3 Day Winter Isle of Skye and Loch Ness Tour from Inverness
Overview
Available languages
72 hours
Mobile ticket
Embark on a small group three-day adventure through Scotland’s enchanting winter landscapes, from the iconic Loch Ness to the dramatic Isle of Skye. This tour features visits to Eilean Donan Castle , the Fairy Pools*, and Quiraing Mountain Range, promising captivating scenery and rich folklore. Enjoy a two-night stay at a cozy B&B in Portree and experience whisky tasting at a local distillery . Uncover Scotland’s heritage while exploring Culloden Battlefield and Clava Cairns, making this tour perfect for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
*Due to its remote location, our visit to the Fairy Pools may be subject to weather and road conditions.
Additional Info
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Inverness to Isle of Skye
Accommodations
Overnight in Portree, 3-star deluxe B&B
We make a photo stop at Loch Ness with views of the 13th century Urquhart Castle, now derelict.
Invermoriston Falls
The name River Moriston translates to ‘river of waterfalls’. From the car park, a scenic trail follows the river as it cascades toward Loch Ness, then loops back through peaceful woodland to complete the route. Towering Scots pines and a lush undergrowth of mosses and ferns create a serene and enchanting forest walk.
Fort Augustus
The village of Fort Augustus sits at the southern tip of Loch Ness. Wander along one of the most picturesque sections of the Caledonian Canal and look down the length of the loch from the Loch Ness Viewpoint.
Commando Monument
We stop at the Commando Memorial which pays tribute to the men of the original British Commando Forces who lost their lives during World War II. The monument was built in 1951 and stands proudly with views of Ben Nevis in the distance.
Glenfinnan Viaduct
The Glenfinnan Viaduct is known to many as the ‘Harry Potter Bridge’ after featuring in two of the famous films. The iconic bridge has twenty-one arches which curve around the dramatic Highland landscape, with views over the stunning Loch Shiel.
Sligachan Old Bridge
According to legend, the waters under Sligachan Old Bridge offer eternal youth. Why not give it a go for yourself? Sligachan also offers beautiful views of the Cuillin Hills.
Isle of Skye
Accommodations
Overnight in Portree, 3-star deluxe B&B
Fairy Pools
We stop to take in the natural beauty of the Fairy Pools. The crystal-clear waters will take your breath away. Your guide will tell you stories about the folklore of the island, and the fairy stories which bring the island to life.
We enjoy a lunch stop in Dunvegan, a tiny village on the isle of Skye famous for Dunvegan Castle.
Quiraing
Enjoy the spectacular view of the Quiraing; a stunning display of dramatic cliffs, rock pinnacles and breath-taking views on Skye’s Trotternish peninsula.
Kilt Rock
Soak up the iconic view of Kilt Rock, a rugged cliff which resembles – you’ve guessed it – a kilt. Marvel at the breathtaking Mealt Waterfall as it runs into the ocean.
The Old Man of Storr
When it comes to cool geology, this natural wonder is the absolute pinnacle. Standing tall on Skye’s ancient landslip, the Old Man of Storr is such a poser. Sometimes hidden by mist, this is a popular hangout for mischievous fairies.
Isle of Skye to Inverness
Eilean Donan Castle
We stop at the most photographed castle in Scotland, Eilean Donan. Eilean Donan Castle has links to both clans MacKenzie and MacRae. Pay entrance on arrival.
Beauly
Next we stop in the charming highland village of Beauly for the chance to explore. Beauly Priory, which lies at the heart, is a now-derelict monastic community with origins tracing back to the 13th century.
Muir of Ord
Our next stop takes us to Glen Ord for a Highland whisky experience! Enjoy a dram whilst your guide explains exactly how it is made, and teaches you about the history of whisky in Scotland.
Culloden Battlefield
One of the most somber locations in Scotland, Culloden Battlefield remains mostly untouched to pay respect to those who lost their lives in the final Jacobite Uprising of 1746. Visitor Centre is not included, pay locally.
Clava Cairns
Visit one of the inspirations behind Outlander - the Clava Cairns standing stones. These stones stand proudly at 10 feet tall and are known for being a bronze age burial ground.
