Discover the ancient history and traditions of one of Scotland's most celebrated clans – the Macleods - with a three day private tour from Inverness through the West Highlands to the Isle of Skye.
Begins at Inverness where we visit Culloden Battlefield to explore the bloody history surrounding the final Jacobite Rising (though the Dunvegan chief followed the government, the Macleods of Raasay were active Jacobite supporters and fought at Culloden). We then follow the Great Glen down the banks of Loch Ness before turning west to Glen Shiel and the Five Sisters of Kintail mountains. At Eilean Donan Castle we enjoy a brief viewpoint break before we cross the bridge to the Isle of Skye and on to explore the magnificent Cuillin mountain range. Our journey takes us to the old bridge at Sligachan for a dramatic view of the peaks of the Black Cuillin in ancient Macleod lands, before our arrival in Portree for our overnight stay.
A full day on the Isle of Skye centred around the magnificent Dunvegan Castle, ancestral home of the clan Macleod of Dunvegan and Harris. The afternoon includes a visit to the ruined St Mary’s Church in Kilmuir, the final resting place of the last five chiefs of the Clan Macleod, along with short walk to explore the two thousand year old ruins of Dun Beag broch, a wonderful example of an Iron Age round house. Alternatively, instead of Dun Beag, we can visit the Talisker Distillery for a whisky tour (advance booking required) before we return to Portree for our overnight stay.
Departing from Portree we tour south through the Isle of Skye, passing the Isle of Raasay in the distance (ancestral home of the Macleods of Raasay) before crossing the bridge to the mainland. We then detour over Mam Ratagan – home to one of the best viewpoints in the Scottish Highlands – following the road to Glenelg, part of the Macleods traditional land-holdings throughout the Highlands. We explore this stunning glen and all its wonderful history (including an ancient broch ruins) before our final journey through the West Highlands to Inverness.
April to mid-October: £2300
Depart Inverness
Return Inverness
(3 Days)
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 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 Portree (Day 1 and 2). 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 just 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.
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.
