From

£ 579 / adult

outer-hebrides-skye-adventure-6-day-tour-from-edinburgh

Discover the peace and beauty in the history of the Outer Hebrides

Itinerary

You depart Edinburgh for the adventure of a lifetime

Day 1 - Loch Ness
Pick Up Location Map Image

Pick up time: 8.30am

Location: Gate J And Gate K, Edinburgh Bus Station, St Andrew Square, Edinburgh, EH1 3DQ

Loch Ness

Morning

Edinburgh to Highland Perthshire

We depart from the city of Edinburgh and travel over the Queensferry Crossing, enjoying views of the iconic Forth Rail Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As we journey north through the Kingdom of Fife, the scenery transforms from the rolling farmland of the Lowlands to forested hills and mountains as we approach the Highland Fault line in Perthshire.

Mid Morning

Highland Perthshire to the Hermitage

Continuing through Perthshire, often referred to as "Big Tree Country," you'll encounter rich forests filled with majestic Douglas firs and ancient oaks. We'll stop at the Hermitage, where you can decide to go on a fantastic woodland walk that leads you to the stunning Black Linn Falls.

Afternoon

Hermitage to Aviemore for lunch and through the Scottish Highlands

Leaving the lush forests behind, we begin to ascend towards the impressive Grampian Mountains and Cairngorms National Park, heading to Aviemore. This charming resort, surrounded by mountains and sparkling lochs, is one of the best places for outdoor exploration. You'll have lunch here and some free time to explore the area. Our journey continues through breathtaking glens framed by rugged mountains, with photo stops and comfort breaks along the banks of the mystical Loch Ness, until we reach Corrieshalloch Gorge.

Early Evening

Free evening in Ullapool

Take a short walk through a beautiful forest and admire a gushing waterfall cascading into the deep gorge from one of the viewing platforms or the thrilling suspension bridge. This is our final highlight before arriving in Ullapool, a picturesque fishing village along the North Coast 500. We'll spend one night here before taking a ferry to the Outer Hebrides, giving you the opportunity to explore the harbour and visit local pubs.

Accommodation

Ullapool

Accommodation is not included in the price of your tour but is available to add to your booking during checkout. Simply select our Free reservation service Reserved by Rabbie’s™ & we will make a reservation on your behalf. Payment is made at check-in directly to the accommodation provider. Alternatively you can choose to reserve your own accommodation. For more information about how accommodation works please see our accommodation guide.

Day 2 - Isle of Lewis and Harris
Pick Up Location Map Image

Pick up time: 8.30am

Location: Gate J And Gate K, Edinburgh Bus Station, St Andrew Square, Edinburgh, EH1 3DQ

Isle of Lewis

Morning

Ullapool

Wake up, enjoy your breakfast, and look out over Loch Broom as it glistens under the morning sky. We'll board a ferry later on today to cross the sea to the Outer Hebrides.

Mid Morning

Ferry to Stornoway

We board the ferry and start the exciting journey past the Summer Isles to Stornoway, in the Outer Hebrides. This two and a half-hour boat trip takes you through the sea called the Minch, which is said to be inhabited by the Hebridean Sea Serpent. Look out to sea, you may catch a glimpse of this mythical creature. If you're not lucky, there's still a chance of seeing dolphins and whales.

Afternoon

Arriving on the Isle of Lewis, lunch in Stornoway

You arrive at Stornoway on the Western Isles and have lunch in one of the cafes or restaurants. Recharged with the local specialties, you start your explorations of these unique and remote islands. You will spend your next two days discovering the rugged landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and the slower way of life the Outer Hebrides are known for. You head to the Northwest coast, travelling through traditional crofting towns and seaside ports. Your driver-guide takes you to the Butt of Lewis; the oldest continuously used lighthouse in the archipelago that was designed by the famous engineer Robert Stevenson.

Early Evening

Free evening in Stornoway

After seeing the dramatic cliffs and facing the powerful Atlantic Ocean you travel through the Isle of Lewis to your overnight accommodation in Stornoway. The evening is yours, so you can decide how to spend your time. Will you try the famous local black pudding? Will you stroll along the picturesque harbour? The choice is yours.

