Scotland: 5-Day Highlands & Jacobite Steam Train Tour

Summary

Highland legends, Skye’s wild coast, whisky & steam trains in five days

You’ll ride Scotland’s famous Jacobite Steam Train from Fort William to Mallaig, explore Isle of Skye’s wild landscapes with a local guide, cruise Loch Ness searching for legends, and taste real Highland whisky at Blair Athol Distillery. Expect muddy boots, stories you’ll want to retell, and moments that stick with you long after you’re home.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the silver light bouncing off The Kelpies as we left Edinburgh — two giant horse heads just rising out of nowhere. Our guide, Jamie, told us stories about Scottish myths and horses that could drag you under the water. It was still early but people were already snapping photos. We stopped for coffee in Callander (the café smelled like fresh scones) and then met some “hairy coos” — Highland cows with those wild bangs. I tried to pet one but it just stared at me, chewing so slowly I had to laugh.

Glencoe hit differently than I expected. The valley felt heavy with history — Jamie pointed out where the MacDonald clan massacre happened and suddenly the wind picked up, cold against my cheeks. That night in Oban, I wandered down by the harbor and watched fishing boats bobbing under yellow lamps. It’s a fishing town but honestly it just felt peaceful after all that driving.

The next morning was all about the Jacobite Steam Train from Fort William to Mallaig — yeah, the “Hogwarts Express.” The train whistle echoed through the hills and when we crossed Glenfinnan Viaduct everyone leaned out for a photo (I nearly dropped my phone). On Skye it rained sideways for half an hour then cleared up so fast you’d think someone flipped a switch. We hiked up near Quiraing and Old Man of Storr; my boots got muddy but the views made up for it — cliffs dropping into blue sea, sheep everywhere. Our B&B host in Portree made porridge with whisky cream for breakfast. Didn’t expect that combo but now I kind of crave it.

Inverness was busier than I thought — more shops and music drifting out of pubs at night. We cruised Loch Ness (no monster sightings), wandered ancient Clava Cairns, and stood on Culloden Battlefield where everything felt strangely quiet even with other visitors around. Last day we toured Blair Athol Distillery; the whisky burned a little going down but warmed me right up. By then I’d stopped trying to pronounce Gaelic place names correctly — Jamie just grinned every time I got close.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Edinburgh to Oban via Highlands

• See the Kelpies sculptures
• Coffee break in Callander
• Meet hairy coos in Kilmahog
• Drive through Glencoe valley
• Overnight stay in Oban

Day 2 — Oban to Isle of Skye

• Ride Jacobite Steam Train from Fort William
• Ferry from Mallaig to Skye
• View the Quiraing cliffs
• Explore Isle of Skye
• Overnight stay in Portree

Day 3 — Skye to Inverness sightseeing

• Visit Old Man of Storr
• See nearby waterfall and gorge
• View Kilt Rock cliffs
• Tour Eilean Donan Castle
• Comfort break in highland town
• Visit Dundreggan Rewilding Centre
• Overnight stay in Inverness

Day 4 — Inverness and Highland landmarks

• Loch Ness monster cruise
• Visit Beauly Priory and town
• Explore Culloden Battlefield
• See Clava Cairns tombs
• Second night in Inverness

Day 5 — Inverness to Edinburgh return

• Tour Highland Folk Museum
• Visit Blair Athol Distillery
• Stop at Dunkeld Cathedral

Top questions

How long is the Scotland Highlands & Jacobite Steam Train tour?

The tour lasts 5 days, starting from Edinburgh and returning there at the end.

Does this tour include accommodation?

Yes, four nights in 3-star guesthouses or hotels with breakfast are included—Oban, Portree (Isle of Skye), and Inverness.

Is pickup included in Edinburgh?

No hotel pickup is provided; travelers should arrive at the departure point in Edinburgh at least 15 minutes before departure.

What’s special about the Jacobite Steam Train ride?

The train runs from Fort William to Mallaig over Glenfinnan Viaduct—famous as the "Hogwarts Express" route in Harry Potter films.

Are meals included on this Scotland tour?

Breakfasts are included each morning at your accommodation; other meals are not included but there are plenty of stops for food along the way.

Is this tour suitable for children?

The minimum age is 5 years old; children under 5 cannot join due to safety regulations.

Do you visit Loch Ness during this trip?

Yes—a boat cruise on Loch Ness is included (weather permitting) while staying in Inverness.

Can wheelchair users join this tour?

Collapsible wheelchairs can be accommodated if accompanied by someone who can assist with boarding/disembarking.

What’s included

Your five days include transport by air-conditioned midi-coach from Edinburgh, a ride on the Jacobite Steam Train from Fort William to Mallaig, ferry crossing to Isle of Skye, a Loch Ness boat cruise (weather allowing), guided visits to places like Culloden Battlefield and Eilean Donan Castle, entry to Blair Athol Distillery with tasting, four nights’ accommodation with breakfast each morning—and plenty of stories from your Scottish guide along the way.