



by The Hairy Coo
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Book on Viator Confirmed right away, but you pay full price.$486.06This three-day bus tour covers key locations in Scotland’s Highlands, including the Isle of Skye, Inverness, and the Glenfinnan Viaduct. The route highlights landscapes that served as film locations for productions like Harry Potter and James Bond. The tour includes a local driver-guide who provides live commentary and stories throughout the journey. Air conditioning is available on the vehicle, and regular comfort breaks are scheduled. The itinerary offers opportunities to see mountains linked to Scottish myths and legends, including natural features associated with giants and folklore. Visitors can also explore parts of the Isle of Skye known for their distinctive scenery. The tour lasts about 72 hours and departs from Edinburgh. Accommodation is not included, so travelers must arrange their own lodging, including a recommended two-night stay in Inverness near the meeting point. Passengers should be prepared for some short nature walks and bring appropriate clothing and footwear. The tour does not provide food, drinks, Wi-Fi, admission fees, or onboard restrooms. Luggage allowance includes one medium-sized bag stored in the coach hold and one smaller bag brought onboard. The minimum age to join is seven years, with younger travelers required to be accompanied by an adult.
Depart Edinburgh City Centre and head west, leaving the bustle of the city behind. Stop for photos of the Kelpies, the world's largest equine sculptures, before continue north through Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park.
30 min
We'll pass by Stirling, with views of the Wallace Monument and Stirling Castle - the most important castle in Scottish history. Its strategic location works as gateway between the Central Lowlands and the imposing Scottish Highlands to the North. Your guide will introduce you to our nation’s violent history with tales of William Wallace and Robert the Bruce as we see the Wallace Monument while driving by Stirling.
Stop for a short while in the town of Callander; “The Gateway to the Highlands.” Nestled at the foot of the Trossachs Callander offers plenty of places to stock up on refreshments and an opportunity to stretch your legs.
30 min
Follow in the footsteps of James Bond (‘Skyfall’) and Harry Potter (‘Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban’), as you discover the beautiful and haunting ‘Glencoe’, the most magnificent and famous valley in Scotland. The spectacular scenery will stay with you forever. Your guide will recount the tale of the infamous ‘Massacre of Glencoe’ that took place here in February 1692.
15 min
Travel north-west to discover the stunning Glenfinnan Viaduct, beautifully set among mountains on the shores of Loch Shiel. For some known as the "Harry Potter Bridge", this stunning viewpoint also marks the spot where Prince Charles Edward Stuart (Bonnie Prince Charlie) raised his standard prior to the 1745 Jacobite Rebellion. Go to the top of the monument for the best views of the Glen, as your guide introduces you to the dramatic story of the ‘Young Pretender’ and how his actions changed the course of European history forever.
45 min
Stop at the Commando Memorial, located at a training ground for Britain’s Special Forces. Weather permitting, you may also spot Ben Nevis, the tallest mountain in the United Kingdom.
15 min
You will arrive in Inverness at approximately 6PM at our city centre drop-off - Inverness Cathedral on Ardross Street, IV3 5NN. The evening is then your own to explore the city or meet up with your fellow travellers and enjoy a meal in a local restaurant or traditional Highland pub. Inverness has a huge variety of establishments to choose from, whether you’d like to try our national dish of Haggis, Neeps & Tatties, washed down with a wee dram of Scotch Whisky or a Local Organic Beer (try the Black Isle Brewery Bar!). During peak season, it is advisable to book a table ahead if you’re a larger group. After dinner, we recommend you head to the world-famous Hootenanny bar which has traditional Scottish musicians playing every night. Accommodation is not included, and arranged separately by passengers. We encourage staying within walking distance from the meeting point by Inverness Cathedral, and are happy to offer recommendations upon request.
840 min
Pass by - The Sligachan River flows majestically from the Black Cuillin Mountains, a truly magical location for your guide to introduce you to the local folklore of the island’s Fairies and Giants!