Accommodation

Stornoway

Accommodation is not included in the price of your tour but is available to add to your booking during checkout. Simply select our Free reservation service Reserved by Rabbie’s™ & we will make a reservation on your behalf. Payment is made at check-in directly to the accommodation provider. Alternatively you can choose to reserve your own accommodation. For more information about how accommodation works please see our accommodation guide.

Day 3 - Explore the islands of Lewis and Harris
Pick Up Location Map Image

Pick up time: 8.30am

Location: Gate J And Gate K, Edinburgh Bus Station, St Andrew Square, Edinburgh, EH1 3DQ

Dun Carloway Broch

Morning

Stornoway to Arnol House, Isle of Lewis

Today, you immerse yourself in the history and landscapes of this wild island. You first head north to see Arnol Blackhouse. Here, you can experience what traditional farming life was like in these remote reaches as you explore a restored 19th-century croft house.

*The Blackhouse is undergoing maintenance until 26th May 2025 and you’ll be only able to see it from the outside.

Mid Morning

Arnol House to Dun Carloway Broch

A little down the road, you visit the stone fort of Dun Carloway. This structure is believed to be a fortification or an ancient residence and it was built before 100AD. It's a wonderful location to ponder over the vast swathes of history that have come before you.

Afternoon

Exploring different regions of Lewis

The rest of your afternoon is spent in the beautiful serene beaches, along the rugged coast and mountains of the western side of Lewis. You travel to Stornoway through a different side of the island, through the landscape dotted with lochs and moors that is home to rich wildlife.

Early Evening

Free evening in Stornoway

You've got another evening in Stornoway, so why not try some more of fresh food and talk to locals about the island's legends and mysteries?

Accommodation

Stornoway

Accommodation is not included in the price of your tour but is available to add to your booking during checkout. Simply select our Free reservation service Reserved by Rabbie’s™ & we will make a reservation on your behalf. Payment is made at check-in directly to the accommodation provider. Alternatively you can choose to reserve your own accommodation. For more information about how accommodation works please see our accommodation guide.

Day 4 - Luskentyre beach and the Isle of Harris
Pick Up Location Map Image

Pick up time: 8.30am

Location: Gate J And Gate K, Edinburgh Bus Station, St Andrew Square, Edinburgh, EH1 3DQ

Luskentyre beach

Morning

Stornoway to Tarbet, Isle of Harris

It's time for something a little more dramatic. It's time to see the Isle of Harris. The first thing you notice about Harris are the mountains. And as you weave through the towering marvels, your guide will tell you about the traditions and tales of this part of Scotland. We explore the island in the morning and stop for a short break in Tarbert, nestled in between the Isle of Lewis and Harris.

Mid Morning

Exploring the Isle of Harris

You continue to discover the wild and remote charms of the Isle of Harris as you stop in various beautiful places.

Afternoon

Luskentyre Beach, Tarbert and ferry crossing to Skye

Depending on the weather you've been blessed with, you can head to Leverburgh, a charming village with a picturesque harbour, or you have a picnic lunch in a scenic location. Then, you travel to the gem of the island, Luskentyre beach, often ranked among the most beautiful beaches in the world. Here, powdery white sands meet crystal-clear turquoise waters and all that unspoilt beauty is framed by rugged Scottish scenery. Then it's time to say farewell to the remote and tranquil Outer Hebrides because we need to hop back on a ferry in Tarbert and continue over the sea to Skye.

Early Evening

Journey through the Isle of Skye to Portee, free evening

We get off the ferry in Uig, on the Misty Isle and travel through the Trotternish Peninsula to Portree. This part of the island captures your imagination with its surreal rock formations, steep rugged cliffs, vast empty spaces, and the overall sense of wilderness. The ever-changing weather adds to the dramatic scenery, with mist often shrouding the peaks and sunlight breaking through to illuminate the landscape, creating a magical atmosphere. We head towards Skye's capital, Portree, where you'll be dropped off at your accommodation in the early evening, giving you plenty of time to venture out and explore the charming town.

Accommodation

Portree

Accommodation is not included in the price of your tour but is available to add to your booking during checkout. Simply select our Free reservation service Reserved by Rabbie’s™ & we will make a reservation on your behalf. Payment is made at check-in directly to the accommodation provider. Alternatively you can choose to reserve your own accommodation. For more information about how accommodation works please see our accommodation guide.

