Highland Lochs, Glens & Castles Tour
About this activity
Highlights
- Loch Lomond's Bonnie Banks
- Picturesque village of Luss
- Historic Inveraray Castle
- Scenic Glencoe valley
- Famous Doune Castle
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Driver-guide services
- Meals and refreshments
- Entrance fees to attractions
Itinerary
Pass by: We’ll pass Stirling Castle, great royal residence of Stuart Kings and Mary Queen of Scots who acceded to the throne in 1542 when she was only 6 days old.
Our first stop will be at Doune Castle, a magnificent late 14th century stronghold. The castle stood in for Winterfell in Game of Thrones and Castle Leoch in Outlander. It also starred as Swamp Castle, Castle Anthrax and Camelot in the cult comedy movie Monty Python and the Holy Grail. You will have time to visit the Castle.
We'll visit the lovely Loch Lubnaig. This small but stunningly located stretch of freshwater nestling between two striking mountains, Ben Ledi and Ben Vane is where we’ll stop for some light refreshments.
Kilchurn Castle stands at the head of Loch Awe, surrounded by mountains. While enjoying the views we'll stop for some photos at this mid-15th century ruined castle.
Inveraray enjoys a picturesque setting on the shores of Loch Fyne and is therefore the perfect place to stop for lunch. With just under 2 hours here, you'll certainly have lots of time to explore. You may choose to visit the 19th century Inveraray Jail (open all year round, tickets purchased on the day), a living museum where you can experience what it was like to be incarcerated behind its bars. While others may opt to have a wander around this lovely little town. On the other hand, during the summer months (April to Oct, Thurs - Mon only) you may consider a visit Inveraray Castle (tickets can be purchased on the day) where the Duke of Argyll and his family live today. Breath in the clear Highland air while you stroll around the parkland, woodland and gardens, which are resplendent with rainbows of the azaleas and rhododendrons that certainly flourish in Argyll in summertime.
We pause for photos at the ‘Rest and Be Thankful’. An iconic Scottish viewpoint, so named thanks to the words carved in stone by weary soldiers who built the original military road in 1753.
Our last stop of the day is at the charming highland village of Luss which sits on the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond. Around 1,500 years ago, an Irish missionary, St Kessog, arrived at Loch Lomond, subsequently bringing Christianity to the area. There is time for you to walk around the village and while exploring you should take a walk down to the pier where you’ll see Ben Lomond standing proudly over Loch Lomond.
Meeting point
Start Location
Unknown location
Important information
Know before you book
- Tour departs from Howies Restaurant, 29 Waterloo Place, Edinburgh EH1 3BQ, UK.
- Check-in is at 08:15 for a 08:30 departure; ensure timely arrival.
- Tour concludes at the original departure point in Edinburgh.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for exploring various sites.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and historic sites.
- Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly for the day's conditions.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Service Animals Allowed
- Easy Public Transport
Good to know
- We cannot accommodate children under the age of 5
Traveler reviews
Highland Lochs, Glens and Castles
Brian was an excellent guide - he was so knowledgeable about the locations we visited and also very considerate of the group and individual needs.
This is a great tour....
This is a great tour. Kyle was a great guide and was very informative and made the trip fun. It was just enough to see of the highlands in a short period of time.
Worthwhile experience with good value
Brian was a great tour guide. Informative and friendly. He talked us through the six-hour tour, stopping at the sites and driving safely. His expertise of the area was amazing. He kept the tour on time and navigated safely through the windy, blustery highlands. The tour makes frequent stops but really maximizes your time in the highlands. Towards the end of the tour, he played a Spotify list of all the common Scottish pop culture songs, which was a nice nod to the culture. This tour is definitely good value and a no miss.
Excellent day trip
Our tour was excellent, largely thanks to Brian going the extra mile (literally and figuratively) to show and tell us the sights and history of the Scotland Highlands.
A long day lots of...
A long day lots of castles Great scenery but not enough chances to stop for photos Need longer at the town we stopped for lunch Informative and pleasant guide called Douglas