7-Day Scotland Tour from Edinburgh
Isle of Skye, the Outer Hebrides & Inverness
- Max 16 travellers
- Storytelling guides
- 25% deposit
Tap a photo to enlarge · Scroll to see more
- Skye and the Outer HebridesTwo nights on Skye, then the ferry west to Lewis and Harris, a part of Scotland far fewer visitors reach.
- Two nights in each placeSkye, Lewis and Inverness, plus a free day in Inverness, so the week never feels rushed.
- Storytelling guides, max 16A guide who gets out and walks the stops with you, and a group small enough to become friends.
“On our first trip to Scotland we wanted to see as much as we possibly could, and Experience Scotland’s Wild did not disappoint.”
A 7-Day Scotland Tour of Skye, Lewis & Harris and Inverness
This 7-day Scotland tour from Edinburgh is our longest Skye tour, and the only one that carries on to the Outer Hebrides. You’ll spend two nights on Skye, two on Lewis and two in Inverness, with time to walk to the Fairy Pools, stand among the Callanish Stones and still have a free day in the Highland capital.
The road is part of the trip too: Loch Lomond and Glencoe on the way north, Corrieshalloch Gorge and Loch Ness on the way back, then Culloden and the Cairngorms on the last day. Your guide brings the stories with them, from the Glencoe Massacre to the Vikings on Lewis, and with no more than 16 travellers, they get out and walk the stops with you.
- Duration7 days6 nights: Skye ×2, Lewis ×2, Inverness ×2
- DepartsEdinburgh, 7:30amback approx. 7–8pm, Day 7
- Group sizeMax 16small scheduled group
- Ages12+younger? ask about a private tour
- WalkingShort walks most daysFairy Pools about 1–1.5 hours; uneven paths
- FerriesBoth includedSkye → Harris, Stornoway → Ullapool
A week with someone who knows the way
Over seven days, your guide is the one who knows which viewpoint is worth the walk, which stop deserves longer and where to eat that night. On the islands, you’ll hear how the Lewis Chessmen were found in the sand on Lewis, why so many place names here are Norse, and about the men of Ness who still sail out each year for the guga hunt.
- They walk the stops with you. From the Fairy Pools to Callanish, your guide is out there with you, not waiting in the van.
- They adapt to the weather. If wind or rain moves a ferry or a walk, your guide reworks the day so you still see the best of it.
- They know the little things. Ginger sweets for the ferry, the bookshop to visit in Inverness, and where to hear live Scottish music at night.
“Matt, our tour guide, was absolutely incredible! He was knowledgeable, friendly and down to earth.”
Your 7-day Skye & Outer Hebrides itinerary from Edinburgh
Route map: Edinburgh, Loch Lomond, Glencoe, the Isle of Skye, the ferry to Harris, Lewis, the ferry to Ullapool, Corrieshalloch Gorge, Loch Ness, Inverness, Culloden, the Cairngorms and back to Edinburgh.
Route shown is approximate. Your guide may change the order of stops or the roads taken on the day, depending on weather, traffic and road conditions.
Day 1Edinburgh to the Isle of Skye
Loch Lomond · Luss · Glencoe · Skye Bridge · Portree
A full day on the road north, with plenty of stops to break it up.
- Loch Lomond & Luss
Your first proper stop. Walk round the old village of Luss and down to the shore for the views across Loch Lomond.
Guide tip Look out to the islands on the loch. One of them is home to a rather unexpected creature: ask your guide which island, and what lives there.
- Rannoch Moor & Glencoe
Cross the wide, empty moor into Glencoe, where your guide tells the story of the Glencoe Massacre of 1692 as you drive through the glen, with a stop for the mountains.
- Fort William & the Skye Bridge
Pass beneath Ben Nevis at Fort William, then follow the road west and cross the Skye Bridge onto the island.
- Portree
Skye’s main town and your base for two nights, with time to explore the colourful harbour.
Guide tip In summer, book dinner well ahead, as Portree’s restaurants fill up. Fish and chips by the harbour is an easy plan B.
Day 2A day on the Isle of Skye
Fairy Pools · Cuillin Mountains · Dunvegan Castle · Portree
A day for walking, castles and Skye’s legends, with a second night in Portree.
- The Fairy Pools
Walk beside a chain of waterfalls and clear blue pools below the Cuillin. Allow about an hour to an hour and a half there and back, depending on how many photos you stop for.
