best tours of scottish highlands

THE 10 BEST Scottish Highlands Tours & Excursions

Scottish highlands tours.

• Cultural Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Multi-day Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands, Glencoe and Pitlochry Tour

2. Loch Ness and Highlands Day Tour Including Cruise from Edinburgh

3. The Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle from Inverness

4. Loch Ness and the Scottish Highlands Day Tour from Edinburgh

5. Isle of Skye, Highlands and Loch Ness 3-Day Tour from Edinburgh

6. Cawdor Castle, Inverness, Culloden, Outlander and Loch Ness Tour

7. Oban, Glencoe, Highlands Lochs & Castles Small Group Day Tour from Glasgow

8. Scotland Trips

9. Loch Ness 1-Hour Cruise with Urquhart Castle Views

10. Glenfinnan Viaduct, Glencoe and Fort William Tour from Edinburgh

11. Scottish Highlands, Loch Ness and Glencoe Day Trip from Edinburgh

12. 2-Day Tour to Isle of Skye, The Fairy Pools & Highland Castles

13. Hogwarts Express and Scottish Highlands Tour from Edinburgh

14. Hogwarts Express and the Scenic Highlands Day Tour from Inverness

15. Skye and Eilean Donan Castle Small-Group Day Tour from Inverness

16. Loch Ness Cruise and Urquhart Castle visit from Inverness

17. Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle Day Tour from Inverness

18. Full Day Trip to the Scottish Highlands and Loch Ness

19. 3-Day Isle of Skye Inverness Highlands and Glenfinnan Viaduct Tour from Edinburgh

20. Full-Day Trip: Loch Ness, Glencoe & The Highlands from Edinburgh

21. Loch Ness Cruise, Outlander & Urquhart Castle Tour from Inverness

22. Loch Ness & the Highlands Day Tour from Glasgow Including Cruise

23. 3-Day Isle of Skye and Highlands Inc Accommodation from Edinburgh

24. Inverness Half-Day Highlands Bucket List Tour

25. 3-Day Isle of Skye and Scottish Highlands Small-Group Tour from Edinburgh

26. Loch Ness and the Scottish Highlands with Lunch from Edinburgh

27. Loch Ness,cawdor castle,inverness,Culloden battlefield,& more from invergordon

28. Loch Ness and Caledonian Canal 2-Hour Cruise from Dochgarroch

29. Luxury Private Tour of The Highlands & Loch Ness from Edinburgh

30. Loch Ness,Culloden Battlefield,Cawdor Castle & Much More From Inverness City

What travelers are saying.

• Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands, Glencoe & Pitlochry Tour from Edinburgh
• Loch Ness & Highlands Day Tour Including Cruise from Edinburgh
• Loch Ness 1-Hour Cruise with Urquhart Castle Views
• Scottish Highlands, Loch Ness and Glencoe Day Trip from Edinburgh
• The Isle of Skye & Eilean Donan Castle from Inverness
• Strathspey Railway
• West Coast Railways
• WOW Scotland Tours
• Highland Explorer Tours Inverness
• Highlander Private Tours
• Kayak Summer Isles
• River to Sea Scotland
• Western Isles Cruises
• Excursiones desde Inverness
• Abacus Mountain Guides
• John O'Groats Ferries
• Happy Tours
• The Hebridean Explorer
• Lochaber Guides - Private Day Tours
• Go Wild Highlands
• Amber Spirit
• Mckenzie Mountaineering - Guided Walking Adventures
• LandD Adventures

Scottish Highlands Tours & Vacations

From legendary lochs to crumbling castles, the Scottish Highlands will surprise you at every turn

The Highlands is the Scotland you imagine when you close your eyes. It’s the moody skies above a wild and rugged coastline; tiny cottages at the foothills of soaring mountains, and fascinating folklore that has inspired artists and poets for centuries. Join your local guide to track down Nessie on Loch Ness, explore pristine landscapes in Cairngorms National Park or marvel at  ancient fortresses cloaked in history . Whether it's your first or tenth time in the Highlands, its charm will keep you coming back for more.

Our Scottish Highlands trips

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Scottish Highlands highlights

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Highlights of Scotland

Scottish Highlands travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Where are the Scottish Highlands?

The Scottish Highlands refers to the north-western part of Scotland. The region stretches from Fort William up to the Isle of Skye on the coast, and Durness in the far north-west to Inverness in the east.

How do I get to the Highlands?

If you’re traveling from overseas, the closest airports to fly to are Glasgow International Airport (GLA) or Edinburgh International Airport (EDI). From here, you can hire a car, catch a bus or take a train to one of the cities or towns in the Highlands.

If you're traveling from the  UK , you can take a train or coach to Fort William or Inverness and transfer to a local train or bus to get around the Highlands. 

How do I get around the Highlands?

If you have a car, driving is the easiest way to get around the Highlands and explore at your own pace. 

Don’t worry if you don't have a car, as the main places and sights in the Highlands are pretty well connected with public transport. 

Trains operate between all of the main cities including Inverness, Aviemore and Fort William (and all of the towns in between). 

If trains aren’t available for where you want to go, chances are you can take a local bus or coach with Stagecoach, Scottish Citylink or the National Express. 

You can also take a ferry as a foot passenger or with your car to get to the Highlands’ many islands.

When is the best time to visit the Scottish Highlands?

Billy Connolly once said, “There are two seasons in Scotland: June and Winter”. And he’s not entirely wrong. The weather can be very hit and miss even during the summer.

The best time to visit if you want a chance of good weather is during the summer between June and August when the days are long and the weather is at its mildest.

Visiting in the colder months can also be a great time to see snow-capped mountains and get cozy in the pub around a log fire.

No matter what time of year you visit, it’s best to be prepared for rain and chilly weather.

What should I pack for the Highlands?

For a trip to the Highlands, or anywhere else in Scotland, bring plenty of comfortable clothing that will see you through long days of walking, exploring and visiting attractions.

The weather is pretty unpredictable, and even if the forecast says it will be warm or dry, it could (and probably will) change.

Bring a waterproof jacket, a warm coat, gloves, a hat and a scarf. A waterproof day sack can also come in quite handy to protect your phone and personal items if the heavens open while you're out walking.

What is internet access like in the Highlands?

The Scottish Highlands covers a pretty big area, including mountain ranges. 

Internet access and mobile phone coverage is fine in villages, towns and main tourist hubs, but it might be a little patchy in more remote areas or at higher elevations.

Are Intrepid trips accessible for travelers with disabilities?

We are committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations. 

We are always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Highland Experience Tours

Scottish highlands tours & experiences, most popular tours of scotland.

• Most popular tour!

Loch Ness, Glen Coe & the Highlands

Loch Ness, Glen Coe & the Highlands. On this tour, drive the full length of Loch Ness, get the opportunity to cruise on the loch and explore Urquhart Castle, and pass through Cairngorms National Park and the stunning Glen Coe.

• Calendar All year
• User 3+ years old
• Hour Glass 12.5 hrs
• Hour Glass 3 days

Ultimate Skye Experience

Stay, explore and travel like a local in one of Scotland’s most scenic locations, the Isle of Skye, and see the spectacular Eilean Donan Castle. Book today!

