Cuillin: Our most recommended tours and activities

From Edinburgh: 3-Day Isle of Skye and The Highlands Tour

1. From Edinburgh: 3-Day Isle of Skye and The Highlands Tour

Embark on a 3-day guided tour of the Scottish Highlands and visit highlights, including Loch Ness and the Isle of Skye. Learn the history of this lush region from your guide and spend two nights in Inverness. Day 1: Departing Edinburgh, we will take our first short drive heading north and stop at the mysterious Kelpies. Scotland’s largest piece of outdoor art depicting mythical creatures of Scotland’s folklore that your driver will tell you all about. We’ll then continue on our journey and pass Stirling Castle. Be inspired by tales from your guide of William Wallace and Robert the Bruce. Continuing north, into the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, admire the scenery as your tour guide explains the remarkable tribal clan history of the Highlands. Discover beautiful Glencoe, the most famous valley in Scotland, and hear of its tragic history. Admire the spectacular Glenfinnan Viaduct then head north and arrive on the southern banks of Loch Ness to get photos of the infamous monster Nessie! Stop for photos of Urquhart Castle before arriving in Inverness, the Capital of the Highlands, where you'll stay for 2 nights, choosing from a local guesthouse, hostel, or hotel. Day 2: After breakfast, depart Inverness and drive across the Kessock Bridge to the Black Isle and marvel at the spectacular scenery of Achnasheen and Loch Carron. Arriving on the Isle of Skye, venture north to explore the highlights of the island, including; the Cuillin Mountains, Trotternish Peninsula, Portree, the Old Man Storr, Kilt Rock and the famous Quiraing. In late afternoon, stop for photographs of the most beautiful castle in Scotland, "Eilean Donan Castle." Backdrop to many famous films, such as 'Highlander' and 'Made of Honor', this castle is another must-see iconic landmark! A scenic drive through stunning Glen Shiel follows, returning to Inverness to stay your final night. In the evening, visit a local Highland Pub to drink some Scotch whisky or beer and eat some traditional Scottish food, whilst listening to some local musicians perform. Day 3: Visit Culloden Battlefield, site of the last Jacobite Rising, then 'Clava Cairns', incredible 4,000-year-old, Bronze-Age standing stones. Travelling south, stop at the Highland Folk Museum. Here you'll experience highland life in the 17th century. See the buildings, the clothes and weapons, and how people lived 300 years ago. Then, drive through the dramatic Cairngorm National Park. You will have the chance to experience a Scotch Whiskey tasting before you visit the historic village of Dunkeld on the banks of the mighty River Tay. Your journey back to Edinburgh takes you across the famous Forth Bridges. The expected arrival time back in Edinburgh is around 6:30 PM.

From Edinburgh: Isle of Skye and Hogwarts Express 4-Day Trip

2. From Edinburgh: Isle of Skye and Hogwarts Express 4-Day Trip

Day 1 Departing from Scotland’s capital city Edinburgh, we’ll begin our journey north, stopping to see the impressive Forth Railway Bridge. We will then continue on to the quaint Victorian town of Pitlochry, where you'll have time to explore and grab a morning coffee if you choose to. Continuing through the Cairngorms National Park we'll make our way to Fort Augustus for lunch. This is pretty village at the south end of Loch Ness, so you'll have time to try to spot to elusive monster Nessie. Next we head to Eilean Donan Castle* where we'll spend some time before crossing the bridge to Skye. Overnight: Skye Day 2 Enjoy a full day exploring the Isle of Skye. Your experienced and knowledgeable guide will ensure you get the most out of your day and enjoy sights such as the craggy Cuillin Mountains, the outstanding Trotternish Peninsula, The Kilt Rock and The Old Man of Storr. Portree is your lunch time stop, where you can enjoy delicious fish and chips next to the harbour – just watch out for the seagulls! Overnight: Skye Day 3 This morning we will continue to explore Skye, taking in some highlights in the south of the island. We will then join a ferry from Armadale to Mallaig, our lunch stop for the day. There may also be an opportunity to join a Wildlife Cruise here. Next we will join the Jacobite Steam Train (or Hogwarts Express!) and enjoy the stunning 2-hour train ride to Fort William, our overnight stop. Day 4 After a restful night in Fort William we will start our journey south towards the impressive Glen Coe. We'll have ample time to take in this stunning glen and explore the Glen Coe Visitor Centre. We will then continue our drive through Rannoch Moor, one of the last really wild places in Scotland. If you want to experience the beauty of the Scottish Moor, this is the place! We will stop for lunch in Callander, situated on the River Teith this is where we'll say goodbye to the Highlands and continue into the Lowlands. We will stop to see the impressive, Kelpies - 30-meter-high horse head sculptures before returning to Edinburgh. *Optional Extra Subject to Availability.

