Day 1: Edinburgh to Loch Ness

We leave Scotland's capital behind at 8.30am and cross the Forth Road Bridge on our way through Macbeth country to Dunkeld with its mighty Cathedral. We stop at a Highland whisky distillery where you can discover how Scotland’s favourite tipple, the ‘Water of Life’ is made. For those brave enough, there’s even the opportunity to taste a wee dram.

Journeying on through Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, we follow the entire length of Loch Ness searching for a glimpse of the legendary beast.  Our home for the night is the fantastically homely Morag’s Lodge hostel, nestled on the shores of Loch Ness. In the summer months take a cruise on the loch and go monster hunting before partying the night away in a Highland pub.

Day 2: Isle of Skye

Today we travel to the Isle of Skye, also known as the ‘Isle of Mist’ and at the top of the bucket list due to its heart-stopping scenery. This wee island is packed with ruined castles, breathtaking views and faerie stories.  Home to the legendary MacLeod and MacDonald Clans, your Guide will recount Celtic myths and Viking legends from the past millennia.

We explore the windswept landscape, stunning coastline and dramatic mountain ranges before returning back to the mainland past the most photographed castle in Scotland, Eilean Donan Castle

Day 3: Loch Ness to Edinburgh

Leaving the Great Glen, we pass under the shadow of Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain. Our route south takes us through the stunning rugged landscape of Glencoe, once used as a backdrop in James Bond Skyfall and the Harry Potter movies and the scene for 1692 massacre of the MacDonald Clan. Journey through one of the last remaining wildernesses in Europe when we cross the Rannoch Moor, a vast stretch of land that will show you yet again another side of Scotland.

We head past Stirling, the scene of some of Scotland’s most famous and bloody battles in the Wars of Independence. Hear of local legends such as William Wallace and Robert the Bruce before the Highlands change back to the Lowlands. After epic three days, we return to Edinburgh, at approximately 5.00pm.

Tour options:

Choose one of the following options at the time of booking:

Pay as You Go:

We have reserved your accommodation in a shared hostel dorm, you just need to pay on arrival to your hostel. Budget around £24pppn.

Pre-Pay Bundle Multi-Share includes:

• 2 nights' hostel shared dorm accommodation
• Highland Whisky Distillery visit
• HAGGiS t-shirt
• Faster check in and easier to budget on tour

Pre-Pay Bundle Private includes:

2 nights' Private room option (min.2 persons) with shared facilities (non-ensuite), plus all bundle inclusions detailed above.

The majority of private rooms are of the same standard as the hostel dorms (usually twin share with 2 beds) and are subject to availability. They are accommodated within the same building as the rest of the group. Where this is not possible, you may be required to make your own way to your accommodation located a short walk away from the main drop off point.

BEFORE AND AFTER TOUR

We don't reserve accommodation before your tour starts or after your tour finishes but you can book this through our MyTrip function after you have booked your tour.

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES

Highland Whisky Distillery visit

Included in the Pre-Pay Bundle or available on arrival

Some people squish up their face. Some stamp their foot on the ground. Others let out a loud 'ahhhhhh'. However you react to whisky, don't let it stop you from going on this fantastic optional guided tour. You'll discover the history behind Scotland's most divisive drink. You'll discover how it's made. And hopefully, you'll discover how to love it. 

Loch Ness Cruise (summer only)  

Not included in the Pre-Pay Bundle, can be bought locally and is subject to availability

Take to the water and hunt for the elusive monster. Hour long evening cruises operate from Fort Augustus throughout summer and can be booked through Morag's Lodge hostel on arrival.