Highlands Adventure Tour from Edinburgh
From£65
9 hours
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
About this activity
Join a full-day guided tour from Edinburgh to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Glencoe and Glenfinnan in the Scottish Highlands, including the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct and Loch Awe.
Highlights
- Explore the stunning Glencoe valley
- Visit the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct
- Discover the rich history of the Scottish Highlands
- Enjoy breathtaking views of Loch Awe
- Experience the beauty of the Scottish countryside
Full description
Set off on an unforgettable journey from Edinburgh to the heart of the Scottish Highlands. This full-day tour offers a captivating exploration of Glencoe's rugged beauty and Glenfinnan's historical significance. Marvel at the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, a must-see for Harry Potter fans, and soak in the serene vistas of Loch Awe. Your expert guide will share fascinating insights into the area's rich history and culture, ensuring a memorable experience. Whether you're a history buff or a nature enthusiast, this tour provides a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
Included / Excluded
- Guided tour of Glencoe and Glenfinnan
- Transportation in a comfortable coach
- Expert commentary from a knowledgeable guide
- Meals and beverages
Itinerary
1
After departing Edinburgh you’ll head north through the central belt of the country. Your guide will entertain by laying the foundations of many a story about Scotland’s past heroes like William Wallace and Robert the Bruce who made this area of Scotland their own. You will spot royal palaces, giant mythical Kelpies and the ancient stronghold of Stirling Castle. Arriving at our first stop of the day, surrounded by the verdant hills of the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National park. Stretch your legs, enjoy a coffee or some baked goods and refresh before rejoining the bus to continue north. Please note, some departures may stop at Callander instead.
Duration: 30 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
2
Pass by: As we travel through the ‘Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park’ our bus weaves through hills, mountains and Glens. These remote places were once inhabited by Highland Clans, not to mention Scotland’s most famous outlaw, Rob Roy MacGregor, whom some consider The Scottish Robin Hood. Look out across the landscape and picture what it was like as you hear the remarkable bloodthirsty stories of betrayal and revenge as told by your guide. If we happen to spot some of our famous ‘Hairy Highland Coos’, we might stop for a selfie.
Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
3
Glencoe was also the scene of one of Scotland’s most shocking massacres. As you gaze at the haunting hills, you notice the Glen is eerily silent. In the 17th century one of the worst acts of betrayal occurred here. Your guide will recount the details of this betrayal for you. You can almost feel the sorrow in the mountains of the ‘weeping valley’. Above all though, Glencoe is one of Scotland’s most beautiful landscapes. A highlight of any tour to the Scottish Highlands!
Duration: 10 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
4
Pass by: The tour then takes you through Fort William and past the spectacular Ben Nevis, the tallest mountain in the British Isles. The Nevis Range towers over the winding road as you continue your journey to Glenfinnan.
Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
5
The iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct overlooks Loch Shiel and spans across 1000 feet, carrying the railway 100 feet above the ground on it's way to Glenfinnan Station. This stunning viewpoint also marks the spot where Prince Charles Edward Stuart (Bonnie Prince Charlie) raised his standard prior to the 1745 Jacobite Rebellion. Go to the top of the monument for the best views of the Glen, as your guide introduces you to the dramatic story of the ‘Young Pretender’ and how his actions changed the course of European history forever. For some, the viaduct is most recogniseable for it's appearance in the Harry Potter film series. If it is running, we aim to arrive in time to watch the Hogwarts Express (Jacobite Steam Train) cross the magnificent viaduct. Please note that the Jacobite Steam train is run on a seasonal basis (schedule is set by the train operator and is subject to change, we cannot guarantee the time or that is is operating).
Duration: 1 hourAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
6
Along the route, we’ll stop at the Commando Memorial. In 1942, this setting became the training ground for Britain’s Special Forces. Harsh, unforgiving, and breathtakingly beautiful. A statue of our heroes overlooks the Nevis range. Bring a camera – this is undoubtedly one of our favourite photo-stops in all of Scotland. Here, weather permitting, you could also spot Ben Nevis. The tallest mountain in The United Kingdom.
