The Celtic Wilds Tour: 10-Day Scottish Highlands & Isles

Day 1

Exclusive Arrival in Skye - Edinbane Lodge & Castle Heritage

A private transfer takes you from Inverness Airport to Edinbane Lodge, a historic property known for its award-winning dining. Upon arrival, enjoy a welcome tea overlooking the Edinbane River before taking a short walk along the riverbank, a level path that passes stone bridges and native woodland.

Optional: Private transfer to Dunvegan Castle & Gardens for sightseeing

Suggested dinner: Tasting menu at Edinbane Lodge

Overnight:  Isle of Skye

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 2

Where the Cliffs Touch the Sky - A Journey Through Skye’s Wild Beauty

Begin with a drive to the Quiraing Trailhead and prepare for a guided hike following a well-marked path along the ridge. You will pass formations such as the Needle, the Prison, the Table, and more. The route offers elevated views of the Trotternish Peninsula, the Sound of Raasay, and distant peaks of Torridon. Once at the summit, enjoy a gourmet picnic prepared by the lodge chef. This could include smoked salmon sandwiches with dill cream, venison sausage rolls, mature Isle of Mull cheddar with oatcakes, raspberry cranachan pots, and shortbread.

Continue to Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls, a viewpoint where a sheer cliff face resembles pleated tartan and a waterfall plunges 55 meters into the sea. Opt for a short detour to Staffin Beach. Here. you'll see fossilized dinosaur footprints from the Jurassic period when it's low tide. Afterwards, return to Edinbane Lodge for a fireside whisky nightcap and choose from their selction of Isle of Raasay Single Malt and Torabhaig Legacy.

Overnight:  Isle of Skye

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 3

Fairy Pools & Talisker Indulgence - A Day of Nature and Fine Whisky

Head to the Fairy Pools for a guided walk along a clear stream that winds through small waterfalls and deep blue-green pools. If you like, you can take a short cold-water swim in designated areas, with towels and warming drinks ready afterward. Lunch is served at The Old Inn in Carbost, with dishes such as pan-seared scallops with garlic butter, Hebridean lamb stew, smoked haddock chowder, sticky toffee pudding, and fresh artisan sourdough bread.

The afternoon continues with a hike at Talisker Bay, a black-sand beach framed by towering cliffs and frequented by seabirds, including fulmars and kittiwakes. Return to Talisker Distillery for a whisky-pairing dinner after. The menu includes Highland venison loin with juniper jus, Skye langoustines in citrus butter, celeriac purée with truffle oil, and dark chocolate mousse with whisky caramel. Each course is paired with Talisker expressions, from the 10 Year to the Distiller’s Edition.

Overnight:  Isle of Skye

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 4

Where the Sea Meets the Cuillin - Skye’s Stories in Motion

Begin the day with a transfer to Portree Harbour, where you’ll board a private RIB boat for a guided sea safari across the Inner Sound. You’ll pass close to the Isle of Raasay and nearby smaller islands, keeping an eye out for dolphins, seals, and occasionally sea eagles. A picnic lunch on a quiet, secluded beach includes smoked salmon sandwiches, Highland venison sausage rolls, mature Isle of Mull cheddar with oatcakes, fresh berry tartlets, and elderflower presse.

The return journey hugs the Cuillin coastline, with stops to take in sea arches and hidden caves accessible only by boat. Back at Edinbane Lodge, dinner includes seared scallops with pea purée, slow-braised Highland beef, pan-roasted cod with samphire, wild mushroom risotto, and cranachan with whisky cream. Guests can also join an optional evening session with a Gaelic storyteller, sharing myths and legends inspired by Skye’s striking landscape.

Overnight:  Isle of Skye

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 5

From the Isle of Skye to Fort William 
via Eilean Donan Castle

After checking out from Edinbane Lodge, drive to Eilean Donan Castle, a restored 13th-century fortress where three sea lochs meet. You’ll have time to explore the Great Hall, historic kitchens, gardens, and a collection of Jacobite artifacts. Lunch after sightseeing is at the Eilean Donan Coffee Shop with dishes like Cullen skink (smoked haddock soup), smoked salmon platters, venison pie, haggis with neeps and tatties, and sticky toffee pudding.