Edinburgh: Isle of Skye & Jacobite Train 3-Day Highland Tour

3. Edinburgh: Isle of Skye & Jacobite Train 3-Day Highland Tour

Explore the Highlands of Scotland and the magical Isle of Skye on a 3-day sightseeing tour. Discover an area of outstanding natural beauty, full of Viking history and ancient myths and legends. Take a journey packed with Scotland's most iconic sights and scenery. Then ride on one of the great train journeys of the world on the charming Jacobite Steam Train. Day 1:Depart Edinburgh and drive past stunning views of the Forth Bridge to enter the Highlands through Perthshire. Admire a land of ancient forests, rivers, and mountains. Visit the quaint village of Dunkeld, with its historic cathedral on the banks of the River Tay. Continue north into the Highlands before you enter the Great Glen. At Fort Augustus, explore the shores of Loch Ness. Cross to the famous Isle of Skye, passing Eilean Donan Castle en route. Marvel at Scotland’s most famous icons. Your home for the night is Portree, capital of the “Winged Isle.” Day 2:Today you will spend a full day exploring the dramatic Isle of Skye, with its amazing scenery and fantastic myths and legends. Hear tales of Bonnie Prince Charlie’s escape against the backdrop of the jagged Cuillin Mountains. Highlights include the spectacular cliffs of Quiraing, the mysterious rock formation of Old Man of Storr, the cascading waterfalls of Kilt Rock, and imposing Dunvegan Castle. Spend overnight on the Isle of Skye. Day 3:Explore the south of the island, known as the “Garden of Skye,” before taking the ferry to the west coast fishing village of Mallaig. Here you will have the option to board the Jacobite Steam Train to Fort William, one of the most spectacular railway journeys in the world. Cross the Glenfinnan viaduct and see a monument to Bonnie Prince Charlie’s campaign. Head south through the dramatic scenery of Glen Coe and Rannoch Moor, before riding through the heart of Rob Roy country to arrive back in Edinburgh in the early evening.

Isle of Skye & The Highlands: 3-Day Guided Tour from Glasgow

4. Isle of Skye & The Highlands: 3-Day Guided Tour from Glasgow

Escape the bustle of daily life and get back to nature on a 3-day tour of the Scottish Highlands and Isle of Skye, with bed and breakfast accommodations in Inverness. Hear of clan massacres, visit monuments associated with Scotland’s struggle against the English, and see location sites of the blockbuster movie “Highlander.” Day 1: Departing from Glasgow, take a spectacular route north through Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. First, stop at a pretty village perched on the banks of Loch Lomond. Then, further north, cross the brooding expanse of Rannoch Moor and travel on through Glen Coe. Here, you'll learn of clan massacres as you stand amongst the eerie but beautiful glen. Spend overnight in Inverness. Day 2: Depart Inverness to set off on our day excursion to the Isle of Skye. Stop for photographs at Loch Ness and Eilean Donan Castle before crossing the bridge to Skye. On the island, explore the craggy Cuillin Mountains, the dramatic hills of the Quiraing, and the beautiful Trotternish Peninsula. Look for seals peeking out of the waves as you walk along the coast, or spot stags silhouetted on hillsides. Then stop for lunch in the capital of the island, Portree. Day 3: Follow the banks of Loch Ness where you can take a boat tour to Urquhart Castle or do a bit of monster hunting from the shore. Please note that during the winter months it may not be possible to take a cruise and visit the castle. En route back to Glasgow, go past the battlefield of Culloden, the site of the defeat of the Jacobite forces. Drive through the Cairngorm Mountains, home of Britain’s highest mountain, and see the picturesque Victorian town of Pitlochry.