• Hour Glass 9 hrs 45 min

Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond & Whisky

This is the Scottish experience ‘distilled’. It gives you a taste of three classic Scottish ingredients — castles, lochs and whisky. Book online today!

• Hour Glass 8.5 hrs

Rosslyn Chapel, Stirling Castle & Dunfermline Abbey

We take you behind the headlines of Dan Brown’s ‘Da Vinci Code’, explaining the background of one of the world’s most enduring mysteries. Book online today!

Why Choose Highland Experience Tours?

5-Star Customer Service & Value

Award-Winning Local Guides

Comfort on Our Luxury Eco-Friendly Vehicles

Choices: Departure City, Accommodation, and More

• Change multi-day tours for free up until 14 days before your tour starts!
• Change day-tours for free up until 24 hours before your tour starts!

This means you can book and be safe in the knowledge that if your plans change, we’ll change with you.

Experience Scotland with us!

As you might have noticed, we LOVE Scotland. From the challenging mountains to the glistening lochs and mysterious glens, the variety in its natural features is as striking as it is beautiful. But that’s not all; Scotland is also a nation boasting rich Scottish folklore and historical heritage. Clans, tartans, kilts and bagpipes are world-famous Scottish symbols, and so are our myths and historical figures. Are you curious about the origins of Nessie or want to learn about William Wallace or the battle of Culloden ? Scotland has an extensive history to be unearthed. With Highland Experience Tours, you enjoy world-famous Highland hospitality and experience all that Scotland has to offer. But don’t just take our word for it. Take a tour and experience it for yourself.

We hope to see you soon.

Award-Winning Guided Scotland Tours

Your Scotland experience starts here. From monsters and mountains , chapels and chieftains to castles and whisky , we want to give you the most authentic Scottish experience possible. From the comfort of our luxury bespoke vehicles to our legendary, fully qualified guides, we can’t wait to show you our stunning country.

We consider ourselves extremely lucky to have a job doing something we really enjoy; everyone at Highland Experience shares a passion for travel and helping other people discover Scotland’s Highlands.

Our love for real, sustainable and unique tour experiences makes us who we are.

Tours from Edinburgh

Tours from glasgow, tours from inverness.

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Scotland's Highlands Islands and Cities

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13 Day Scotland Tour of Edinburgh, Orkney Islands, Isle of Skye and Glasgow​

13 days, 1 country and 20 cities

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12 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 5 Dinners

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This unforgettable Scottish Highlands trip travels into the far-reaches of Scotland’s rugged countryside. Keep your eyes peeled for Nessie, delve into the history of the kings and warriors and join the Wood family for a ceilidh and lunch in the ‘presence’ of Rob Roy.

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Deals, savings and exclusive private touring options available plus if you need a different date or itinerary change we can create a custom trip. Contact us for more details

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13 days itinerary trip from Edinburgh to Glasgow visiting 1 country and 20 cities

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About this trip

Sightseeing highlights.

Explore Edinburgh with a Local Specialist

Discover Dundee, Orkney Islands, Stirling and Glasgow

Visit Edinburgh Castle, Glamis Castle, Blair Athol whisky distillery in Pitlochry, the battlefield and Visitor Center of Culloden, Dunrobin Castle, John O'Groats, The Italian Chapel in Orkney Islands, Skara Brae, Ullapool, Isle of Skye, Isle of Mull, Isle of Iona, St. Mungo's Cathedral in Glasgow and Stirling Castle

View Jedburgh Abbey, the 18th​ green at St. Andrews, Inverness Castle, Eilean Donan Castle and Glencoe

See Loch Ness, Loch Lomond and the Battlefield at Bannockburn

Tickets for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo are included on departures that coincide with performance dates

See Glencoe

Drive through this Highland village on Loch Leven.

Travel highlights

Specific transfer information can be found here:

Airport Transfers

An expert Travel Director and professional Driver

Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted

All porterage and restaurant gratuities

All hotel tips, charges and local taxes

Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals

Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras

Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing

Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)

Return ferry to the Orkney Isles

Ferry from the Isle of Skye to Mallaig

Return ferry to the Isle of Mull and Iona

Optional Experiences and free time

On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences

Every one of our tours includes at least one conscious travel experience that supports one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS). Look out for yours within the day-by-day trip itinerary.

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Travel knowing our 4-point climate action plan will ensure net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Support Local

Your tour directly supports local communities by visiting family-run businesses, UNESCO sites and places of cultural significance.

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Every part of our business, from trip design to how we run our offices, aligns to our 5-year sustainability strategy which ensures a positive impact on people, the planet and wildlife.

Philanthropic Efforts

Our not-for-profit, the TreadRight Foundation, invests in nature-based solutions to address climate change.

You’ll make a positive impact to people, planet and wildlife on this tour

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Scottish Highlands

Scotland’s handsome heights.

You know when you watch a movie and think 'That place can't possibly exist, it must be CGI'? That's why travellers and photographers, poets, filmmakers, and dreamers have continuously found themselves drawn to the Scottish Highlands .

Haven't been yet? Can't picture it? Imagine a place of wild beauty and mystery; where spectacular mountains overlook deep lochs. A place where battle-ravaged castles are spectators of the peaceful wildlife.

The Highlands are a mystical location and more than just a visit to the iconic landmarks of Loch Ness and Glencoe.

Tour the Highlands on our small group tours of up to 16 people and experience the stories, scenery, and incredible traditions.

Explore Scottish Highlands tours

Why you'll love the Highlands

Lovely Landscapes

Some landscapes tell tales of terrible battles. Others feel like they’re home to giants and fairies. Whereas many are so stunning, you’re stopped in your tracks. From barren moors to dense forests, you don’t need to delve deep into the Highlands to find beauty.

Wonderful Wildlife

In the evening, you hear the owls cry. In the morning, you see silhouettes of stags in the forests. And by the sea, you can admire thrashing whales and dolphins. Scotland’s Highlands are abundant with wildlife; so it’s a good idea to bring wildlife books and binoculars on your tour.

Curious Castles

Mysteries lie within. Like a hidden passageway. A strange portrait looming above you in a dark hallway. A wall torn to shreds by violence and time. The castles of Scotland display their history proudly. They sigh over their own ruinous state, welcoming your admiration over all they’ve endured.

Heartfelt Hospitality

Quaint and snug cottages. Large and eerie castles. Cosy and traditional pubs. No matter where you go in the Highlands, you’re sure to receive a warm welcome. Highland hospitality is genuine and typically involves a hearty meal shared amongst new and old friends.

Scottish Highland Tours

Top Tours in Scottish Highlands, Scotland

Scottish highlands tours.