Day 5 - Explore the Isle of Skye
Pick Up Location Map Image

Pick up time: 8.30am

Location: Gate J And Gate K, Edinburgh Bus Station, St Andrew Square, Edinburgh, EH1 3DQ

Quiraing

Morning

Exploring different regions of the island

Every horizon in Skye conceals something astoundingly beautiful. So today, your driver-guide makes the most out of your time and weather in this marvel-studded landscape.

Mid Morning

Exploring different regions of the island

Exploring Skye feels like stepping into a dream, with countless places to explore. You might head north to the Trotternish Ridge and beyond, where you'll encounter geological wonders such as the Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock, and the breathtaking Quiraing mountain pass. This part of the island enchants visitors with surreal rock formations, dramatic cliffs, vast open spaces, and an overwhelming sense of wilderness.

Afternoon

Exploring different regions of the island

After all this exploration, we'll pause in one of the island's towns for lunch to recharge for the second part of the day. In the late afternoon, your driver-guide may take you back in time, sharing stories about the legends and clan culture surrounding Dunvegan Castle, the 13th-century ancestral home of the Clan MacLeod.

Early Evening

Free evening in Portree

After you've enjoyed the sights of Skye, you have your final evening in Portree. There are plenty of fabulous seafood restaurants to celebrate a fine day of exploring. Will you have dinner and take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque harbour? Or will you seek out pubs and venues hosting traditional Scottish music sessions? The choice is yours.

Accommodation

Portree

Accommodation is not included in the price of your tour but is available to add to your booking during checkout. Simply select our Free reservation service Reserved by Rabbie’s™ & we will make a reservation on your behalf. Payment is made at check-in directly to the accommodation provider. Alternatively you can choose to reserve your own accommodation. For more information about how accommodation works please see our accommodation guide.

Day 6 - Eilean Donan Castle and Glencoe
Pick Up Location Map Image

Pick up time: 8.30am

Location: Gate J And Gate K, Edinburgh Bus Station, St Andrew Square, Edinburgh, EH1 3DQ

Glencoe

Morning

Isle of Skye to Eilean Donan Castle

We travel south through the Misty Isle, passing the Cuillin Hills and Sligachan Bridge, before returning to the mainland for a closer look at Eilean Donan Castle.

Mid Morning

Eilean Donan Castle and journey to Fort William

Perched on a small island, the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, which has recently gained fame as a movie location, has many old stories to tell. You can enjoy refreshments at a local café and stroll along the loch to admire the castle from the outside. Alternatively, you can explore its chambers, where you'll discover a collection of artifacts belonging to the MacKenzie and MacRae clans. Then, we head past shimmering lochs framed by rugged mountains of the Five Sisters of Kintail. After this visual feast of towering peaks, we travel to Fort William for a break.

Afternoon

Lunch in Fort William, Glencoe, and the Trossachs National Park

You've got time for lunch in this charming Highland town nestled at the foot of Ben Nevis. Sample local cuisine and wander the streets of the town centre, before you continue the journey south. Then, your driver-guide may become a little emotional as you move through the valley of Glencoe, one of our most famous natural landmarks. Renowned for its dramatic, rugged slopes, this stunning area was the site of one of the most tragic events in Scottish history. We continue through the wild and desolate landscapes of the Rannoch Moor through the Trossachs National Park past shimmering lochs, rugged mountain peaks, and forest-filled glens and we have a short break along the way.

Early Evening

Journey to Edinburgh

Further south, after crossing the ancient natural Fault Line that runs across Scotland, you watch as the rugged and majestic landscape of the Highlands turn into the flat fertile plains of the Lowlands as we return to Edinburgh.

What our customers say

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Pick-up & drop-off
Name
Location
Description
Start
Gate J And Gate K, Edinburgh Bus Station, St Andrew Square, Edinburgh, EH1 3DQ
Boarding starts at 8.15am
Boarding closes at 8.30am
Return - 7.00pm (approx.)
Edinburgh Bus Station Drop Off, George St / St. Andrews Square area, (Within 5 mins of Edinburgh Bus Station), Edinburgh
Driver-guides will confirm an approximate return time to all passengers on the final day of the tour.
Luggage

All passengers are entitled to 1 piece of checked luggage & 1 small carry on bag. Checked luggage will be stowed in the luggage compartment (not assessable until drop off) while smaller bags for personal items (eg medication, water etc) may be taken on board.