In the afternoon, continue your scenic drive to Fort William, arriving at the elegant Inverlochy Castle Hotel for check-in. The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax in the castle surroundings before dinner at the hotel.

Overnight:    Fort William area (Lochaber)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 6

Lochs and Legends - The Timeless Soul of Glencoe

This day begins with a departure from Inverlochy Castle Hotel, followed by a short and scenic drive south to Glencoe, one of the most dramatic valleys in the Scottish Highlands. The route passes lochs and steep mountain slopes shaped by ancient glacial activity, setting the tone for the day. Before the hike, lunch is enjoyed at the Loch Leven Seafood Café, located directly on the water and renowned for its simply prepared shellfish, designed to showcase the freshness and natural flavours of the local catch.

In the afternoon, you will take part in a guided hike into Glencoe’s Lost Valley, a secluded glen surrounded by towering cliffs and rich in history. Your guide will share stories of the Glencoe Massacre as well as explain the geological forces that carved this haunting landscape. After the hike, return to Inverlochy Castle Hotel in the late afternoon, with the evening at leisure and dinner enjoyed at the hotel.

Overnight:    Fort William area (Lochaber)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 7

Highlands to the Coast: Corran Ferry, Castle Stalker & Arrival in Oban

After checking out from Inverlochy Castle Hotel, you will begin the journey south toward Oban, taking a scenic coastal route that avoids Glencoe. Shortly after departure, you will cross Loch Linnhe via the Corran Ferry, a short but memorable crossing that offers beautiful views back toward the mountains of Lochaber.

Continuing through the Ardgour and Appin regions, the drive passes quiet coastal landscapes, woodlands, and sea lochs. A stop is made at Castle Stalker, a striking 14th-century tower house set on a tidal islet, one of the most picturesque castles in western Scotland. Time is allowed for photographs and a short walk around the viewpoint.

The route then continues south toward Oban, crossing the Connel Bridge, where the tidal rapids of the Falls of Lora can often be seen below. In the afternoon, arrive in Oban and check in to Dungallan Country House, perched above the bay. The remainder of the evening is at leisure.

Overnight: Oban

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 8

Day Trip To Mull Island

The day begins with a short walk or transfer from Dungallan Country House to Oban Harbour, where you will board the morning ferry to the Isle of Mull (approximately 45 minutes). The crossing offers scenic views over the Sound of Mull, with the chance to spot seabirds and, occasionally, marine life. On arrival in Craignure, you will meet your local guide and set off to explore the island’s dramatic landscapes.

The day focuses on Mull’s rugged coastline and colourful villages, including time in Tobermory, known for its painted waterfront and independent shops. Depending on pace and interests, stops may include coastal viewpoints, waterfalls, and short walks to appreciate the island’s wild scenery. Lunch is enjoyed at a local restaurant in Tobermory or along the route. In the afternoon, return to Craignure for the ferry back to Oban, arriving in the early evening and returning to Dungallan Country House, with the remainder of the evening at leisure.

Overnight:  Oban

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 9

Scenic Train Journey to Edinburgh 
& Farewell Evening

Conclude your journey through the Highlands with a scenic train ride to Edinburgh, taking in the breathtaking landscapes of Scotland one last time. Upon arrival, check into the Old Waverley Hotel, a historic property ideally located on Princes Street, offering stunning views of Edinburgh Castle and easy access to the city's main attractions.

Spend your final evening revisiting the highlights of Edinburgh or discovering something new. Take a leisurely walk along the iconic Royal Mile, enjoy some last-minute shopping, or indulge in a traditional Scottish meal at one of the city's renowned restaurants. The Old Waverley Hotel’s central location ensures you’re perfectly situated for a memorable conclusion to your trip.

Overnight:  Edinburgh

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 10

Departure

For your last day, savor your breakfast as you look back on the journey you took over the last days. Once you’re ready, a private driver will be waiting to take you to your next destination.

Home?

Or another unforgettable destination with us?

Either way, we’ll be honored to have become part of a journey that will shape the rest of your days and change the way you see beauty in places.

Meals included: Breakfast