Isle of Skye 5 Day Tour

Skye doesn’t do “subtle”. It has jagged mountains, a moody coastline, fairy folklore, and scenery that makes your camera roll look like you’ve been lying for attention. This private multi-day Isle of Skye tour takes you from the classic Highland route, Loch Lomond, Glencoe and Rannoch Moor, all the way to Scotland’s most famous island, with time to properly explore Skye’s big hitters and the lesser moments that make a trip feel special.

You’ll travel in your own private vehicle with a friendly, professional guide, so the pace is comfortable, the stops are flexible, and you’re never stuck following a flag or rushing back to a bus. Along the way, we’ll visit iconic filming locations like the Glenfinnan Viaduct (yes, the “Harry Potter bridge”), incredible Highland viewpoints, and some of Skye’s most unforgettable landscapes, such as the Old Man of Storr, Quiraing, Fairy Pools, and Kilt Rock. If whisky is part of your Scotland plan, we can also incorporate a stop at Talisker Distillery, Skye’s famous single malt.

You’ll stay overnight in carefully chosen Highland locations, giving you the chance to enjoy the evenings too, good food, relaxed local atmosphere, and scenery that doesn’t switch off just because the day tour crowds have gone home.

When you’re ready to see Skye the way it deserves to be seen, without stress, without rushing, and with a guide who knows the roads and the stories, book your Skye tour, and we’ll help you plan the perfect dates and accommodation.

We begin with pick-up from your accommodation (or agreed meeting point) and head north-west through the landscapes that make the Highlands instantly recognisable.

• Loch Lomond & The Trossachs - a scenic start with loch views, woodland, and a chance for a short leg-stretch and photos.

• Rannoch Moor & Glencoe - wide-open wilderness followed by one of Scotland’s most dramatic glens. Your guide will share the essential history and stories that shape this place's atmosphere.

• Fort William area - a natural stopping point beneath Ben Nevis for refreshments and views.

• Glenfinnan Viaduct - the famous curved viaduct made even more famous by Harry Potter. There’s time for photos and, depending on schedules, the option to plan around the Jacobite Steam Train experience if that’s on your wish list.

Overnight: Fort Augustus (Great Glen) - a lovely base beside the Caledonian Canal and close to Loch Ness.

Day 1: Loch Lomond, Glencoe, Fort William & Glenfinnan Viaduct

Today we head for the island, crossing from mainland Highlands into Skye’s changing, cinematic landscapes.

• Kyles of Lochalsh - classic coastal Highland scenery on the approach to Skye, with viewpoints that are worth the stop.

• Cross the Skye Bridge - arriving on Skye feels like stepping into a different world: wilder, sharper, and somehow more dramatic.

• Old Man of Storr - one of Skye’s most iconic rock formations. Whether you choose a short walk or simply take in the views, it’s a must.

• Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls - a cliff face that genuinely looks like pleated tartan, with a waterfall plunging straight toward the sea.

• The Quiraing - otherworldly scenery and sweeping viewpoints that show why Skye is so legendary.

• Flora MacDonald’s Grave - a meaningful historical stop tied to Jacobite history and Skye’s own story.

Overnight: on Skye (location based on your accommodation plan).

Tour Details

• Duration: 5 Days (7-8 hours per day)

• Departure From: Edinburgh or Glasgow

• Group Size: Private tour for up to 7 guests

• Cost: £4475

• Included:

  • Private driver-guide

  • Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle

  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off

  • Bottled water and local snacks

• Not Included:

  • Accommodation (we are happy to suggest local options)

  • Meals

  • Entrance Fees

Day 2: Kyles of Lochalsh, Skye Bridge, Old Man of Storr & Kilt Rock

Day 3: Fairy Pools, Dunvegan Castle & Talisker (Optional Oyster Stop)

Day 4: Loch Ness, Inverness, Highland Folk Museum, Aviemore & Pitlochry

We leave Skye behind, but the scenery doesn’t let up.

• Return to the mainland - stopping at viewpoints and photo opportunities as the Cuillin fades behind you.

• Loch Ness & Inverness - a chance to see the famous loch (monster sightings not guaranteed, but we remain hopeful). Inverness offers a good break point and a feel for the Highlands’ capital.

• Highland Folk Museum - an open-air museum bringing Highland life through the centuries into focus, and a familiar sight for Outlander fans.

• Aviemore (Cairngorms) - a great stop for mountain scenery and a different side of Highland landscape.

• Pitlochry - a classic Highland town to end the day, known for its riverside setting, salmon ladder, and easy-going atmosphere.

Overnight: Pitlochry.

A full day to enjoy Skye’s variety: folklore landscapes, clan history, and a taste of the island.

• Fairy Pools - clear river pools and waterfalls beneath the Cuillin hills. A beautiful walk and one of Skye’s best-known spots for a reason.

• Dunvegan Castle - the ancestral home of Clan MacLeod, packed with history, gardens, and coastal views.

• Talisker Distillery (optional) - Skye’s best-known distillery, producing a classic island whisky with character. Tour/tasting options can be arranged depending on availability.

• The Oyster Shed (optional) - for anyone keen to sample local oysters fresh from the waters around Loch Harport.

Overnight: on Skye.

Day 5: Highland Chocolatier, The Hermitage & Dunfermline Abbey (Optional)

A final day that blends Highland woodland, Scottish treats, and historic Scotland on the route back.

• The Highland Chocolatier (optional) – a decadent stop if you fancy a memorable sweet treat (and yes, people do plan stops around this).

• The Hermitage, Dunkeld – a short woodland walk through towering trees to one of Scotland’s most beautiful little viewpoints and waterfalls.

• Dunfermline Abbey (optional) – time permitting, a powerful historic site and the resting place of Robert the Bruce, an excellent final heritage stop before returning south.

Drop-off: back to your chosen location in Edinburgh or Glasgow (or as agreed).

What Makes This Skye Tour Different?

• Private touring: just your group, your guide, your pace

• Balanced itinerary: iconic highlights + quieter moments and local viewpoints

• Flexible planning: options for whisky, food stops, and filming locations

• Comfortable travel: no coach crowds, no rushed schedules

If Skye has been on your list for years, don’t do it in a hurry. Book your private Isle of Skye multi-day tour with Tour Guide Scotland, and we’ll help you shape the route, dates and stops into a trip you’ll remember for all the right reasons.