6-Day Outer Hebrides And Isle Of Skye Small-Group Tour From Edinburgh

Exploring the rugged beauty of Scotland’s remote Outer Hebrides and Isle of Skye has never been easier. This 6-day small-group tour from Edinburgh offers an immersive journey through the region’s stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Travelers can expect comfortable lodging, seamless transportation, and access to captivating sites like the Arnol Blackhouse. With a flexible itinerary and a knowledgeable guide, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or simply seeking an escape from the ordinary, this tour may just be the perfect fit.

Key Points

A 6-day small-group tour from Edinburgh that explores the Outer Hebrides and Isle of Skye, featuring white-sand beaches, charming villages, and ancient landmarks.
The tour includes round-trip ferry transport, 5 nights of en-suite accommodation with breakfast, and entrance to the Arnol Blackhouse.
The itinerary covers Dunkeld, Loch Ness, Ullapool, Isle of Lewis, Isle of Harris, and Isle of Skye, allowing for a flexible and immersive experience.
Travelers will have the opportunity to discover the natural beauty and cultural heritage of these remote Scottish islands on a 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach.
The tour departs from and returns to Edinburgh Bus Station, with a maximum luggage limit of 20kg per person.

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Tour Overview

This 6-day small-group tour from Edinburgh takes visitors to explore the white-sand beaches, charming villages, and ancient landmarks of the Outer Hebrides and Isle of Skye.

Travelers will journey to these remote Scottish islands aboard a 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach, with round-trip ferry transport included.

The itinerary offers a flexible and immersive experience, allowing participants to discover the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

From the Arnol Blackhouse to the Callanish Standing Stones, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure through some of Scotland’s most captivating landscapes.

With 5 nights of en-suite accommodation and breakfast provided, guests can relax and fully embrace the magic of the Outer Hebrides and Isle of Skye.

Inclusions

The tour includes 5 nights of en-suite accommodation with breakfast, round-trip ferry transport to the Outer Hebrides and Isle of Skye, and an entrance fee to the Arnol Blackhouse. This ensures that travelers can fully enjoy the stunning landscapes and rich history of the region without worrying about logistics.

The tour’s inclusions provide:

Comfortable lodging and daily sustenance to recharge for the next day’s adventures.
Seamless transportation across the waterways, allowing for efficient exploration of the islands.
Access to the captivating Arnol Blackhouse, offering a glimpse into traditional Scottish crofting life.

These thoughtful inclusions make this Outer Hebrides and Isle of Skye tour an exceptional value for participants.

Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off in Edinburgh, where participants board a 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach and head north to the picturesque town of Dunkeld.

From there, the journey continues to the legendary Loch Ness before arriving in Ullapool, a charming coastal town that serves as the base for the next day’s Outer Hebrides exploration.

On day two, the group ferries to the Isle of Lewis, where they visit the Blackhouse, Arnol, and the Dun Carloway Broch.

The following day includes a trip to the Isle of Harris and the stunning Luskentyre beaches before crossing to the Isle of Skye, where the next two days are spent exploring the island’s natural wonders and historic sites.

Day 1: Edinburgh to Ullapool

Departing from the vibrant city of Edinburgh, the tour commences its journey northward, making its way through the picturesque town of Dunkeld before arriving at the legendary Loch Ness. Here, guests will have the opportunity to explore the area and perhaps catch a glimpse of the elusive Loch Ness Monster.

The tour then continues on to Ullapool, a charming coastal town nestled on the shores of Loch Broom. Guests can look forward to:

Exploring the town’s quaint streets and harbor.
Visiting local shops and galleries showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Enjoying a hearty dinner featuring fresh seafood and local produce.

With its scenic landscapes and captivating history, the first day of the tour sets the stage for an unforgettable journey through the Outer Hebrides and Isle of Skye.

