If you do not have a car, or do not want to drive Skye's single-track roads in winter, a small-group day tour from Inverness is the simplest way to see the island. This one is about twelve hours long, goes to Skye and the Fairy Pools and has an average rating of 4.7 from nearly seven hundred reviews. It leaves early, crosses the Highlands, crosses the Highlands, reaches the island by the Skye Bridge and stops for a walk, usually at the Fairy Pools, before returning in the evening. It is an efficient way to see Skye's highlights in a single day, though you will see them briefly. In November, daylight is short, so some scenery is seen from the coach window in the dark on the road home.
What a day tour gives you
A driver-guide who knows the roads, no parking problems, commentary on the history and the landscape and the chance to see more than you could by public transport. What it cannot give is flexibility. Stops are fixed, so the Old Man of Storr, Portree or the Fairy Pools may each get an hour or less.
For walkers who want a full hike, a self-drive trip or a hiking tour gives more time on the hill. Check the booking page for the exact itinerary, the start point and what is included, since operators vary the route according to weather and road conditions.
Winter practicalities
Day tours of this kind generally run in all weather, so waterproofs, warm layers, sturdy shoes, gloves and a hat are needed even if the forecast looks fine. Many Skye day tours are non-refundable or hard to change, so read the cancellation terms and check the forecast before you book. The Fairy Pools path can be wet and the river high, and if a stop is shortened by weather, expect your guide to make a decision on safety. Food is not usually included, so take a flask and snacks.
Who it suits
First-time visitors with a single day, solo travellers who want company, anyone staying in Inverness who cannot drive and travellers who find single-track roads stressful in winter. It does not suit anyone who wants to linger, to walk the Quiraing or to see Dunvegan Castle's interior, which is closed in winter. If you have two or three days, consider a longer tour or stay overnight on Skye so you can use the daylight, as Skye is a long way to travel for twelve hours with few daylight hours to enjoy.
What to expect
The experience
A guided small-group day trip by minibus from Inverness to Skye, with walking stops at the Fairy Pools and scenic viewpoints.
Best time
Choose a day with a decent forecast, since the stops are fixed and winter weather can shorten them.
How long
About twelve hours door to door, mostly spent travelling.
Tips
Wear waterproofs and boots, bring snacks and a flask, check the itinerary and read the cancellation terms.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Visitors without a car who want Skye's highlights in a single day.
- Families
- Suitable for older children who can manage a long day, with a walk at the Fairy Pools.
- Couples
- A relaxed way to see Skye without driving, with a dinner back in Inverness.
- Pair with
- Eilean Donan Castle and Portree on the way, plus the Old Man of Storr if the route includes it.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
How long is the tour?+
About twelve hours from Inverness and back, with several stops on the way.
Does it run in winter?+
Day tours like this generally run through winter in all weather, but check availability for your date on the booking page.
Does it include Dunvegan Castle?+
No, Dunvegan is closed in winter and the route concentrates on the Fairy Pools and scenic stops.
Is lunch included?+
Food is generally not included, so bring snacks or buy lunch at a stop.
Can I change or cancel?+
Many Skye day tours are non-refundable, so read the cancellation terms and check the forecast before you book.
