Immerse yourself in the history and landscapes of the Hebrides on this five day private journey. From the ancient standing stones of my homeland on the Isle of Lewis to the jagged peaks of the Isle of Skye, this historian-guided tour is designed to uncover the storied clans, dramatic coastlines, and deep-rooted culture of the Hebrides.
Departing early from Inverness, we travel to the coastal village of Ullapool to board the ferry for a 2¾ hour crossing of the Minch. Arriving in Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis (my home island), we spend the afternoon stepping back through millennia of Hebridean history. We explore the magnificent Neolithic Calanais Standing Stones, the formidable 2,000-year-old Dun Carloway Broch, and the traditional thatched blackhouses that once sheltered island families for generations. We conclude our first day at the secluded Atlantic beach of Dalbeg before returning to Stornoway for our overnight stay.
Heading south from Stornoway, we cross the mountain border into the Isle of Harris. The drive along the Atlantic coastline reveals the breath-taking white sands and turquoise waters of Seilebost and Nisabost. At the southern tip of the island, we visit Rodel to explore the medieval St Clement’s Church – home to one of Scotland’s most remarkable 16th-century tomb carvings. After a late afternoon pause in the ferry port of Tarbert, we journey back through the rugged North Harris hills to Stornoway for our overnight stay.
We spend the morning at the Butt of Lewis – the most northerly point of the Hebrides – where a lonely lighthouse stands guard over towering cliffs and the crashing Atlantic waves. Returning to Stornoway, we visit Museum nan Eilean within the gothic splendor of Lews Castle to see the world-famous Lewis Chessmen. In the afternoon, we travel south to Tarbert to board the ferry for a 1¾ hour crossing to the Isle of Skye, before our slightly later arrival (approx. 7pm) in the colourful harbour town of Portree for our overnight stay.
From Portree, we explore the Trotternish Peninsula, pausing for views of the Old Man of Storr and the coastal cascades of Kilt Rock. We then ascend the ancient cattle pass to the Quiraing; looking out over the village of Staffin toward the Northwest Highlands, this remains a definitive highlight of the Isle of Skye. After a visit to the Museum of Island Life at Kilmuir, the afternoon is dedicated to Dunvegan Castle. As the ancestral seat of Clan MacLeod and the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland, it offers grand history and exquisite gardens to explore before our return to Portree.
Departing Portree, we journey south to the Sleat Peninsula, an area of stunning coastlines and heather-clad hills often missed by the crowds. Known as a quieter side of Skye, it offers secluded roads and hidden vistas that larger tour buses simply cannot reach. We pause at Isleornsay for views across to the Knoydart wilderness before exploring the breath-taking western shores of the peninsula. After a final morning of unhurried discovery, we begin our scenic return journey through the Highlands to Inverness.
Depart Inverness (7:30am)
Return Inverness
(5 Days)
This tour is available on Monday and Wednesday start days from Inverness.
Tours are exclusively for your private group only (up to 3 persons) and prices are per tour. I only offer private tours and do not combine individuals or separate groups – if your private group size is less than 3 the advertised tour price still applies. Your private tour price includes:
The tour price does not include your accommodation, entrance fees or meals and refreshments.
To make the most of your tour I recommend you book accommodation in:
Whilst I do not book accommodation directly, I am always happy to offer advice on where to stay and eat. Your tour quote will include a list of recommended accommodation options for our overnight locations along with suggestions for evening meals.
Enjoy the ease of a private pickup — I will meet you directly at your Inverness accommodation on the morning of Day 1 to begin the tour. At the end of the tour I will drop you off at your preferred Inverness location.
Most locations involve short walks from the vehicle to viewpoints, castles or historic sites. The pace is relaxed and there is plenty of time to enjoy each stop. If you would prefer to skip a particular walk or explore at your own pace, that is absolutely fine on a private tour.
The Tour Vehicle (Honda CR-V) comfortably accommodates up to three passengers with the rear boot (trunk) for luggage allowing for one medium bag/suitcase per person and one small day bag/backpack per person. For private groups of three, if you are unsure about luggage capacity, please let me know the size of your suitcases and I can check against available space.
The tour itinerary is based on many years of guiding experience, previous client feedback, and practical travel timings. However, there is some flexibility and the itinerary can often be adapted in advance to suit particular interests or requests where possible. Please mention any requests in the 'Extra Information' section when completing a Tour Enquiry Form.
Ferry sailings are generally reliable in the summer months, but delays and cancellations can occasionally occur. While I cannot be responsible for additional accommodation, food or other costs that clients may incur due to ferry delays and cancellations, I will make every effort to adapt the tour to minimise disruption. Please note that no refunds will be given for tour and itinerary changes due to ferry changes and cancellations.
The Scottish Highlands and Islands are renowned for changeable weather, and even in the summer months we may experience some rain or wind. I always recommend a light waterproof jacket and comfortable footwear suitable for short walks in wet or uneven terrain.
The first step is simply to complete the Tour Enquiry Form with your preferred travel dates. I will then reply with availability and a detailed tour quotation (with absolutely no obligation to proceed at this stage). I usually reply to enquiries within 24 hours.
Of course! I’m always happy to answer any questions and help you feel confident about your trip. You can reach me in whichever way is easiest for you:
There’s absolutely no obligation — this is just a chance to discuss your ideas and make sure the tour is the right fit for you.
