3 Day Journey from Inverness to Isle of Skye Including Jacobite Steam Train Ride
by Highland Explorer Tours Inverness
Overview
The Isle of Skye is known for its rugged landscapes and historic sites. This three-day tour from Inverness includes travel through the Scottish Highlands with stops at Loch Ness and other scenic locations. The tour features a ride on the Jacobite Steam Train, a well-known heritage railway experience. Along the way, the route passes romantic castles, waterfalls, and the famous Eilean Donan Castle, offering insight into Scotland’s cultural heritage. The tour lasts about 72 hours and includes breakfast each day. Transport is provided with air conditioning, and a driver-guide accompanies the group throughout. The Jacobite Steam Train ticket is included, but lunch and dinner are not provided. Guests should plan accordingly for meals not covered in the itinerary. This cultural tour provides a mix of scenic travel and historic places, with the Jacobite Steam Train ride as a highlight. Return times may vary due to road and weather conditions, and travelers should allow extra time for connections after the tour ends.
Highlights
What's included
What's not included
Itinerary
Loch Ness Photo Stop
A photo stop is made at Loch Ness, featuring views of the derelict 13th century Urquhart Castle.
10 min
Commando Memorial
The tour stops at the Commando Memorial, which honors the original British Commando Forces who died in World War II. The monument was erected in 1951 and offers views of Ben Nevis in the distance.
15 min
Jacobite Steam Train Ride
Guests have the option to join the Jacobite Steam Train on the West Highland Line between Mallaig and Fort William, known for its scenic coastline and beaches. The train crosses the 21-arch Glenfinnan Viaduct with views over Loch Shiel, where Bonnie Prince Charlie landed in August 1745. Along the route, the Small Isles and beaches at Arisaig and Morar are visible.
120 min
Mallaig Lunch Stop
After the steam train, the group arrives in Mallaig, a fishing village where there is time for lunch and to stretch before continuing to Skye.
60 min
Crossing to Skye
The journey continues over the sea to Skye, with opportunities to observe wildlife departing from the mainland.
30 min
Sligachan Old Bridge
At Sligachan Old Bridge, legend says the waters grant eternal youth. The location also provides views of the Cuillin Hills.
30 min
Fairy Pools
There is a stop to see the fairy pools, known for their clear waters. The guide shares local folklore and fairy tales related to the island.
105 min
Dunvegan Lunch Stop
Lunch is taken in Dunvegan, a small village on Skye noted for Dunvegan Castle.
60 min
Quiraing Viewpoint
The tour stops to view the Quiraing on Skye’s Trotternish peninsula, featuring dramatic cliffs and rock pinnacles.
30 min
Kilt Rock and Mealt Waterfall
Visitors see Kilt Rock, a cliff resembling a kilt, along with the Mealt Waterfall flowing into the ocean.
15 min
Old Man of Storr
The Old Man of Storr, a prominent rock formation on Skye’s ancient landslip, is visited. It is sometimes obscured by mist and is associated with local fairy folklore.
15 min
Eilean Donan Castle
The tour stops at Eilean Donan Castle, Scotland’s most photographed castle, linked to clans MacKenzie and MacRae. Entrance fee is payable on arrival.
90 min
Beauly Village
The tour stops in the Highland village of Beauly, where visitors can explore the area. At its center lies Beauly Priory, a ruined monastic site dating back to the 13th century.
60 min
Glen Ord Whisky Distillery
The next stop is Glen Ord for a Highland whisky experience. Guests can sample a dram while the guide explains the whisky-making process and the history of whisky in Scotland.
45 min
Culloden Battlefield
Culloden Battlefield is visited as a solemn site largely preserved to honor those who died in the final Jacobite Uprising of 1746. Entry is payable on arrival.
45 min
Clava Cairns Standing Stones
Visitors see the Clava Cairns, a bronze age burial site with standing stones approximately 10 feet tall. The site was one of the inspirations for Outlander.
20 min
Meeting point
Meet 15 minutes before departure, across from the Victorian Market entrance, for check-in. Look for a blue or yellow bus.
End point
Meet 15 minutes before departure, across from the Victorian Market entrance, for check-in. Look for a blue or yellow bus.
Languages
Cancellation policy
- Cancel at least 24 hours before start for a full refund.
Additional info
More things to do in Inverness
- Glenfinnan Viaduct & The Great Glen Private Day Trip from Inverness
- Inverness Loch Ness & Highlands Day Trip including Urquhart Castle, Fort Augustus, Falls of Foyers and Dores Beach
- Isle of Skye and Fairy Pools Day Trip from Inverness with Loch Ness and Eilean Donan Castle
- Loch Ness 1-Hour Cruise with Views of Urquhart Castle
- Isle of Skye Full-Day Private Tour from Inverness by Land Rover or Minibus
- Isle of Skye 1-Day Bus Tour from Inverness: Fairy Pools, Talisker Distillery, Portree, and Eilean Donan Castle