Glasgow: 4-Day Isle of Skye, Jacobite Steam Train & Whisky

Day 1

This tour departs Edinburgh at 8:30am and travels west, to the pickup in Glasgow at 9:45am, before following the shores of Loch Lomond, one of Scotland’s most scenic freshwater lochs. Stop in the charming conservation village of Luss for a short walk and views across the water, then continue into the Arrochar Alps for a photo stop at the Rest and Be Thankful viewpoint.

Continue to Inveraray, a historic town on the shores of Loch Fyne, where you will have time for lunch. In the afternoon, visit Auchindrain Township, an open-air museum offering insight into traditional Highland rural life. The journey then takes you through Kilmartin Glen, an area rich in prehistoric history, where a short walk introduces you to ancient standing stones and burial sites.

Arrive in Oban, a lively harbour town known as the “Gateway to the Isles.” Here, you may choose to visit Oban Distillery for a whisky tasting before settling into your overnight accommodation.

Day 2

Travel north through the dramatic landscapes of Glencoe, with time to stop for photos and take in the surrounding mountains. Depending on availability, enjoy a visit to the Glencoe Visitor Centre or a chance to see Highland cattle up close.

Continue to Fort William for an early lunch before boarding the Jacobite Steam Train. This famous rail journey offers panoramic views as it crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct and travels along Scotland’s west coast to the fishing port of Mallaig.

From Mallaig, cross by ferry to the Isle of Skye, enjoying views of the Small Isles along the way. Before reaching Portree, stop at the historic Sligachan Bridge, set against the dramatic Cuillin Mountains.

Day 3:

Spend the day exploring the Isle of Skye’s diverse landscapes and landmarks. Begin with a visit to the Fairy Pools, followed by an optional tour and tasting at Talisker Distillery. Continue to Dun Beag Broch, an Iron Age structure offering elevated views over the surrounding countryside.

After lunch and free time in Dunvegan, visit some of Skye’s most recognisable locations, including the Fairy Glen, the sweeping cliffs of the Quiraing, and Kilt Rock waterfall. End the day at the Old Man of Storr before returning to Portree for the evening.

Day 4

Leave Skye in the morning and stop at Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks. Continue east to Rogie Falls, where a short woodland walk offers the chance to see salmon leaping upstream in season.

Arrive in Inverness for lunch before visiting Culloden Battlefield, the site of the final Jacobite uprising. The return journey south includes a refreshment stop in the town of Pitlochry, before arriving back in Edinburgh in the evening.

Passengers will be provided with a complimentary train ticket to continue your journey back to Glasgow.

Not suitable for

• Children under 4 years
• Wheelchair users

What to bring

• Comfortable shoes
• Weather-appropriate clothing

Not allowed

• Pets (assistance dogs allowed)

Know before you go

• Collapsible, lightweight wheelchairs with removable wheels may be accommodated, subject to availability. Passengers must be accompanied by someone who can assist with boarding and disembarking.
• Please note that on the following dates, the ferry will not operate; instead, we will travel to the Isle of Skye by crossing the Skye Bridge: 01/06, 07/09, 18/09
• Restaurants in Portree can get very busy. It is recommended to book a table for both nights before your tour
• The Jacobite Steam Train is operated by an independent third-party provider. Running dates, timetables, and service updates are subject to the train operator. Please refer to the official Jacobite Steam Train website for the latest service updates and information
• The tour starts at 8:30am in Edinburgh and picks up Glasgow passengers at 9:45am
• You are allowed to bring one medium-sized suitcase (63–67 cm/ 25–26 in). Slightly larger luggage may be accepted, subject to available space.