Complete Loch Ness Experience Tour
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore the mysterious Loch Ness
- Discover the ruins of Urquhart Castle
- Learn about local folklore and history
- Enjoy scenic views of the Scottish Highlands
- Experience a small-group tour for personalized attention
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Guided tour of Loch Ness
- Visit to Urquhart Castle
- Transportation from Inverness
- Meals and beverages
Itinerary
You leave Inverness and follow the Caledonian Canal to the source of the River Ness. Your guide takes you down the road less travelled to Dores, on the eastern side of the loch. This tiny village boasts a beach with the most striking vista of Loch Ness and the Great Glen rift valley. Get your camera ready for your first photos of the mysterious waters and potential monster sightings before you continue your journey.
Take a walk downhill through native pine trees to see the hidden-away Falls of Foyers
Here you can have your lunch and take a picture of the boats coming in through the Caledonian Canal. *Until 31 March 2026, lunch stops will be in Drumnadrochit.
Go for a wonderful wander through lush forests and cascading waterfalls.
Whether you believe the legends or not, keep your eyes peeled for the monster or breath-taking vistas as we continue along the banks of Loch Ness. We know Loch Ness is all about Nessie, but the banks of the loch are home to another star; Urquhart Castle. This time-worn stronghold has witnessed some of the most dramatic chapters in Scottish history. Walk the grounds of the castle and listen to the echoes of battles reverberating in the ancient walls. And then enjoy getting closer to the mystery on an hour-long cruise of the loch.
Meeting point
Start Location
Unknown location
Important information
Know before you book
- Tour operates in English; ensure you understand the language.
- Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.
- Confirm your booking details and arrival time in advance.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
- Bring a waterproof jacket in case of rain.
- Carry a camera to capture the stunning landscapes.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Easy Public Transport
Good to know
- All Inverness tours will depart from the bus stop next to Inverness Cathedral, Ardross Street, IV3 5NS
- We apologise, but we cannot accommodate children under 5 years old on our tours. Children under 18 need to be accompanied by an adult. Please note that if this policy is not followed, we will have to refuse travel without issuing a refund. Thank you for understanding
- Luggage Allowance: You're restricted to 20kg (44lbs) of luggage per person. This should be one piece of luggage similar to an airline carry-on bag (approximately 55cm x 45cm x 25cm / 22in x 17in x 10in) plus one small bag for onboard personal items.
- Jacobite Cruise on Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle included in the tour price
- In order to retain the integrity of the tour and try to ensure that all our customers have the best possible experience, we do cap bookings from any one party to 8 passengers.
Traveler reviews
Loch.
Had a great time. Stress free, fun and interesting. Our guide, Camille, had lots of fun stories and was very knowledgeable about the area. She helped make the trip exceptional.
One of the best tours I’ve ever been on!
Absolutely incredible. Emily was our guide and driver and her commentary was so interesting and insightful and thoroughly enhanced the already awesome trip further. The places we visited were so beautiful and of course seeing the Loch Ness (from multiple vantage points!) was the highlight. I will say, it may be a bit challenging at times for those with any walking disability (lots of stairs and some steeper inclines) but not completely un-doable. All in all- highly recommend!!!
Fabulous experience!
This experience is very well planned and timed. The stops are well spaced and timed so you don’t get tired! Ending with Urquhart Castle and the Loch Ness boat ride back to Edinburgh through the Caledonian canal was a fabulous experience. Was more than I expected!
Beware Cruise Passengers
Not for passengers on cruise ships. Difficult to get to and longer than reported. We were not able to go. However we were issued a credit!
Edging Around the Loch.
The tour was a perfect overview of the area--riding through the countryside, punctuated with short stops, like Foyer's Falls. ample bathroom breaks, and the finale--traversing the loch by boat. Our guide, Charlie, did not fill every minute on the coach with chatter, which was appreciated. Some Scottish music and some quiet time. Again, much appreciated. After all, the landscapes speak for themselves.