Guide tip The path is good, but wear boots with grip and bring a proper waterproof. Wind and rain can blow in quickly around the Cuillin, even if it looks fine when you leave the van.
- The Cuillin Mountains
Skye’s most dramatic mountain range, and the backdrop to some of the island’s best stories, including the legend of Scáthach, the warrior woman of Skye.
- Dunvegan Castle
The seat of Clan MacLeod for around 800 years, with its gardens and views across Loch Dunvegan.
Winter closure: Dunvegan Castle is closed from 16 October to 31 March. On tours between those dates you won’t be able to go inside the castle or gardens. From 1 April to 15 October, entry is paid separately.
- Portree
Back to Portree for a free evening by the harbour.
Weather and road conditions can change the exact route.
Day 3Skye to the Outer Hebrides
Old Man of Storr · Lealt Falls · Quiraing · Fairy Glen · Uig ferry · Stornoway
A morning on Skye’s Trotternish peninsula, then the ferry west to the Outer Hebrides.
- Old Man of Storr
Skye’s most famous rock pinnacle. Walk as far up the path as you like for the views over the Sound of Raasay.
- Lealt Falls
A deep gorge where the river drops towards the sea, a short stop just off the road.
- The Quiraing
A huge landslip of cliffs, pinnacles and hidden plateaus at the northern end of the Trotternish Ridge.
- Fairy Glen
Miniature-looking hills and winding paths in one of Skye’s most unusual landscapes.
Guide tip Leave the roadside and explore the formations on foot. The best views are from the paths.
- Uig to Tarbert ferry
Cross the Little Minch to Harris, about 1 hour 40 minutes, then drive north to Stornoway on Lewis for two nights.
Guide tip When there’s time on Harris, guides love to stop at Luskentyre Beach: white sand and turquoise water you won’t expect in Scotland. It isn’t a fixed stop, so think of it as a bonus.
The Uig–Tarbert ferry is included. The ferry operator sets the timings, and weather can affect crossings.
Day 4A full day on Lewis
Port of Ness · Butt of Lewis · Blackhouses · Dun Carloway · Callanish
Island life, Viking history and some of the oldest standing stones in Britain.
- Port of Ness & the Butt of Lewis
The northern tip of the Outer Hebrides, with a lighthouse, sea cliffs and the Atlantic in front of you. Ness is also home to the guga hunt, and your guide will tell you the story.
Guide tip If there’s time, ask to see St Moluag’s Church nearby. It’s a peaceful little medieval church that’s still lit by oil lamps.
- Arnol Blackhouse & Gearrannan Blackhouse Village
Step inside the thatched stone houses where island families lived, right on the edge of the North Atlantic. Sometimes there are people inside demonstrating traditional skills, like spinning wool.
Entry paid separately
- Dun Carloway
One of the best-preserved Iron Age brochs in Scotland, a stone tower around 2,000 years old.
- Callanish Standing Stones
A circle and avenues of standing stones, around 5,000 years old, on a ridge above Loch Roag. Your guide will talk about who might have built them, and why.
Guests often ask what life is really like out here. Your guide will talk about crofting, Gaelic and the island communities you’re driving through.
Day 5Stornoway to Inverness
Ferry to Ullapool · Corrieshalloch Gorge · Loch Ness · Urquhart Castle · Distillery
Back across the Minch to the mainland, and on to Inverness for two nights.
- Stornoway to Ullapool ferry
About two and a half hours across the Minch, with food and drink on board and the deck for views when the weather allows.
Guide tip If you’re prone to seasickness, bring tablets. The crossing is often smooth, but it can be choppy in a strong wind.
- Corrieshalloch Gorge
Stand on the suspension bridge and look straight down into the gorge at the Falls of Measach. It’s often the big surprise of the week.
- Loch Ness & Urquhart Castle
Castle ruins in an incredible position above Loch Ness, with about an hour to explore the grounds if you go in. The Loch Ness cruise is optional.
Cruise and castle entry paid separately
- The Singleton Distillery
A Highland whisky stop at Muir of Ord before the last stretch to Inverness.
Distillery tour paid separately
- Inverness
The first of two nights in the Highland capital.
Guide tip For live Scottish music, Hootananny is the place to go. Check what’s on, and book ahead if you want to eat there.
Day 6Your free day in Inverness
River Ness · Ness Islands · Victorian Market · Free time
After five days on the road, the pace changes. Today is yours.
