Edinburgh to Kelpies and Loch Lomond

Depart Edinburgh City Centre heading west away from the city. Pause for photographs of the Kelpies, which are the largest equine sculptures worldwide, before continuing north through Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park.

30 min

Drive-by Stirling and Wallace Monument

Travel past Stirling, observing Stirling Castle, a castle of major significance in Scottish history, and the Wallace Monument. This site marks the transition between the Central Lowlands and the northern Scottish Highlands. While passing the Wallace Monument, the guide will recount stories about William Wallace and Robert the Bruce.

Callander Stop for Refreshments

Make a short stop in Callander, known as the Gateway to the Highlands. Situated at the base of the Trossachs, Callander provides opportunities to buy refreshments and stretch legs.

30 min

Glencoe Valley and History

Visit Glencoe, a well-known valley in Scotland featured in James Bond’s ‘Skyfall’ and ‘Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban’. The guide will recount the Massacre of Glencoe that occurred in February 1692.

15 min

Glenfinnan Viaduct and Monument

Travel northwest to the Glenfinnan Viaduct located among mountains by Loch Shiel. Known as the ‘Harry Potter Bridge’, this viewpoint is also where Prince Charles Edward Stuart raised his standard before the 1745 Jacobite Rebellion. Climb to the top of the monument for views and hear about the ‘Young Pretender’ and his historical impact.

45 min

Commando Memorial and Ben Nevis View

Stop at the Commando Memorial, situated at a training ground for Britain’s Special Forces. If weather permits, Ben Nevis, the tallest mountain in the UK, may be visible.

15 min

Inverness Arrival and Evening

Reach Inverness city centre at about 6PM, with drop-off near Inverness Cathedral located on Ardross Street, IV3 5NN. Guests have free time in the evening to explore or dine at local restaurants or traditional Highland pubs. Options include Scotland’s national dish, Haggis, Neeps & Tatties, paired with Scotch Whisky or beer from the Black Isle Brewery. It is recommended that larger groups book tables in advance during busy periods. Following dinner, the Hootenanny bar features nightly performances of traditional Scottish music. Accommodation is not included and should be arranged independently; staying close to Inverness Cathedral is advised, with recommendations available on request.

840 min

Drive-by Sligachan River

Pass by the Sligachan River, which flows from the Black Cuillin Mountains. The guide will share local island folklore about Fairies and Giants at this location.

Kyle of Lochalsh Coffee and Photos

Stop at Kyle of Lochalsh for morning coffee and photographs of the Skye Bridge, opened in 1995. The bridge offers views of Skye’s Cuillin Mountain range in the background.

10 min

Lunch in Portree Harbour Town

Have lunch in Portree, the largest town on Skye. Numerous pubs, restaurants, and bakeries offer local seafood and dishes. Fish and chips can be enjoyed by the harbour as fishing boats unload their catch.

60 min

Drive-by Trotternish Peninsula

Drive through the Trotternish Peninsula, known for its distinctive rock formations. This area has been used as a filming location for movies such as ‘BFG’, ‘Prometheus’, and ‘Stardust’.

Return from Isle of Skye

Conclude the day’s exploration of the Isle of Skye and return to the mainland.

Eilean Donan Castle Viewpoint

After leaving Skye, there is a stop for photographs at the shores opposite Eilean Donan Castle. The castle is situated on a rocky island at the meeting point of three sea lochs. Visitors can observe the surrounding mountains and waters.

15 min

Inverness Cathedral Drop-off

Arrival in Inverness is at approximately 7:30 PM at the city-centre drop-off near Inverness Cathedral on Ardross Street, IV3 5NN. Passengers have the evening free to explore the city and its dining options. Accommodation is not included and should be arranged independently, preferably within walking distance of the meeting point. Recommendations are available on request.

780 min

Loch Ness Northern Shores

The guide leads to the northern shores of Loch Ness where passengers may choose to join an optional boat cruise. Tickets for the cruise are not included. The cruise explores the features, history, and local stories of the area around the loch.

60 min

Culloden Moor Battlefield

Travel south to Culloden Moor to learn about the 1746 battle, the last fought on British soil. This battle ended Bonnie Prince Charlie’s claim to the throne. Visitors walk the site where thousands of Highlanders died, a place considered by many Scots as where “the old Scotland died.” The battle had lasting effects on Scotland, Britain, and Europe.

45 min

Clava Cairns Standing Stones

Arrive at Clava Cairns, the inspiration for ‘Craig Na Dun’ in the Outlander series. The Bronze-Age standing stones and burial chambers are estimated to be over 4,000 years old. Visitors walk among the stones while learning about their builders and purpose.

20 min

Highland Folk Museum Visit

Visit the Highland Folk Museum in Newtonmore to experience 18th-century Highland life and see authentic blackhouses. The museum shows homes, clothing, and daily life from 300 years ago. There is an on-site cafe available during the 90-minute visit. The museum is donation-based and was a filming location for ‘Outlander’. It operates seasonally and is replaced by Ruthven Barracks in winter.

60 min

Drive Through Cairngorm National Park

Drive south through the western area of Cairngorm National Park, the largest national park in the UK. The park is noted for its quiet lochs, prominent Munros, and historical significance.

Pitlochry Village Stop

Stop at the historic village of Pitlochry located centrally in Scotland. Visitors can enjoy the scenery, fresh air, and local clan history. There is time for a walk or to get food before continuing south.

45 min

Return via Forth Bridges

The return journey to Edinburgh crosses the Forth Bridges. The expected arrival time in Edinburgh is around 6 PM.