Day 6: The Grand Finale – Skye to Fort William, Harry Potter Views & a Sleepy Ride South

All good things must come to an end, but that doesn’t mean your final day in Scotland should feel like one. Day 6 blends coastal ferry rides, iconic film locations, and one last epic drive through the Highlands – before you’re gently lulled back to London aboard the Caledonian Sleeper.

Two people on a boat with calm blue water and distant mountains in the background.
Three hands holding beer, cola, and a cocktail over a table with two green menus which say 'Club Car Menu' on the front.
The Glenfinnan viaduct spans over the valley with hills and mountains under a cloudy sky.
A woman with blonde hair looks out train window at scenic landscape with mountains and trees.

Morning: Ferry from Skye to Mallaig

  • Ferry Departure: 11:15am from Armadale (Skye)
  • Check-in closes: 10:45am
  • Duration: Approx. 45 minutes

It’s your last CalMac sailing of the journey – but it’s a stunner. The Armadale to Mallaig route glides past dramatic coastal cliffs and distant mountain peaks. Grab a seat on the sun deck (weather permitting), breathe in that salty air, and soak up every last bit of island magic.

Before you travel, be sure to check our Service Status and Timetable pages for the latest updates on ferry times and any changes. To stay informed on the go, download our app and receive service notifications directly to your device.

Check Armadale port information

 

The next morning hit one of the most scenic drives in the country, Skye to Armadale. From there, we caught the ferry back to the mainland with CalMac. We sat on the sun deck the whole time because the views were that good. Felt like a mini cruise more than a crossing

@thattravelcouple

Midday: Drive to Fort William with Scenic Stops

Drive time: 1 hour from Mallaig to Fort William, however you may want to make some detours. This route is packed with classic Highland beauty and must-see spots:

  • Glenfinnan Viaduct - Fans of Harry Potter will recognise this iconic railway bridge from the Hogwarts Express scenes. Park up and take a short hike to the viewpoint – totally worth it.
  • Morar Beach - Soft white sands and calm, clear water – a great spot for a peaceful leg stretch.
  • Corpach Wreck & Ben Nevis Views - This Instagram-favourite shipwreck site sits perfectly against a backdrop of Scotland’s highest mountain.
  • West Highland Museum - If you’ve got time and love a bit of local history, this spot offers an insight into Jacobite heritage and Highland life.

Return Campervan in Fort William

Your road trip ends here, but not without a proper Highland send-off. Return your camper to the arranged drop-off spot and grab a bite before your final rail journey begins.

Board the Caledonian Sleeper from Fort William

  • Lounge access from 4:00pm (for First Class travellers)
  • Departure: 7:50pm from Fort William Station
  • Arrival: 8:00am next morning at London Euston

Settle into your Club Room or Classic Cabin, order dinner or drinks in the Club Car, and enjoy one final Highland sunset as the train winds through valleys and glens.

Morning Arrival in London

Wake up, grab a coffee, and roll into London Euston by 8:00am, back to the city with a head full of sea air, starry skies, and sandy footprints in your mind.

Dinner in the Club Car, sunset views leaving the Highlands, breakfast in bed the next morning, and back to London before we even had time to miss it. From wild camping on white-sand beaches to sipping coffee on ferries, kayaking in turquoise water and waking up to Highland sunrises on a moving train, this was easily one of our favourite UK adventures yet.

@thattravelcouple

Plan Your Own Scottish Island Escape

Six days, three islands, one campervan, and zero flights. This unforgettable journey through the Outer Hebrides and Highlands is proof that the most jaw-dropping adventures can happen right on your doorstep. Whether you're chasing wild beaches, hiking legendary peaks, or just slowing down to sip coffee with a sea view, this itinerary offers the perfect balance of ease, beauty, and freedom.

With Caledonian Sleeper and CalMac, getting around is not just seamless – it’s part of the magic. And now, there’s even more reason to plan your trip.

Plan your escape

Special Offer for CalMac Customers

Planning your trip for autumn or winter? You’re in luck!

Caledonian Sleeper is offering 10% off for CalMac customers travelling between November 2025 and 31 March 2026 with code CALMAC10.

Here’s what you could save on your overnight rail journey:

  • £52 off a Double Room (for 2 adults)
  • £35 off a Club Ensuite
  • £27.50 off a Classic Room

Whether you're heading north for a quiet winter retreat or chasing the Northern Lights from your cabin window, this offer makes the journey even more rewarding.

Offer valid for bookings made through Caledonian Sleeper using proof of CalMac travel. T&Cs apply.