- The River Ness & the Ness Islands
Walk along the river and over the footbridges to the wooded Ness Islands. It’s the nicest way to see the city.
- The Victorian Market & Inverness Castle
Independent shops and places to eat under a Victorian roof, then up to Inverness Castle for views over the city.
Your guide will happily suggest more, from cafés to museums, based on what you enjoy.
Day 7Inverness to Edinburgh
Culloden · Cairngorms · Aviemore · House of Bruar · The Hermitage
The journey south through the Cairngorms, with one last walk before Edinburgh.
- Culloden Battlefield
Where the Jacobite rising ended in 1746, and the Highland way of life began to change for good. Take time to walk the battlefield rather than just seeing it.
Guide tip If you’d like to join the visitor centre’s guided battlefield tour, book a day or two ahead, as it can sell out. If not, your guide will walk you round and tell the story.
Paid admission not included
- The Cairngorms & Aviemore
Lunch in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, a very different landscape from Skye and the islands.
- House of Bruar
A stop for Highland shopping and the food hall on the road south.
- The Hermitage
A woodland walk beside the River Braan to the Black Linn Falls, the last stop before Edinburgh.
The itinerary is a guide and can change with weather, road conditions, ferry schedules, seasonal closures or attraction availability.
Is this tour right for you?
A great fit if
- You want Skye, the Outer Hebrides and the Highlands in one trip, with the driving and ferries sorted for you.
- It’s your first trip to Scotland and you want to see as much as you can.
- You enjoy getting outdoors, walking and places that feel a little more remote.
- You’re travelling solo and would like a small group to share the week with.
Think again if
- You have limited mobility. There’s walking on uneven ground most days. A private tour can be planned around you.
- You’d prefer a shorter trip with less time on the road. Try the 3-day or 5-day Skye tour.
- You’re travelling with children under 12. Ask us about a private tour instead.
What travellers say about this 7-day tour
Google reviews from guests on our 7-day Skye & Outer Hebrides tour.
Our tour guide, Lauren, was a wonderful presence and really helped to create a fun, memorable journey through a most incredible landscape… the full group of nine co-pilots (including our guide Lauren) quickly became real friends… I found the breathing room of a seven-day tour to be a good speed.
Just got back from a 7 day trip with Jim from Scotland’s Wild and it was amazing! … whenever we stopped for one of our views/sites/ castles, the timing was perfect. Enough time to enjoy what we wanted to, but never so much that we were wandering around waiting to move on.
Matt, our tour guide, was absolutely incredible! He was knowledgeable, friendly and down to earth. Our group was small (my partner and I, one other couple and a solo traveller) and the destinations were spectacular.
Went on the 7 Day Tour from Edinburgh with energyball Richie and loved every second of it. The Itinerary is so rich, I got to see so much of the magic and fell absolutely in love with Scotland.
We had an incredible 7-day tour with Cal from the Isle of Skye to Harris and Lewis, Inverness, and back to Edinburgh. He was knowledgeable, fun, and made the whole journey easy and enjoyable.
We did the 7 day Isle of Skye/Outer Hebrides tour with Dan in Sept and it was amazing. Big shout out to Dan he was the icing on the cake. What a great guide and group we had!
Accommodation: six nights on Skye, Lewis and in Inverness
You stay two nights in Portree on Skye, two in Stornoway on Lewis and two in Inverness. Accommodation isn’t included in the tour price. We can book all six nights for you, or you can arrange your own.
Let us arrange it
- We arrange each stay after your tour booking is confirmed.
- Twin, double, single or family rooms with trusted partners in all three places; breakfast is normally included.
- We send you the accommodation details and total price.
Book your own
- Contact us before you reserve so we can confirm the right areas.
- Your accommodation should normally be within about 3 km of the group's location, for morning collection and evening drop-off.
| B&B, double or twin room shared with your travel companion | £80–£110 per person per night |
| B&B, single room | £100–£160 per night |
| Hotel, double or twin room shared with your travel companion | £100–£160 per person per night |
| Hotel, single room | £155–£255 per night |
These prices are a guide only. They change with the season, demand, special events and how close to departure you book, so we can't guarantee them. Rooms on the islands are limited, so book early for summer.