Days 2-4: Exploring the Outer Hebrides

From Ullapool, the tour heads out to the Outer Hebrides, where it spends the next three days exploring the region’s captivating natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

On day two, the group arrives in Stornoway, the largest town in the Outer Hebrides. They’ll visit the Arnol Blackhouse, a preserved 19th-century traditional thatched-roof dwelling, and Dun Carloway Broch, an impressive 2,000-year-old stone tower.

The next day, they’ll travel to the Isle of Harris, known for its stunning Luskentyre beaches, before returning to Stornoway.

On the final day in the Outer Hebrides, the tour explores the iconic Callanish Standing Stones, a remarkably well-preserved Neolithic monument, before heading to Portree on the Isle of Skye.

Day 5: Touring the Isle of Skye

On day five, the tour explores the stunning landscapes of the Isle of Skye, giving travelers a chance to enjoy the island’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

The itinerary for the day is flexible, allowing the guide to curate the experience based on the group’s interests and the weather conditions.

Some highlights of the day may include:

Visiting the dramatic Talisker Distillery, where visitors can learn about the art of whisky-making and sample the island’s renowned single malt.
Trekking to the Fairy Pools, a series of crystal-clear pools and waterfalls surrounded by the majestic Cuillin mountains.
Exploring the charming harbor town of Portree, with its colorful buildings, quaint shops, and lively pubs.

Day 6: Returning to Edinburgh

After exploring the enchanting Isle of Skye, the tour group typically departs Portree for the journey back to Edinburgh.

They’ll first visit the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, a picturesque 13th-century fortress situated at the meeting point of three lochs.

From there, the mini-coach continues through the dramatic landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, passing by Ben Nevis, the tallest mountain in the UK, and the breathtaking Glencoe valley before arriving back in the capital city.

The tour culminates at the Edinburgh Bus Station, Gate J and Gate K, St Andrew Square, where guests can say their goodbyes and continue their own adventures in Scotland.

Additional Information

The tour features 63 positive reviews, and the minimum age for participants is 5 years. Travelers are limited to 20kg of luggage per person.

It’s important to note that the Calanais Standing Stones site will be closed for renovations between September 1, 2024 and March 31, 2025.

Round-trip ferry transport to the Outer Hebrides and Isle of Skye is included, ensuring a seamless island-hopping experience.

Entrance to the Arnol Blackhouse is covered, allowing visitors to step back in time and explore this historic site.

The tour departs from and returns to the Edinburgh Bus Station, making it convenient for travelers based in or visiting the Scottish capital.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Request a Specific Hotel or B&B for the Outer Hebrides Stay?

Yes, you can request a specific hotel or B&B for the Outer Hebrides stay. The tour operator will try to accommodate your preference, but it’s subject to availability. Early booking is recommended to secure your preferred accommodation.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Special Meal Requests Accommodated?

The tour operator accommodates dietary restrictions and special meal requests, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options. Travelers should notify the operator of any dietary needs when booking the tour.

Can I Bring My Own Walking/Hiking Gear on the Tour?

Travelers are welcome to bring their own walking and hiking gear on the tour. The tour operator encourages guests to dress comfortably and bring appropriate footwear for the activities and weather conditions during the excursion.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration or Customize the Itinerary?

The tour operator may allow you to extend the duration or customize the itinerary for an additional fee. You’ll need to contact them directly to discuss your preferences and any available options.

Can I Arrange to Be Dropped off at a Location Other Than the Meeting Point?

Travelers can arrange to be dropped off at a different location, but this may incur an additional charge. The tour operator should be contacted in advance to discuss any special requests or changes to the standard itinerary.

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Recap

This small-group tour offers an immersive journey through the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage of the Outer Hebrides and Isle of Skye.

Travelers will experience remote Scottish islands, ancient landmarks, and charming villages, while enjoying comfortable lodging and seamless transportation.

With a flexible itinerary and captivating experiences, this tour provides an unforgettable exploration of the breathtaking scenery and vibrant traditions of these remote Scottish regions.