Isle of Skye and West Highlands: 4-Day Tour from Edinburgh

5. Isle of Skye and West Highlands: 4-Day Tour from Edinburgh

Embark on a breathtaking 4-day journey through the Scottish countryside, enjoying the grandeur of the Scottish glens, mountains and coastlines at a relaxed pace. Spend some time exploring the beautiful Isle of Skye and stop to take in the dramatic views of untouched nature as you pass the dramatic Glencoe and Glenfinnan. Day 1: Edinburgh - The Kelpies - Glencoe - Fort William Depart Edinburgh at 9:15 AM and travel northwest to visit the Kelpies, the largest pair of horse sculptures in the world and one of Scotland's most fascinating modern marvels. For lunch, stop in either of the small towns of Killin or Callander, passing through beautiful lochs and castles. After enjoying beautiful views of rivers, lochs, and forests, cross the wild and remote Rannoch Moor, a beautiful location for photographers and nature lovers. You then travel to Glencoe, one of Scotland's most famous landscapes, before heading towards Fort William, where the tour stays for the first night. Day 2: Fort William - Mallaig – Skye After breakfast, get picked up from your accommodation and travel by Glenfinnan Viaduct. It's one of the most spectacular railway bends in Britain and featured in the Harry Potter movies. There is also an iconic monument that commemorates the Jacobites who fought for Scottish independence. After arriving in Mallaig, take the ferry with your group to the southern area of the Isle of Skye. Spend your afternoon exploring the incredible landscapes of the Sleat Peninsula, with potential stops at the waterfalls of Glenbrittle or Cuillin Mountains in Elgol. The tour then heads towards the Lochalsh/Skye area, the base for the next two nights. Day 3: Travel through Skye's most iconic scenery Today the tour offers great opportunities to enjoy some of the most famous wonders of Skye, such as Quiraing, Old Man of Storr, Neist Point, etc. This day's itinerary is quite flexible, depending on the weather and the group's interests. Your experienced guide will choose a unique itinerary and will ensure you get a chance to get off the beaten track and discover what the Isle of Skye has to offer. Day 4: Skye - Dunkeld - Edinburgh This morning you say farewell to Skye and travel south through Glen Shiel towards the Central Highlands. Stop at the historic village of Dunkeld, and have the opportunity to visit the ruins of the old cathedral. The tour then heads through the Lowlands, over the Firth of Forth, and gets back to Edinburgh at approximately 6:30 PM.

