Scottish Highlands, Loch Ness & Glencoe Day Trip
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore the Scottish Highlands
- Enjoy a scenic Loch Ness boat cruise
- Visit the historic Glencoe valley
- Discover the beauty of Loch Ness
- Learn about Scottish history and culture
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Comfortable transportation from Edinburgh
- Guided tour with expert commentary
- Loch Ness boat cruise
- Meals and personal expenses
Itinerary
As we head north the first stop of the day is at this charming location nestled in the heart of Perthshire - a wonderful place for a refreshment stop and the chance to meet and feed Highland coo!
Pass by: Through the Cairngorms and the wild wilderness. The Cairngorms are home to some of the highest peaks in the British Isles, including Ben Macdui and Braeriach. These mountains, with their rugged slopes and dramatic ridges, offer stunning vistas. You'll love taking in the landscapes as you continue to travel north.
Highlight of the day is Loch Ness. Known worldwide for the legendary Loch Ness Monster, affectionately known as "Nessie." This deep, freshwater loch stretches approximately 23 miles long and is surrounded by stunning scenery, we stop so you can explore its mysteries and enjoy its natural beauty. You have the option to enjoy a cruise on the loch for some monster spotting combined with a visit to Urquhart Castle (£30.00 extra per adult, cash only) Alternatively, you could enjoy the views from the shores of the loch.
Enjoy clambering around the ruins of the castle perched right on the banks of Loch Ness. Urquhart Castle is a historic fortress steeped in centuries of intrigue and offers panoramic views of the iconic loch. Entrance is combined with the cruise option; your driver guide will give you more details on the day!
Glen Coe, a breathtaking valley in the Scottish Highlands, is renowned for its rugged beauty, towering peaks, and tragic history, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Listen to the tale of murder and massacre from your driver-guide before you stop for those all important photographic memories.
Meeting point
Start Location
Unknown location
Important information
Know before you book
- This tour involves a full day of travel, with approximately 13 hours from departure to return.
- The boat cruise on Loch Ness is subject to weather conditions and may be canceled in adverse weather.
- Please inform the tour operator of any dietary restrictions or special requirements at the time of booking.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for walking and varying weather conditions.
- Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking landscapes and historic sites.
- Consider packing a light snack or lunch, as meal stops may be limited during the tour.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Stroller Accessible
- Service Animals Allowed
- Easy Public Transport
Good to know
- Children under 3 years not accepted. Valid proof of ID may be required at check in.
- The tour is guided in English
- On 26th December and 1st January there will be no cruise or castle visit available
- Please note this tour may operate in reverse
- Check-in for the tour is 7.45am with departure at 8.00am sharp
- Visit to Urquhart Castle & Loch Ness cruise £31 per adult and £22 per child with Highland Experience discount, cash required. No need to pre book.
- We reserve the right to change the tour itinerary at any time due to weather, acts of God, and events out with our control.
Traveler reviews
Views of the Highlands
Perfect day trip out to the highlands! A lot of amazing sites included in 12hrs! Guides were witty and accommodating!
Long tour. Take this tour!
We had the smaller bus (16 passengers max) which was AWESOME. (I cannot comment on the full-size tour bus, but they looked miserable). Our driver was Jamie. He gave us insight into local lore and also the origins of many sayings (look up “the cold shoulder). True or not, it was hilarious. His playlist was also fantastic, and he shared it at the end of the tour. He stopped just enough times and we had great photo ops. Beware, the tour is LONG, but it’s what we all sign up for. No surprises. We opted for the Loch Ness cruise and Urquhart Castle tour (THIS IS OPTIONAL - do it! It’s £31). We had a quick lunch at the Clansman Hotel before boarding the cruise. The Cullen skunk and fish & chips were GOOD. As was the raspberry cake. I’ve always been hesitant of day tours. This one was excellent and worth it!
Transported to a magical place
An amazing Highland tour! Our guide was knowledgeable, funny and brought Scotland’s history to life with fascinating stories. As an Outlander fan, I especially appreciated him playing the Scottish practice chanter for me—a thoughtful touch I’ll always remember. The music, storytelling and breathtaking scenery made the Highlands truly come alive. A big thank you to Alan, our driver, for getting us around safely and for the wonderful banter between them that made the journey even more enjoyable. Highly recommended!
Dejan and Kesh tour was the best ever
Dejan and Kesh were a hilarious duo! Dejan is SO well educated with facts and lots of connections to American pop culture that connected to Scottish culture and history (or false history -thanks a lot Mel Gibson). Stand up guys, friendly, helpful. I’d take a tour with them again!
A trip to remember
Wonderful day, so full of… Scotland! The Loch Ness cruise was a lucky one (it did not rain, imagine!) and Glencoe stole our hearts, what a scenery! Our driver, Mike, was like a pro, taking us on the narrowest roads woth precision, and Terry, wih her vibrant personality kept us entertained al day long, huge thanks for their effort! Highly recommend!