7-Day Private Scotland Tour to Islands of Whisky & Beauty: Islay & Skye
Take inspiration from the 7-Day Islay & Skye Tour Itinerary below and allow us to help you craft your custom, fully private and personalised Scotland Trip
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Islay Scotch Distilleries
Oban Distillery
Ferry to Islay
Highlands of Scotland
Loch Ness Cruise
Isle of Skye landscape
Ferry to Isle of Skye
Eilean Donan Castle
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Highlights - Day 1
Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park
Inveraray Castle
The Seaside Town of Tarbert
Boat to the Isle of Islay
Bowmore Distillery
Our journey starts at your chosen pickup location. We'll set our course northward, venturing into the beautiful Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park.
As we drive through the park's breathtaking landscapes, you'll see the geological line that spans from Scotland's eastern coast to its western shores, separating the Highlands and Lowlands of Scotland
Now, we reach a pivotal juncture and veer westward toward the coastline.
Exiting the national park, we'll arrive at a truly distinctive castle. Presently owned by the clan chief of Clan Campbell, who once held the mantle of Scotland's most potent clan, Inveraray Castle is an essential stop along the west coast.
After visiting the castle, we'll proceed to another nearby gem, the Royal Castle of Tarbert. Though now a captivating ruin, it offers panoramic views of the charming town of Tarbert, along with a wealth of captivating history.
The time has come to embark on our ferry crossing to Islay, a trip of approximately two hours. Upon leaving the ferry, we'll make our way directly to our accommodations in the charming town of Bowmore, the perfect starting point for your Islay adventure!
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Highlights - Day 2 & 3
Bowmore Distillery
Laphroaig Distillery
Lagavulin Distillery
Ardbeg Distillery
Stunning Coastal Scenery
We kickstart the day with a visit to Bowmore Distillery for a whisky tour. Learn all about the whisky production process from start to finish.
But why stop there? Our next destination includes a walking excursion with not one, not two, but three whisky distilleries! It's the Islay way! Our whisky journey, for today and the third day, will take us to Laphroaig, Lagavulin, and finally Ardbeg distilleries.
After an immersive two days steeped in whisky lore, we'll arrange for your pickup from the last distillery, ensuring your safe return to your Bowmore accommodations.
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Highlights - Day 4
Kilmartin Glen
Oban
Kilchurn Castle
Balquhidder Glen
We leave on an early morning departure from the island, catching a ferry to the mainland. As we bid farewell to Islay, our journey leads us northward to the region of Kilmartin Glen.
Our first stop in this incredible glen is Dunadd Fort. This modest yet significant hill fort once served as the thriving heart of the ancient kingdom of Dal Riata, which stretched from Ireland's shores.
Next on our itinerary, just a stone's throw away, are the Nether Largie standing stones. We'll leisurely wander through the field, passing these venerable, weathered stones, before moving on to our next point of interest.
Who says our whisky adventure has to end on Islay? Our path now leads us to Oban, Scotland's seafood capital, where we'll get on to see a tour of the Oban distillery.
After savouring the "water of life," we set our course for Kilchurn Castle, once the ancestral seat of Clan Campbell. This remarkable ruin graces the head of Loch Awe, Scotland's longest freshwater loch, surrounded by awe-inspiring mountains.
Returning to our vehicle, we venture into Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park, where we'll explore the cascading Falls of Dochart in Killin. This charming highland village sits on the park's border and overlooks Loch Tay, which the falls spill into. These falls serve as a natural salmon ladder, offering a chance to witness leaping fish if our timing is right.
Have you heard the tale of Robert (Rob Roy) MacGregor? Our next destination is his final resting place, where you'll discover the extraordinary life of this legendary figure and the unfortunate history of Clan MacGregor.
Following our historical exploration, we'll hike through the landscape of Balquhidder Glen. We'll walk to a viewpoint that has served as the rallying point for the local clan chief and his clan for generations.
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Highlights - Day 5
Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park
Rannoch Moor
Glencoe
Replica of Historic Turf House
Glenfinnan Viaduct (Harry Potter Train Bridge)
Boat to the Isle of Skye
We begin our day leaving the national park and continue our journey through one of Scotland’s most scenic locations, the wild & vast glen of Glencoe! (Glen is a Gaelic term meaning valley).
Stopping by world-famous locations such as Rannoch Moor and the Three Sisters of Glencoe, the dramatic scenes will leave you wanting more, and there is plenty more on the way! You’ll also learn about the tragic history of the area known as the Glencoe Massacre.
At the visitor centre, there is a fascinating replica of an ancient Turf & Kreel House, giving a glimpse into what life was like in this astonishing Glen.
We’ll continue north into the Outdoor Capital of Scotland, Fort William. Driving through this fabulous location, you’ll learn about its involvement with the Jacobite Uprisings and other fascinating histories.
