on the tour. Alan was able to expertly weave our small bus in and out so that we never got stuck. We also had some great local meals at recommended stops. Accommodations were basic and fine. The highlight was the awesome countryside, among the most beautiful in the world, alongside the nice company and conversation we had on our minibus. We have done many tours around Europe and elsewhere. This was most certainly one of the very best! Thank you Alan and all!
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