Isle of Skye, Loch Ness, and magical winter scenery in the Scottish Highlands.
Immerse yourself in the magic of the Isle of Skye and spend a transformative volunteer holiday on the Sleat Peninsula. This adventure is the perfect balance of sightseeing and volunteering while making a positive impact on Scotland’s unique landscapes and local communities.
We have partnered with the Sleat Community Trust to help transform the forest of Tormore through tree planting, path building, and repair. It’s not all hard toil; after volunteering on the Isle of Skye each morning, we will spend the afternoons exploring romantic castles, local whisky distilleries, and natural waterfalls. We even get the chance to learn some Scottish Gaelic and hear about all the myths, legends, and tales that form Scotland’s rich history.
Quiraing
The Quiraing is arguably Skye’s most spectacular location. This ancient landslip on the Trotternish Ridge reveals otherworldly views across the landscape, and has been featured as the backdrop for a number of famous films.
The Fairy Pools
The Fairy Pools are a series of small waterfalls and turquoise pools, famed for their natural beauty and magical charm. Set against the stunning Cuillin mountains, they offer a truly enchanting and unforgettable sight.
Tormore Community Forest
Tormore is a community-owned forest on Isle of Skye's Sleat Peninsula. The forest has great potential to be used by local residents and visitors - but the Sleat community needs more helping hands to make the forest accessible. By helping to create a new fascinating site of interest, you'll support an amazing local-driven project.
Tree Planting
Engage in the gratifying activity of tree planting, including native oaks to support local wildlife habitats, along with sycamore and other species to provide a sustainable source of timber for Sleat's local community.
Invasive Species Eradication
Help the native flora and fauna of the Isle of Skye thrive by clearing Tormore Forest of invasive plant species, such as the non-native buddleia. Your efforts will restore the natural balance, creating a healthier and more vibrant ecosystem.
Path & Step Building
The DIY skill you didn't know you needed! Some of the activities at Tormore Forest may include learning how to create secure walking paths and steps. In no time, you'll transform the forest into a welcoming place for local families to enjoy nature walks.
Sabhal Mòr Ostaig
Did you know that only 1% of people in Scotland still speak Gaelic? During an interactive tutoring session at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, Scotland's National Centre for Gaelic Language and Culture, you get the chance to delve into the linguistic heritage of Scotland and actively contribute to its preservation.
Isle of Skye
Skye is Scotland’s most popular isle, and you’ll quickly understand why. Skye exudes magic from every mountain, waterfall and rainbow, while its unique geology and beguiling mythology are unlike anywhere else in Scotland. Skye is an ancient and truly enchanting island.
Old Man of Storr
The Old Man of Storr is a striking pinnacle of rock, perched high upon Skye’s otherworldly landscape. This geological wonder is one of the island’s most iconic sights - it looks even more impressive on a misty day.
Eilean Donan Castle
Eilean Donan Castle is perfectly formed and instantly recognisable. A charming stone bridge leads out to the island, which is surrounded by three lochs and a backdrop of mountains. The castle is one of the most photographed sights in Scotland.
Portree
Portree is Skye’s central hub and most populated town, with numerous shops and places to eat. The main square is a hive of activity, while the quaint harbour with its brightly coloured facades is lifted straight from a postcard.
Kilt Rock
Kilt Rock is a breath-taking sight on Skye’s dramatic coastline. Marvel at the magic of Mealt Falls, as it cascades down the striking cliff face - which is said to be shaped by a mythical giant’s kilt.
Whisky Distillery
Our national drink is enjoyed around the world, but there’s nowhere better to try whisky than in Scotland itself. Learn about whisky production, and sample the ‘water of life’ straight from the source at a whisky distillery.
Inclusions
Passionate Local Guide
Small-Group Experience (up to 16 Travellers)
Four-Night Stay at The Skye Inn (Twin-Share Room)
Complimentary Breakfast Each Morning of Your Stay
Tormore Forest Project (Coordinated by Sleat Community Trust)
Exclusive Gaelic Language Workshop
Accommodation
Deluxe Bed & Breakfast 'The Skye Inn'
Located in the heart of the beautiful town of Portree, The Skye Inn offers the warmest of Highland welcomes, ensuring a relaxed and personal atmosphere - making you feel right at home! Enjoy an optional fine dinner in the evenings or cosy up at the bar in the Grand Room. During colder weather, a crackling open fire adds to the relaxing atmosphere to wind down after a busy day of exploring. Please note that accommodation can be subject to change.
Room Types
- Twin Room
- One room with two separate beds suitable for one adult in each bed. Single travellers will be allocated to share a room with another member of the group.
Accessibility and Facilities
For more information, see our Accessibility Statement.
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Why is this a paid experience?
We understand you might be curious about why this tour has a cost when it includes volunteering. This tour is very special to us, combining meaningful support for a respected Scottish charity with the beauty and adventure of sightseeing on the Isle of Skye.
We offer an experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the destination, engage in outdoor activities, and connect with the island and its community. By participating, you’re not only making a positive impact for future generations but also ensuring the sustainability of the tour itself.
The cost helps cover essential expenses such as transport, accommodation, meals, and the guidance of our knowledgeable local guides. This ensures a safe, comfortable, and enriching experience while contributing to the ongoing community projects on the Isle of Skye.
