Scotland's Coast: From Edinburgh to Skye (Guided)

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Brian Whitacre, Travel Agent in Gresham, OR

Brian Whitacre

Gresham, OR Travel Agent

Brian Whitacre

Gresham, OR · 7 Years of Experience

Whitacre Travel, an independent agent with WorldVia, a Travel Leaders Agency
5.0
(7)
100% Recommended
Brian was very helpful from the beginning stages of planning our trip, all the way through the very last day when we had last minute questions... Read More >
COUNTRIES VISITED:Scotland
PLACES VISITED:Edinburgh, Inverness, Kirkwall Orkney Island, Portree, Stornoway, Ullapool
SUGGESTED DURATION:14 Days
Embark on a 13-night odyssey through Scotland’s rugged landscapes, ancient history, and vibrant culture. This expertly crafted journey unveils iconic castles, mystical isles, and hidden gems, blending must-do activities with authentic local experiences. From Edinburgh’s medieval heart to the wild Outer Hebrides, immerse in tales of clans, kings, and standing stones.
Close All Days
DAY1
Edinburgh
Close Day
Arrival and medieval streets adventure
Land in Edinburgh and settle into a cozy hotel for one night. Wander the cobbled lanes of the Old Town, where Gothic spires and historic closes whisper centuries of secrets.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Stroll the atmospheric Royal Mile
DAY2
Edinburgh
Close Day
Royal Edinburgh’s majestic treasures
Uncover Edinburgh’s regal legacy with fast-track entry to Edinburgh Castle, perched atop volcanic rock, Holyrood Palace, the King’s Scottish residence, and the Royal Yacht Britannia, a floating royal haven. Explore at your pace, soaking in tales of Mary, Queen of Scots. Evening departure for your guided adventure.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Marvel at Edinburgh Castle’s crown jewels
DAY3
Inverness
Close Day
Gateway to the Highlands
Journey north to Inverness, the Highland capital, for one night, winding through mist-shrouded glens and dramatic peaks. Check into your lodging and wander the serene River Ness under the northern sky.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Walk the tranquil River Ness at dusk
DAY4
Kirkwall Orkney Island
Close Day
Ferry to Orkney’s ancient isles
Sail to Kirkwall in the windswept Orkney Islands for two nights. This harbor town brims with Viking heritage and Neolithic wonders. Explore its sandstone cathedral and rugged shores.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Discover St. Magnus Cathedral’s Viking legacy
DAY5
Kirkwall Orkney Island
Close Day
Neolithic wonders of Orkney
Step back 5,000 years with guided visits to Maeshowe’s ancient chambered cairn and Skara Brae, a remarkably preserved prehistoric village. Roam windswept cliffs and coastal trails, where your guide unveils Orkney’s mystical past. Admissions included.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Explore Skara Brae’s ancient stone dwellings
DAY6
Ullapool
Close Day
Coastal drive to fishing village
Ferry back to the mainland and drive to Ullapool, a picturesque fishing village, for two nights. Nestled by Loch Broom, this gem offers fresh seafood and Highland charm.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Savor fresh seafood by Loch Broom
DAY7
Ullapool
Close Day
Highland lochs and Gaelic lore
Embark on a scenic coastal drive, visiting quaint villages framed by lochs and mountains. Your guide shares tales of Gaelic traditions, immersing you in the Highlands’ soul. Revel in the untamed beauty of this remote region.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Learn Gaelic folklore from your expert guide
DAY8
Stornoway
Close Day
Sail to the Outer Hebrides
Ferry to Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis for two nights, a haven of Hebridean culture. Explore peat-scented moors, ancient sites, and blackhouse villages that echo a timeless way of life.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Visit the haunting Callanish Standing Stones
DAY9
Stornoway
Close Day
Blackhouse heritage and wild shores
Tour the Arnol Blackhouse, a window into traditional Hebridean life, with admission included. Stroll pristine beaches and marvel at ancient standing stones, embracing the serene isolation of these remote isles.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Step inside the historic Arnol Blackhouse
DAY10
Portree
Close Day
Harris to Skye’s vibrant harbor
Travel from Stornoway’s wild moors to mountainous Harris, famed for Harris Tweed and Luskentyre’s white sands. After exploring South Harris and lunch in Tarbet, ferry to Portree, Skye’s charming harbor town, for two nights. Settle into a cozy B&B and explore pastel-colored streets.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Marvel at Luskentyre’s stunning white-sand beaches
Stroll Portree’s colorful waterfront
DAY11
Portree
Close Day
Skye’s wild heart adventure
Hike Ben Tianavaig for breathtaking views of the Cuillin Hills and Raasay, then savor fresh seafood at a harborside bistro. Wander the Scorrybreac Trail to spot sea eagles and waterfalls, and dive into clan history at the Aros Centre. End with a Talisker whisky at a cozy pub.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Hike Ben Tianavaig for panoramic views
Taste Talisker whisky in a local pub
DAY12
Edinburgh
Close Day
Royal Edinburgh’s historic treasures
Return to Edinburgh for a 48-hour Royal Edinburgh Ticket adventure. Explore Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace, and the Royal Yacht Britannia. Join the guided Edinburgh Tour through Old Town’s cobblestone streets and New Town’s elegant vistas, visiting the National Museum.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Tour Edinburgh Castle’s historic ramparts
Discover the Royal Mile’s secret alleys
DAY13
Edinburgh
Close Day
Edinburgh’s grand finale
Continue your Royal Edinburgh Ticket experience with the City Sightseeing Tour, featuring Calton Hill’s views and the Royal Botanic Garden. Enjoy the Majestic Tour to the Royal Yacht Britannia. Wander the Royal Mile for haggis or Calton Hill vistas to close your journey.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Admire Calton Hill’s panoramic city views
Savor traditional haggis on the Royal Mile
DAY14
Edinburgh
Close Day
Farewell to Scotland
Spend your final morning in Edinburgh, soaking in the city’s charm with a leisurely stroll or last-minute shopping along the Royal Mile. Depart for home, carrying memories of Scotland’s wild beauty and historic allure.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Shop for souvenirs along the Royal Mile
FINAL THOUGHTS
Scotland’s ancient stones, misty isles, and vibrant cities weave a journey of wonder. Let the echo of bagpipes and a final dram linger in your heart forever.