The Experience
Day by Day
DAY 1: EDINBURGH TO OBAN
Our puffin tour leaves from Edinburgh as we travel west towards beautiful Loch Lomond. Explore the picturesque village of Luss and take in the mighty Rest and Be Thankful viewpoint before free time in Inveraray for lunch. Discover the ancient Dunadd Fort before we journey to the bustling port town of Oban. (Overnight: Oban)
Edinburgh → Oban
DAY 2: MULL & IONA
Today, we journey alongside the mountains of Mull to visit the peaceful Isle of Iona, which is known as the sacred heart of Scotland. Grab a tasty bite for lunch, visit Iona Abbey, wander the tropical-style beaches, and just let the island’s special atmosphere wash over you. (Overnight: Tobermory)
Tobermory → Tobermory
DAY 3: MULL
Today’s the day! Brace yourself for an exciting optional wildlife cruise to the Treshnish Isles and Staffa. Keep a look out for bustling bird and sea life with live commentary from a wildlife guide. Depending on the season, you may spot seabirds, seals, eagles, dolphins, or whales. Our marine adventure takes us to Fingal’s Cave, risen to fame not just for its stunning rock formations but also for its powerful organ-like acoustics as the waves crash against its walls. We land on Staffa island, where we finally get to meet the puffins! As we observe these adorable birds in their natural habitat, we lose ourselves in the island’s gorgeous uninhabited landscapes. Enjoy the epic island views on our return to Tobermory, where the last stop of the day is Tobermory Distillery - where you'll learn all about the whisky making process and have an optional dram or two. (Overnight: Tobermory)
*The islands are rugged, so this optional add-on might not be suitable for anyone with limited mobility.
Tobermory → Tobermory
DAY 4: OBAN TO EDINBURGH
We set off bright and early for magical Isle of Skye. First, we take a ferry to wild Arndnamurchan, the most westerly peninsula of mainland Scotland. On our adventure north, we’ll visit an ancient woodland, and stretch our legs in a highland village. Mallaig is up next, where you’ll have lunch, a wander and the option to buy souvenirs for your pals back home. Once you’ve refuelled, we’ll jump on the ferry to Skye, where we’ll spend the next two nights.
Tobermory → Portree
DAY 5: SKYE
Today stars Skye, and all it’s awesome beauty. Your guide will tell you all about faeries, giants and other legends, whilst visiting breathtaking scenery that Skye is so famous for: The Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock, Lealt Falls and the Cuillin Mountains. You’ll also get the chance to step back in time at Dunvegan Castle, the home to the McLeod Clan for 900 years.
Portree → Portree
DAY 6: PORTEE TO EDINBURGH
Our final day is jam packed with more Scottish icons. Say cheerio to the Isle of Skye and head south, through Glen Coe. Once you arrive in the famous glen you’ll see why so many people love it. As we head further south there will be more opportunities to take in Scotland’s wild, mountainous landscapes, we’ll stop at Loch Earn and then arrive back in Edinburgh in the evening.
Portree → Edinburgh
Tour Highlights
Day 1
Days 1, 3
Day 1
Day 1
Day 1
Days 2, 3
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Day 5
Day 5
Day 6
Day 6
What's Included
Upgrade Your Tour
These experiences can be added at checkout and are operated by independent local providers.
Cruise out to the Treshnish Isles and Staffa in search of whales, dolphins and basking sharks. If you're lucky you'll meet famous, friendly puffins and spot seals and seabirds among stunning island scenery. Explore the dramatic Fingal’s Cave (pictured), a natural wonder of towering basalt columns. Please be aware that visiting the Tresnish Islands requires walking on rough, uneven ground, which may not be suitable for those with limited mobility. Puffins encounters cannot be guaranteed.
Iona Abbey has been at the heart of the Isle of Iona since AD 563. Explore this historic site, once home to early Christian monks and still an important place of pilgrimage today. Subject to availability.
In the Moment
Accommodation
You’re in for a proper Highland welcome. Your first two nights are in a comfy hotel, and on the final night, you’ll round things off with a classic B&B stay. Breakfast is included each morning, so you can load up on local goodies and maybe even tackle the mighty Full Scottish. The exact places may change from time to time, but we always choose stays that deliver great hospitality and a solid night’s sleep before another epic day out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Your 6-Day Puffin Island Hopper tour departs from the city centre in Edinburgh. Check out our departure info page for more details on your pick-up location.
Yes, five nights hotel and B&B accommodation is included in the tour price.
Our hotels and B&Bs are handpicked by our crew to ensure that all our travellers enjoy a warm Scottish welcome. The specific hotel or B&B may vary, so we can't provide the exact details of all accommodation in advance. However, this tour includes a two-night stay at The Skye Inn, in Portree.
Find more info on our Accommodation page.
5 hearty Scottish breakfasts are included in your tour price. Lunch and dinner is not covered by us, but don’t worry, your Guide will stop at amazing places to indulge in local treats and will recommend great dinner options for the evenings.
Puffins typically nest during the summer months, however, encounters aren’t guaranteed. Nae worries, on your excursion to Staffa and the Treshnish Isles you can except to spot a variety of wildlife around.
Some of our tours run in conjunction with our mates at Highland Explorer Tours, creating a diverse mix of couples, friends, and solo adventurers. If you’re looking for a HAGGiS-only trip, with groups exclusively staying in hostel accommodation, check out the 3-Day Easter in Scotland tour.
