Inverness: The Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle

Inverness , Scotland

Inverness: The Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle

Active

(2013 reviews)

12h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Viator Experience Award winning tour.

Leave the city for the day and explore the beautiful Isle of Skye. Visit Eilean Donan Castle; one of Scotland's most photographed castles and cross the bridge to the scenic Isle of Skye. Visit Portree, it's village-capital and marvel in the beautiful scenic nature all in one day.

Available options

The Isle of Skye & Eilean Donan Castle from Inverness

What's included

Air-conditioned vehicle

Live commentary on board

Knowledgeable driver-guide

Detailed itinerary

We pause at Invermoriston for photos of the bridge and a toilet stop.

Stop 2

After Loch Ness, our Skye Tour continues on to Eilean Donan Castle*; one of Scotland’s most photographed castles. The castle is situated on its own island at the head of Loch Duich. We take time here to explore the castle and its atmospheric surroundings.

After Eilean Donan, we continue our journey to the Isle of Skye, passing over the Skye Bridge and on to the small village of Portree for our lunchtime stop. Portree, although a small harbour village, is the capital of Skye, and is surrounded by rocky cliffs and rolling hills. Its beautiful surroundings make it a perfect stop to have lunch and enjoy views of the boats.

Stop 4

We stop at the Old Man of Storr for photos

Stop 5

We pause at Kilt Rock for photos.

We stop at the Kyle of Lochalsh for refreshments

We stop at Loch Carron for views of Strome Castle (April-October)

What's not included

Food and drinks

Optional: Eilean Donan Castle Tickets

Gratuities

Restroom on board

WiFi on board

Available languages

Guide guide

Written guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

932 reviews

5★

786

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

1,081 reviews

5★

971

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Minimum age is 4 years old.

Collapsible wheelchairs with removable wheels can be accommodated providing the passenger is accompanied by someone who can assist them board and disembark.

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.

Digital translations in English, German, French, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, Russian & Mandarin available on request.

Please arrive a minimum of 15 minutes before your tour's departure time.

If you are driving, we recommend parking at the Old Town Rose Street Multi-Storey Car Park, 24 Rose St, IV1 1NQ, conveniently located next to our departure point.

Please note: from 22nd December to 1st February 2025, Eilean Donan Castle will be closed. We will still stop at the castle for photos and access to the bridge will be available. However, the Visitor Centre and toilet facilities will be closed.

Meeting point

Railway Terrace, Inverness, IV1 1NW.
Look out for our coach or our sign on the lamp post.

Important notes

• Minimum age is 4 years old.
• Please arrive at the departure point at 07:45 for an 08:00 departure.

About Inverness

Inverness is a historic city in the Scottish Highlands, known as the capital of the region. It offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, with the iconic Loch Ness and the Culloden Battlefield nearby. The city is a gateway to some of Scotland's most stunning landscapes and ancient sites.

Top Attractions

Inverness Castle

A historic castle overlooking the River Ness, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape.

Historical 1-2 hours £5

Loch Ness

A famous freshwater loch known for its deep, dark waters and the legendary Loch Ness Monster.

Nature Half day to full day Free to visit the loch, attractions vary in price

Culloden Battlefield

The site of the 1746 Battle of Culloden, the last pitched battle fought on British soil.

Historical 2-3 hours £14.50

Inverness Museum and Art Gallery

A museum showcasing the history, art, and culture of the Highlands.

Museum 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Haggis, Neeps and Tatties

A traditional Scottish dish made with haggis (a spiced sheep's offal pudding), mashed turnips (neeps), and mashed potatoes (tatties).

Dinner Contains meat and offal, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Cullen Skink

A creamy smoked haddock soup, traditionally made with potatoes, onions, and milk.

Lunch Contains fish, not suitable for those with fish allergies.

Cranachan

A traditional Scottish dessert made with whipped cream, raspberries, honey, and toasted oats.

Dessert Vegetarian-friendly, but contains dairy.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Highlands Boat tours on Loch Ness Visiting spas and wellness centers Strolling along the River Ness Exploring Inverness Museum and Art Gallery Attending local festivals and events Fishing in the River Ness Skiing and snowboarding in the Cairngorms

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest and driest time of the year, with long daylight hours. It's ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the surrounding Highlands.

12°C to 18°C 54°F to 64°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Scottish Gaelic
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Pound Sterling (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Inverness is generally a safe city, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic safety precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight, especially in crowded areas.
• Be cautious when using ATMs, and avoid using them in isolated areas.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services, and agree on a fare before starting your journey.

Getting there

By air

Inverness Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from city center

By train

Inverness Railway Station

By bus

Inverness Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus network covers the city and surrounding areas, with frequent services to major attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

City Center Ness Islands Leakey

Day trips

Culloden Battlefield

5 km (3 miles) • Half day

The site of the 1746 Battle of Culloden, the last pitched battle fought on British soil. The visitors center offers interactive exhibits and a museum.

Loch Ness

24 km (15 miles) • Full day

A famous freshwater loch known for its deep, dark waters and the legendary Loch Ness Monster. The Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition offers insights into the loch's history and geology.

Cairngorms National Park

60 km (37 miles) • Full day

The largest national park in the UK, offering a diverse range of landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor activities.

Festivals

Inverness Highland Games • May Inverness Christmas Market • December

Pro tips

Visit the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery to learn about the history and culture of the Highlands.
Take a boat tour on Loch Ness to search for the legendary Loch Ness Monster and explore the loch's stunning scenery.
Explore the Culloden Battlefield and visitors center to learn about the history of the 1746 Battle of Culloden.
Stroll along the River Ness and visit the Ness Islands for a peaceful and scenic escape from the city.
Sample local whisky and cuisine at one of Inverness's many pubs, restaurants, or whisky bars.