Allowance per passenger
Baggage Allowance
Checked luggage
Number of items: 1 Max weight:44lb Max dimensions:24in x 16in x 10in
Baggage Allowance
Carry on for personal items
Number of items: 1 Max weight:10lb Max dimensions:12in x 10in x 4in
Weather

Scotland’s weather is as dramatic as its landscapes, offering everything from misty mornings to glorious sunshine. Every season brings its unique charm, from vibrant spring blooms to golden autumns and snow-dusted Highlands. Come prepared, embrace the adventure, and experience Scotland’s rugged beauty in all its glory!

Spring (March - May)

Spring in Scotland is crisp and unpredictable, with occasional frosts, sunny spells, and light rain showers. Temperatures typically range from 45-55°F (7-13°C). Expect average monthly rainfall of around 2-3 inches, and humidity levels between 70-80%. Clear skies often showcase Scotland’s dramatic landscapes in all their glory.

Summer (June - August)

Scottish summers are mild, with temperatures ranging from 50-65°F (10-18°C). You’ll experience long daylight hours and occasional rain showers. Humidity hovers around 70%, and monthly rainfall is approximately 2.5 inches. Layered clothing is ideal for adjusting to changing conditions.

Autumn (September - November)

Autumn in Scotland brings cool temperatures and stunning, golden landscapes. Early autumn sees temperatures around 45-55°F (7-13°C), dropping as the season progresses. Rainfall increases, and humidity stays around 80%. The brisk air and changing leaves add to Scotland’s natural charm.

Winter (December - February)

Winters are chilly and damp, with temperatures ranging from 35-45°F (2-7°C). Snow may fall in higher areas, but it’s rare in the Lowlands. Rain and wind are frequent, so waterproof clothing is essential. Expect humidity around 80% and around 2.5 inches of monthly rain.

Accessibility

We aim to make your tour as comfortable as possible and accommodate accessibility requirements to the best of our ability. Our buses are maintained to a high standard and our drive guides are trained to provide support to passengers.

Vehicle Types
  • UK tours use 16-seat Mercedes Mini-coaches without toilets.
Entry & Exit Min Coaches
  • Front left passenger door with three 150mm steps.

    • Grab handles on both sides, non-slip treads, and clearly marked step edges.
Seating
  • Standard coach seats, with a step up to the back row.

    • Seat configuration: single seats on the passenger side, double seats on the driver’s side.

    • Three-point seatbelts on all seats (must be worn when moving). Seatbelt extenders available on request.

Child Seating
  • Booster seats available for children under 1.35m (advance notice required).
Accessibility
  • Buses are not wheelchair accessible.

    • Large luggage compartments for manual folding wheelchairs or walking frames (no battery-operated wheelchairs allowed).

    • Staff cannot provide physical assistance. Guests must be able to board and exit independently or with companion assistance.

Accommodation

We offer flexible accommodation options. Please let us know when you make you booking of any specific requirements you have. We love exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, which means that in some small villages, your accommodation may be up to a 30-minute walk (approximately 1.4 miles) from local facilities. Taxis are available in all locations and an be booked and paid locally.

Lifts and elevators

Lifts and elevators are uncommon but may be available in some hotels. Ground floor rooms may be available in some B&Bs and hotels. If either is essential, please let us know at the time of booking.

FAQ

Hello curious traveller, are you ready to go beyond with us? Whether you're heading to the Highlands, the Lake District, or further; we know you might have a few questions before setting off on your adventure. Our FAQs are here to help make your journey smooth and stress-free.

Do you offer hotel pickups in the departure cities?

The UK and Ireland's historic city centres are full of narrow streets and winding roads. So, to speed up your departure, we only pick up from our central meeting points. What's more is leaving the city using the most direct route also reduces the carbon footprint of our tours.

Is there parking close to the departure point?

We don't recommend bringing your car into the centre of our departure cities. It can be hard to find parking, and there are excellent public transportation services.

