3 day isle of skye scottish highlands and the jacobite steam train from edinburgh

Experience the Highland beauty of the Isle of Skye on a 3-day excursion from Edinburgh. You'll spend two nights on the Isle of Skye, see legendary Loch Ness and ride one of the world's most famous steam trains, the West Highland Line, as seen in the Harry Potter films.

Leaving Edinburgh, head north to the Highlands and the forested mountains of Perthshire. We visit the quaint village of Dunkeld with its historic cathedral sitting on the banks of the River Tay. It’s then further north and west deeper into the Highlands and its stunning scenery before we enter the Great Glen. At Fort Augustus, there is time to explore the shores of Loch Ness and maybe get a chance to spot our Nessie. Visit one of the most romantic castles in the region, Eilean Donan Castle, before traveling to your hotel on the magical Isle of Skye.

Day 2 is spent exploring the scenery, history and natural beauty of the legendary Isle of Skye. Hear tales of Bonnie Prince Charlie and his failed rebellion, see evocative ruined castles and the eerie scenery of the rugged Cuillin Mountains. Stroll through the scenic capital, Portree, then travel to the island's north past the cliffs and rock formations of Trotternish Ridge, including the Old Man of Storr.

Day 3 begins with a tour of the island's south, named 'the garden of Skye', before taking the ferry to Mallaig. Explore this busy west coast fishing village, then ride the famous Hogwarts Express steam train to Fort William, on one of the most spectacular railway journeys in the world. Along the way, you'll cross the famous Glenfinnan viaduct, featured in the Harry Potter films and the location where Bonnie Prince Charlie raised his standard at the start of the failed Jacobite campaign.

The return journey from Fort William takes in the mysterious beauty of Glencoe and Rannoch Moor, skirting The Trossachs and Rob Roy country before arriving back in Edinburgh at around 8pm.