Edinburgh, Hebrides & Highlands - 5 days
Edinburgh, Hebrides & Highlands - 5 days
Edinburgh, Hebrides & Highlands - 5 days
5 Days Starting in Edinburgh, Scotland and ending in Inverness, Scotland
Visiting: Edinburgh, Stornoway, Inverness
Tour operator:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 16
Age range:
5-
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating 5-day journey through Scotland's breathtaking landscapes with the "Edinburgh, Hebrides & Highlands" tour. Starting in Edinburgh, traverse the majestic Grampian Mountains and explore the charming fishing village of Ullapool. Discover the rich history and stunning scenery of Lewis and Harris, including the prehistoric Calanais Stone Circle and the fort of Dun Carloway. Enjoy the vibrant culture of Stornoway and the dramatic beauty of Harris's white-sand beaches. Experience the allure of Loch Ness and the picturesque Cairngorms National Park, before concluding your adventure in the historic city of Inverness. With comfortable guesthouse accommodations and a knowledgeable local driver-guide, this small group tour offers an unforgettable exploration of Scotland's natural and cultural treasures.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Edinburgh
Location: Edinburgh
Accommodation Name: Dunroamin B&B, Hebridean Guest House or similar
Edinburgh - Ullapool - Stornoway. Departing from Edinburgh we journey past the iconic Forth Rail Bridge and into the Highlands. Our first stop is in Dunkeld, where we can stretch our legs and admire the unique architecture of the cathedral.
Following this we travel through the majestic Grampian Mountains, stopping for lunch in the Highland town of Aviemore. We then drive out to Rogie Falls and enjoy this lovely sight. Moving on we explore the lesser-known gem of Corrieshalloch Gorge with its stunning waterfall, before reaching the picturesque fishing port of Ullapool where we have a 2.5 hour ferry journey through the Summer Isles to Stornoway, the main town of the Western Isles.
Please note: Check-in closes at 08:15 (tour departs at 08:30) - Edinburgh Bus Station Pick Up, Gate J and Gate K, inside Edinburgh Bus Station, St Andrew Square, Edinburgh, EH1 3DQ
Accommodation: Dunroamin B&B, Hebridean Guest House or similar
Day 2: Stornoway
Location: Stornoway
Accommodation Name: Dunroamin B&B, Hebridean Guest House or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, we journey to the Butt of Lewis, the northernmost point of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides, known as one of the windiest locations in the United Kingdom.
We continue our exploration of the island's charms, passing through traditional crofting towns and picturesque seaside ports. We enjoy a stroll along the shores of Port of Ness, and history buffs can delve into the past at Arnol Blackhouse, offering a glimpse into traditional farming life on these islands.
After lunch in Stornoway, we explore Lewis's west side, including a visit to Uig Bay, before returning to Stornoway for the night. Don't miss the opportunity to sample Scotland's finest black pudding in this charming port town.
Accommodation: Dunroamin B&B, Hebridean Guest House or similar
Day 3: Stornoway
Location: Stornoway
Accommodation Name: Dunroamin B&B, Hebridean Guest House or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Prepare for the dramatic as we venture into the realm of Harris. With its towering peaks and stunning white-sand beaches such as Luskentyre, Harris showcases nature's grandeur at its finest. The region is steeped in history, from the renowned Harris Tweed to its captivating myths and legends.
After a morning of exploring the dramatic landscapes, we stop for lunch. Depending on the weather, we may even go for a picnic on the beach – so don’t forget to pack your sunglasses. We then head back to Stornoway in the late afternoon.
Accommodation: Dunroamin B&B, Hebridean Guest House or similar
Day 4: Stornoway
Location: Inverness
Accommodation Name: Dalmore, Pine Guest House or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Stornoway - Inverness. To start the day we head to the Calanais Stone Circle, one of the most famous sites on the island. Following this we head to the fort of Dun Carloway. Built in 100AD it has a rich history for us to discover. We then head back to Stornoway to catch the ferry back to the mainland where we head straight to Inverness, the Capital of the Highlands.
*Please note the Calanais Standing stone site will be closed between 1st September 2024 and 31st March 2025 and we will be unable to visit the site during these dates. We apologise for any inconvenience.
Accommodation: Dalmore, Pine Guest House or similar
Day 5: Inverness
Location: Inverness
Meals Included: Breakfast
Inverness - Loch Ness - Cairngorms National Park - Edinburgh. Leaving Inverness, our journey follows the scenic shores of Loch Ness, make sure you have your cameras ready for any glimpse of Nessie. Next, we reach Tominoul, the Highlands' highest village, boasting charming 18th-century buildings and a picturesque central square.
Continuing into Royal Deeside, we traverse the majestic valley of the River Dee, leading us to the quaint village of Braemar in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park. Here, amidst stunning mountain views and serene forests, we enjoy a leisurely lunch. Our route south takes us through Highland Perthshire, crossing Scotland's highest mountain pass, before reaching Scone Palace, home to Scotland's historic Coronation Stone.
