3-Day Budget Backpacker Isle of Skye and the Highlands Tour from Edinburgh

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Overview

Available languages

German
Portuguese
Chinese
English
Italian
French
Spanish

72 hours

Mobile ticket

The Skye High is a wee gem. Ideal for travelers short on time who want to get the most out of their trip to Scotland. All the best stuff is packed in: Nessie hunting, ruined castles, stunning Lochs and dramatic mountains. All this as you listen to tales of Celtic myths and legends before a couple of great nights in a Highland pub. Then there is the star of the show - the beautiful Isle of Skye.

Additional Info

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Minimum age to stay in the hostel is 18 years old.

If special assistance is required, passenger must provide their own carer

It is recommended to book transport to the departure point in advance. Please also allow extra time to get to the departure point for check-in. We advise you arrive at least 15 minutes before the tour departure to allow time to check-in for the tour. Unfortunately, we are unable to hold the bus or refund for any late arrivals.

Return times are approximate and subject to road conditions and weather. Please ensure you allocate sufficient time for any onward travel plans, allowing at least 3 hours after the scheduled return time for connections or activities.

This tour may run in conjunction with our sister company, Highland Explorer Tours.

During April and October, the Jacobite Steam Train and the ferry ride to Isle of Skye take place on day 3.

Not recommended for travelers with mobility concerns

Cancellation Policy

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

What‘s Included

2 nights mixed gender multi-share dorm accommodation

Air-conditioned vehicle

Local English Speaking Guide

Dundreggan Rewilding Centre

Food and drinks, unless specified

Gratuities

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Attraction entry fees

What To Expect

Day 1

Edinburgh to Isle of Skye

Accommodations

Overnight in Portree: mixed-gender multi-share hostel dorm

1

Forth Bridge

View the iconic Forth Bridge while crossing over to the Kingdom of Fife

Admission Not Applicable
2

Callander

Visit the charming town of Callander for a moment, before we head into Rannoch Moor - Britain's last wilderness.

30 minutes • Admission Not Applicable
3

Glencoe

We stop for a photo opportunity of the incredibly stunning Glen Coe and the Three Sisters, learning about the events which inspired the "Red Wedding" from Game of Thrones

15 minutes • Admission Not Applicable
4

Fort William

Take in this classic Highland town while checking out some locals shops and eateries. Here, you will also have the chance to board the world famous Jacobite Steam Train, aka Hogwarts Express, between April and October - reach out to our team to learn more

1 hour • Admission Not Applicable
5

Portree

During the summer months, we will board a ferry to the magical Isle of Skye, while during the winter months we will take a scenic route over the bridge. In the colourful town of Portree, we get comfortable for the next 2 nights

1 hour • Admission Not Applicable
Day 2

Isle of Skye

Accommodations

Overnight in Portree: mixed-gender multi-share hostel dorm

1

The Old Man of Storr

Leaving Portree bright and early, we explore the windswept landscape, stunning coastline and dramatic mountain ranges. There will be time for a walk if weather and conditions permit.

30 minutes • Admission Not Applicable
2

Kilt Rock

View the incredible coastal rock formations known as Kilt Rock, and take in general epic views that nature has formed

20 minutes • Admission Not Applicable
3

Dunvegan Castle & Gardens

In the summer months, the afternoon is spent exploring Dunvegan Castle, ancestral home of the Chiefs of Clan MacLeod, which still holds the legendary fairy flag. Learn about the legend surrounding this and get a feel of historical Clan life

2 hours • Admission Not Included
4

Sligachan Old Bridge

Stop at various places on the Isle of Skye where your guide will recount the many myths and legends that come from the area, one of which is the magical benefits of the water by Sligachan Bridge

20 minutes • Admission Not Applicable
5

Isle of Skye

Finish off your day of exploring the Isle of Skye in Portree, the island’s vibrant harbor town.

Admission Not Applicable
Day 3

Isle of Skye to Edinburgh

1

Eilean Donan Castle

Leaving the misty isle behind, we head straight for a photo opportunity of the most romantic castle in Scotland.

20 minutes • Admission Not Applicable
2

Dundreggan Rewilding Centre

Scotland is focused on restoring the ancient Caledonian woodlands, and we make a stop at the rewilding centre to walk among the ancient pine forest and learn about the important work they do

1 hour • Admission Included
3

Fort Augustus

See the incredible canals at Fort Augustus at the edge of Loch Ness where, if lucky, you might spot the infamous Nessie! You can also browse the many local shops or stop for a quick lunch.

1 hour • Admission Not Applicable
4

After lunch, we make a photo stop at the Commando Memorial by Spean Bridge

20 minutes • Admission Not Applicable
5

Dunkeld

The last stop of our tour before heading back to Edinburgh is the quaint cathedral town of Dunkeld, where you can stroll the charming streets or have a quick visit at the gorgeous cathedral itself

45 minutes • Admission Not Applicable

Options

3 Day Skye High Hostel

A fantastic trip into the Highlands of Scotland and the stunning Isle of Skye. Go Nessie hunting on Loch Ness, travel through the mysterious Glencoe and experience true Scottish mythology in Skye

Reviews

4.84

271 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

245
17
4
2
3
  • Great Time

    f7yh2jh724,

    Jul 25, 2024

    - Viator

    5.00

    I had a wonderful time. Isle of Skye is absolutely beautiful! The tour guide was so kind, helpful and informative. The hostel was nice and what I needed. Highly recommend!

  • Nice saff, but not as advertised.

    Yvonne C,

    Jun 7, 2024

    - Viator

    3.00

    Cara was great, really looked after everyone. However, I booked this trip planning to see Eilean Donan (the castle in the picture advertising this trip)! And that was taken off the itinerary even though on Viator it said we would spend 1 hr there. Also, the bus really is too big for Isle of Skye (which is beautiful). Again, staff was super super nice.

  • Cara is the a legit Wonder Woman Isle of Skye tour guide for a stunning Isle of Skye Experience

    Trayah Z,

    Jun 8, 2023

    - Viator

    5.00

    Cara is such an inspiration!!! Not only did she drive a massive bus impeccably through hairpin turns and park backwards into tight spots in busy chaotic lots; she guided 30 of us with full commentary and engaging stories throughout. Cara is stunningly beautiful both inside and out. She is kind, compassionate and really cares for her guests. I can’t sing enough praises about this unique Wonder-woman!!! AND The Isle of Skye is absolutely stunning!!!

  • Super fun, beautiful views, great tour guides

    Moira S,

    Feb 22, 2022

    - Viator

    5.00

    This weekend I had an amazing time. Tom, Lorna, Louisa, and Owen were the tour guides and they were absolutely fantastic. Lots of great tales and history plus they were also down for a nice chat at any point. We hit a lot of great places that were beyond beautiful and it was the perfect taster to see the Highlands. Definitely will be doing another longer tour in the near future.

  • Brilliant

    Curiosity09249695500,

    Jun 13, 2019

    - Viator

    5.00

    Our guider and driver Rich is very nice and funny, he introduced many stories and played nice music. We do enjoy our 3 days trip in Scotland.

From £325.00

4.84
271 reviews