Inverness: Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle Day Trip – How to Plan Your Tour

If you are visiting Inverness and looking for a day trip to explore the Scottish Highlands, then the Inverness Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle Day Trip is one of the best options for you. During this tour, you will have a chance to experience the breathtaking landscapes of the Isle of Skye, visit the famous Eilean Donan Castle, and explore the stunning natural scenery of Loch Ness and Loch Carron. In this guide, we will provide a detailed itinerary for the tour and offer some helpful tips to help you plan your experience.

Overview of the Experience

The Inverness Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle Day Trip is a 9.5 hour journey that starts from Inverness. The tour includes a visit to Invermoriston for a photo stop and coffee, as well as a stop at Eilean Donan Castle. The tour is optional and has an extra fee. The itinerary also includes a visit to Portree for lunch, a visit to the Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock, Lealt Falls, and the Loch Carron Viewpoint. The tour ends with a 1.5 hour journey back to Inverness.

Itinerary

Here is the detailed itinerary for the Inverness Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle Day Trip:

Meeting Point

The tour starts at the Inverness Bus Station in the city center.

Invermoriston (Photo Stop and Coffee)

After leaving Inverness, the first stop is in Invermoriston, a small village located on the banks of the River Moriston. You will have a chance to take photos and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea.

Eilean Donan Castle

Eilean Donan Castle is one of the most famous castles in Scotland and a must-see attraction. You will have a chance to explore the castle and its surroundings. The castle has been featured in several movies, including “Highlander” and James Bond’s “The world is not enough”.

Portree (Lunch)

Portree is the largest town on the Isle of Skye and is known for its colorful buildings, busy harbor, and excellent seafood restaurants. You will have a chance to explore the town and enjoy lunch at one of its many restaurants.

Old Man of Storr

The Old Man of Storr is a natural rock formation located on the Trotternish Ridge on the Isle of Skye. You will have a chance to take a short hike to the top of the ridge and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Kilt Rock

Kilt Rock is a 200 feet high sea cliff on the Trotternish Peninsula that resembles a pleated kilt. You will have a chance to take photos and explore the nearby scenic viewpoints.

Lealt Falls

Lealt Falls is a stunning waterfall located on the east coast of the Isle of Skye. You will have a chance to take a short walk to the top of the falls and enjoy the breathtaking views.

Loch Carron Viewpoint

Loch Carron Viewpoint is a picturesque stop that offers a panoramic view of Loch Carron and its surrounding hills. You will have a chance to take photos and enjoy the stunning natural scenery.

Inverness (End of Tour)

The tour ends at the Inverness Bus Station.

Highlights of the Tour

The Inverness Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle Day Trip offers a unique opportunity to explore some of the most stunning landscapes and attractions in Scotland. Here are some of the highlights of the tour: • Explore the Isle of Skye, its capital Portree, and other stunning natural landmarks such as Kilt Rock, Lealt Falls, and Old Man of Storr. • Visit Eilean Donan Castle, which is one of the most photographed castles in Scotland. • Enjoy a scenic drive through Loch Ness and Loch Carron, two of the most iconic Scottish lochs. • Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Scotland by visiting some of its most important landmarks and attractions.

How to Book the Tour

To book the Inverness Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle Day Trip, visit the official website of the tour operator. Booking in advance is highly recommended to ensure availability and secure your spot on the tour.

Final Thoughts

The Inverness Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle Day Trip is one of the best ways to explore the stunning landscapes and attractions of Scotland. By following our itinerary and tips, you can plan your tour and make the most of your time in the Scottish Highlands. Don’t forget to bring your camera and dress in comfortable clothing and shoes to ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Inverness

If you’re planning a trip to Inverness, Scotland, you might have some questions about the city, the culture, and the attractions. In this article, we’ll answer some frequently asked questions about Inverness to help you plan your visit.

1. What is Inverness?

Inverness is a city located in the Scottish Highlands. It is the administrative center of the Highland council area and the largest city in the Scottish Highlands. Inverness has a rich history, and there are many historical and cultural attractions to see in the city and surrounding areas.

2. How do I get to Inverness?

There are several ways to get to Inverness, including by car, train, or plane. Inverness has its own airport, which is located about 9 kilometers east of the city center. There are frequent flights to Inverness from major UK cities like London, Manchester, and Bristol. If you prefer to travel by train, there are regular rail connections from Edinburgh, Glasgow, and other major UK cities. You can also drive to Inverness from Glasgow or Edinburgh, which takes approximately 3-4 hours.

3. What are the top attractions in Inverness?

There are several top attractions to see in Inverness, including: – Inverness Castle: A historic castle located on a hill overlooking the River Ness. The castle is now used as a courthouse and is not open to the public, but you can still admire the architecture and views from the outside. – Loch Ness: A large freshwater lake located just south of Inverness. Loch Ness is famous for its mythical monster, Nessie, and is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and hiking. – Culloden Battlefield: The site of the last battle fought on British soil, between the Jacobites and the British government forces. The battlefield is now a National Trust for Scotland site and has a visitor center with an exhibition about the battle. – Inverness Museum and Art Gallery: The city’s main museum, which has exhibitions about the history and culture of the Scottish Highlands. The museum also has a collection of art and archaeological artifacts.

