Multi-day trip

Scotland: West Highlands, Mull and Iona 4-Day Tour

Multi-day trip

Scotland: West Highlands, Mull and Iona 4-Day Tour

Activity provider:Rabbie's Small Group Tours

From US$ 705.49 per person

Eco-certified

Explore the scenic islands of Mull and Iona on a small group 4-day sightseeing tour that will take you to the remote sandy beaches, dramatic mountains, and ancient abbeys of the best of Scotland’s West Highlands.

About this activity

Free cancellation
Cancel up to 14 days in advance for a full refund
Covid-19 precautions
Special health and safety measures are in place. Check your activity voucher once you book for full details.
Duration 4 days
Check availability to see starting times.
Live tour guide
English
Small group
Limited to 16 participants

Experience

Highlights
  • Explore the scenic and historic West Highlands of Scotland
  • Cross to the picturesque islands of Mull and Iona
  • Drive across the remote expanse of Rannoch Moor
  • Stay in the pretty harbor town of Tobermory
  • Learn about the cradle of Celtic Christianity on Iona
  • See Nature's Cathedral at the basalt columns of Staffa
  • Admire Inveraray Castle's mix of Scots Baronial and Neo Gothic architecture
Full description
Immerse yourself in the scenic splendor and ancient history of Scotland’s West Highlands, and the Hebridean islands of Mull and Iona on a relaxed small group sightseeing tour. The 4-day adventure is by comfortable climate controlled Mercedes minibus for a more intimate and personal experience. Drive across the mountain pass of the Rest and Be Thankful, discover the scene of the infamous Clan MacDonald massacre, marvel at the baronial Inveraray Castle, meander through the mountains of Morven, and much more. Day 1: Depart Edinburgh and travel north past Stirling Castle to the bustling town of Callander. From here, continue through Queen Elizabeth Forest Park and the bristling Trossachs, before reaching the remote expanse of Rannoch Moor, one of the largest wilderness areas left in Europe. A short drive north brings you to Glencoe, scene of the infamous massacre of Clan MacDonald in 1692. Take a short ferry ride across Loch Linnhe to explore the impressive mountains of Morven. At Lochaline, take another ferry to the Hebridean island of Mull. A short drive brings you to Tobermory, the island’s capital and location for your 3-night stay. Tobermory, meaning “Well of Mary,” is one of the prettiest harbor towns in Scotland with its brightly painted houses overlooking the sea. Day 2: This is a leisurely day, with a drive to the more remote areas of the island. Visit the pretty settlement of Dervaig, with its own festival theater, and Kilmore Church, with its round steeple. From here, venture to the wild thrashing sandy shores of Calgary Bay. If you are lucky you might see the sea eagles that live in the area. An early afternoon return to Tobermory will provide the chance to soak up the atmosphere of the pretty town, with a chance to peruse the small shops, and the local Tobermory Whisky Distillery. Day 3: Bask in the glory of Mull, as you head south to Fionnphort to take a passenger ferry to the small Island of Iona. Iona is an island of quiet charm, lapped by glorious turquoise waters. Located in the cradle of Celtic Christianity with the arrival of St. Columba in 563 AD, enjoy plenty of time to explore the Abbey and its museum of Celtic heritage. Visit the magnificent Celtic crosses and headstones, or enjoy a stroll along the quiet sandy beaches. In the afternoon there will be the chance to catch a small boat to the Island of Staffa, where nature enthusiasts can look for the abundant marine life. With its basalt columns of 5 and 6-sided hexagonal stepping stones, Staffa and Fingal’s Cave are an amazing tribute to the effects of nature and are known locally as “Nature’s Cathedral.” After a great day outdoors, return to Tobermory for the night. Day 4: Depart Tobermory and head south to Craignure, the main ferry terminal for the short crossing to Oban. Continue west to the whitewashed 18-century town of Inveraray on the shores of Loch Fyne. Marvel at Inveraray Castle’s mix of Scots Baronial and Neo Gothic architecture, featured in an episode of the TV miniseries “Downtown Abbey.” Next, go to the National Park of Loch Lomond and climb more than 800 feet to the “Rest and Be Thankful” mountain pass before hugging the shores of Loch Long and Loch Lomond. Continue towards Stirling, with opportunities for impressive photos of the castle, before your early evening drop off in Edinburgh.
Includes
  • Transportation
  • Driver/guide
  • Bed and breakfast accommodation (3 nights)
  • All ferry fares (excluding optional trip to Staffa)
  • Meals and refreshments
  • Entrance fees
Not suitable for
  • Children under 5 years

Select participants and date

Participants

Date

Meeting point

Meeting point may vary depending on the option booked.

Important information

Know before you go

  • Drop off time on day 4 is approximately 19:00
  • Transportation is by top of the range 16-seat Mercedes minicoach for a more personal experience
  • Please bring suitable clothing and footwear for country walks and be aware that Scotland can be a wet place
  • You're restricted to 14 kilograms (31lbs) of luggage per person on the tours. This should be one piece of luggage similar to an airline carry-on bag (approximately 55cm x 45cm x 25cm / 22in x 17in x 10in) plus a small bag for onboard personal items
  • Accommodation is in small, locally owned guesthouses and B&Bs. All rooms are en suite. The guesthouse may be up to 20 minutes walk from the city center
  • Solo travelers please select the single accommodation option. For 2 or more people traveling together please choose the twin room option
  • Minimum age to participate is 5 years
Customer reviews

Overall rating

5 /5

based on 5 reviews

Review summary

  • Value for money
    4.7/5
  • Safety
    5/5
  • Service
    5/5
  • Organization
    5/5

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Star rating:

Paul was fabulous guide. He was very knowledgable about the history of Mull and the surrounding areas we visited. He was punctual, entertaining, gave us recommendations for eating, drink, and additonal things to do and places of interest to see on our own at the end of a busy sightseeing day. Paul is a 5 star guide in my book. I really enjoyed my trip and would absolutely book another tour with Rabbie's.

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May 16, 2022

First ever small group trip and thoroughly enjoyed. Guide Stefan was knowledgeable, experienced and a delight to travel with. Also fabulous bake for money. Have no hesitation in recommending these trips. I am already looking at my next one.

May 15, 2022

June 16, 2019

Product ID: 42272