We can’t forget about its most famous point of interest though! Fort William sits at the foot of the UK’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis. Driving past this incredible mountain will make you feel like you’re in a Lord of the Rings movie set!
After Fort William, we now turn towards the west and head for the charming wee seaside town of Mallaig. But first, we stop by another stunning Highland location, the Glenfinnan Viaduct.
The Harry Potter bridge will be in full view with a mouth-dropping/fly-catching backdrop. This is truly a spectacular location and whilst we’re here, we’ll learn more about Bonnie Prince Charlie and the Jacobite Uprisings.
After exploring Glenfinnan, we’ll head straight for the Mallaig ferry terminal and cross the sea to our ultimate goal, the Isle of Skye. The ferry will roughly take 30 minutes. Once on the island, we’ll head straight for our accommodation location, Portree.
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Highlights - Day 5
Dunvegan Castle
Old Man of Storr
Fairy Glen
Portree
Kilt Rock
Lealt Falls
Duntulm Castle
Our excitement can’t be contained as we now have a day of exploring the Isle of Skye! The day will begin from Portree to our first stop will be to the northwest of the island, Dunvegan Castle.
This famous place holds secrets of the fairy folk who lived close by and learn about the clan chief who married a fairy queen!
We’re off again after exploring that extraordinary castle, heading north this time and driving past an incredible nature wander, The Old Man of Storr.
A short drive past the Old Man and we arrive at Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls. These massive basalt columns create the illusion of tartan across the face of the rock and the waterfalls add to the dramatic landscape that surrounds us.
The dramatic ruin of Duntulm Castle is straight out of a fairy tale. Situated close to the cliff edge, this remarkable location held constant feuds between two famous clans, the MacLeods & MacDonalds. Keep an eye out towards the water, The Minch is said to be the home of some mythical creatures!
From here, we start heading back towards Portree, not before our last stop though! Which is the mythical landscape of the Fairy Glen. It will capture your imagination while we explore this secluded wee spot.
We arrive back in Portree where you can relax for the rest of the evening.
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Highlights - Day 7
Eilean Donan Castle
Loch Ness
Cruise on Loch Ness
Nature Reserve Walk
Cairngorms National Park
Pitlochry
It’s time to start heading off the island, but not by ferry. This time we’ll depart via the stunning Skye Bridge. Once back on the Mainland, we head for our first stop of the day, Eilean Donan Castle.
World-famous for its dramatic landscape surrounding the castle, you’ll have the chance to take plenty of pictures and explore the castle itself.
Now we travel further inland, stopping by the magnificent village of Fort Augustus. Located on the banks of Loch Ness, you’ll have to keep a lookout for Nessie if she decides to wave a flipper at us on the way! Learn all about the famous monster and the Loch she lives in.
After stopping by the famous loch, we head for our hike of the day in the heart of the Highlands of Scotland, Creag Meagaidh (pronounced Craig Meggy).
This beautiful wild landscape is a key example of a rewilding project that is expanding the natural remoteness that once existed across Scotland. The ancient woodland will leave your imagination running wild, wondering where all the fairies are!
After this fascinating walk, we’ll begin our descent down the country, heading south towards Glasgow. But first, we’ll stop by the stunning Highland town of Pitlochry.
This beautiful town was favoured by Queen Victoria on her travels to Balmoral castle, and it was that opinion, which launched tourism in the small village due to all the upper class wanting to travel where the Queen had been.
It’s now time to depart down towards your drop-off locations and say goodbye after an epic 7-day tour of Scotland!
Your Scotland Jouney
This 7 Day private Islay & Skye tour itinerary is only a guideline to give you inspiration, we’ll craft the perfect tour for you!
In this 7-day private Scotland tour we’ll be heading to the famous island of whisky, Islay & the most beautiful place in all of Scotland, Skye.
Travel through Scotland and visit stunning locations like Kilmartin Glen, multiple Islay distilleries, Fairy Glen, Glencoe, Kilchurn Castle, Loch Lomond National Park, Isle of Skye or any other place that takes your fancy! All on a 7-day, private, Isles of Islay & Skye tour from Edinburgh, Glasgow or anywhere else in Scotland!
Private Scotland Tour Information
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★★★★★
We provide many private tours to visitors of Scotland and our whisky is one of the biggest reasons for their visits. We go above and beyond to make sure each private tour is spectacular. Our personalised Scotland itineraries have you as our client at the forefront, your interests and reasons for visiting Scotland, your family history and the experiences you want to have while travelling Scotland.
★★★★★
We aim to provide you over the top value so that you have the best time possible as you visit the highlands, islands and all your favourite Scotland distilleries (even a few hidden gems you might not have otherwise gone to). That means expert Scotland guides, your own tour coordinator working to make sure your trip is spectacular and all the local Scotland knowledge that means you’ll get a completely unique experience of our wonderful country!