We stop at the Kyle of Lochalsh for morning coffee and a photograph opportunity of the famous Skye Bridge, with views of Skye’s Cuillin Mountain range providing a beautiful backdrop. Opened in 1995, this bridge has a remarkable history.
10 min
Enjoy lunch in the picturesque harbour town of Portree, the largest settlement on Skye. There are numerous cosy pubs, restaurants and bakeries for you to try seafood and other local dishes. Enjoy fish and chips by the harbour as the fishing boats deliver their latest catch!
60 min
Pass by - We explore the dramatic Trotternish Peninsula, with iconic rock formations which have made this area the perfect backdrop for recent movies such as ‘BFG’, ‘Prometheus’ and ‘Stardust’.
Finish your day of exploring Isle of Skye and head back to the main land.
Having explored Skye, we head back towards the mainland, stopping for photographs at the shores opposite Eilean Donan Castle, which is thought to be the most beautiful castle in Scotland! Built upon a rocky island at the head of three Sea Lochs (similar to Fjords), you will be impressed by this breathtaking Scottish landmark and the beautiful mountains and glistening waters that surround it.
15 min
You will arrive in Inverness at approximately 7:30PM at our city-centre drop off - Inverness Cathedral on Ardross Street, IV3 5NN. You have another evening to explore Inverness, enjoy the local cuisine and take in the atmosphere of cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands. Accommodation is not included, and arranged separately by passengers. We encourage staying within walking distance from the meeting point by Inverness Cathedral, and are happy to offer recommendations upon request.
780 min
Your guide will take you to the northern shores of Loch Ness, where you can join an optional Boat Cruise (tickets not included) exploring the features, history and lore of the beautiful area surrounding the loch.
60 min
Travel south to the fields of Culloden Moor, where you will hear the story of the infamous battle which took place here in 1746, the very last battle to be fought on British soil. This marked the end of Bonnie Prince Charlie’s hopes of becoming King. Walking on one of the most sombre sites in the country where many thousands of Highlanders died, for many Scots, this is where “the old Scotland died”. The battle changed Scotland, Britain and Europe forever.
45 min
Arrive at Clava Cairns where Diana Gabaldon found inspiration for ‘Craig Na Dun’ in the Outlander series. These fascinating Bronze-Age Standing-Stones and burial chambers are thought to be over 4,000 years old! Walk between the stones and hear about who built this intriguing place, and why.
20 min
You’ll then have the opportunity to experience Highland life in the 18th century and visit authentic Highland blackhouses at the ‘Highland Folk Museum’ (donation-based entry) in Newtonmore. You’ll see the simple homes people lived in 300 years ago, the clothes they wore and how they conducted their daily lives. The folk museum also has an on-site cafe where you can have lunch during our 90-minute visit. Also used as a filming location for ‘Outlander’, this place gives you a unique insight into the lives and struggles of the Highland people. Admission is free, but donations are welcomed. **Museum is open seasonally, and replaced by Ruthven Barracks during the winter**
60 min
Drive south through the west side of the dramatic Cairngorm National Park, the UK's largest national park. It is known and loved for it's tranquil lochs, imposing Munros and significant historical events.
Stop for a visit of the historic village of Pitlochry, in the heart of Scotland. Enjoy the beautiful scenery, the fresh air and the rich clan history of the region. Take a relaxing stroll or grab a bite to eat before continuing the journey south.
45 min
Your journey back to Edinburgh takes you across the famous Forth Bridges. The expected arrival time back in Edinburgh is around 6 PM.
We meet in front of Burns Monument, at 1759 Regent Road, Edinburgh. What3Words: ///allow.topped.joined CHECK-IN IS AT 8:00 AM, BUS DEPARTS AT 8:15 AM SHARP. *From April 1st 2026, we'll depart at 8:30 AM, check-in at 8:15 AM.*
End point
We meet in front of Burns Monument, at 1759 Regent Road, Edinburgh. What3Words: ///allow.topped.joined CHECK-IN IS AT 8:00 AM, BUS DEPARTS AT 8:15 AM SHARP. *From April 1st 2026, we'll depart at 8:30 AM, check-in at 8:15 AM.*