• Cultural Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Multi-day Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands, Glencoe and Pitlochry Tour

2. Loch Ness and Highlands Day Tour Including Cruise from Edinburgh

3. The Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle from Inverness

4. Loch Ness and the Scottish Highlands Day Tour from Edinburgh

5. Isle of Skye, Highlands and Loch Ness 3-Day Tour from Edinburgh

6. Cawdor Castle, Inverness, Culloden, Outlander and Loch Ness Tour

7. Oban, Glencoe, Highlands Lochs & Castles Small Group Day Tour from Glasgow

8. Loch Ness 1-Hour Cruise with Urquhart Castle Views

9. Loch Ness Experience Day Trip from Inverness

10. Glenfinnan Viaduct, Glencoe and Fort William Tour from Edinburgh

11. Scottish Highlands, Loch Ness and Glencoe Day Trip from Edinburgh

12. 2-Day Tour to Isle of Skye, The Fairy Pools & Highland Castles

13. Hogwarts Express and Scottish Highlands Tour from Edinburgh

14. Hogwarts Express and the Scenic Highlands Day Tour from Inverness

15. Skye and Eilean Donan Castle Small-Group Day Tour from Inverness

16. Loch Ness Cruise and Urquhart Castle visit from Inverness

17. Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle Day Tour from Inverness

18. 2-Day Loch Lomond, West Highlands, Glencoe & Oban Tour

19. 3-Day Isle of Skye Inverness Highlands and Glenfinnan Viaduct Tour from Edinburgh

20. Full-Day Trip: Loch Ness, Glencoe & The Highlands from Edinburgh

21. Loch Ness Cruise, Outlander & Urquhart Castle Tour from Inverness

22. Loch Ness & the Highlands Day Tour from Glasgow Including Cruise

23. 3-Day Isle of Skye and Highlands Inc Accommodation from Edinburgh

24. Inverness Half-Day Highlands Bucket List Tour

25. 3-Day Isle of Skye and Scottish Highlands Small-Group Tour from Edinburgh

26. Loch Ness and the Scottish Highlands with Lunch from Edinburgh

27. Loch Ness,cawdor castle,inverness,Culloden battlefield,& more from invergordon

28. Loch Ness and Caledonian Canal 2-Hour Cruise from Dochgarroch

29. Luxury Private Tour of The Highlands & Loch Ness from Edinburgh

30. Loch Ness,Culloden Battlefield,Cawdor Castle & Much More From Inverness City

What travellers are saying.

• Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands, Glencoe & Pitlochry Tour from Edinburgh
• Loch Ness & Highlands Day Tour Including Cruise from Edinburgh
• Loch Ness 1-Hour Cruise with Urquhart Castle Views
• Scottish Highlands, Loch Ness and Glencoe Day Trip from Edinburgh
• The Isle of Skye & Eilean Donan Castle from Inverness
• Strathspey Railway
• West Coast Railways
• WOW Scotland Tours
• Highland Explorer Tours Inverness
• Highlander Private Tours
• Kayak Summer Isles
• River to Sea Scotland
• Western Isles Cruises
• Excursiones desde Inverness
• Abacus Mountain Guides
• John O'Groats Ferries
• Happy Tours
• The Hebridean Explorer
• Lochaber Guides - Private Day Tours
• Go Wild Highlands
• Amber Spirit
• Mckenzie Mountaineering - Guided Walking Adventures
• LandD Adventures

• Skip to navigation
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• Tours from Glasgow
• Tours from Edinburgh
• Shore Excursions
• Isle of Iona
• Isle of Mull
• Stirling Castle
• Loch Lomond
• Jacobite Steam Train
• Private Tours
• Testimonials
• Covid-19 Safety Procedures
• Sustainability & Green Tourism
• Info & FAQs
• Our Driver-Guides
• Our Mini Coaches
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Scottish Highland Tours

Tours to the scottish highlands.

Imagine a place where majestic mountains reach up into massive skies. Where sparkling lochs stretch as far as the eye can see, while rugged glens and moorland hide legends of long ago.

On a small group tour with us you really will live and breathe the Scottish Highlands. A vast area of outstanding natural beauty and wildlife. From the comfort of your mini coach, with its panoramic windows, you’ll capture the breath-taking landscapes that have inspired writers, artists and film-makers the world over. Crashing waterfalls, luminescent lochs and awe-inspiring Munros (Scottish mountains over 3000 feet) are around every corner. Each new vista certainly seems to surpass the last.

Scotland’s often turbulent history has marked this landscape forever. Your friendly driver-guide will take you to its secretive castles and legendary landmarks. On the wild west coast there are empty sandy beaches to rival any holiday destination. Take in the scenery while atop the craggy cliffs as the call of seabirds fills the air.

We have one, three, four and six day small group tours from Glasgow and Edinburgh deep into the heart of the Scottish Highlands, all led by a knowledgeable driver-guide who will share their passion for our stunning country. Our one day Loch Ness tours from Edinburgh and Glasgow, take in the tourists’ favourites of Glencoe and Loch Ness. Alternatively, take a one day shore excursion from Greenock (Glasgow) to Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Trossachs which also gives you a rich flavour of the best Scotland has to offer.

Our Private tours offer a bespoke experience. With personalised itineraries you can explore any area of the Highlands you wish. From quaint villages to tumbling waterfalls, the choice is yours.

Join us on a tour of the Highlands and we know that a little piece of Scotland will stay with you forever.

Loch Ness, Glencoe & the Highlands

Our Loch Ness, Glencoe & the Highlands tour is one of our most popular day tours. The journey from Edinburgh covers a lot of the Scottish Highlands in one day. Stunning Glencoe is simply breathtaking and you’ll have the opportunity to spot the mythical Loch Ness Monster with a cruise on Loch Ness.

Glenfinnan Viaduct, Glencoe & Loch Shiel

A stunning day tour from Edinburgh that takes you to locations from movies such as Skyfall, Highlander and Harry Potter. We’ll travel into the Highlands, exploring Glencoe before arriving at Glenfinnan. Here you can walk up to the best viewpoints to capture the Jacobite Steam Train crossing over the Glenfinnan Viaduct.

St Andrews and Falkland Palace

Explore St Andrews and the ancient Kingdom of Fife on this beautiful and relaxing day tour. We’ll travel along Fife’s famous ‘Coastal Road’ bringing us through several of the area’s most stunning fishing villages.

Whether you are a golf enthusiast or not, St Andrews is a must see. You’ll have around three hours to explore one of Scotland’s most beautiful medieval towns. The old course is the most famous golf course in the world.

The village of Falkland lies at the foot of the Lomond Hills. Here you can wander around this lovely little village that stood in for Inverness in the Outlander tv series. You’ll have the opportunity to visit Falkland Palace.

Highland Lochs, Glens & Castles

Our Highland Lochs, Glens & Castles tour will take you to some of the best scenery Scotland has to offer. Shimmering lochs, breathtaking mountain scenery & historic castles. From quaint Inveraray to the pretty conservation village of Luss, enjoy the incredible views and settings of the Scottish Highlands.

Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle & the Kelpies

Visit grand Stirling Castle one of the most important castles in Scottish history. Enjoy the outstanding natural beauty of Loch Lomond with a cruise on one of Scotland’s most beautiful lochs. Capture some photos of the Kelpies, these magnificent 30-metre-high horse heads tower above the Forth and Clyde Canal.

A stunning day tour from Glasgow taking you to the Glenfinnan Viaduct, Glencoe & Loch Shiel. We’ll travel to Glencoe, Scotland’s most famous glen. Here you’ll gain an insight into how people lived here around the time of the Glencoe massacre.

At Glenfinnan you can climb up to the viewpoint where you’ll capture the Jacobite Steam train (Hogwarts Express) crossing over the world-famous Glenfinnan Viaduct as seen in Harry Potter. *

Standing Stones and Stone Circles of Kilmartin Glen

Let us take you on a journey through the history of Scotland. Explore one of Scotland’s richest prehistoric landscapes. Kilmartin Glen spans 5000 years with standing stones and stone circles. The 13 standing stones at Temple Wood is the picturesque setting for the best-preserved stone circle in Kilmartin Glen.