★★★★★
Most importantly, Clients consistently Review us as a 5 Star Tour Operator and a provider of 5 Star Tours on TripAdvisor - Google - Get Your Guide and Viator among others.
★★★★★
We’re reviewed every year by the National Tourism organisation - Visit Scotland and are consistently awarded 5 Stars for all aspects of your Tour in Scotland
★★★★★
We provide Extra Small Group Tours of no more than 8 people to ensure a more personable and enjoyable experience as you travel in to the Highlands of Scotland.
★★★★★
We guarantee a feeling of being at home while abroad. Our friendly guides and staff that will make it all possible are going to give you a welcome to Scotland you’ll never forget.
★★★★★
We go #Sightdoing
Our Scotland tours will aim to get you out the mini bus and into the Scottish Highlands on foot so you can get a proper feel of the Scotland and it’s countryside, but we make absolute sure of any restrictions you may have and will accommodate the tour to you and your travelling companions.
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David G from San Francisco - Trip Advisor
★★★★★
A Scotland's Wild private tour will repay you more than you ever imagined
“I'm lucky enough to have taken five private tours of Scotland. They have changed my life, and were enabled by the total client-centered flexibility of John at Scotland's Wild. This quality of his empowered each of my tours, most of all the one this spring encompassing not only the Scottish Highlands and Lowlands, but the North of England, Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland at my request as well.
Starting with experiencing things, not just seeing them, John crafts your tour perfectly around your travel tastes, interests, time frame and budget. If you tell him castles, gardens, caves and waterfalls, those things are exactly what you'll experience. You'll savor them too, as there is no rush, and John will have lots of ideas that link to yours if you want them. You'll be equally satisfied and stimulated, and soon realize that what you thought would be "Scotland's Wild's way" is really your way. I cannot recommend these tours of incredible beauty too highly.”
Jgalanti from New York - Trip Advisor
★★★★★
Weeklong Private Hiking Tour across Scotland
“Scotland's Wild fulfilled all of my wishes for a weeklong celebratory trip to Scotland, wanting to learn about the land, history, culture, on an active hiking-based trip. From the moment I requested a zoom to meet with Kirstie and discuss the plan for my wife's birthday trip.
I felt totally taken care of, and that we were on the same page for what we wanted to do - see and do as much hiking and learning about Scotland in one week as possible (while someone else drove, directed us off the tourists' regular path, and arranged our food).
Overall, these people know how to take care of you, and can cater your tour to what you want, especially if you want to end the day exhausted from the mountain you climbed.”
Naomi S - Trip Advisor
★★★★★
A Magical Trip!!!
“As we sit here and reminisce waiting for our plane we are overwhelmed with gratitude! We had the most memorable incredible experience! Derek, our private tour guide and driver was an absolute treasure!!! He was incredibly helpful, knowledgeable, professional and always with a smile ! We even loved the playlist on our journeys! Derek helped make our trip truly memorable! He was incredible!!!
Thank you for helping us with our dietary restrictions, it worked out perfectly. We learned so much about the history, geography, nature , architecture of Scotland. We were blown away by its sheer beauty and majesty. It was truly magical! Some of the highlights of our trip were: The "Outlander" locations we saw were amazing. We particularly loved the Drummond Castle Gardens. We were amazed at the beauty and majesty of the Highlands, and were thrilled to climb up to the Old Man of Storr on the Isle of Skye. The whiskey tours and tastings were informative as well as delicious!
Kirstie who arranged everything for us was so helpful and professional and an absolute pleasure to deal with!
We can’t wait to come back and explore more!
We will definitely be recommending your tour group and in particular Derek to our friends.
Wishing you continued success!”
See More Reviews Here!
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As you’ll be on a fully private tour we will come to you, that means pick-up and drop-off anywhere in the country including the popular locations of Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen and Inverness, though will happily pick you up in any remote area in Scotland also. Want to be picked up from the airport and taken straight to the accommodation we can have organised for you? - No problem.
We will make your Private Scotland trip as streamline and as enjoyable as possible for you!
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Exclusive, private, high-end or custom distillery tours around the country.
An expert Scotland tour guide.
A comfortable vehicle, fuel, taxes and all other associated costs
24/7 service throughout your trip
Creation, planning, booking and organising of your fully private great Scottish Vacation!
Your very own expert tour experience creator - who will craft the ideal fully private trip in Scotland for you.
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A large part of a fully private and custom Scotland Vacation is the accommodation.
We use our years of expertise and knowledge to find you the perfect place to stay for your group.
From luxury 5 Star Scottish Castles & Manor Houses to cozy Highland Bed and Breakfasts - The sky is the limit when crafting your unique Scottish private tour.
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As a bonus for joining us on a private tour of Scotland we’ll register you to become Lord or Lady of the Glen.
You’ll own a small piece of land and Scotland and officially be named either Lord or Lady, not a bad title to have to tell those back home!