From Inverness: Skye Explorer Full-Day Tour with 3 Hikes

6. From Inverness: Skye Explorer Full-Day Tour with 3 Hikes

Departure from Inverness This tour departs from Inverness city centre at 7.45am. Eilean Donan Castle Our first stop is at one of the world's most photographed castles and we are here (you guessed it!) to snap a photo, from an iconic viewpoint. We will spend around 10 minutes admiring the castle in its coastal location and, from here, we are just a few minutes' drive to the Skye Bridge. Please note that there is not enough time to go into the castle. Cuillin Mountains and Secret Fairy Pools Explore the dramatic scenery of the Red and Black Cuillins and take in the awe-inspiring views. There are also stunning pools and waterfalls, which are famed for their clear aquamarine waters,. We will spend around 1 hour at this wonderful location Portree We will have a lunch stop in the cute coastal town of Portree. For those who have used our lunch pre-ordering service at the start of the day, this is your opportunity to collect your lunch, without having to wait around. For those who prefer to do their own thing there are a number of bakeries and eateries in the village (please note that there is not enough time for a sit down lunch). We'd recommend taking a wander down to see the pretty pastel-coloured houses that hug the shoreline, or explore some of the village's unique independent shops. Old Man of Storr As we drive north the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic - these are the awesome landscapes that draw visitors from all over the world to this tiny isle. Soon it's time for our second hike of the day, to the base of the mighty Old Man of Storr, a jagged basalt rock which is said to be a giant's thumb! From the base of the Old Man of Storr there are fantastic views of the surrounding rock pinnacles. On a clear day you will also be rewarded with the striking outlines of the Red and Black Cuillins, and views out over the Sound of Raasay to the isles of Raasay and Rona. We will spend around 1 3/4 hours here. Quiraing Our last stop is definitely one of the absolute highlights on Skye, instantly recognisable from films such as Stardust, Prometheus and many others. The Quiraing is a series of landslips that have combined to form awe-inspiring scenery. We will spend around 40 minutes here, and you won't have to venture far from the mini-coach to find your very own slice of Skye wilderness. The journey home After a day of adventure you will be able to sit back and relax on the journey home, knowing that you have truly experienced the wonderful Isle of Skye. Rest assured that your guide will still have plenty of stories and music up his sleeve to keep you entertained on the way back. We will arrive back into Inverness at 9pm, with stories and memories to last a lifetime.

From Edinburgh: 3-Day Scottish Highlands & Isle of Skye Tour

7. From Edinburgh: 3-Day Scottish Highlands & Isle of Skye Tour

Discover the Highlands and the magical Isle of Skye with its outstanding natural beauty, Viking history, and ancient myths and legends. This is a journey packed with many of Scotland’s most iconic sights and scenery, all conducted by an expert local guide. Day 1: Edinburgh to Portree You will leave Edinburgh in the morning, enjoying stunning views of the Forth Bridge. Enter the Highlands through Perthshire, a land of forests, rivers, and mountains. You will visit the quaint village of Dunkeld, with its historic cathedral on the banks of the River Tay. Then continue further north into the Highlands and enter the Great Glen. At Fort Augustus, there is time to explore the shores of Loch Ness and a chance to spot Nessie. After you take in the spectacular Eilean Donan Castle, the journey continues to the famous Isle of Skye. You will spend the night in Portree on the Isle of Skye, known as the winged isle. Day 2: Isle of Skye You will spend the day exploring the dramatic Isle of Skye with its amazing scenery. You will discover the many myths and legends that surround the beautiful island. Hear tales of Bonnie Prince Charlie’s escape from the mainland against the backdrop of the jagged Cuillin Mountains. Highlights include the mysterious rock formation of the Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock with its cascading waterfall, and Dunvegan's impressive castle. Stay overnight in Portree. Day 3: Portree to Edinburgh On the final day you will head south via the Skye Bridge and through the stunning glens. Pass the Commando Memorial with views of Ben Nevis, Britain's highest mountain. You will see eerie Glen Coe and the wilds of Rannoch Moor, before arriving in Rob Roy country where you will hear about the rogue turned hero. Crossing back into the lowlands, you will arrive in Edinburgh in the early evening.