What‘s Included
Culloden Battlefield
2 nights in a 3 star deluxe B&B
Air-conditioned vehicle
Local English speaking guide
Food and drinks not provided
Tips
Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre (optional)
Eilean Donan Castle (optional)
Whisky Distillery Experience (optional)
Options
B&B Twin Room
Twin Room: 2 single beds in one room, suitable for 2 people
Duration: 3 days
B&B Double Room
B&B Double Room: 1 double bed for two people
Duration: 3 days
Reviews
18 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Fantastic tour with outstanding guide!
487beaub,,Jan 10, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I had wonderful 3 day tour. It was winter so the scenery was absolutely beautiful. I was so impressed by the tour guide Torquil. He was very conscientious of safety and made sure he was available to answer any questions and assist the group with anything needed. Nothing was too much trouble for Torquil. Because of the weather the plans had to change due to safety and many businesses being closed at that time of year. Torquil made sure we all had a good time and navigated any obstacles we encountered along the way. The accommodation was very good and the bus was comfortable. All round happy customer. 😊
The experience in Inverness
lishh2026,,Jan 6, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The trip was amazing everything that we did was so fun the views were gorgeous and overall I had a tremendous experience at the tour
Best Tour Ever.
361lillyh,,Jan 6, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The tour was great , nice Inn for the 2 nights we were there , food was great , loved seeing snow for the first time . I saw Highland Coos and loved it .
Magical winter tour with passion
liannap2026,,Jan 5, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Torquil was an excellent, fun guide with a lot of knowledge and entertaining stories. I also appreciated his custom-cultivated music playlist that matched the area/scenery and how it improved the atmosphere. Torquil clearly loves his job and puts his heart and soul into it which makes it an incredibly enjoyable experience. We had snowy weather which meant some changes to the itinerary but Torquil didn't miss a beat and still showed us some other great places. Accommodation was perfectly cosy. The views are spectacular every single minute and I couldn't recommend this tour enough, the snowy weather made everything magical.
Best TOUR GUIDE
FussyHiraeth,,Jan 5, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Sonia was amazing!!! She played local bands and folk music, explained everything to detail and was incredibly charismatic to add on cultural facts and nearby suggestions. ¡Muchas gracias, Sonia! ♥️
Winter magic in the Isle of Skye
james b,,Jan 4, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00What can i say? This tour was absolutely amazing! I was travelling as a group of 9 (2 families, 4 adults 5 kids) and all of us loved our time. Firstly Skye and the Highlands are beyond beautiful, the accommodation at the Skye Inn was wonderful and in a good location in Portree. The tour group was capped at 16 which is a good number I feel as its a smaller group. We saw other groups in bigger buses getting stuck on some of the roads and honestly looking like they weren't having as much fun as us! This might have been because we had the best guide we could have asked for. Torquil is a legend! Not only is he funny and seriously knowledgeable about the area and its history, he just makes it all work. Being winter in the north west of Scotland, our tour was not without challenges with weather and road closures etc but he just made it all work! Every day was filled with adventure, awesome stories and songs and the most jaw dropping scenery even if the itinerary was adjusted out of necessity. Honestly would not change the experience we had. Thank you Torquil for family memories that will last a lifetime.
Fantastic Wintry Highlands Trip
U8059PGgeorgiaw,,Jan 4, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was such a fantastic tour and our guide, Torquil, was so friendly, fun and informative. There was so much packed into 3 days and although the snowy weather affected the planned route slightly, there was always something else available to do and enjoy. The accommodation was comfortable and friendly and while driving there were plenty of stops for photos, food and the like.
Host with the Most
AndreaH1366,,Jan 4, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Absolutely amazing. Torquil was a great host and made this an amazing experience for all of us. His knowledge and storytelling was fantastic. Loved seeing him in his kilt and great that he was a local hibradian man.
Great tour
H2185DYtinam,,Nov 16, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Emily was the best tour guide we could ever ask for! Her tour style was relaxed and lighthearted, and she regaled us with a lovely mix of historical facts, legends, and stories. Such a fun trip on a very comfy bus. Emily made a good tour great.
Lovely escape
36benedettal,,Nov 16, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.003 amazing days with Emily in the highlands of Scotland. Great stories, food and views, from Inverness to the Isle of Skye
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Operated by Highland Explorer Tours Ltd