2025 Itinerary change: Please note that from 1st April 2025, the tour will also include a visit to Scone Palace's Gardens. Admission included.
From here it’s a short journey back to Edinburgh where our journey comes to an end.
Please note: This tour ends at 18:30 - Edinburgh Bus Station Drop Off, Gate J and Gate K, Edinburgh Bus Station, St Andrew Square, Edinburgh, EH1 3DQ
What's Included
-
Accommodation
Simple guesthouse (hotel upgrade available) -
4 breakfasts
-
4 nights simple guesthouse (hotel upgrade available)
-
Escorted by a local driver-guide
-
Admission to Arnol Blackhouse
-
Transportation in 16 seat Mercedes mini-coach with air-conditioning
-
All necessary ferry journeys between Scottish Islands and the mainland
-
All road tolls
-
20kg luggage - see Trip Notes for details
-
Note: This tour is operated in conjunction with our trusted partner and you will join travellers from different operators, not solely On The Go.
What's Not Included
-
International flights & visas
-
Airport transfers (pick up and drop off information can be found in the Trip Notes)
-
Meals not specified in itinerary
-
Tipping - an entirely personal gesture!
-
Entry fees unless specified
Age Policy
Min:5yrs with an adultChild discount available for 5-15 yrs sharing with 2 adults
Mode of Transport
Travel in comfort with a 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach equipped with air-conditioning, including all necessary ferry journeys between the Scottish Islands and the mainland, ensuring a seamless travel experience.
Accommodation
Enjoy 4 nights in simple guesthouses such as Dunroamin B&B and Hebridean Guest House, with an option for a hotel upgrade, providing a comfortable stay amidst the scenic beauty of Scotland.
Check out our Q&As
-
What type of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour uses a 16 seat Mercedes mini-coach with air-conditioning for transportation.
-
Is there a guide accompanying the tour?
Yes, the tour is escorted by a local driver-guide.
-
What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes 4 nights in a simple guesthouse, with an option for a hotel upgrade.
-
Are ferry journeys included in the tour?
Yes, all necessary ferry journeys between the Scottish Islands and the mainland are included.
-
What is the luggage allowance for the tour?
The tour allows for 20kg of luggage per person.
-
Is there a visit to any historical sites during the tour?
Yes, the tour includes a visit to the Arnol Blackhouse and the Calanais Stone Circle, among other historical sites.
-
What is the policy on tipping during the tour?
Tipping is not included in the tour package and is considered an entirely personal gesture.
-
What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.
-
How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1998
-
Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+
-
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
Reviews of this operator
1 Select your preferred date
Monday - Friday
Apr 07, 2025 - Apr 11, 2025Monday - Friday
Apr 14, 2025 - Apr 18, 2025Monday - Friday
Apr 21, 2025 - Apr 25, 2025Monday - Friday
Apr 28, 2025 - May 02, 2025Monday - Friday
May 05, 2025 - May 09, 2025Monday - Friday
May 12, 2025 - May 16, 2025Monday - Friday
May 19, 2025 - May 23, 2025Monday - Friday
May 26, 2025 - May 30, 2025Monday - Friday
Jun 02, 2025 - Jun 06, 2025Monday - Friday
Jun 09, 2025 - Jun 13, 2025Monday - Friday
Jun 16, 2025 - Jun 20, 2025Monday - Friday
Jun 23, 2025 - Jun 27, 2025Monday - Friday
Jun 30, 2025 - Jul 04, 2025Monday - Friday
Jul 07, 2025 - Jul 11, 2025Monday - Friday
Jul 14, 2025 - Jul 18, 2025Monday - Friday
Jul 21, 2025 - Jul 25, 2025Monday - Friday
Jul 28, 2025 - Aug 01, 2025Monday - Friday
Aug 04, 2025 - Aug 08, 2025Monday - Friday
Aug 11, 2025 - Aug 15, 2025Monday - Friday
Aug 18, 2025 - Aug 22, 2025Monday - Friday
Aug 25, 2025 - Aug 29, 2025Monday - Friday
Sep 01, 2025 - Sep 05, 2025Monday - Friday
Sep 08, 2025 - Sep 12, 2025Monday - Friday
Sep 15, 2025 - Sep 19, 2025Monday - Friday
Sep 22, 2025 - Sep 26, 2025Monday - Friday
Sep 29, 2025 - Oct 03, 2025Monday - Friday
Oct 06, 2025 - Oct 10, 2025Monday - Friday
Oct 13, 2025 - Oct 17, 2025Monday - Friday
Oct 20, 2025 - Oct 24, 2025Monday - Friday
Oct 27, 2025 - Oct 31, 2025Book with Confidence
-
Low Deposit
On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 600 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.