5 Day Private Tour: Highlands, Isle of Skye and Edinburgh
This five-day private tour is designed to showcase some of Scotland’s most distinctive landscapes, castles and historic towns. Travelling with a dedicated chauffeur, you will journey from Edinburgh through the Highlands, the Isle of Skye, Inverness, Perthshire and back to the capital, staying overnight in carefully selected locations along the way.
Day 1: Stirling Castle, Glencoe and Fort William
Stirling Castle
You will be collected in Edinburgh and driven through central Scotland to Stirling Castle, one of the country’s most important historic strongholds. Situated on a volcanic outcrop, the castle offers panoramic views across the Forth Valley and towards the Trossachs. Historically, it served as a principal royal residence of the Stewart Kings and Queens, and several key battles for Scottish independence, involving figures such as William Wallace and Robert the Bruce, took place in the surrounding area.
Glencoe
From Stirling, the journey continues north-west towards Glencoe, one of Scotland’s most dramatic mountain landscapes. The glen is known for its steep-sided peaks and deep valleys, as well as for its place in Scottish history. There is time to pause for photographs and, if you wish, to take a short walk or hike among the Three Sisters and other viewpoints.
Fort William
The first day concludes in Fort William, a town situated at the foot of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the United Kingdom. Often referred to as the Outdoor Capital of the UK, the area offers access to beaches, walking routes and mountain scenery. Subject to timing and conditions, there may be an opportunity to visit the Nevis Range and take the gondola to a higher vantage point. In the evening, you will be taken to your accommodation in Fort William for an overnight stay.
Day 2: Glenfinnan Viaduct and the Isle of Skye
Glenfinnan Viaduct
After collection from your accommodation in Fort William, the day begins with a visit to Glenfinnan Viaduct. This striking railway bridge is a notable example of Victorian engineering and carries the line high above the surrounding landscape. It is well known for its appearance in film and television productions, including the Harry Potter series.
Journey to the Isle of Skye
From Glenfinnan, you will travel west to Mallaig, where the ferry crossing to the Isle of Skye begins, subject to schedules and weather conditions. The crossing offers views of the coastline and islands before you arrive on Skye.
Isle of Skye Highlights
On Skye, your tour will include several well-known locations, which may include the Old Man of Storr, the Fairy Pools, the Quiraing, the harbour town of Portree and, if time and opening arrangements permit, Dunvegan Castle. The route is planned to provide a balanced introduction to the island’s scenery and points of interest. At the end of the day, you will be taken to your accommodation on Skye for an overnight stay.
Day 3: Eilean Donan Castle and Loch Ness (Overnight Inverness)
Eilean Donan Castle
On the third day, you will cross the Skye Bridge back to the mainland and continue to Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland’s most photographed castles. Situated at the meeting point of three sea lochs, the castle has a long history and was restored in the twentieth century after lying in ruins for around two hundred years. A visit here provides insight into both its strategic role and its later restoration as a family home.
Loch Ness
Following a break for lunch, the tour continues towards Loch Ness, one of Scotland’s most famous lochs. The surrounding area offers viewpoints, walking routes and, if you wish, the option to include a boat trip on the loch, subject to availability. This can provide a different perspective on the landscape and an opportunity to learn more about local history and folklore.
As the day draws to a close, you will be driven to Inverness, often referred to as the capital of the Highlands, where you will stay overnight.
Day 4: Blair Castle, Pitlochry and the Forth Bridges
Blair Castle
Departing Inverness, you will travel south through Highland and Perthshire scenery to Blair Castle. This historic property has been the seat of the Atholl family for centuries and has hosted a number of notable visitors, including Mary, Queen of Scots, Oliver Cromwell and Queen Victoria. The castle’s rooms and collections offer an overview of its varied and sometimes turbulent past.
Pitlochry
From Blair Castle, the tour continues to Pitlochry, a town known for its Victorian architecture, river views and access to surrounding hills. Visitors can explore the centre, visit local shops and, if desired, stop at one of the nearby whisky distilleries that continue to use traditional methods of production.
Forth Bridges and Return to Edinburgh
Later in the day, you will cross the Queensferry Crossing, the most recent of three major bridges spanning the Firth of Forth. Alongside it stands the Forth Bridge, a nineteenth-century railway bridge recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The views from this part of the journey provide a memorable introduction to Edinburgh’s coastal approaches. You will then be taken to your accommodation in central Edinburgh for an overnight stay.
Day 5: Edinburgh Castle, Holyroodhouse and the Old & New Towns
Your final day focuses on the city of Edinburgh itself. Built on a series of hills, the capital features a blend of medieval, Georgian and modern architecture and has long been an important centre of culture and government in Scotland.
Edinburgh Castle
The day begins with a visit to Edinburgh Castle, which overlooks the city from an ancient volcanic rock. Visitors can view the Crown Jewels of Scotland, historic Royal apartments, exhibitions and the castle’s former military prison. The site also offers wide views across the city and surrounding area.
Palace of Holyroodhouse
The next major stop is the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. The palace includes the State Apartments, the ruins of Holyrood Abbey and the historic apartments once occupied by Mary, Queen of Scots. Together, they provide an overview of the building’s role in Scotland’s royal and political history.
Old and New Towns of Edinburgh
The final part of the tour takes you through Edinburgh’s Old Town and New Town, both recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Old Town retains its medieval street pattern and historic buildings, while the New Town is known for its Georgian architecture and planned layout. There will be time to walk, visit selected shops and pick up any last souvenirs before your chauffeur returns you to your accommodation for your final night in Edinburgh.
If you would like further information about this five-day private tour of Scotland, or wish to discuss a tailored itinerary, please visit our contact page.
