Highlands of Scotland - 8 Days

 

 

Glasgow – Fort William – Isle of Skye – Inverness – Edinburgh

May 31st – 7th June, 2025
Or June 7th – 14th June, 2025

Join us in Scotland! From the World Famous Train ride through the highlands to scenic boat rides across Loch Ness – this itinerary is packed full of bucketlist activities. Scotland is the land of kilts, throwing logs, stunning views and bagpipes. A highly requested adventure that we cannot wait to share with you. Due to how popular we expect this trip to be, we have decided to plan 2 weeks of fun! So if you’re looking to book on with a friend, please ensure you both select the same week.

  • 8-16 Spots
  • Double Occupancy rooms
  • Fly In to Glasgow International Airport (GLA)
  • Fly out of Edinburgh Airport (EDI) – 2 shared group shuttles starting at 9am

Be sure to check out the FAQ for this trip – it has all requirements for this trip!

Payment plans available! Only $400 to secure your spot with a payment plan available to pay off your trip over time!

Dates don’t work for you? Check out the other trips this year!

If you have read everything on the trip page & FAQ and still have questions – message Rachel on Instagram @RachelLikesTraveling or drop Rachel an email at [email protected]

Overview

Join us on our adventures to Scotland in 2025!

We are super excited to finally bring you the trip you’ve all been asking for, and we’re heading to the highlands of the beautiful land of Scotland. You’ll have the opportunity to try Irn Bru and Haggis straight from the land that originated it.

You’ll take a trip over to the Isle Of Skye to see the beautiful waterfalls surrounding the coast and hike to most famous and most recognisable landscapes as you circumnavigate the Trotternish Peninsula.

We would give this a 2 on our Adventure Scale Rating as this trip does involve a few hikes through uneven terrain, and across small streams. There are several walking tours throughout the trip through cities that have uneven pavement. You will also be required to move your own luggage throughout your adventure, and so will need to be able to lift your belongings on and off of different transportation.

Highlights

  • Stunning Scenic Train Through The Highlands
  • Stunning hike to Isle of Skye
  • Inverness River Ness walk
  • Loch Ness Boat Cruise
  • Edinburgh Walking Tour

Itinerary

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Today you will fly into Glasgow; one of Europe’s most vibrant and cosmopolitan cities, where your adventure begins.

Tonight there will be a welcome meeting in the evening, so the earlier you arrive the more daylight you can you use to explore the local area.

After the welcome meeting we’ll go out for a group dinner to cheers to a fun week ahead!

Included: Airport Transport between 9am-4pm, Group Meeting at 6pm (Please arrive prior to this), Group Dinner

Overnight in Glasgow

After a full Scottish breakfast, you’ll catch the early morning train heading upwards towards the famous Fort William. We’ve chosen to take the scenic route, so make sure you take a look outside the train and take in the beauty of the highlands – absolutely breathtaking.

Once you arrive at Fort William in the early afternoon, you will enjoy the huge variety of outdoor activities and the highest mountain in the United Kingdom, Ben Nevis. This afternoon you will be able to make your own adventure, so why not go on a beautiful hike through the local environment, or grab a taxi down to Nevis Range Gondola and see even more breathtaking views.

Included: Breakfast, Scenic Train to Fort William
Optional: The Nevis Range Mountain Gondola is the only one of its kind in Britain and reaches the heights of 650m. This is a stunning way to enjoy the fresh Scottish air, and allow you the chance of seeing the stunning views without any of the climbing.

Overnight in Fort William

Breakfast

Today, let’s continue on your train journey, waving goodbye to the beauty of Ben Nevis, and winding your way through the enchanting Glenfinnan Viaduct – famous for appearing in Harry Potter films (a truly magical view). You’ll continue travelling along the coastline, before coming upon the fishing village of Mallaig.

