• Loch Ness - Departing from Inverness, the journey follows the enigmatic shores of Loch Ness — keep a lookout, as Nessie might just make an appearance! As the road meanders between rugged hills, past shadowy lochans, and through wild, windswept glens, the guide will bring the landscape to life with stories of tragedy, resilience, and rebellion. Discover how centuries of turbulent history have shaped not only the people of the Highlands but also the hauntingly beautiful, empty landscapes that stretch out before you today.

After passing the 5 Sisters of Kintail, Loch Duich will soon greet us, welcoming us to Scotland’s stunning west coast after a 2-hour drive.

• Eilean Donan Castle - A stop will be made at one of the world’s most photographed castles — the iconic Eilean Donan. Recognizable from films like Highlander and James Bond, nothing compares to seeing its fairytale silhouette in person. A 10-minute pause at the classic viewpoint allows for soaking up the romance and capturing that essential photo! From here, it’s a short drive to the Skye Bridge. Please note that there is no time to enter the castle.
• Skye Bridge - From Eilean Donan Castle, the journey continues along the coast to the iconic Skye Bridge. Once a topic of fierce debate, this sweeping crossing now gracefully carries travelers over Loch Alsh, offering shimmering views of the water below and the rugged silhouettes of Skye’s mountains ahead. After learning about the bridge’s fascinating history, the journey continues onto the island itself, leading through dramatic scenery towards the majestic Cuillin Mountains (approximately 40 minutes from the bridge).
• Sligachan Old Bridge - This is the first opportunity to step into the world-class scenery that has been traveled so far to see!

Immediately, sweeping views of the dramatic Black Cuillin Mountains reward visitors. A short stroll away lies a picture-perfect stone bridge, dating back to 1810, alongside a striking bronze memorial to two pioneering climbers who made many of the first ascents in these peaks.

While many visitors pause here and go no further, this tour does things differently. To truly appreciate the wild beauty of this island, join the guide on a one-mile walk into the heart of the scenery — a chance to escape the crowds and immerse in the splendid isolation that makes Skye unforgettable.

For those who prefer, there’s also an alternative walk to discover crystal-clear pools and waterfalls — a magical spot the guide will be happy to share.

About one hour will be spent here, providing time to explore and whetting the appetite for the breathtaking scenery ahead.

• Portree - Skye’s main town, Portree, boasts an enviable setting, with its colorful harbor framed by picturesque cliffs and hills.

For those seeking a Skye souvenir, the town offers craft shops, independent boutiques, and galleries, all clustered in its compact center and easy to explore during the 45 minutes here. Alternatively, a stroll to the harbor reveals the striking row of pastel-colored houses overlooking the bay (the guide will be happy to point out the best photo spot!).

At the start of the tour, there was an opportunity to pre-order lunch from a superb Skye bakery, which prepares its delicious goods exclusively for guests. If pre-ordered, the guide will collect it in Portree.

• Fairy Glen - Step into Skye’s fairytale world at the enchanting Fairy Glen, near Uig. For 30 magical minutes, wander among grassy mounds, cone-shaped hills, and tiny lochans in a landscape that feels lifted from folklore.

At its heart stands Castle Ewen, a natural rock tower resembling a ruined keep. A short, steep climb takes visitors to the top, where sweeping views reveal this whimsical and otherworldly terrain — said to be shaped by glaciers or by fairies. It’s the perfect place to let the imagination run wild.

• Quiraing - The Quiraing is a dramatic series of ancient landslips, creating some of Skye’s most awe-inspiring scenery. Instantly recognizable from films such as Stardust, Prometheus, and The BFG, it stands as one of the island’s true natural icons. Jagged pinnacles, towering cliffs, and sweeping plateaus give the landscape an otherworldly quality unlike anywhere else in Scotland.

Around 40–60 minutes will be spent here, and there’s no need to stray far from the mini-coach to discover a personal slice of Skye wilderness. Explore at your own pace, or join the guide on a short hike that leads closer to the Quiraing’s towering ridge, where sweeping views stretch across the Trotternish Peninsula.

From here, the journey begins south down the Trotternish Peninsula towards the island’s most famous landmark — the Old Man of Storr — where the best hike of the day awaits.

• The Old Man of Storr - The next stop is one of Skye’s true icons: the mighty Old Man of Storr. This jagged basalt pinnacle is said in legend to be the thumb of a giant buried beneath the hillside – and whether the story is believed or not, its striking silhouette is unforgettable.

The hike from the car park up to the base of the Old Man is a round trip of around 3 miles (5km). The trail is well-maintained, well-marked, and easy to follow, with a fairly steep ascent of 1,105ft (340m). It usually takes 45–60 minutes up and 30–40 minutes down. There is a good path all the way, with well-laid stone steps towards the top.

Along the way, enjoy sweeping views of the other dramatic pinnacles, and on a clear day, there may even be a glimpse of the jagged Black Cuillins, the softer Red Cuillins, and the islands of Raasay and Rona across the Sound.

This is undoubtedly one of the most rewarding walks on the island – for many guests, it’s worth joining the tour for this hike alone!

• Dornie - After an incredible day on the Isle of Skye, the journey back to Inverness begins, arriving around 8.45-9pm.

While the sightseeing is behind, the tour isn’t quite finished. The guide will keep the journey entertaining with stories, music, and a good dose of Scottish humor, ensuring the return leg is as enjoyable as the rest of the day.

Some guests like to share highlights with new friends, while others sit back and listen to the tales unfolding on board. However the time is spent, the drive back is designed to round off the adventure in the best possible way.

By the time the city is reached, it’s certain that guests will step off the coach with not only photographs but also the spirit of Skye — memories to carry long after the day is done.

• Local tour guide
• In-vehicle air conditioning

• Lunch
• No hotel pick-up/drop-off

The Skye Explorer Tour is ideal for those eager to delve into the island’s stunning scenery. Participants will embark on four memorable hikes: the striking Cuillin Mountains, the magical Fairy Glen, the renowned Old Man of Storr, and the breathtaking Quiraing. During the journey, there will be a lunch break in the delightful village of Portree and a photo stop at the famous Eilean Donan Castle.

An experienced local tour guide, who is also a seasoned hiking guide, will provide entertainment and expert guidance throughout the day.

• This tour is not suitable for children under the age of 10
• Tour duration includes the travel time
• Tour check in closes at 7.40am and the tour departs promptly at 7.45am. We are unable to wait for latecomers.
• This tour is not suitable for guests with mobility aids

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.