Loch Ness, Haunting Glencoe & The Highlands

Our Loch Ness, Glencoe & the Highlands tour is one of our most popular day tours. The journey covers a lot of the Scottish Highlands in a single day. Spectacular Glencoe will take your breath away and you’ll have the chance to spot the mythical Loch Ness Monster with a cruise on Loch Ness.

Oban, Western Highlands, Lochs, Castles & Glencoe

Shimmering lochs and breathtaking mountain scenery to historic castles and secret glens. Enjoy the incredible views and settings of the rugged Western Highlands. From quaint Inveraray and Oban to moody Glencoe and Rannoch Moor, ending with warm hospitality at a traditional Highland pub that’s said to be haunted.

Loch Lomond National Park & Stirling Castle

Enjoy the outstanding natural beauty of the Loch Lomond National Park. Explore the picturesque Highland village of Luss and learn about the area’s lawless Vikings and feuding clans on a cruise of Loch Lomond. Visit the imposing Stirling Castle and hear about the key moments of Scotland’s long violent and bloody history.

Let us take you to some of the best scenery the Scottish Highlands has to offer. Shimmering lochs and breathtaking mountain scenery to historic castles and secret glens. Visit magnificent Inveraray castle and enjoy lunch at a traditional Highland pub before exploring the pretty Highland village of Luss.

Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle & Trossachs

Visit Stirling Castle which overlooks the site of where the battle of Stirling Bridge took place, and where William Wallace (of Braveheart fame) defeated a much larger English army in 1297. Enjoy forest covered mountains and glistening Highland lochs as we travel through the Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park.

Private Shore Excursions from Greenock Port

Private shore excursions have become more popular in recent times. You can choose one of our scheduled Greenock Shore Excursions on a private basis. You might have your own bucket list of places to see. We can help you to create your own private shore excursion of Scotland.

Isle of Skye, The Highlands & Loch Ness

An island of faerie folklore, single track mountain passes, secret glens, craggy rock formations, crystal clear pools and waterfalls. Rich in history with a vast array of wildlife and spectacular scenery, it’s little wonder the Isle of Skye is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Scotland.

An island of faerie folklore, single track mountain passes, secret glens, craggy rock formations, crystal clear pools and waterfalls. Rich in history with a vast array of wildlife and spectacular scenery, it’s little wonder the Isle of Skye is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Scotland.

Sit back and fully absorb the ever-changing colours and textures of the isle of Skye on this four day tour. Get up close to the curious geology of the Trotternish Peninsula and feel the magic at Fairy Glen. You’ll see why romantic Skye was voted the world’s 4th best island destination by National Geographic.

Sit back and relax as this four day tour weaves through the Highlands to idyllic Skye. Capture photos of the Quiraing, Kilt Rock and the Old Man of Storr and feel like you’re on the edge of the world at Neist Point lighthouse. Skye always lives up to its reputation as the world’s 4th best island destination.

Isles of Mull, Iona & Skye Island Hopping

Explore the islands of Mull, Iona, Ulva, Staffa & Skye. Enjoy the wildlife on the Isle of Mull and the peace and serenity on the tiny sacred island of Iona. Get off the beaten track on the small community island of Ulva and the uninhabited island of Staffa before visiting the spectacular Isle of Skye.

Isles of Mull, Iona & The Highlands

Discover Scotland’s wild west coast and the outstanding islands of Mull, Iona and their sister isles. Mull is perfect for nature lovers with the chance to spot sea eagles, dolphins and even whales. Visit Iona Abbey and explore Fingal’s Cave on Staffa. Enjoy a walk on one of Scotland’s most spectacular beaches.

Private & Exclusive tours for families & friends

In the current climate of social distancing and bubbles, now more than ever may be the time to consider a private tour of Scotland for your family and friends.

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Best of the Highlands 

4 day/3 night tour, price from $895 pp.

This tour introduces us to Scotland’s moods and landscapes, covering the country roads from the rugged west to the far north. Head northwards along the North Coast 500 route to reach the mighty cliffs of Duncansby Head and remote John O’Groats. Travel westwards through scenic Glen Carron to explore the Isle of Skye and the iconic Eilean Donan Castle. This is the perfect introduction to the beauty of Scotland!

Our journey starts at impressive Waverley Station in the heart of Edinburgh, where we join the ScotRail train bound for Inverness. After Scotland’s Capital behind, we head northwards to Stirling, where the mighty hill-top castle dominates the landscape.

From Perth, the train heads into the highlands where our introduction is the tumbling rivers, gentle glens and towering trees of Perthshire. Look out for the dramatic Pass of Killiecrankie, the site of a famous Jacobite battle and stately Blair Castle, the seat of the Dukes of Atholl. The Duke is the only person allowed their own private army, The Atholl Highlanders. 

From Blair Atholl, the train makes the steady climb through the foothills of the Grampian Mountains to reach Druimuachdar Summit, the highest point on the UK rail network.

The next part of the journey takes in the natural beauty of the Cairngorms National Park. In the valley of the River Spey, home to many famous whisky distilleries, there are stops in Newtonmore and Aviemore before arriving at journeys end in Inverness.

After time to relax, head to the bus station to join a local driver/guide for a fascinating tour to Loch Ness. Discover the legend of Nessie, the Loch Ness Monster, then mount your own quest when you take to the waters on a short cruise. 

Explore the ruins of Urquhart Castle to get a glimpse of medieval life and enjoy the fantastic views over Loch Ness. Later, return to Inverness, where the remainder of the day is at leisure in the Highland Capital, our home for the next three nights.

Overnight: Premier Inn Inverness Centre River Ness, Inverness or Similar (3 nights)

After leaving Inverness behind, we experience the timeless beauty of Loch Ness, making a stop in Invermoriston to see the tumbling waterfall and historic Thomas Telford bridge.

Head westwards through Glen Moriston to reach Glen Shiel, where the Five Sisters of Kintail will come into view. These soaring peaks are each over 3,000 feet (914 m) high!

We stop to visit the fairytale Eilean Donan Castle set on its tiny island on Loch Duich. There is time to explore this iconic fortress before crossing “over the sea to Skye”.

On the magical isle follow the picturesque coastal route, enjoying the incredible vista over the sea lochs to the Isle of Scalpay. There are grand views of the mighty Cuillin Hills as we make our way to Portree, the island’s main town. We’ll make a stop here so you can discover this bustling community on your own and enjoy time for lunch. The colourful houses surrounding the harbour make an excellent backdrop for an “I was there” selfie!

Later enjoy a scenic drive through the dramatic landscapes of the Trotternish Peninsula to see the Old Man of Storr and Kilt Rock.

Returning to the mainland, we strike out through picturesque Glen Carron, stopping to enjoy the panoramic views over Loch Carron.

The last part of the journey takes us to the remote village of Achnasheen then back to Inverness.

Today, our destination is the very edge of mainland Britain as we head for the Northern Highlands.

We travel from Inverness over the Moray, Dornoch and Cromarty Firths to reach “Whisky Country”, a region home to several famous whiskies. These include Glenmorangie, produced in Tain, a town that can trace its history back to 1066.

