Kyle of Lochalsh

Day Trips

Explore the Isle of Skye from Inverness and marvel at some of the most dramatic landscapes Scotland has to offer. See Loch Ness, visit Eilean Donan Castle, Portree, Kilt Rock, and much more. Depart Inverness and travel South, along the shoreline of Loch Ness to Invermoriston. Stop for a short break at Loch Ness which is 24 miles long, over 700ft deep, famous for its sightings of the Loch Ness monster. Continue to the picturesque Eilean Donan Castle, situated on its own island at the head of Loch Duic. Take time to explore one of Scotland’s most photographed castles and its atmospheric surroundings. Journey to the Isle of Skye, passing over the Skye Bridge and on to the small village of Portree for a lunchtime stop. Portree, although a small harbor village, is the capital of Skye, and is surrounded by rocky cliffs and rolling hills. Take in its beautiful surroundings while enjoying lunch with views of the boats. Begin touring the island with stops at Kilt Rock, Lealt Falls, the Old Man of Storr, and perhaps Strome Viewpoint.

Travel in style in a Mercedes minicoach and hear about Scotland's turbulent past from your knowledgeable guide. Marvel at the views of the mountains of Wester Ross on the drive to Eilean Donan Castle. Visit the castle before traveling over the bridge to Skye. Head through the mountainous heart of the island before arriving in the harbor town of Portree for lunch. After lunch the drive takes you around the Trotternish Peninsula. The guide will point out landmarks, including the Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock and Quiraing. Make your way back through majestic Glen Shiel, along the shores of Loch Clunie. The final part of the trip takes you along the banks of mighty Loch Ness.

Depart from a central meeting point in Inverness, where you will meet your guide and board the mini-bus. First, stop at Eilean Donan Castle and take plenty of photos as you admire the majestic beauty of this iconic sight in its wonderful coastal location. Upon arrival in Portree, make your way to the harbor viewpoint where you can see the pretty pastel-colored houses. Enjoy a short stop here, where you can also purchase a light lunch. Next, stop at a loch-side viewpoint, and discover the unique rock formation of the Old Man of Storr. See the 50-meter high pinnacle that juts out from the Trotternish Ridge and is recognizable from blockbuster films including Ronin 47, Snow White & The Huntsman, Prometheus, and The BFG. Continue to Kilt Rock, an exposed sea cliff that resembles the traditional Highland kilt. Be amazed by the imposing waterfall that cascades 60ft (180m) into the Sound of Raasay below. Visit the Quiraing landslip on the eastern face of Meall na Suiramach. On a clear day, see the Outer Hebrides and the Scottish mainland, framed by pinnacles, cliffs, and great buttresses. Enjoy some time for a short hike at this scenic location. Continue to the Fairy Pools, a series of crystal clear waterfalls and pools surrounded by the stunning backdrop of the Cuillin Mountain. Finally, stop for some photos of Urquhart Castle and Loch Ness. Admire the sight of the castle on a distinctive peninsula jutting out onto the mysterious Loch Ness, before heading back to Inverness.

Travel from Inverness to Skye on a day tour exploring the countryside and seeing the main sights. Your day starts with a bit of monster spotting as you drive along the shore of Loch Ness. Stop at the little village of Invermoriston, where you can take in the views and see a delightful ruined bridge. Your journey winds through Glen Moriston and Glen Shiel and on past the 5 Sisters, a stunning range of mountains that dominates the surrounding landscape. Continue to Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland’s most picturesque castles, perched on its own island at the head of Loch Duich. Next cross over the bridge to Skye and head for Broadford. Your tour of this magical island takes in the stunningly beautiful road through Glen Suardal. You’ll also see the iconic Red Cuillin Hills and, as you reach the little village of Torrin, you’ll be able to enjoy views of Bla Bhein (Blanven). The road then drops to hug the banks of Loch Slapin. Continue with a steep climb over Strathaird where you'll have an extended stop. Your journey then heads back to the mainland past the little island of Eilean Ban. Stop off at Achnasheen and then drive home via the scenic Black Isle.

Depart Inverness at 08:30 and travel west towards Kinlochewe and the Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve. Marvel at the imposing form of Beinn Eighe Ridge as it gives way to the world-famous Loch Maree, home to the majestic Golden Eagle. Next, head down through Torridon towards Shieldaig, passing some of Europe’s most ancient geology and wild scenery along the way. Continue up the renowned Bealach Na Ba ("Pass of the Cattle") and onwards to the isolated village of Applecross, where you will stop for lunch. Get incredible views towards the Isle of Skye and the Hebrides as you make your way towards Eilean Donan Castle, a picture-perfect edifice perched on a junction of 3 gorgeous lakes. After your visit to the castle, travel along the shores of Loch Ness en route to Inverness, where you will be dropped off by approximately 19:30.

Depart Inverness and travel via Loch Ness to the Isle of Skye. Loch Ness is the largest Loch by volume in the British Isles, and one of the deepest ones too. Famous worldwide for its elusive monster, it hosts one of the most iconic castles of Scotland: Urquhart Castle. Visit the Fairy Pools. Walk the trail that takes to you to the pools and enjoy a swim with the fairies. After visiting the Fairy Pools, stop at Talisker Single Malt Scotch Distillery based in Carbost. You'll go through the Visitor Centre (not on the tour) and, if available, sample one of the fine whiskeys produced here. Continue your journey of the Isle of Skye, and take in the small village of Portree for an afternoon break. Portree is a small harbour village, and the capital of Skye. Before you travel back to Inverness, you will enjoy sights of the mighty Eilean Donan Castle, which is situated on its own island, and is one of Scotland’s most photographed castles. Continue homeward bound to Inverness, where your tour ends.