From Inverness: Loch Ness and Isle of Skye Private Day Trip

8. From Inverness: Loch Ness and Isle of Skye Private Day Trip

As much as we would love to do a full customised tour this is not a option for this tour we will offer the best experience depending on the weather conditions on the day but we will no longer customise our Itinerary Come take a private tour with guide and driver from Inverness to the Isle of Skye This tour includes all the famous landmarks including a Stop at urquhart castle for Loch Ness and the ruins on the loch The redburn cafe to visit the highland cows when they are available Glensheil a stop just before the 5 sisters of kintail to take in the scenery Eilean donan castle for upto 1 hour for photos and maybe a visit inside Passing the famous Skye bridge Your first stop on the isle is the sligachan the old bridge from here you can see the cuillin mountain and sligachan hills and river The fairypools take a walk (2 miles) to see some spectacular waterfalls and pool formations from the volcanic activities that formed the isle millions of years ago Talisker distillery offers you the chance to try a local whisky Then we are off to kilt rock passing the old man of storr before stopping in Portree to grab supper After a short stop we are on the long home If you decide not to do the fairypools walk we can drive around the quiraing and head to kilt rock before finishing in Portree our finish time on the Isle of Skye is 17.30pm to get home for 20.30pm

Isle of Skye and Outer Hebrides 6-Day Tour from Edinburgh

9. Isle of Skye and Outer Hebrides 6-Day Tour from Edinburgh

Day 1: Edinburgh to Inverness Begin your journey north with a visit to the iconic Kelpies and explore the historic Stirling Castle. Admire the charming Doune Castle, known for its appearances in Monty Python, Outlander, and Game of Thrones. Experience the breathtaking landscapes of Glen Coe and catch a glimpse of the majestic Ben Nevis. Learn about Loch Ness and its legendary inhabitant, 'Nessie'. Arrive in Inverness and enjoy leisure time. Take a stroll along the picturesque River Ness or visit Inverness Castle for panoramic views. Later, unwind at local bars or savor a meal at charming restaurants. (Overnight: Inverness) Day 2: Inverness to Stornoway Explore the awe-inspiring Corrieshalloch Gorge and embark on a picturesque ferry ride from Ullapool to the Isle of Lewis. Keep an eye out for playful dolphins. Visit the renowned Harris Distillery and return to Stornoway, the main town on Lewis, for the night. (Overnight: Stornoway) Day 3: Stornoway Discover the Neolithic wonders of Callanish Standing Stones and the Iron Age marvel, Dun Carloway. Experience 17th-century island life at Gearrannan Blackhouse Village. Visit the Butt of Lewis, the island's northernmost point, with its solitary lighthouse. Enjoy free time in Stornoway to explore the harbor and indulge in local cuisine. (Overnight: Stornoway) Day 4: Stornoway to Portree Pay tribute to island history at a poignant memorial. Explore Harris' beautiful beaches and medieval church. Ferry 'over the sea to Skye' to Portree, the main town. Enjoy local seafood and whisky or embark on a scenic walk. (Overnight: Portree) Day 5: Portree Marvel at the enchanting Sligachan River and the majestic Cuillin mountains. Visit the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, featured in Highlander and James Bond films. Enjoy free time in Portree, exploring shops, savoring meals, and soaking in the picturesque harbor. Visit Skye's landmarks: Kilt Rock and the Old Man of Storr. (Overnight: Portree) Day 6: Portree to Edinburgh Explore the Isle of Skye and ferry to Mallaig. Experience the spectacular Glenfinnan Viaduct on the Jacobite Steam Train. Journey through the Cairngorms National Park en route to Edinburgh, concluding an unforgettable adventure.

