2 Day Inverness to Isle of Skye Itinerary

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Stop at Dochgarroch Lock on the banks of the Caledonian Canal. This magnificent waterway flows through the Highlands, from Inverness to Fort William. Take a morning walk along the pathway as canal boats, yachts and other pleasure vessels glide past before stopping for a coffee and breakfast at An-Talla by Loch Ness.

If time allows, why not take a two-hour cruise with Jacobite Cruises? Soak up the glorious panorama as you sail down this 19th century canal and around the iconic Loch Ness

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Arrive in the village of Drumnadrochit on the northern shores of Loch Ness. Visit the Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition to learn everything there is to know about the second deepest body of water in the UK - and of course, its legendary monster called Nessie.

You can also get up close to Urquhart Castle, one of Scotland's most famous castles.

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Time to make a pit stop in Invermoriston, a tiny village with a delightful stone bridge designed by Thomas Telford arching over the tumbling river rapids of the Invermoriston Falls. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at the Glenrmoriston Arms Hotel followed by a dram or tea and coffee in the 18th century Moriston bar with its original timber-beamed ceiling. Afterwards, there are waymarked footpaths you can follow into the surrounding wooded hills, leading to other photogenic waterfalls.

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This pretty town sits around the Caledonian Canal. Surrounded by verdant forest and moorland dotted with purple heather, it’s well worth exploring this area on foot if you have time to spare, with a myriad of low-level walking options available. Enjoy a gentle meander along the canal which forms part of the Great Glen Way or venture further afield to take in spots like the Beauly Firth. 

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Located at the foot of Glengarry, this charming old village offers access to a myriad of stunning walking routes. Soak up the natural beauty of Glengarry Forest and the shore of Loch Oich where the 17th century ruin of Invergarry Castle, the former seat of the Chiefs of Clan MacDonnell, overlooks the water.

Book a night in the traditional Invergarry Hotel or other nearby accommodation and enjoy a well-earned rest.

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This mountain Inn embodies the rustic charm of Highland hospitality, serving hearty meals and boasting a crackling log fire in the lobby. Located at the head of Glen Shiel, it's the perfect place to pause and marvel at the beauty of this remote wilderness which attracts hikers from around the world.

As the road leads into the glen, keep watch for the roadside stone memorial which commemorates the Battle of Glenshiel, an infamous clash between Jacobite clans and redcoat forces which took places in 1719.

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Broadford lies in the shadow of the imposing Cuillins, and is the first town you come to after crossing the Skye bridge. 

Catch the bus service to Elgol, a remote community on the west coast of Skye offering boat trips as well as the wonderful scenery of the Cuillins. This is often described as Scotland's finest mountain view, so have the camera charged and ready for some snaps!

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Crofting used to be a way of life which was common throughout the Highlands and islands. Best described as a form of small-scale farming, crofters would live sustainably by making their living solely off the land.

Today, the number of crofts has dwindled hugely. But there are still places where you can find people who still practice this tradition. One such place is Strollamus where you can see a handful of working crofts.

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Portree is the island capital of Skye. Stroll around the postcard-perfect harbour, which is lined with brightly painted houses, or take a wildlife spotting cruise in the Sound of Raasay with the MV Stardust.

The name Portree is Gaelic for the 'King's Harbour', and fittingly, you'll find plenty of fine accommodation from the Royal Hotel, Cuillin Hills Hotel, the Bosville Hotel, and many more welcoming hotels and guest houses.

If time allows, a 30 minute bus ride from Portree will take you to the village of Kensaleyre. Here you can visit one of the island's most ancient sites, the Kensaleyre Standing Stones. Located on the moorland shore of Loch Eyre, the surrounding site which includes a church and burial cairns, is steeped in history and atmosphere. Visit just before dusk to watch the sunset before returning to Portree or your arrival destination.