In the village of Golspie, we’ll stop for refreshments before heading to nearby Dunrobin Castle, the most northerly of Scotland’s great houses. This chateau-like house has 189 rooms exhibiting family heirlooms and period treasures. The attractive gardens are said to have been inspired by those at Versailles.   

The Great North Road climbs “The Ord”, the gateway to the famous county of Caithness, where we reach picturesque Helmsdale, a village once the centre of a vast gold rush.

Historically, herring-fishing was the primary industry of Caithness, and one of the busiest ports was Wick which is the next stop. There is time for lunch and to explore this former Viking settlement.

Later, head to John O’Groats, the most northerly village on the British mainland. Get a souvenir photo at the famous signpost, then take a stroll to admire the seascapes and, maybe, spot some of the local wildlife. 

The journey homewards includes stops at pretty Dunbeath Harbour for photos and Brora, renowned for its stunning beaches.  

There is a relaxing start to our last day in the Highlands. After a leisurely breakfast, enjoy some free time to relax before joining a local guide for an informative walking tour of Inverness.

On this 90-minute stroll, learn how the city has developed from being a remote junction of the old trading routes into the bustling city it is now.

See Inverness Castle and discover its fascinating history. The building we see now dates from 1834. Its predecessor was blown up by the Jacobites in 1746. On the subject of Jacobites, view the statue of Flora MacDonald and hear how she helped Bonnie Prince Charlie escape from the redcoats. 

Look out over the River Ness to see Inverness Cathedral and the Northern Meeting Ground, home to the World’s oldest Highland games.

Later see Abertafff House, the earliest surviving house in Inverness and the gothic splendour of the Town House before visiting the Victorian Market, home to an eclectic collection of independent shops and traders.

Sadly, it’s time to head to the Railway Station to board your train bound for the lowlands and journeys end in either Edinburgh or Glasgow. 

Accommodation

• 3 nights hotel accommodation
• Location: Inverness (3)
• Scottish/Continental breakfast (3)

Visits, Admissions and Experiences

• Tour of the Isle of Skye with local driver/guide
• Tour to John O’Groats and the Far North with local driver/guide
• Tour to Loch Ness including loch cruise
• Walking tour of Inverness
• Admission to Urquhart Castle and Eilean Donan Castle

Tour Essentials

• Return standard class train tickets between Edinburgh/Glasgow and Inverness
• Seat reservations (where available)
• Customised tour itinerary and Official Guide
• Service charges and taxes
• Admission charges unless stated above
• Meals, snacks or items of a personal nature
• Gratuity to your driver/guide

Departs from 

Waverley Railway Station Princes Street, Edinburgh EH1 1BB

Check-in: 08:05 hrs Tour Departs: 08:35 hrs Tour Returns: 18:27 hrs

Child details

Child discount applies to children aged 4 to 15 years inclusive.

We’re sorry but children aged under 4 years cannot travel on this tour.

Photo-ID may be requested to confirm discount entitlement. 

Price Notes

IMPORTANT: Once booked this tour cannot be changed or cancelled

Accommodation The price of this tour includes hotel accommodation with en-suite bathroom.

Train Times The times shown above are for guidance only. The train times for your journey will be shown on your tickets and itinerary.

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• Cairngorms National Park
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Best of the Scottish Highlands - 7 day tour

Best of the Scottish Highlands 7 day/6 night

Experience the many highlights of the Highlands, from the heights of the Glenfinnan Monument to the depths of Loch Ness. Travel the Road to the Isles, cruise the Moray Firth and take an unforgettable trip on the Strathspey Steam Railway. The riches of Brodie Castle, Inverness, the Black Isle, Mallaig and a traditional distillery await your discovery. 

Brodie Castle - explore the home of the Brodie clan for over 400 years

Inverness - enjoy free time to explore the Capital of the Highlands  

Dolphin Spirit - take a wildlife-spotting cruise to see dolphins in their natural habitat,  

Loch Ness - discover the legend of Nessie

Strathspey Railway - all aboard for a journey of nostalgia through the Cairngorms National Park

Movie locations - Loch Ness, Outlander and Monarch of the Glen

Hotel accommodation included

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Full Tour Itinerary

Select Day:

Day 1 - Arrival in Inverness

Departing from Inverness Airport, you are instantly transported to the heart of the Highlands. It’s just a short journey to the beautiful village of Carrbridge , which will be our base for the next seven days. 

Nestling below the brooding Monadhliath Mountains , this traditional Scottish settlement is famous for its annual Golden Spurtle Competition , which sees enthusiasts from around the globe competing to be World Porridge Champion. 

After unpacking, why not spend the rest of the day exploring the village’s many delights in the lush Cairngorms National Park , including leafy forest walks and a stroll along the River Dulnain. 

Just a stone’s throw from your hotel is the famous 300-year-old Packhorse Bridge , with its dramatic slender O-shape spanning the rushing river below. Built by local stonemason John Niccelsone in 1717, it’s the oldest stone bridge in the Highlands and has survived centuries of harsh Highland weather, despite its parapets being washed away by floods in 1839. 

After admiring this example of ancient craftsmanship, spend your evening relaxing over drinks and dinner and looking forward to the discoveries that lie ahead.

Overnight: Carrbridge Hotel, Carrbridge or similar (6 nights)

Day 2 - Brodie Castle and Moray Coast Tour

A hearty breakfast sets us up for what will be an exciting day as we prepare to explore our Highland playground. 

The first stop is the turreted splendour of Brodie Castle , home to a priceless collection of antiques and works of art. Surrounded by swathes of lush rolling countryside, its distinctive rose-pink walls were the ancestral home of the prominent Brodie clan for more than four centuries. 

Why not take the opportunity to follow in their footsteps and enjoy a guided tour to discover more about its fascinating past? Explore the 16th-century guard chamber, with its thick stonework and formidable defences, then step into the neighbouring Victorian extension, complete with magnificent décor, fine furniture and dazzling array of paintings. The impressive library is worth the visit alone, with its towering shelves home to more than 6,000 volumes. 

Leaving this unforgettable landmark behind, our journey leads us along the Moray coast where we stop to discover the many delights of the historic town of Elgin , which is said to mean ‘beautiful place’ in Gaelic. 

Wander its maze of tiny alleys and admire the ruins of its famous cathedral, still standing after a fire in 1270. Known as the “Lantern of the North”, the cathedral is one of Scotland’s finest medieval buildings, famed for its ornate carved stonework. 

Later we wind our way home to our cosy hotel in time for dinner.

Day 3 - Inverness - Black Isle - Dolphin Cruise

The capital of the Highlands is our first stop of the day as we discover the myriad delights of nearby Inverness . 

Explore this thriving city during our extended visit, browsing the charming Victorian Market and its numerous independent shops. 

Culture lovers will appreciate a tour of the city’s renowned Museum and Art Gallery, where the Highlands’ art, history, and heritage are displayed in all their glory. 

Leaving the city behind, we take a short jaunt to admire the scenic Black Isle , which despite its name, is a colourful peninsula surrounded by water on three sides. 

At its northernmost tip is the nautical town of Cromarty or “crooked bay” in Gaelic, where we can wander the beach under the watchful eye of its charming urban lighthouse . 