Solo travellers: when we arrange accommodation, we aim for a single room. If availability is limited, we may offer a shared twin with a traveller of the same gender, so tell us beforehand if you'd rather not. Accommodation questions: info@scotlandswild.com
What's included, and what the trip costs
Included
- Ferry from Skye to Harris, and from Stornoway back to the mainland
- Expert Scotland's Wild guide and storyteller for the week
- Transport in a comfortable, air-conditioned touring vehicle
- Guided short walks and active sightseeing stops
- Small group, maximum 16 travellers
Not included
- Six nights' accommodation (see above)
- Meals and snacks
- Dunvegan Castle & Gardens entry (closed 16 October – 31 March)
- Arnol Blackhouse and Gearrannan Blackhouse Village entry
- Loch Ness cruise and Urquhart Castle entry
- The Singleton Distillery tour
- Paid admission at Culloden
Your trip at a glance
- Tour
- From £556 per person, including both island ferries
- Pay today
- From £139 per person (25% deposit). The balance is taken 15 days before departure.
- Six nights: Skye ×2, Lewis ×2, Inverness ×2
- Not included. Typically from around £80 per person a night for a double or twin B&B room shared with your travel companion; single rooms and hotels cost more. We can arrange it, or you book your own.
- Optional extras
- Dunvegan, Urquhart, blackhouse and Culloden admission, the Loch Ness cruise, the distillery tour, meals and snacks.
Getting from Edinburgh to Skye and the Outer Hebrides
There’s no bridge to the Outer Hebrides, so you need a ferry or a flight. Skye is about 5 to 6 hours’ drive from Edinburgh. From there, the ferry from Uig to Tarbert on Harris takes about 1 hour 40 minutes. The other way in is from Ullapool, around 4½ to 5 hours’ drive from Edinburgh, then about 2½ hours on the ferry to Stornoway.
Our 7-day tour
Both ferries are included and organised for you, with no driving, two nights in each place and a guide for the whole week.
Driving yourself
Book car space on the ferries well ahead in summer. Skye and the islands have single-track roads with passing places, and parking at the busiest sights fills early.
Flying
Flights to Stornoway take about an hour from Edinburgh or Glasgow, but you’ll still need a car or tours to get around the islands, and Skye is a separate trip.
3, 5 or 7 days on Skye?
All three tours spend a full day exploring Skye with a small group. The 7-day tour is the only one that carries on to the Outer Hebrides.
3 days
Skye’s highlights in a short trip
Glencoe, Eilean Donan Castle and Loch Ness, with two nights in Portree.
From £248 pp
See the 3-day Skye tour →5 days
A slower pace and more towns
Adds Kilmartin Glen, a night in Oban, a night in Inverness and Culloden.
From £444 pp
See the 5-day Skye tour →7 days
The most time, and the islands
Two nights each on Skye, Lewis and in Inverness, with both ferries and a free day.
From £556 pp
Good to know before you book
- Days 1 and 5 are long travel days. There’s a fair amount of driving over the week, but with two nights in each place and a free day, it feels much less rushed than a shorter tour.
- Bring seasickness tablets if you need them. The crossing to Ullapool takes about 2½ hours and can be choppy in a strong wind.
- Pack proper boots and a waterproof. The Fairy Pools walk is the longest of the week, and the weather around the Cuillin changes quickly.
- Rain doesn’t stop the day. The mist and changing light often make Skye and the islands even more dramatic.
Where to meet your guide in Edinburgh
Outside The Jolly Botanist
256–260 Morrison Street, Edinburgh, EH3 8DT
Please arrive by 7:15am. Scheduled tours leave on time and can't wait for late guests. The tour returns to the same meeting point on Day 7. The meeting point is outside, and the bar may not be open that early.
- Check-in7:15amplease arrive by then
- Departs7:30amtours leave on time
- Backapprox. 7–8pmon Day 7
Skye & Outer Hebrides tour: your questions
Is accommodation included?
No. Your six nights aren’t included in the tour price: two in Portree on Skye, two in Stornoway on Lewis and two in Inverness. We can book all six for you with trusted partners, or you can arrange your own after checking the right areas with us.
What does the 7-day tour cost?
From £556 per adult, including both island ferries. You secure your place with a 25% deposit, from £139 per person, and the balance is taken 15 days before departure. Prices vary by departure date.
Is there a youth price?
Yes. Travellers aged 12 to 17 pay a youth price, from £531, and must travel with an adult. The calendar shows the youth price for your dates when you choose your travellers.
Are the ferries included, and how long are they?
