Southern Skye & Lochalsh: Castles, Brochs & the Glenelg Ferry
Often described as a favourite day of the entire journey on our 10-day small group tour
A Day That Combines Everything
Day 5 is often described as a favourite — and for good reason. It combines some of Scotland's most iconic landmarks with genuinely remote places and one of the most unusual ferry crossings in the country.
Travelling through southern Skye and Lochalsh, this day blends history, geography, wildlife, and romance in a way that feels both adventurous and unhurried.
Day 5 Highlights
From iconic castles to ancient brochs and a historic ferry crossing
Eilean Donan Castle
Scotland's most photographed castle at the meeting of three lochs
Five Sisters of Glenshiel
Dramatic mountain views from Ratagan viewpoint
Glenelg Brochs
2,000-year-old Iron Age stone towers
Glenelg Inn
Famous Highland inn for a relaxed lunch
Glenelg Ferry
World's last manually operated turntable ferry
Highland Cows at Duirinish
Meet Scotland's iconic hairy cattle
Eilean Donan Castle: Scotland on the Silver Screen
The day begins at Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland's most recognisable and photographed castles.
Set where three sea lochs meet, Eilean Donan has appeared in more than 27 films, including GoldenEye and Highlander. But beyond the screen, it's the setting that truly defines the experience:
- Surrounded by mountains and tidal waters
- Accessible yet dramatic
- Steeped in clan and Jacobite history
Arriving early in the day allows time to appreciate both the castle and its extraordinary landscape.
The Five Sisters of Glenshiel: Mountain Drama at Ratagan
Leaving the castle behind, the route follows the loch before climbing into the mountains toward Five Sisters of Glenshiel.
A stop at the Ratagan viewpoint reveals:
- Five steep ridges rising sharply from the glen
- A powerful sense of scale
- One of the most dramatic mountain views in the Highlands
This is classic west-coast Highland scenery — raw, rugged, and unforgettable.
Glenelg: Remote Highlands & Iron Age Brochs
The journey continues into the remote village of Glenelg, an area many visitors never reach.
Here, you'll encounter two remarkable brochs — Iron Age stone towers built over 2,000 years ago. These sophisticated dwellings once housed Highland communities and remain among the best-preserved examples in Scotland.
Visiting the brochs offers:
- Insight into ancient Highland life
- A tangible connection to early settlement
- A quieter, more reflective experience away from crowds
Lunch at the Glenelg Inn
Lunch is taken at the famous Glenelg Inn, a true Highland institution.
This is a deliberate stop:
- Warm, welcoming atmosphere
- Excellent local food
- A chance to relax before the day's highlight
It's the kind of place you'd never find without local knowledge.
The Glenelg Ferry: A Crossing Like No Other
The highlight of the day follows — boarding the Old Glenelg Ferry, the last manually operated turntable ferry of its kind in the world.
This crossing:
- Uses powerful sea currents to manoeuvre
- Operates much as it did generations ago
- Links Glenelg with the Isle of Skye in the most traditional way possible
Often described as the most romantic way to travel "over the sea to Skye", it's an experience that feels timeless and deeply connected to the landscape.
Wildlife sightings are common here — keep an eye out for:
- Seals
- Seabirds
- Occasional dolphins
Back Across Skye & Highland Cows at Duirinish
After landing on Skye, the route follows a stunning drive across the island's mainland, revealing quieter corners and open views.
Before returning to Plockton, there's often a chance to meet and even pet Highland cows at Duirinish — a light-hearted and memorable end to a rich day.
Why Southern Skye & Lochalsh Are So Special
This region combines:
Iconic landmarks
Genuine remoteness
Ancient history
Living traditions
On a small group tour, it's possible to experience all of this without rushing — something that's simply not achievable on tighter itineraries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Part of a Larger Journey
Southern Skye and Lochalsh are explored as Day 5 of our 10 Day Small Group Tour of Scotland, offering one of the most varied and rewarding days of the entire itinerary.