Day one: Edinburgh to Loch Ness
Departing Edinburgh at 8.30am, you’ll pass through the historic city of Stirling, home to legends such as Robert the Bruce and scene of many of Scotland's most famous battles in the Wars of Independence.
You’ll continue through Glencoe, one of the most hauntingly beautiful places in the Highlands, known as the ‘Weeping Glen’ since the grisly Glencoe massacre of 1692.
You’ll pass mighty Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain, followed by miles of lush green valleys known as the Great Glen. You’ll arrive at the Highland town of Fort Augustus where your first night is spent on the shores of Loch Ness, at the multi-award winning 4* hostel Morag's Lodge – praised for its legendary atmosphere and ‘the best showers in the Highlands’!
Day two: Isle of Skye
Today you’ll travel to the ‘Isle of Mist’ – Skye, perhaps the most famous of Scotland’s mystical islands. You’ll spend a day exploring this fairytale land, rich in Celtic myths, ruined castles and completely unspoilt scenery.
You’ll visit the stunning Cullin Mountain Range where you can admire the snow-topped peaks and gaze to the dazzling blue waters below. There’s also a chance to take a gentle hike, before you return to the mainland via Eilean Donan Castle, Scotland’s most picture-perfect castle, which sits perched on its own tiny island.
You’ll spend your second night back at Morag’s Lodge, for another chance to soak up the friendly Scottish atmosphere.
Day 3: Loch Ness to Edinburgh
Before your journey back south begins, you’ll follow the entire length of Loch Ness, scanning for a priceless glimpse of the legendary beast.
You’ll continue on through Inverness, capital of the Highlands, and head for eerie Culloden Moor, site of the bloody Battle of Culloden. With the moor as your wildly beautiful backdrop you’ll hear the moving tales of bloodshed surrounding the passionate uprising of Bonnie Prince Charlie.
Heading south, you’ll pass the magnificent cathedral town of Dunkeld before crossing the mighty Forth Bridge – an unforgettable way to exit the Highlands and end a mighty three days of exploration. You’ll arrive back in Edinburgh at around 5pm.