Once you’ve hopped off the train, you’ll stretch your legs and grab the local ferry, taking you over the sea to the Isle Of Skye, one of the northernmost major islands in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland. Take in the local rugged coastlines and moorland, and breathe in the calm of the island.

Tonight, you’ll meet up with your local guide and enjoy a few of the local drinks, and learn all about your home for the night.

Included: Breakfast, Isle Of Skye – Leader-led Whisky Tasting, Glenfinnan – Viaduct Crossing, Scenic Train Travel, Isle Of Skye Ferry, Private Transfer on Skye

Overnight in Isle Of Skye

Breakfast

Ensure you get your hearty breakfast this morning, as you’ll be heading off on a short guided hike through the beautiful Scottish Island. There will be plenty of opportunity to see some of Skye’s native wildlife, such as a few otters and seals, so make sure your phone is charged up and ready to go.

Once you’ve had your fill of walking, you’ll head out on a bus tour to see even more of Skye’s famous and recognisable landscapes such as Trotternish Peninsula.

The dramatic landscapes will include unique geological formations and the towering pinnacle of the Old Man of Storr and Kilt Rock, a sea cliff with a cascade of stunning waterfalls.

Your tour bus will stop several times along your journey, giving you plenty of times to take in the air and grab a stunning picture before continuing forward.

Included: Breakfast, Guided Hike, Bus Tour of Trotternish Pennisula, Picture Opportunities

Optional / Time Allowing: If you have enough time on the day, you may be able to visit a local museum along the way, or the incredible Dunvegan Castle (entrance fees not included).

Overnight in Isle Of Skye

Breakfast

Send your thanks to the Isle Of Skye, and let’s continue on your private bus to the iconic Skye Bridge, back to mainland Scotland.

Today, you’re heading to the charming village of Fort Augustus, the home of the famous Loch Ness Monster. The tales have been heard from the centuries of the creature lurking below the depths, and now you’ll enjoy a scenic boat cruise, taking to the mysterious waters and trying to catch a glimpse of the mystic creature.

Once you’ve made besties with Nessy, you’ll head onwards to Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, and enjoy the local history and culture. Tonight is a free evening, so find a local pub, grab a Irn Bru, and settle in for a night with the locals.

Included: Breakfast, Bus Transfer, Loch Ness Visit, Boat Cruise, Transfer to Inverness

Overnight in Inverness

Breakfast
Day 6 :
Inverness

This morning, you’ll hop on a local bus to the nearby Culloden Battlefield to learn all about the historical importance of the local area, and hear the bloody history of the rebellion.

As the day continues, you’ll move back into the city centre and take a wander down the River Ness, a local’s favourite trial that weaves you over small islands in the river, leading you all the way to the enormous Inverness Castle.

After your walk, you’ll have some time to relax and enjoy the rest of the area, maybe take a trip to a local Castle, or do some souvenir shopping – but we would recommend taking a trip over to Leakey’s bookshop, an absolutely must-see experience for any bookworms.

Included: Breakfast, Culloden Battlefield Visit, River Ness Guided Walk

Overnight in Inverness

Breakfast
Day 7 :
Edinburgh

Catch a morning train from Inverness to Edinburgh, and step foot into the historic cobbled streets, with a generous mix of modern and old, blending together perfectly to create beautiful scenery.

Want to know more about ‘Auld Reekie’, the capital city of Scotland? After you’ve dropped your bags at the hotel, you’ll take an insightful tour of the city, led by someone who has previously been homeless – a truly unique and inspiring way to explore the local area.

The rest of the day is free to do as you wish. We highly recommend doing your research on things that excite you as Edinburgh has so much to offer – from bars inspired by Dracula, to ones inspired by old cinema that have nightly cabaret. It truly is a beautiful city where you can do anything.

Tonight, why not come together as a group and toast to a week well lived – Irn Brus for all!

Included: Breakfast, Train from Inverness, Guided Tour – By Local Guide.