Isle of Skye, Oban, St Andrews and Highlands 5-Day Tour

10. Isle of Skye, Oban, St Andrews and Highlands 5-Day Tour

Departing from Edinburgh, travel through Scotland’s Central Belt to Glasgow, here there's time to visit the magnificent Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, opened in 1901. Then cross the Kingston Bridge over the River Clyde and head north to the village of Luss on the shores of Loch Lomond. Next, it’s onwards and upwards over the steep pass of 'Rest and be Thankful' in the village of Inveraray, a town lapped by the sea water of Loch Fyne and famed for its oysters and seafood. Next head to Dunadd Iron Age Fort, the coronation site of kings and queens of Dalriada, the ancient Gaelic speaking kingdom. Follow in the footsteps of kings and queens and take the steep but thankfully short path to the summit of the hill. After a stop at Kilmartin Museum, drive through the stunning Argyll scenery to the bustling port and fishing town of Oban, the location of your first night’s stay. In the morning discover the beautiful Glencoe, considered to be the most impressive glen in Scotland. After a short hike and photograph stop, head to the Glenfinnan Monument and Viaduct. Fom Glenfinnan travel to Fort William where you have two options – a tour of Ben Nevis Whisky distillery or a visit to Inverlochy Castle and Neptune’s Staircase. Time to head north and arrive at the southern banks of Loch Ness to get photos of the infamous monster Nessie! Your route then takes you into some of the most spectacular scenery in all of the Highlands as you pass through Glenshiel and the iconic Five Sisters of Kintail to the meeting point of 3 sea lochs – Loch Duich, Loch Long and Loch Alsh – the wonderful setting for Eilean Donan Castle. On Day 3, explore the sights of the Trotternish Peninsula to the Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock and the Quiraing, hear about the local folklore of how the Fairies, Fishermen and Giants created the landscape. Next, visit the Museum of Island Life, and then loop around north Skye to take in magnificent views across the sea, east to the Torridon Mountains and west to the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides. Journey onto the Cuillin Mountains and travel through Kyle of Lochalsh to the unbelievably pretty village of Plockton. At Plockton there is the option of taking a one-hour cruise or a short hike through nearby woodland. In the evening, visit a local highland pub to drink some Scotch whisky or beer and eat some traditional Scottish food, whilst listening to some local musicians perform. On Day 4, visit Kessock bridge and then head to the North West Highlands. The first stop of the day is at Corrieshalloch Gorge, Scotland’s deepest gorge, and then onto the legendary North Coast 500 Route traveling passed towering peaks to the ancient ruin of Ardvreck Castle. After this fascinating slice of Scottish history, head to the very wonderful Knockan Crag to learn more about the incredible geology of this area, next head to the pretty ferry port and fishing town of Ullapool. After lunch, travel to Rogie Falls and find frothing water cascading down the falls and gentle trails among the forest. From Rogie Falls it’s a short drive to the town of Beauly, the one time favorite town of Mary Queen of Scots. On the last day the first stop is Clava Cairns, the site of incredible standing stones and burial chambers dating back to at least 4000 years ago. Culloden Battlefield is the next stop location of the last battle to be fought on British soil. Onto Cairngorms National Park next, and then the final stop of the tour at the ancient east Fife town of St Andrews. This medieval walled town is home to St Andrews University, the oldest in Scotland, as well St Andrews Cathedral. It’s always hard to drag yourself away from St Andrews but in the early evening it's time to start winding your way through the fishing villages of the East Neuk of Fife, across the Forth Road Bridge with views of the 1890 Railway Bridge and the 2017 Queensferry Crossing, and back into Edinburgh.

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What people are saying about Cuillin

Overall rating

4.8 / 5

based on 455 reviews

Tour guide Maj was great! Customizing some parts of the trip to suit the interests of the tourists in my group! He is funny and a great story teller. The tour gives great exposure to the Highlands in a small time without feeling rushed. The accommodations in Inverness were lovely! Included a great breakfast that was accommodating to dietary restrictions. Word of advice, bring nausea medication as the roads of Skye and Highlands are windy and bumpy in sections. Overall would do again!

My overall experience was excellent, this being my first foray into Scottish Highlands. Steven, quite the quintessential guide, amiable, full of knowledge on things Scotland, and interesting folk tales from Coinnach Oer, stories of the Jacobites rebellions and myths on the Kelpies and Selkies. The Hairy coo is forever singed in my mind.

John (aka the king of the north) was amazing. He made us all laugh, kept us entertained, engaged, and happy throughout the whole trip. Even though some places were shut due to weather he managed to take us to other points of interest to make up for it

Wonderful experience. Probably best way to explore highlands… go for there 3 day tour for best experience… the star of the tour was Anthony our guide and good friend… this wouldn’t have been same experience without him

Simply amazing tour, our tour guide Anthony was exceptional.