4 Days: Tobermory - Calgary Bay - Fingal's Cave - Tobermory Whisky Distillery - Inveraray - Glencoe

Tour overview:

Discover the wild beauty and rich heritage of Scotland’s Highlands and Hebridean islands on this captivating journey from Edinburgh. Travel through the dramatic landscapes of Glencoe before crossing the sea to the Isle of Mull, where the colorful harbor town of Tobermory becomes your home for three nights. From here, explore the sacred Isle of Iona, with the option to visit the remarkable island of Staffa and its awe-inspiring Fingal’s Cave, and uncover Mull’s hidden treasures, including the pristine shores of Calgary Bay. Your journey concludes with a scenic return through Argyll and along the tranquil banks of Loch Lomond.

Day 1 - Callander & Glencoe

We leave Edinburgh and travel through the gentle Lowlands past Stirling Castle. As we cross the ancient geological fault line, the flat plains give way to the majestic Highlands, with rugged peaks and forest-filled glens that define the Trossachs National Park.

Then, we continue through Queen Elizabeth Forest Park and the bristling terrain of the Trossachs before reaching the remote expanse of Rannoch Moor.

Next, it's Glencoe, one of our most iconic natural landmarks. Famous for its dramatic, rugged slopes, this stunning area has appeared in numerous films and is rich in history and folklore. Then, it's onwards for a unique ferry crossing on Corran Ferry that is pulled across the loch by a steel cable. After a short ferry ride across Loch Linnhe, you meander through the impressive mountains of Morvern to Lochaline, where we take another ferry to the Hebridean island of Mull.

We'll then arrive in Tobermory, the island's vibrant capital, for a three-night stay. With its brightly coloured houses, Tobermory, meaning ‘Well of Mary,' is often described as one of the most picturesque harbour towns in Scotland.

Day 2 - Iona Abbey & Optional Staffa Boat Trip

Today, we're embarking on an exciting island-hopping adventure, visiting two stunning islands: Iona and Staffa, while exploring the scenic beauty of Mull along the way.

We travel along Mull's rugged coastline, passing tranquil coves, rocky outcrops, and sandy beaches. We reach Fionnport, where we board a ferry to Iona, the birthplace of Celtic Christianity.

Discover the serene beauty of Iona, a sacred island where history and nature meet. You've got free time here to walk in the footsteps of St Columba at the ancient Iona Abbey, or admire the magnificent, ancient Celtic crosses and headstones. Later, take an optional boat trip to Staffa, where you may spot puffins and other wildlife. The island, made of striking hexagonal columns, was formed millions of years ago by volcanic eruptions.

After a day spent exploring these remarkable islands, we hop back on a ferry to Mull and journey through scenic glens, past craggy hills, and shimmering lochs to Tobermory. You'll have free time this evening to enjoy a leisurely dinner, a stroll along the picturesque harbor, or perhaps seek out a traditional Scottish music session in one of the local pubs.

Day 3 - Calgary Bay & free afternoon in Tobermory

Mull is full of hidden gems, and this morning your driver-guide will take you to some of their favourite spots.

We return to Tobermory for lunch and give you free time to soak up the atmosphere of this lovely town. You've got the rest of the day to browse the local shops, visit the Tobermory whisky distillery, or take a walk to the Isle of Mull cheese shop.

Day 4 - Loch Fyne & ‘Rest and be Thankful

Say farewell to Tobermory as we head south to Craignure for the ferry to the mainland.

Enjoy a short ferry ride across the Firth of Lorn and cast a last glance at the breathtaking landscapes of the rugged Isle of Mull, before you arrive in Oban, the bustling port town in Argyll.

Continuing west, we travel through the beautiful landscapes of Argyll and Bute, stopping at scenic spots along the way. We stop for a short break in the charming town of Inveraray before we head into Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park. We continue through the wild landscapes of the national park, stopping in the conservation village of Luss. With time, the rugged mountain peaks and forest-filled glens of the majestic Highlands change into the flat fertile plains of the Lowlands as we return to Edinburgh.