Overnight in Edinburgh

Today is the final day of your adventures in Scotland.

Throughout the day we will have grouped airport shuttles to get you safely back for your flights.

Optional: If you have time throughout the day, why not go to the beautiful Royal Botanic Garden or one last toast at the Scotch Whisky Experience tour, both great ways to finish off your trip.

Included; Breakfast, Airport Shuttle

Breakfast

Everything Included on the trip!

Inclusions

  • Transportation to & from airport between 9am - 4pm
  • 7 breakfasts, 1 Dinner
  • Public Train Transport (where stated)
  • Skye Ferry
  • Private Tour Buses (where stated)
  • Isle of Skye - Whisky Tasting
  • Glenfinnan - Railway Viaduct Crossing
  • Isle of Skye - Guided hike
  • Isle of Skye: Guided private bus tour of Trotternish Peninsula
  • Fort Augustus - Loch Ness Boat Cruise
  • Inverness - Culloden Battlefield visit
  • Inverness - River Ness walk
  • Edinburgh - Guided walking tour

Exclusions

  • International Flights
  • Any food & alcohol not listed on the itinerary
  • Transportation to & from airport outside listed times
  • Tips for Driver/Guide
  • Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh - Approx. $9
  • The Queen’s Gallery at Holyroodhouse - Approx. $17
  • Nevis Range Gondola - Approx. $33
Can I choose my roommate?

Yes! If you have a friend booking with you then just let me know and I’ll be sure to put you together. I send out a roommate survey to match people up for everyone else coming solo.

What is the Cancellation Policy?

The minimum number of girls for this trip is 8. Once we reach 8, the 25% deposit is no longer refundable as I book our hotels, activities, etc. at that point. If we don’t reach the minimum number of people, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel your trip more than 60 days prior to the trip your 25% deposit is non-refundable but can be used for future Adventuring for Life trips minus a $100 cancellation fee. Anything over the 25% will be refunded automatically.

The trip credit must be used within 12 months of cancellation.

The trip is 100% non-refundable 60 days prior to the trip.

The only way to get any money back within 60 days of a trip is if you are able to find a replacement. Rachel can definitely help try to fill the spot but there are zero guarantees we’re able to find a replacement. This is why we recommend travel insurance – incase something happens causing you to be unable to join us!
Rachel highly recommends checking out Travel Insurance quotes as they can be pretty reasonable and assist in these situations.

Are International Flights Included?

No, international flights are not included. People who come on these trips are coming from all over the world, whether its the US or Europe. I can’t possibly include flight pricing that covers every person nor do I want to limit it to “only from this specific city at this time”.

Is Travel Insurance required?

We highly recommend getting travel insurance in case of any emergencies on or before this trip.

You can get several quotes from Aardy.com – Rachel’s personal favorite (from experience) is Travel Guard by AIG.

Do you need to be from the US to come on this trip?

No! Anyone from anywhere can come on a trip, we’ve had girls from England, Germany, Canada and more! You could be the first girl from your country to come with us, we would love that.

What is the average age range of a group?

The majority of my community is in their 20s and 30s, there isn’t a “too old” age but 25-35 is typical. That doesn’t mean that being 39 or 43 should stop you from joining us. As long as you’re open minded to enjoying a trip with all ages, down to have A LOT of fun & do ALL the things, and understand these are very active trips then you’re good!

Is this trip right for you?

You will be responsible for carrying your own luggage through the whole trip – this includes walking from the train to the hotel. There is a moderate hike (that you can opt out of) and a 3 hour walking tour in one of the cities. We consider this to be a 2 of 5 on the adventure rating scale, its not hard but does require a certain level of fitness to take part in all the activities at a good pace.

Things to Know

  • Minimum 8 girls, maximum 16.
  • 3 Star Hotels and Guesthouses
  • We rate this a 2 of 5. There are several walking tours and hikes and you will need to be able to move your own belongings around different transportation.

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