Our day ends on the waves as we board the Dolphin Spirit on a quest to spot the bottlenose dolphins that inhabit these waters. Cruising the Moray Firth, a guide will point out these elusive creatures and ensure we catch plenty of photographs if they appear. 

With our faces still tingling from the Firth spray, we head back to our hotel, where we can discuss the day’s many delights.

Day 4 - Exploring Loch Ness

No tour of the Scottish Highlands is complete without a visit to its most famous body of water – the brooding and beautiful Loch Ness . 

Stretching 23 miles from top to toe, and 755ft at its deepest point, its icy surface is said to hide a mysterious monster affectionately known as ‘ Nessie ’ who has intrigued the world since her first sighting in 1933. 

Our monster hunt begins at the southern end of the loch, among the many small boats in the village of Fort Augustus , where the Caledonian Canal Centre gives an absorbing glimpse into the tributary that feeds Loch Ness via its series of locks. 

From here, we pass the ghostly ruins of Urquhart Castle , which has proudly stood guard over the surrounding area since medieval times. 

Arriving in Drumnadrochit , we’re now firmly in the middle of Nessie country, so a trip to the Loch Ness Exhibition Centre is essential. Here, we can find out more about the loch and its prehistoric resident and even take a boat trip to hunt for Nessie herself. Even if she doesn’t appear, there is still plenty of wildlife around, with an abundance of graceful cormorants and ospreys to watch before we head home.

Day 5 - Strathspey Railway and Dalwhinnie Distillery

All aboard! After talking to the water yesterday, we will today be making tracks on one of Scotland’s most famous railways. 

A generous breakfast sets us up nicely as we head south-east towards the busy resort of Aviemore , where we’ll take a ride into the past on the famous Strathspey Steam Railway . 

Climb aboard this beautifully restored vintage locomotive and enjoy the stunning scenery as we journey through the delights of the Cairngorms National Park . 

Steaming past five of Scotland’s highest peaks, we’ll take a magical 45-minute journey through the wonders of the Spey Valley, chuff-chuffing beside rich pine forests and moors alive with glorious purple heather. 

Keep your eyes peeled for the abundant wildlife that lives in these parts as we travel in style through the Highlands of yesteryear. 

The Strathspey region is also renowned for its whisky, so after we disembark, you’ll have the chance to make a pilgrimage to one of its finest distilleries in Dalwhinnie . 

Here, you can take a guided tour to learn more about uisge beatha or the ‘water of life’ and sample a golden dram – or three! The charming village of Dalwhinnie itself is also worth a visit before we turn our eyes northwards and start for home.

Day 6 - The Road to the Isles

After adventuring north and south, our compass is set for all points west today as we plot a course along the romantic Road to the Isles . 

Stretching from Fort William in the east to Mallaig on the far western coast, this 50-mile journey boasts some of the most spectacular scenery in the world, so remember to keep your camera handy! 

Leaving our hotel, we travel through Glen Spean, enjoying a variety of landscapes, from lush woodland to deserted white sands and moorland bursting with bright heather. 

Look out for fairy-tale Ardverikie House at the head of Loch Laggan. It recently played the part of Balmoral Castle in the Netflix series “ The Crown ”. 

Our first stop along the way is the Glenfinnan Visitor Centre , which stands in the shadow of the world-famous Glenfinnan Monument . Standing silently atop his 60ft high pillar, this proud Highlander looks out across the waters of Loch Shiel to the rolling mountains beyond. 

After pausing to absorb the history in this tranquil spot, it’s just a short uphill walk to another famous view – this time the Glenfinnan Viaduct . If you’re lucky, a train may be passing across its dramatic arches! 

Our adventure ends at the thriving fishing port of Mallaig , where a portion of its famous kippers are top of every visitor’s to-do list before returning eastwards.

Day 7 - Return home

Dawn breaks on our final day in the Scottish Highlands, but for some of us, the adventure is still not over. 

Your tour manager will advise the timings of the transfers back to Inverness Airport and the end of your tour. If your flight home departs later in the day you can stay a bit longer to enjoy a little more of the Highlands. 

If you plan to delay your departure, you can spend the morning in the ancient market town of Nairn . Once a popular Victorian seaside resort, the area is famed for its award-winning beaches and two championship golf courses, including Nairn Golf Club , home to ‘the Grand Old Man of Golf’ himself, Old Tom Morris . 

Nairn hosts an annual jazz jamboree and arts festival, as well as one of the biggest Highland games in Scotland. 

Stroll along the numerous riverside trails or take in the sweeping views across the Moray Firth while enjoying the seafront promenade. With three beaches to choose from, it’s the ideal opportunity to sample the clean Highland air before it’s time to leave. 

If you have time, why not pop into the town’s popular museum , where you can find out more about its famous visitors and residents, including King James VI of Scotland and Thomas Telford . 

The town’s charms are a fitting finale as you depart, reflecting on an unforgettable visit and returning home with cherished memories of the very best of the Highlands.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can i expect on this air-inclusive escorted tour.

These holidays are the perfect blend of value and convenience. Fly directly from many regional airports to your highland gateway, where your tour director is waiting to greet you.

Everything is taken care of so you can sit back and relax in the knowledge that your tour has been expertly planned and that nothing has been left to chance. Each package includes return flights to Scotland, quality accommodation, many meals, luxury coach transport and the services of an experienced tour director.

You'll find these tours to be well-paced with the perfect balance of organised sightseeing and free time so you can do your own thing. Not sure where to go? Your friendly tour director will be on hand to give you guidance.

A comprehensive tour itinerary will be issued as part of your tour documents which you'll receive around three weeks prior to travel.

If you prefer, you can purchase this tour on a land only basis making your own transport arrangements. Land only customers should make their own way to the first night's hotel.

What airports can I fly from?

The departure airports vary by tour departure and itinerary. Here is a list of the airports used in the tour programme: Belfast City George Best (BHD), Birmingham (BHX), Bristol (BRS), Exeter (EXT), London Gatwick (LGW), London Heathrow (LHR), London Luton (LTN), London Stansted (STN), Manchester (MAN) and Southampton (SOU).

Please contact us for air-inclusive prices

What type of room should I choose?

There are different bedrooms types to choose from, here is what you can expect:

Single room - one person sleeping in a single bed Twin room - two people sleeping in two separate beds Double room - two people sharing one large bed Family room - three people sharing a room sleeping in one large bed (2 people) and one single bed (1 person)

Please note that a family room can be a standard double room with either a sofa bed or a rollaway bed.

How many people will be on the tour?

The number of people travelling on an Escorted Tour will not normally be more than 50 passengers. On a Premium Escorted Tour you will travel with around 38 fellow passengers.

How much luggage can I bring?

You can bring one suitcase and one carry-on bag per person. The maximum weight allowance and luggage dimensions varies by tour so you should check the tour documentation for the luggage policy that applies to your tour.  

View all Frequently Asked Questions...

Accommodation

• 6 nights hotel accommodation
• Location: Carrbridge (6)
• Cooked/Continental breakfast (6)
• Table d’ hote dinners (6)

Visits, Admissions and Experiences

• Wildlife spotting cruise
• One-way journey on the Strathspey Railway from Aviemore to Broomhill (or v.v.)