Duration: 10 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
7
Pass by: Heading south we travel through the Cairngorm National Park where Red squirrels, roe deer, red deer, soaring buzzards, pine martens, golden eagles and osprey can be found. Our final stop of the day is Pitlochry
Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
8
Pitlochry is situated in the heart of the stunning scenery of Highland Perthshire. The town sits below Beinn Bhracaigh (Ben Vrackie), the speckled mountain and beside the River Tummel, in some of the most magnificent scenery in Scotland. With a backdrop of surrounding hills and beautiful woodlands, it is wonderful walking country.
Duration: 30 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
9
Pass by: As we re-enter Edinburgh from the North, you will be met with views of Scotland’s greatest piece of engineering, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Forth Bridge. This 19th century engineering marvel was at one point the World’s longest cantilever bridge. Today it neighbours the 20th century Forth Road Bridge and the 21st century Queensferry Crossing which opened in 2017. Three spectacular bridges, from three different centuries, span the Firth of Forth connecting our Capital city and the Kingdom of Fife.
Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
10
On our return to Edinburgh, we will drop you off in the city centre. Our estimated arrival time is 7 PM for tours departing 7 AM, and 8:30 PM for tours departing at 8:30 AM. Please note that this can be impacted by traffic and other factors outwith our control. We recommend leaving 2 hours between the expected arrival time and any onward travel or reservations, as we are not able to offer individual drop-offs.
Duration: 5 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
Meeting point
Start Location
1759 Regent Rd, 1759 Regent Rd, Edinburgh EH8 8DR, UK
Important information
Know before you book
- The tour operates in all weather conditions; please dress appropriately.
- Children under 5 years old are not permitted on this tour.
- Pets are not allowed on the tour.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
- Bring a waterproof jacket, as weather conditions can change rapidly.
- Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes.
Cancellation policy
Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Easy Public Transport
Good to know
- This tour in an air-conditioned coach, hosted by a local Scottish guide, rated 5-stars by the official Scottish Tourist Board
- There are opportunities to take short nature walks, it is recommended to bring suitable clothing and footwear.
- There are regular stops on tour to purchase food and refreshments that cater for most dietary requirements
- There are regular stops on tour for comfort breaks, as we do not have toilets onboard the coaches
- No animals allowed on tour
- Minimum age to travel is 7 years old. Photo ID, such as a passport, may be required. Children (7-17) must be accompanied by an adult.
- When using public transport or a taxi to the departure point, please allow extra time for possible delays.
- Most of this tour is spent on a bus travelling to the Scottish Highlands
- For insurance purposes, passengers must not be unaccompanied on our buses during tour stops. Drivers take legally required breaks and cannot stay with the vehicle.
Traveler reviews
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Highlands Adventure
It was a great trip w our driver/narrator Tom. We saw magnificent countryside w great photo ops and visited an adorable town. Tom was funny and informative and did a great job of explaining everything we saw. Highly recommend.
Ken_LMay 25, 2026VIATOR
Glenfinnan, Glencoe and Highlands trip
Great trip, beautiful scenery. Guide was great, interactive with funny stories. However, toilet breaks could be more as it was indicated on the trip details. I would not call 2,5-3 h toilet breaks frequent.
296timeasMay 25, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Best driver and really lovely day trip to see the country side!
I really liked this trip! Pete is a great driver, entertainer and dj!! I loved seeing the Harry Potter bridge, the mountains, locks(not lakes) ans the cow!!
787melinawMay 25, 2026TRIPADVISOR
One day tour with Peter
Peter was really lovely driver!! Loved his humor and music taste! I had so much fun:)
Navigator49827843553May 25, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Tour with Tom the bus driver
Tom was the best guide ever, fun, good history
789kjerstieMay 25, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Additional information
This tour in an air-conditioned coach, hosted by a local Scottish guide, rated 5-stars by the official Scottish Tourist Board
There are opportunities to take short nature walks, it is recommended to bring suitable clothing and footwear.
There are regular stops on tour to purchase food and refreshments that cater for most dietary requirements
There are regular stops on tour for comfort breaks, as we do not have toilets onboard the coaches
No animals allowed on tour
Minimum age to travel is 7 years old. Photo ID, such as a passport, may be required. Children (7-17) must be accompanied by an adult.
When using public transport or a taxi to the departure point, please allow extra time for possible delays.
Most of this tour is spent on a bus travelling to the Scottish Highlands
For insurance purposes, passengers must not be unaccompanied on our buses during tour stops. Drivers take legally required breaks and cannot stay with the vehicle.