When should I get to the departure point?

Arrive 15 minutes before your departure time. Due to waiting restrictions, we can't wait for you if you're late.

Do I need a visa or travel authorisation to go on a Rabbie’s tour?

Entry requirements vary depending on your nationality, personal circumstances, and the country or countries you will travel to and transit through. It is your responsibility to ensure you have all relevant documentation required for your selected itinerary and that you meet all formal entry requirements before travelling.

You can find up-to-date and reliable information on the official tourism website of the counties you’re visiting, or from their embassy or consulate.

What happens if I'm late or miss the tour?

If you're late for your tour, our cancellation policy applies. 100% charges are applicable, and you will not be entitled to a refund or alternative.

What are your cancellation policies?

Cancellation terms depend on which tour you've booked:

1 Day Tours
You'll receive a full refund if you cancel 24 hours or more before the tour departure.

2 - 9 Day Tours
You'll receive a 90% refund if you cancel 15 or more days before the tour departure.

10+ Day Tours
You'll receive a 90% refund if you cancel 21 or more days before the tour departure.

Package tours
You'll receive a 90% refund if you cancel 56 days or more before the tour departure.


If you cancel inside these notice periods, full charges will apply and no refunds will be issued.


To cancel your booking please email tours@rabbies.com as soon as possible. The effective date of cancellation will be the date we receive written confirmation from you.

Can itineraries change?

Your tour will always follow the itinerary as closely as possible. Your driver-guide will keep you up to date on the road, and we'll try to get in touch about any large changes prior to your departure.

What is a guaranteed departure?

It's simple: you book, you go. This means we'll never cancel your tour because of a minimum numbers policy.

Can I pre-book a specific seat?

Due to logistical reasons, we're unable to let you pre-book a seat on the bus. But our comfortable 16-seat mini-coaches have huge windows. So, you'll always get a good view.

Are there toilets on the bus?

We like to keep our coaches small and nimble. This means we have no on-board toilet facilities, but you frequently stop in local towns and villages for comfort breaks.

Do you take children on your tours?

We regret we don't carry children under the age of five on our scheduled tours. Also, some of our tours that focus on whisky experiences are suitable for travellers aged 18+.

You can ask us about the tours we recommend for younger children. And if your child is less than 1.35m tall, you should let us know, so we can provide them with a suitable booster seat.

How much time do I get off the bus?

We want you to enjoy every country you visit with us. And we believe the best way to do this is to get you off the mini-coach and out exploring. So, we give you plenty of time to take photos, go walking, and explore ancient ruins.

How does accommodation work?

Accommodation is a key part of your multi-day tour experience. Where accommodation is not included as part of your tour you will have the free option to have us reserve rooms on your behalf (Reserved by Rabbie's) or server your own accommodation with a venue of your choosing (Tour Only).

Read more about how accommodation works

Accommodation pricing

Where accommodation not included in your tour package, prices will vary per location, time of year and are based on availability. We work with verified 3rd party providers who set their own prices.

You should expect to pay from £80 (€80) per person per night for B&B Ensuite accommodation or from £100 (€100) for a Hotel. Prices are based on multiple occupancy per room. Supplements for single occupancy may apply.

For more details please view our Accommodation Guide

Why do you exclude visitor attractions?

We exclude visitor attractions in your tour price because it lets you travel your way. It means you can pamper yourself with a luxury lunch or skip an attraction whenever you feel like it.

Do we need to bring our own lunch?

You don't need to. We stop in small towns, villages, and rural eateries where you can choose whatever meal pleases both your taste buds and your budget.

Should I tip the driver-guide?

Let's be honest, our driver-guides would never refuse a cheeky bonus. But it's up to you, and the amount is entirely at your discretion.

What about travel insurance?

We advise you take out travel insurance.

What is ABTOT?

You're protected by ABTOT when you chose to let us reserve your accommodation on a multi-day tour. This means you can claim back anything you've paid us if we become bankrupt. Read our terms and conditions for more information.

I have more questions, who can help me?

If you have any more questions, call us on +44(0)131 226 3133, email tours@rabbies.com , or check out our full FAQs.

Tour Reviews

We're very proud of our tours - but don't just take our word for it. Read our favorite Trustpilot reviews below.