Tour Essentials

• Touring by luxury air-conditioned coach with reclining seats 
• All baggage handling and hotel tips are included
• Services throughout the tour of a professional Tour Director
• Service charges and taxes 

Departure information

Belfast City George Best/Birmingham/Bristol/London Gatwick/London Heathrow/London Luton/Manchester Airports

Check-in: TBC hrs Tour Departs: TBC hrs Tour Returns: TBC hrs

Child details

Please contact us for information on child prices. 

Price Notes

Accommodation The price of this tour includes hotel accommodation with en-suite bathroom. 

Flights Return economy flights to either Edinburgh or Inverness Airports from Belfast City George Best, Birmingham, Bristol, London Gatwick, London Heathrow, London Luton or Manchester Airports are available.

The prices quoted are based on land only. Please contact us for air-inclusive prices

FAQs Please see the FAQ section for more information on this tour.

Product code NH 02992

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Customer reviews overall rating:.

An excellent tour, guide , coach & driver were superb, alas the quality of the food at the hotel was the Dow point, although the staff & hotel were fine

8 day tour from £ 1960.00

7 day tour from £ 1550.00

7 day tour from £ 1769.00

APRIL SALE:   Book now and get   up to 60% off!

Scottish Highlands Tours & Trips from Edinburgh

An adventure starting in Edinburgh is a great way to see Scottish Highlands. We have 15 tours that range from 3 days up to 9 days. The most popular time for tours from Edinburgh is June, which has the most tour departures.

15 Scottish Highlands tours from Edinburgh with 279 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Sightseeing

Isle of Skye, Loch Ness & Inverness

The tour was absolutely amazing! Doing it this time of year (October/ November) made it even more magical (with the trees turning orange) and i was blown away by the things that we were able to do.. our tour guide, Dusty, was brilliant! Best guide I’ve had anywhere! His knowledge on the area, with some of his own cheeky stories thrown in the BEST!

• €75 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Highlights of Scotland

This was my second G Adventures tour and it proved to be as enjoyable as the first one, which was the main reason my wife and I booked it. The small size of the tour group and the variety of people made it all the better. The tour offered a good balance between structured visits of major attractions and free time to explore on our own. I would not hesitate to recommend a G Adventures tour to anyone seeking a guided travel experience in the company of other like-minded travelers.

• Coach / Bus

5-Day Highland Explorer: Skye & Far North Small-Group Tour from Edinburgh

I learned a lot on the tour, our driver, Donald, gave us a lot of fun facts and understanding of the history of the highlands. They just got new vehicles and the seatbelts are a bit short which was not comfortable, but other than that I had an enjoyable time. I left wanting more.

6-Day Outer Hebrides & Skye Adventure Small-Group Tour from Edinburgh

Guide Sean was outstandingly good!

Isle of Skye & Outer Hebrides

Overall tour was excellent; this was a great way to cover a large distance and many great sites. We were disappointed with the b & b accommodations except for the stop in Skye, but all other aspects completely met or exceeded our fairly high expectations.

Isle of Skye & Hebridean Hopper

was a fantastic tour, Connor was amazing as a driver and tour leader, was well planned out - accommodation could be a bit better as some of the hostels were a bit ropey and maybe some breakfast thrown in but otherwise fantastic. Thank you Connor.

Scottish Highlands From Edinburgh - 5 days

Outer Hebrides & Skye Explorer - 6 days

Scotland's North Coast & Islands

• Christmas & New Year

Isle Of Skye And The Highlands

All the glorious scenic stops and plenty of comfort breaks. Driver Jada is a phenomenal driver and story teller. Looked after us at every stop and made things easy. Would definitely repeat trip!

Loch Ness & Isle of Skye

Edinburgh, Hebrides & Highlands (Hotel) - 5 days

Edinburgh, Hebrides & Highlands - 5 days

Winter Highlands & The Isle of Skye

Our tour guide, Louise, was absolutely fabulous! She was friendly, knowledgeable and very helpful. She was definitely 5-star! The tour was very nice. We saw a lot, enjoyed good food and accommodations. Wonderful 3 day tour.

Country Roads of Scotland (Classic Group, 9 Days)

Tours starting from edinburgh.

• Edinburgh to Edinburgh tours (13)
• Family from Edinburgh (13)
• In-depth Cultural from Edinburgh (8)
• Explorer from Edinburgh (8)
• Coach / Bus from Edinburgh (6)
• The Scottish Highlands: Hiking, Maps & Weather
• How to get to the Scottish Highlands
• Best time to visit Scottish Highlands
• Scottish Highlands insurance, vaccinations, visa and permits
• Do I need a guide to hike in Scottish Highlands?
• Scottish Highlands packing list
• How to prepare for the Scottish Highlands

Tourist Advice for Visitors to the Scottish Highlands

The Scottish Highlands are a wild and mountainous region situated in the northwest of Scotland. Although the region covers 9,906 square miles, it’s home to just 600,000 people, making it one of the most sparsely populated areas in Europe.

Visitors to the Highlands can immerse themselves in a landscape of serene lochs and towering mountains, along with some of Scotland’s largest forests and a rugged coastline that’s rich with wildlife.

Touring the Scottish Highlands

There has been a recent uptick in the popularity of private, small-group tours of Scotland among retirees, lone travellers, and middle-aged couples.

Smaller buses are a more comfortable and convenient alternative to the massive coaches of yesteryear. If you’re uneasy riding with a big bunch of strangers, you might like to choose smaller buses that seat no more than sixteen passengers rather than standard-size coaches, which may hold as many as fifty.

You’ll get to see parts of Scotland that passengers of cumbersome forty-foot vehicles never get to see thanks to the fact that these short-wheelbase vehicles can easily navigate the country’s small, winding roads.

If you’d like to visit the Scottish Highlands on a mini-coach tour I highly recommend Rabbie’s. This tour operator has been running since 1993 and exclusively uses small tour buses in groups of a maximum of 16 people so you’re guaranteed to make new friends on each trip.

Rabbie’s drivers are experts in all things Scotland so you’ll hear a few fascinating – and hilarious – tales as you make your way around the most beautiful parts of the country. To book a sightseeing tour of the Scottish Highlands or to find out more information about the different tours you can take around the Highlands, check out the Rabbie’s website .

Here’s an example itinerary of what you can expect to see on a Rabbie’s tour:

West Highland Lochs & Castles 1-day Tour

• Depart Edinburgh and head in the direction of Stirling to arrive at Doune Castle .
• Visit the castle then continue through Callander to Loch Lubnaig.
• Stop at Loch Lubnaig, then drive to the Braes of Balquhidder.
• Continue to Kilchurn Castle and visit the loch and castle ruins before stopping for lunch.
• Head to Loch Awe and stop at the town of Inveraray near Loch Fyne.
• Explore the old jail in Inveraray and Inveraray Castle before continuing through the Arrochar Alps. Stop along the way for photos.
• Drive along Loch Long towards Loch Lomond . Stop at the village of Luss .
• Continue towards Stirling Castle for photos.
• Arrive back in Edinburgh.

Explore small group tours of Scotland with Rabbie’s

Where Are the Scottish Highlands?

When you visit Scotland, you basically have three options for finding places to visit. First, you can do what most people do and head to the big cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh , with the latter playing host to the majority of the best tourist-friendly experiences that the country has to offer.

