5-Day Highland Explorer and Isle of Skye Small-Group Tour From Edinburgh

This five-day guided tour from Edinburgh offers travelers a chance to enjoy the captivating landscapes of the Scottish Highlands and the Isle of Skye. With a maximum of 16 passengers, the tour promises a personalized experience as you explore historic sites, discover picturesque villages, and witness the region’s breathtaking natural beauty. While the strict luggage allowance and cancellation policy may require some planning, the included accommodation, breakfast, and comfortable transportation in a Mercedes mini-coach make this tour an enticing option for those seeking an in-depth exploration of this remarkable part of Scotland. What you’ll discover along the way, however, may just surprise you.

Key Points

• 5-day guided small-group tour from Edinburgh to the Scottish Highlands and Isle of Skye, using a 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach.
• Visits historic locations like Ardvreck Castle and remote villages, with opportunities to discover ancient history, stunning nature, and Scottish culture.
• Includes 4 nights’ accommodation in B&Bs and 3-star hotels, with daily breakfast to fuel the day’s adventures.
• Strict luggage allowance of 1 medium suitcase and 1 small onboard bag to maintain order and efficiency during transfers.
• Full refund available if canceled at least 21 days before the tour start, with a flexible cancellation policy to accommodate travelers’ needs.

Overview of the Tour

This 5-day guided small-group tour takes visitors from Edinburgh to explore the stunning Scottish Highlands and the Isle of Skye.

The tour includes visits to historic locations like the ruins of Ardvreck Castle.

With a maximum of 16 passengers, the tour uses a 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach for transportation.

Accommodation and daily breakfast are included, with 2 nights in Ullapool and 2 nights in Portree on the Isle of Skye.

Admission fees aren’t included, and the tour has a strict cancellation policy – full refunds are available if cancelled at least 21 days before the start time, but no refunds are offered for cancellations within 21 days.

Meeting Point and Check-in

The tour departs from Edinburgh Bus Station, St Andrew Square, Edinburgh. Passengers must check in at least 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time. This is to ensure a prompt and organized departure.

The bus station is a convenient meeting point, located in the heart of the city. Its central location makes it easily accessible for travelers. Participants should arrive with ample time to check in and board the mini-coach.

Latecomers risk missing the departure, so it’s important to allow enough time. The tour guide will be on-site to greet passengers and facilitate the check-in process. With a maximum group size of 16, the check-in ensures the tour starts smoothly and efficiently.

Tour Group and Luggage Allowance

With a maximum of 16 passengers, the tour is designed for small groups, allowing for a more personalized and intimate experience. Participants are permitted to bring 1 medium suitcase or bag (55cm x 45cm x 25cm) plus a small onboard bag, ensuring ample but manageable luggage during the journey.

Passenger Limit	Suitcase Allowance
16	1 medium (55x45x25cm)
	1 small onboard bag

The 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach ensures comfortable transportation throughout the tour, while the luggage restrictions help maintain order and efficiency during transfers and accommodations.

Included Accommodation and Breakfast

Participants can look forward to 4 nights of en-suite accommodation, split between B&Bs and 3-star hotels in the towns of Ullapool and Portree on the Isle of Skye.

Daily breakfast is included, giving travelers the energy they’ll need for the day’s adventures.

The cozy accommodations provide a comfortable place to rest after exploring historic castles and taking in the stunning Highland scenery.

With 2 nights in each location, guests can settle in and experience the local culture.

This inclusive package ensures a hassle-free trip, allowing participants to focus on making the most of their time in the Scottish Highlands and on the Isle of Skye.

Highlights of the Itinerary

Across the 5-day journey, explorers will discover historic ruins, picturesque villages, and breathtaking Highland landscapes.

Travelers can look forward to visits to sites like the evocative Ardvreck Castle, once a stronghold of the Clan Mackenzie.

The tour also ventures to remote villages, such as Plockton, known for its charming thatched cottages and easy access to the sea.

Of course, no trip to Scotland would be complete without time spent exploring the captivating Isle of Skye, renowned for its dramatic cliffs, lochs, and Gaelic-speaking communities.

Whether you’re seeking ancient history, stunning natural scenery, or a glimpse into traditional Scottish culture, this tour has something to delight every traveler.

Admission Fees and Inclusions

The tour itself doesn’t include admission fees to any attractions or sites visited during the journey. Travelers must purchase tickets separately for activities such as visiting Ardvreck Castle or exploring the towns and villages along the route.

The tour package, however, does include the following:

• 4 nights of en-suite accommodation in B&B or 3-star hotels
• 2 nights in Ullapool and 2 nights in Portree on the Isle of Skye
• Daily breakfast
• Transportation via a 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach
• A maximum of 16 passengers for a more intimate experience

Travelers should plan to bring a medium-sized suitcase or bag, as well as a smaller carry-on for the duration of the tour.

Cancellation and Refund Policy

Travelers can receive a full refund if they cancel their booking at least 21 days before the tour’s start time, but no refund is provided for cancellations within 21 days of the experience.

This flexible cancellation policy allows customers to plan their trip with confidence, knowing they can get their money back if their plans change. The tour operator understands that unexpected circumstances can arise, so they’ve implemented this policy to accommodate travelers’ needs.

Getting to the Departure Point

Tour participants meet at the Edinburgh Bus Station, located in St Andrew Square, where check-in closes 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time. This centrally-located bus station provides easy access for those joining the tour.

To reach the meeting point, visitors can:

1. Take the tram or bus to St Andrew Square.
2. Catch the train to Waverley Station and walk a short distance to the bus station.
3. Drive and utilize the nearby parking facilities.
4. Arrange for a taxi or rideshare service to drop them off at the departure point.

The tour departs promptly, so participants are advised to arrive with enough time to complete the check-in process and board the mini-coach for the start of their Highland Explorer and Isle of Skye adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Average Group Size for the Tour?

The average group size for the tour is a maximum of 16 passengers. The tour is conducted in a 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach, ensuring a small-group experience.

Is There a Limit on the Number of Passengers?

There is a limit on the number of passengers for this tour. The maximum group size is 16 passengers, as stated in the tour logistics section. The small group size allows for a more personalized experience.

Can I Bring Extra Luggage on the Tour?

The tour has a luggage allowance of 1 medium suitcase/bag plus a small onboard bag. Passengers can’t bring additional large luggage, as the tour uses a 16-seat mini-coach with limited storage space.

Are Meals Other Than Breakfast Included?

The tour includes daily breakfast, but other meals are not included. Passengers are responsible for purchasing their own lunches and dinners during the tour.

Is Wi-Fi Available on the Mini-Coach?

The tour does not provide Wi-Fi on the mini-coach. Travelers should plan to rely on their own mobile data or find internet access at the accommodations during the tour.

Recap

This 5-day guided tour from Edinburgh offers an immersive journey through the Scottish Highlands and Isle of Skye.

Travelers will explore historic sites, discover picturesque villages, and experience the captivating landscapes, all while enjoying comfortable transportation and a personalized experience.

With a strict luggage allowance and cancellation policy, it’s important for travelers to plan accordingly for this unforgettable adventure.