The tour is divided into two parts:
- The volunteering activities in Tormore Forest (free of charge)
These take place during the morning hours each day and are free of charge. The project is coordinated by the Sleat Community Trust, a local charity that supports the sustainable economic, environmental and social development in the Sleat Peninsula on the Isle of Skye. - Exploring and sightseeing on Isle of Skye (reflected in tour price)
After our morning of volunteering, we have time in the afternoon to experience the richness of Isle of Skye – nature, culture, local cuisine, and all-round island hospitality. The trip is fully guided by one of our passionate Highland Explorer guides who has been trained by us to ensure a safe, comfortable, and inclusive journey throughout. The guided exploring and activities form an essential part of the service we offer and is reflected in the tour price.
Like for any of our trips in Scotland, there are basic costs involved in running a guided tour. Some of these include:
- Transport and fuel cost
- Vehicle maintenance
- Insurances
- Staff wages (driver guide, catering, housekeeping, reservations, operations, etc)
- Accommodation
- Heating and electricity
- Food
If you have any questions about the tour, feel free to reach out to us via email or give us a call!
Where does the tour depart from?
Your 5-Day Isle of Skye Volunteer Adventure departs from the city centre in Inverness. For more details on your pick-up location, please visit our Departure Info page.
Is accommodation included?
Yes, four nights twin-share bed & breakfast accommodation is included in the tour price. Solo travellers will be allocated to share with another member of the group.
What accommodation will I be staying at?
Typically, on this tour you’ll stay at our deluxe B&B in Portree, The Skye Inn. Please note that accommodation may be subject to change.
Find more info on our Accommodation page.
What about meals?
Your accommodation comes with a freshly made breakfast each morning. However, lunch, dinner, and snacks are not included in the tour. Scotland boasts numerous outstanding restaurants and cafes that we highly recommend you try out. This gives you the freedom to explore Scottish local cuisine at your leisure, catering to your preferences and dietary needs.
What are MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences?
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences are conscious travel experiences offered on our tours. They are chosen with great care based on the positive environmental or social impact they have on Scotland's communities and those who experience them.
This tour includes two MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences:
- The Sleat Communty Trust Volunteer Experience
We are partnering with the Sleat Community Trust to help transform Tormore Forest and make it more accessible to the local residents and future visitors. The Sleat Community Trust is a recognised Scottish charity supporting sustainable economic, environmental and social development in the Sleat Peninsula on the Isle of Skye. - Gaelic tutoring session at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig
Gaelic was spoken in most of Scotland until the 11th century, but a gradual decline in the language means that today, only 1.1% of the population is Gaelic speaking, making it an endangered language. The Gaelic tutoring session at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig offers us a way to support the revitalisation of the Gaelic language and culture.
How are MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences chosen?
Using our Make Travel Matter E-Assessment, travel experiences will be rated against a set of robust criteria, selected from the Global Indicator Framework for the Global Goals, to identify the ways in which they advance the 11 Global Goals that our sustainability strategy prioritises.
What physical work is required?
The tour offers a good split between some physical work in the morning and time to explore the island in the afternoon; therefore, a reasonable degree of physical fitness is required. The morning activity on each day would include one of the following*:
- Step building on paths
- Boardwalk construction
- Bridge construction
- Brash & bracken clearing
- Path marking along the Carn Beag Track
- Tree planting in Tormore Forest
- Beach cleans
* Some activities might have two groups operating at the same time. All activities may be affected by the weather. Beach cleanings will also need to take into account the tidal state.
Will equipment be provided?
While all working tools are available on-site, workwear and waterproofs are not provided. To make the most out of your time on the Isle of Skye and stay comfortable and safe during the volunteering activities, it is essential that you bring with you the following:
- Pair of wellies
- Wind and waterproof jacket
- Waterproof trousers
- Working gloves
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Warm clothing
It's always good to bring a change of waterproofs with you.
Is this tour suitable for solo travellers?
This tour truly shines for solo adventurers! You’ll be surrounded by a welcoming mix of couples, friends, and fellow solo travellers, creating a fantastic opportunity to meet like-minded people from diverse backgrounds.
Please note: Solo travellers may be paired with another guest for accommodation (twin-share room).
Are there toilet facilities on the coach?
While our coaches don't offer onboard toilets, rest assured that our itineraries include regular comfort stops, allowing frequent access to restroom facilities.
Are your tours accessible?
Our guides are unable to assist with wheelchairs or provide physical assistance during boarding or disembarking from the coach. Passengers should be capable of boarding and disembarking independently using the access stairs or with the help of a traveling companion. Foldable wheelchairs can be stored in our onboard luggage storage during travel.
Please note that some stops on our tours may involve rough terrain or only be accessible by steps.
It's important to be aware that your accommodation may have limited accessibility for wheelchair users. More info can be found on our Accessibility page.
Can I purchase snacks or souvenirs at the stops along the way?
Yes! Our routes include stops where you can grab a snack or recharge with a drink. Occasionally, we pause at shops offering local souvenirs as well. For precise details about timing and stops, don't hesitate to inquire with your guide.
Where can I get a more detailed itinerary?
Although our tours follow a structured plan with key stops, part of the excitement comes from unexpected surprises! We refrain from providing additional details beyond what's outlined here, as factors like weather, traffic, and the preferences of our driver guides may lead to slight deviations. Trust that your journey through Scotland will be unlike any other!
What if I need to cancel my tour?
If you need to cancel your tour, you will need to inform us in writing by sending an email to info@highlandexplorertours.com. You can find our cancellation and refunds policy in section 3 in our Terms and Conditions.
I have more questions. How can you help?
Feel free to visit our general Frequently Asked Questions page for answers to common queries, or reach out to us directly via our Contact Us page.
