From Inverness: 2-Day Isle of Skye, Fairy Pools and Jacobite Steam Train Tour

Day 1: Inverness to the Isle of Skye

We leave Inverness and head west towards Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland’s most recognisable castles. Built on a small island where three sea lochs meet, it is one of the classic Highland views. You’ll have time to stop for photos before we continue to Skye.

Our next stop is Portree, the main town on the Isle of Skye. Take time for lunch, walk around the colourful harbour and browse the local shops and cafés before we head north.

We then make our way across the Trotternish Peninsula to Kilt Rock. The 90-metre cliffs are made up of distinctive basalt columns that give the rock its kilt-like appearance. From the viewpoint, you can look out across the coastline and the dramatic landscape of northern Skye.

From here, we head to one of Skye’s most popular attractions: the Fairy Pools. A short walk takes you through the Cuillin landscape to a series of clear pools and waterfalls. There is enough time to walk to the pools, explore the area and enjoy the views before we continue.

Our final stop is Sligachan Old Bridge, with the Cuillin Mountains providing the backdrop. The bridge is also linked to one of Skye’s best-known pieces of folklore, involving the waters of the River Sligachan and eternal beauty.

Overnight: Isle of Skye

Day 2: Jacobite Steam Train & Loch Ness

We start the morning in Skye and travel to Armadale, where we board the ferry to Mallaig (when operational). The crossing takes us back to the mainland, ready for one of the most anticipated parts of the trip.

From Mallaig, board the Jacobite Steam Train and travel along the West Highland Line, crossing the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct on the way to Fort William. Made famous by the Harry Potter films, the journey is one of the highlights of travelling through the West Highlands.

The Jacobite Steam Train operates seasonally and is subject to availability. If the train is not running, we’ll travel the same route by road, with your driver-guide taking you through the landscape and stopping at key viewpoints along the way.

In Fort William, your driver-guide will meet you for the journey back towards Inverness. Keep an eye out for Highland wildlife along the way, including Scotland’s famous Highland cows, or “hairy coos”.

Before returning to Inverness, we stop at Fort Augustus, at the southern end of Loch Ness. Take in the views across the loch and watch boats make their way through the Caledonian Canal.