A Harry Potter trip to Scotland to discover the Highlands with your family: Loch Ness, Jacobite Steam Train, Glencoe…
“Wingardium Leviosa!” No matter how much you wave your magic wand around, that feather refuses to levitate… pack your bags and head across the Channel for a Harry Potter trip to Scotland. Although the Hogwarts Express starts from Pier 9 ¾ in London, the Highland landscapes are indeed the most present in the fantasy world imagined by J. K. Rowling. From Edinburgh’s cobbled, enclosed labyrinthine streets reminiscent of the Diagon Alley to Nessie’s famous Loch Ness, the enchanting Glencoe mountains and the tracks of the Jacobite Steam Train aka the Hogwarts Express, this is a real family journey amidst Scottish moorlands and lochs. All sprinkled with a touch of magic.
Tour Highlights
- A real scottish adventure : Taking the Jacobite Steam Train or Hogwarts Express, one of the oldest steam trains.
- Trek the best landscapes : Climbing the Glencoe Mountains and Etive Beag, where Harry Potter met the prisoner of Azkaban.
- The best local addresses : Immersing yourself in Edinburgh’s mysterious atmosphere in search of Harry Potter.
- The legendary Nessie : Strolling along the shores of dark Loch Ness, where Nessie, the monster of the abyss, lives.
Tour Plan
Rental car pick-up at the airport. Then north to Inverness. On the way, stop at Killiecrankie in the Perthshire region. This idyllic place nestled in a green forest reveals a viaduct worthy of the most beautiful romantic settings. Accommodation in a comfortable Bed & Breakfast in Inverness in the heart of the Highlands.
We’ll head north to the town of Alness. Along the way, take a break at Black Rock Gorge, where an iconic Harry Potter scene was filmed. Like the famous wizard, try to escape the dragon to win the cup of fire! After such an adventure, back on the road to the Fyrish Monument, funny old stones that face the sea. Built in 1782 under the orders of General Sir Hector Munro, this monument represents the Gate of Negapatan in the port of Madras, an Indian city that was conquered by the General. Then, back to Inverness via Chanonry Point, the best spot to observe dolphins. At the end of the afternoon, during a culture break, we recommend a visit to the Culloden museum where you can learn a bundle of information on the bloody battle of the same name, in which the Jacobites confronted the English army in 1745.
Let’s go to Fort William! Ben Nevis is there, the highest peak in the British Isles, no less. On the way, visit the site of Urquhart Castle whose old stones are full of history have witnessed many battles. You will enjoy a breathtaking view of Nessie’s home, the famous Loch Ness! Off then to the starting point of the short hike to Steall Falls and Nevis Gorge. It leads you through gorges and small canyons to the 120 m high Steall Falls. You may be familiar with the waterfall as many quidditch games were filmed there for the Harry Potter saga.
Immediate boarding aboard the Jacobite Steam Train, one of the oldest steam trains in the world! In addition to its iconic silhouette and its history… you have in front of you the Hogwarts Express, used by Harry Potter on platform 9th ¾ when he returned to the school of witchcraft and wizardry. From Fort William to Mallaig, this trip will fill your memory with fabulous images. Along the Scottish moorland, you’ll peacefully walk towards the highlight of the show: the Glenfinnan viaduct, the famous setting of the Harry Potter films. 90-Minute break in Mallaig to visit the shop dedicated to the wizard and his universe. Then, back on the Jacobite Steam Train in the opposite direction. If you don’t fancy the rail journey any more than that, you can choose the land option, starting with a walk of a few kilometres to above the viaduct. Beautiful views are guaranteed with the Jacobite Steam Train in the background!
Another magnificent decor that will blow your mind! The Glencoe mountains were carved by glaciers and volcanic explosions centuries ago. These reliefs of ice and fire now form magnificent landscapes, worthy of the most beautiful postcards. And, you’re still walking in the footsteps of your favourite wizard. So many scenes from the Harry Potter saga movies have these impressive mountains as a backdrop. This is where Harry met the mysterious prisoner of Azkaban. A piece of advice: go for the Etive Beag Buachaille hike. The easy route is suitable for the whole family and offers breathtaking views, such as those seen by Harry Potter on his flying broom.
Discovery of Glencoe. You can roam the splendid landscapes that make up this emblematic region of Scotland. Buachaille Etive Mor rises here, a conical-looking mountain, the most photographed in the country. From the south of Rannoch Moor, pull out your camera, the picture is a must!
Return to Edinburgh and stroll through the streets of the Scottish capital. Its mysterious atmosphere envelops the entire city centre. Numerous points of interest are revealed in the narrow streets, such as the famous castle. You can also follow in the footsteps of famous writers, many of whom came to be inspired by the city’s special atmosphere. Guess who sat at the table of The Elephant House café for long hours frantically writing fantastic adventures while sipping a good cup of coffee? J.K. Rowling, the mother of Harry Potter! In fact, you’ll find the wizard’s trail all over the city.
Your Scottish adventure is coming to an end…Return your magic wands and flying broomsticks, you’re going back to the Muggles. You can keep your book of potions; it can always come in handy. Transfer to the airport for your return flight.
N.B. : The program is given for information only. The stages can be modified on site for meteorological, security, organizational, flight schedule or any unexpected event reasons. In these difficult times, the local guide will do their utmost to mitigate the effects of these events beyond our control.
Map
Included/Exclude
Cost Includes
- Trip organisation (customisation and bookings)
- Accommodation
- All Breakfasts
- Personalised guidebook
- A journey aboard the Hogwarts express
- 24/7 emergency telephone support
- Navigation App with preloaded walking routes and maps
- Rental car
Cost Excludes
- Flights
- Lunches and dinners
- Entry fees to attractions such as distilleries or museums
Frequently Asked Questions
The Sorcerer’s Trail can be enjoyed year-round, but the most popular months are April to October, when the days are longer and the weather is milder. Spring and autumn are also excellent choices, with fewer crowds and beautiful landscapes. Even in summer, though, Scottish weather is changeable—so pack layers and a waterproof jacket!
Yes! The Sorcerer’s Trail is fully customisable. If you’d like to add extra stops such as the Warner Bros. Studios in London (before/after your trip) or additional Harry Potter filming sites in Scotland, we can adapt the route and accommodation accordingly.
We typically arrange small family-run guesthouses, cosy B&Bs, or boutique hotels with character. If you prefer higher-end or luxury stays, we can upgrade the accommodation on request.
The trip is designed as a self-drive itinerary for maximum flexibility, but we can adapt it to include train travel, private transfers, or even a driver-guide service if you’d prefer not to drive in Scotland.
