11 Apr 2023
Doing this trip was the best thing I have done in a long time. Travelling the Highlands through public transit is not only hard but also unreliable. By booking through The Hairy Coo everything was taken care of. I didn't have to research the places to go or bus times to get there. I just booked the trip, booked my accommodation and got to have an amazing experience.
Steven was our guide for this trip and he was incredible. This is a man that loves his job and his country and it shows. When we had extra time he made sure to bring us to hidden viewpoints and waterfalls so we could stretch our legs and take in the beautiful view. He knew the history of the places very very well and answered any questions people has easily. With all of our pitstops, I got to see so much of Scotland in so little time. Above being an amazing guide and an expert driver, Steven is also an A+ DJ. He has playlists curated based on where we were in the Highlands to enhance the experience. Listening to the Isle of Skye Boat Song while on the bridge to the Isle of Skye? That's an experience I'll never forget. I was also a female traveller that was backpacking solo for the first time. I felt safe the entire trip, partly because Scotland's culture is so welcoming but also because I knew Steven was keeping an eye on me to make sure I was okay, making it to the bus every morning and having a great time. Steven really went above and beyond to make this trip so amazing.
The bus trip itself was great. The longest stretch of driving we had in between stops was just over an hour, and even then there were beautiful views to see. There is no bathroom on the bus but stops to public restrooms were often. At every place that you stop for a meal, Steven was sure to point out the places that were worth eating. The highlights for me personally were Isle of Skye, Glencoe and meeting the hairy coos at the Drumbuie Farms tearoom.
If you are looking to book this trip -- do it. I will be thinking about this trip someday when I am old and grey, reminiscing about all the beautiful sights and amazing food. The Hairy Coo really tasks all the stress of navigating the Highlands, leaving you with plenty of time to enjoy your trip. Thank you Steven for being such a great guide. This trip was incredible.