4. What is the weather like in Inverness?

Inverness has a temperate oceanic climate, which means that it has mild summers and cool winters. During the summer months, temperatures usually range from 10-20°C (50-68°F), with longer daylight hours. In the winter months, temperatures usually range from 0-7°C (32-45°F), with shorter daylight hours and occasional snowfall.

5. What are some traditional Scottish foods to try in Inverness?

Inverness and the Scottish Highlands have a rich culinary history, with several traditional foods to try. Some of the top traditional Scottish foods to try in Inverness include: – Haggis: A pudding made from sheep’s organs, oatmeal, and spices, served with neeps and tatties (mashed turnips and potatoes). – Cullen skink: A creamy soup made from smoked haddock, potatoes, onions, and cream. – Black pudding: A type of sausage made from pork blood, oatmeal, and spices. – Cranachan: A dessert made from cream, raspberries, honey, and toasted oatmeal.

6. What are some outdoor activities to do in Inverness?

Inverness and the surrounding Scottish Highlands are known for their natural beauty and opportunities for outdoor activities. Some popular outdoor activities to do in Inverness include: – Hiking: There are several hiking trails in and around Inverness that offer views of the surrounding hills, forests, and lochs. The Great Glen Way is a long distance walking trail that runs from Fort William to Inverness. – Fishing: Inverness and the surrounding area have several fishing spots for salmon, trout, and other fish species. The River Ness is a popular spot for fishing, as well as some of the lochs in the area. – Golfing: There are several golf courses in and around Inverness, including the famous Royal Dornoch Golf Club.

7. What is the currency in Inverness?

Inverness, like the rest of Scotland, uses the pound sterling as its currency. You can exchange currency at banks, exchange bureaus, and some hotels and tourist information centers.

8. What language is spoken in Inverness?

The official languages of Scotland are Scottish Gaelic and English. English is the most widely spoken language in Inverness, but you may hear some Gaelic being spoken in the Highlands.

Book Your Tour Now:

Inverness is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture. Whether you’re interested in exploring the historical and cultural attractions, trying Scottish foods, or outdoor activities, Inverness has something for everyone. Plan your visit to Inverness today and experience the magic of the Scottish Highlands.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Inverness

As the capital of the Scottish Highlands, Inverness is a popular tourist destination year-round. Whether you are looking to explore the city’s rich history, experience its scenic beauty, or simply relax and take in the local culture, there is something for everyone to enjoy. In this guide, we will explore the top things to do and see in Inverness to help you make the most of your trip.

1. Visit Inverness Castle

Built in 1836, Inverness Castle is a prominent landmark in the city and sits at the summit of Castle Hill. While the castle itself is not open to tourists, it is still worth a visit to see the stunning views of the city and the River Ness. In recent years, the castle has been used as a courthouse and government building.

2. Take a Stroll Along the River Ness

A walk along the River Ness is a must-do for tourists visiting Inverness. The river is a quintessential part of the city and provides a calming atmosphere for visitors. Visitors can easily follow the riverwalk to view several historical buildings and landmarks, including the Inverness Cathedral and the Ness Islands.

3. Explore Inverness Museum and Art Gallery

Located on Castle Wynd, the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery is a fascinating place to visit. The museum showcases the history and culture of the Highlands, along with artwork from local artists. There are several interactive exhibits for visitors of all ages.

4. Admire the Beauty of St. Andrew’s Cathedral

St. Andrew’s Cathedral is a stunning, historic landmark in Inverness. Built in 1869, the cathedral boasts beautiful architecture, intricate stained glass windows, and an ornate interior. Visitors can attend services or simply admire the beauty of the building.

5. Take a Day Trip to Loch Ness

No visit to Inverness is complete without a trip to Loch Ness. The iconic lake is famous for its alleged monster, but visitors will find much more to explore than just mythical creatures. There are several scenic walks around the loch, and boat tours are available for those who want to experience the lake from the water.

6. Visit Culloden Battlefield

Culloden Battlefield is a must-visit site for history buffs. The site is where the Battle of Culloden took place in 1746, which was a significant battle in Scottish history. Visitors can walk the battlefield and learn about the events that took place there at the on-site visitor center.

7. Sample Local Cuisine

In addition to its rich history and scenic beauty, Inverness is also known for its delicious local cuisine. Visitors should sample traditional dishes like haggis, neeps, and tatties, and try local delicacies like salmon and venison. There are several excellent restaurants and pubs throughout the city to choose from.

8. Take a Whisky Tour

Scotland is known for its whisky, and Inverness is no exception. Visitors should take a tour of one of the local whisky distilleries, like the Glen Ord Distillery. The tours offer visitors insight into how whisky is made and typically include tastings.

Book Your Tour Now

Inverness is a city with rich history, stunning scenery, and excellent local cuisine. By following this guide, tourists can experience the best that Inverness has to offer. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or simply relaxing and taking in the local culture, there is something here for everyone. Don’t forget to pack your camera and prepare yourself for an unforgettable trip to Inverness.