From Inverness: Isle of Skye & Scottish Highlands Tour

Exploring the Highlands and Isle of Skye: An Honest Look at the Day Trip from Inverness

Travelers considering a full-day tour from Inverness to the Isle of Skye and the Scottish Highlands will find this experience offers a mix of spectacular scenery and memorable sights. Operated by The Hairy Coo, the trip covers iconic landmarks like Eilean Donan Castle, the Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock, and the Quiraing, with plenty of photo opportunities and scenic stops along the way. At around $78 per person, it’s a fairly affordable way to see some of Scotland’s most famous landscapes in one day.

What I particularly like about this tour is how it combines comfort with the chance to see many of Skye’s highlights in a manageable time frame. The luxury coach, with air conditioning and a professional guide, makes the long drive more comfortable, and the stops at places like Portree give you a taste of local life. Plus, the storytelling from the driver-guide can add layers of local flavor and history—something you don’t always get with self-guided trips. However, one potential downside is the length of the day; with a 12-hour schedule, you need to be prepared for a full, sometimes busy, experience. And, based on one review, the driver’s constant commentary might be a bit overwhelming for some.

In short, this tour is an excellent choice if you want to tick off the must-see sights, enjoy stunning views, and prefer the convenience of a guided coach trip. Just keep in mind the size of the group (up to 8 passengers) and the fact that no seat reservations are made, so a bit of flexibility and patience are helpful.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Stunning Landscapes: The tour offers ample opportunities to photograph the Cuillin Mountains, Old Man of Storr, and Kilt Rock—some of Scotland’s most dramatic scenery.
• Convenient and Comfortable: Travel is on a modern, air-conditioned coach, with a live guide providing commentary, making the long day more enjoyable.
• Authentic Scottish Towns: Time in Portree allows you to soak in the local atmosphere, sample cafes, or browse shops.
• Iconic Landmarks: The visit to Eilean Donan Castle provides a classic photo opportunity, with some reviews noting it’s one of the most beautiful castles in Scotland.
• Well-Timed Stops: The itinerary balances sightseeing with enough breaks to enjoy the views and take photos.
• Group Size & Booking: The tour keeps groups small (max 8), ideal for a more personalized experience—but seats are not reserved, so arrive early.

The Journey Begins: Inverness to the Highlands

The adventure kicks off early, with check-in at 7:15 am at Ardross Street, near Inverness Cathedral. Departing at 7:30 am sharp, you’ll hop onto a luxurious coach, ready for a full day. The ride out of Inverness sets the tone—rolling hills, tranquil lakes, and the shifting scenery of the Highlands.

Your first stop is in Achnasheen, where the driver’s commentary helps you appreciate the landscape: lush glens, rugged mountains, and the vast skies. It’s a peaceful prelude before heading towards Loch Carron, a shimmering stretch of water worth a quick photo or two.

Crossing to the Isle of Skye: Kyle of Lochalsh

Reaching Kyle of Lochalsh, you’ll pause for a photo and a stretch. This crossing is where the scenery quickly intensifies—mountains rise sharply on either side, and the view of the Skye Bridge hints at the island ahead. Some travelers describe this part of the journey as breathtaking, with one noting it’s a “highlight” to see the landscapes unfold.

Portree: The Heart of Skye

The tour’s only lengthy stop is in Portree, the main town on Skye, and a highlight for many. Here, you can wander through colorful streets, enjoy a hearty lunch, or just relax and watch the boats bobbing in the harbor. The town’s warm atmosphere makes it a delightful pause, and many appreciate having time to explore at their own pace.

Exploring the Trotternish Peninsula

The real magic begins with stops at the Old Man of Storr, the Kilt Rock, and the Quiraing. These are the highlights that give Skye its legendary reputation for rugged, otherworldly landscapes. The Old Man of Storr’s towering rock formation is an iconic photo spot, while Kilt Rock’s basalt columns and waterfalls are equally photogenic.

The Quiraing offers surreal landscapes—massive rock formations and sweeping views that feel like they belong on another planet. The guide usually shares stories and legends tied to these formations, adding context to the stunning visuals.

Eilean Donan Castle and the Return Journey

On the way back, the coach stops at Eilean Donan Castle for photos and admiration of its fairy-tale charm. This castle, often featured in films like Highlander, is one of Scotland’s most photographed sites. It’s an ideal spot to reflect on the day’s sights and take some last images.

The drive back to Inverness passes through Glen Shiel, a mountain range with jagged peaks and rugged beauty. The scenery is as striking on the return as it was on the way out, providing a fitting end to a long, scenic day.

The Realities of the Experience

The tour’s value lies in its ability to introduce you to Scotland’s most iconic sights without the hassle of self-driving or multiple bookings. For $78, you get transportation, a guide, and access to some of the most photographed vistas. However, the length of the day means you’ll be on the move for about 12 hours, and you should be prepared for a busy schedule.

The group size (up to 8) offers a more intimate feel, but since seats aren’t reserved, arriving early is wise—especially if you want a good spot on the coach. Also, note that the buses do not have toilets, so plan accordingly, and you might find the winding roads a bit challenging if you’re prone to motion sickness.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a straightforward way to see Skye’s highlights and prefer not to drive, this tour is a good pick. It’s suitable for those who enjoy scenic drives, picturesque stops, and storytelling from a knowledgeable guide. It’s especially ideal for travelers with limited time in Scotland who want a comprehensive day trip without the hassle of navigating on their own.

However, if you’re seeking a quieter, more contemplative experience or wish to explore Skye at a slower pace, consider other options or private tours. The large scenic stops and the busy schedule might feel rushed for some, but for many, the stunning views make it worthwhile.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This trip offers a solid introduction to Scotland’s rugged beauty, packed with iconic sights like Eilean Donan, the Old Man of Storr, and Kilt Rock. The comfort of a luxury coach and a lively guide add to the experience, making it accessible and engaging. The price is reasonable for what you get, especially considering the convenience and the quality of scenery.

That said, it’s not without its compromises. The long hours can be tiring, and the tour’s pace means you’ll see many highlights but might not explore each in-depth. The reviews reflect mixed feelings—some travelers love the scenery and storytelling, while others wish for a more relaxed or quieter experience, noting that the driver’s constant commentary may be overwhelming.

If your goal is to check off some of Scotland’s most photographed landscapes in one day, this tour delivers. For those craving a more leisurely or in-depth experience, it might be worth considering additional or alternative options.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, starting around 7:30 am and returning to Inverness around 7:30 pm.

What’s included in the price?
Your fare covers transportation on a luxury coach, a live guide providing commentary, and all planned sightseeing stops.

Is there a bathroom on the coach?
No, the buses do not have toilets, so plan ahead and take breaks accordingly.

Can I reserve a seat?
Seats are not reserved; they are assigned when boarding. Arriving early helps secure a good spot.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 7 years old, and children should be at least 3 ft 9 in (120 cm) tall.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, camera, weather-appropriate clothing, and a passport or ID for children.

Are there any restrictions?
Pets and smoking are not allowed on the coach.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are the stops well timed?
Yes, the schedule balances sightseeing with enough time for photos and exploring, though it’s a busy day.

In the end, this tour offers a convenient, scenic overview of some of Scotland’s most enduring symbols and landscapes. It’s perfect for those who want to see a lot in one day without the stress of driving or planning individual visits. Just remember to bring your camera, a sense of adventure, and patience, especially if you’re sensitive to winding roads or large groups.