Yes, both are included. The ferry from Uig on Skye to Tarbert on Harris takes about 1 hour 40 minutes, and the crossing from Stornoway back to Ullapool about 2½ hours. There’s food and drink on board. The ferry operator sets the timings, and weather can occasionally affect crossings.
I get seasick. Will I be OK on the ferries?
The crossings are often smooth, but they can be choppy in a strong wind. If you’re prone to seasickness, bring tablets with you and take them before you board. Sitting in the middle of the ship and getting some fresh air on deck helps too.
How long is the Fairy Pools walk?
Allow about an hour to an hour and a half there and back, depending on how long you stop for photos. The main path is good, but wear boots with grip and bring a proper waterproof, as the weather around the Cuillin can change quickly.
How much walking is there?
Short walks are built into most days, and the Fairy Pools walk on Day 2 is the longest. You should be comfortable on paths that can be rough, wet or uneven. Walks are optional if you’d rather stay by the vehicle.
Is there a lot of driving?
There’s a fair amount, especially on Days 1 and 5, plus two ferry crossings. Because you stay two nights in each place and have a free day in Inverness, the week feels much less rushed than a shorter tour.
What can I do on the free day in Inverness?
Explore the city on foot: a walk along the River Ness to the Ness Islands, the Victorian Market and the views from Inverness Castle. Your guide will suggest places to eat and where to hear live Scottish music in the evening.
Is this tour good for solo travellers?
Yes. You’ll be part of a small group from the first morning, and a week together means plenty of time to get to know people. If we arrange your accommodation, we aim for a single room.
Will the tour run if only a few people book?
Each departure needs at least 4 travellers to run. If we have to cancel your tour for any reason, we’ll offer you another tour or a full refund.
When does the 7-day tour run?
It departs every Wednesday from 31 March to 27 October 2027. Summer dates fill first, so if you’re travelling between May and September, book as early as you can.
Which attraction tickets aren’t included?
Dunvegan Castle & Gardens, Arnol Blackhouse, Gearrannan Blackhouse Village, the Loch Ness cruise, Urquhart Castle, The Singleton Distillery tour and paid admission at Culloden. Opening dates are seasonal and can change. Dunvegan Castle is closed from 16 October to 31 March, so there’s no entry on tours in those months.
Where and when does the tour depart, and when is it back?
Check in at 7:15am outside The Jolly Botanist, 256–260 Morrison Street, Edinburgh, EH3 8DT, for a 7:30am departure. The tour returns to the same place at about 7 to 8pm on Day 7. Traffic, weather and ferries can affect this, so avoid tightly timed onward travel.
Can I take this tour from Glasgow?
Yes. The same 7-day tour departs from Glasgow and finishes in Edinburgh.
What if the weather is bad?
Rain alone won’t cancel the tour, and Skye and the islands can be even more dramatic in it. Safety comes first, so weather, ferry changes, or road or attraction closures can mean your guide changes the route, timings or stops.
What should I bring?
A waterproof jacket, boots or sturdy shoes with good grip, warm layers, and a hat and gloves in colder months. Bring midge repellent between April and September, sun cream for bright days and seasickness tablets if you need them.
How much luggage can I bring?
One suitcase or travel bag up to 15 kg (33 lb), about 56 × 43 × 25 cm (22 × 17 × 10 in), plus a small personal bag. You need to be able to lift your own bag, and you may need to carry it between the vehicle and your accommodation. Luggage information.
Are meals included?
No. There are chances to buy food every day, and your guide will recommend places to eat. In Portree, book dinner ahead in the busy summer months.
Are there regular bathroom breaks?
Yes. There are comfort stops throughout each day, and there are toilets on both ferries. Your guide will tell you when the next stop is coming.
What is the cancellation policy?
16 or more days before departure: 90% refund of the total tour cost. 15 days or less before departure, or a no-show: 100% of the tour cost is payable. Full terms & conditions.
Are there age limits?
The minimum age is 12. Travelling with younger children? Ask us about a private tour instead.
Ready for a week on Skye and the Hebrides?
Check live dates and prices, secure your place from £139 per person, and we'll help with your six nights' accommodation.
Questions first? Call +44 131 241 8292 (7am to 9pm UK time, every day) or email info@scotlandswild.com.
Prefer to start in Glasgow? The same tour departs from Glasgow →
Not sure how many days? Compare all Isle of Skye tours (3, 5 or 7 days) →