Second, you can go to the Hebrides islands and immerse yourself in their vast windswept beaches, and third, you can explore what I believe is the most beautiful part of the UK—the Scottish Highlands .

The Highlands are traditionally considered to be one half of Scotland, with the other being the Lowlands, and both areas are divided by the Highland Boundary Fault . This fault line starts near the area of Helensburgh (around 40 miles north of Glasgow) and extends all the way to Stonehaven in the northeast, with much of the landscape west of the fault pushed up in an enormous rift.

This fault line is the main reason why there are so many mountains in western Scotland, which couple with millennia of ice-age glaciers carving their way across the landscape has left behind the Highland’s famously high peaks and picturesque glens.

While the Lowlands are relatively flat, the Highlands are much more dramatic – think windswept moors surrounded by vast mountain ranges and you’ve pretty much got it – and they’re very sparsely populated, having one of the lowest densities of people outside of the great plains of Russia.

It’s not quite true to say that the Highlands follow the fault line in its entirety as the boundary turns north before it reaches the east coast and then arcs back towards the city of Inverness (the capital of the Scottish Highlands) in the area of the Moray Firth .

Everything north and west of this point (including the Orkney and Shetland Isles and the Western Isles) are also in the Highlands so I think you’ll appreciate it’s a pretty big area, and one that needs a lot of prior planning if you’re thinking of exploring it.

The Highland Boundary Fault :

The Weather and the Best Time to Visit the Highlands

If there’s anything that will have a big impact on your decision to visit the Scottish Highlands, it has to be the weather. Unlike the cities where it doesn’t really matter which month you plan your trip for, in the wild and exposed Highlands you’ll always be at the mercy of the elements, so choosing to come here in winter could mean you’ll have a downright miserable time.

Scotland’s winters generally last from November to February, but with global warming, it seems that Scotland is experiencing far milder temperatures than it once did. That being said, once you head into the more elevated regions, you’re almost guaranteed to experience 0 °C all day every day, especially in places like Braemar (officially the coldest place in Britain), where the lowest-ever recorded temperature was -27 °C (-16.6 °F).

Bear in mind that these temperatures plummet even further when you take wind chill into consideration. If you’re thinking of exploring the Highlands in winter, remembering the effects of wind chill can literally be a lifesaver.

To calculate wind chill, multiply the wind speed by 0.7 and subtract that number from the temperature, e.g., if the temperature is 5 °C and the wind speed is 10 mph, then 5 – (10 x 0.7) gives you a wind chill temperature of -2 °C, which is a considerable difference caused by little more than a stiff breeze.

On a positive note, if the main reason to visit the Highlands in winter is for snow sports then you’ll be pleased to know that here in Scotland we have pistes that rival the alps at the Nevis Range, the Cairngorms, and Glencoe.

On average, there are 100 days of snowfall each year in the Highlands, and due to the elevation, the snow usually lasts until April (Scotland’s snow sports season generally runs from November to April). This is also something to keep in mind if you’re thinking of driving in the Highlands in the winter, as many roads become impassable for days on end.

If you do find yourself driving through snow, keep an eye on the snow poles on either side of the road as they give an indication of where the road is as well as how deep the snow is. You’ll find more travel advice in this article, How to Tour Scotland in Winter which is a must-read for winter visits to the Scottish Highlands.

If winter sports aren’t part of your agenda, I would have to say the best time to visit the Highlands are the summer months (June, July, and August), as they have the longest days, the least amount of rain, and the highest temperatures.

I’ve compiled a few averages in the table below which shows the differences in Highland weather between January and August.

Midges in the Highlands

There’s one big problem with visiting the northwest of Scotland, and it’s something that can ruin your entire summer holiday: midges. These tiny biting insects are prevalent throughout the Highlands, where they like to hunt for food anywhere that’s damp on days that are cool and have wind speeds under 5 mph (8.05 km/h).

On their own, these 1-3 mm insects are nothing more than a minor irritation, but they swarm in their thousands and are irresistibly drawn to human beings whose blood is a rich source of protein for them.

If you get stuck in the Highlands where there are midges (an estimate of their numbers is 181 Trillion ) you’ll find it can be an unbearable experience. They tend to emerge from May to September, but that can change with a number of factors, including how cold the preceding winter has been and how warm it is later in the year.

My advice to combat these biting horrors is to take a look at this article: Avoid Midges in Scotland , and buy a bottle of Smidge anti-midge lotion (Amazon).

Essential Gear to Pack for the Highlands

A visit to the Highlands can be an unforgettable experience, especially if you head into the mountains where it’s possible to enjoy an all-day hike and not see another person all day. If you really want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, then the Highlands of Scotland need to be at the top of your list of places to go.

While these remote landscapes are undeniably beautiful they can also be deadly, with facilities that are few and far between, large areas of impassable bog and moorland, ridges with sheer-sided faces, and weather that can – and will – change to the extremes at the drop of a hat.

Obviously, you’ll have to pack extra gear in winter compared to summer, but there are a few essentials that you should keep with you at all times for no other reason than safety should you ever find yourself lost in the wilds of the Scottish Highlands.

This is what I keep in my backpack as a minimum, even in summer.

Please note, the following links are Amazon affiliate links.

1: Backpack waterproof cover . You will get caught in the rain at some point in Scotland, and there’s nothing worse than reaching into your backpack only to find a puddle of water at the bottom. Prevent water from soaking your clothes and expensive gear with one of these cheap waterproof backpack covers.

2: Pac-a-mac . They’re not exactly the height of fashion, but foldable waterproof jackets are unbelievably handy for coping with Scotland’s changeable weather. Roll it up and pop it in the bottom of your bag for those days when it’s too warm to wear a thick jacket.

3: Base layer . These thin long-sleeved shirts are designed for sports, but I’ve found them ideal for: A: an extra layer to pull on top of my T-shirt if it suddenly gets chilly; and B: something to cover my arms if there are too many midges about. Base layers roll into a tiny size and weigh next to nothing, so it’s worth keeping one in your bag at all times.

4: Convertible trousers . As I already mentioned, Scotland’s weather is changeable throughout the year so you’ll find yourself constantly veering between being too hot or too cold. One thing that helps enormously is wearing convertible trousers that have legs that can be quickly zipped off, thereby turning them into a pair of shorts.

5: Mobile phone with an OS Maps subscription . If you’re walking in the Highlands a map is essential for your safety. While waterproof paper maps and a compass are still the best options, if you’re on a short sightseeing trip, I highly recommend using your phone and the OS Maps app instead.

With the OS Maps app,, your phone acts as a GPS receiver and overlays your position onto a highly detailed map of the Highlands, and it even shows you which way you’re facing.

What to Pack for a Winter Visit to the Highlands

If you visit the Highlands in winter there will be a few additional items you need to take with you, primarily to keep you warm but also to keep you on track when snowfall covers the ground. The following is what I’ve whittled my gear down to after years of exploring the Highlands in winter:

1: Wrap up warm with several layers of clothing, and wear a sweat-absorbing base layer along with a rain and windproof jacket. You’ll lose a lot of heat from your head, feet, and hands, so always make sure you have a woolly hat, gloves, and thick socks to keep your extremities toasty.

2: I can’t overstate how important good-quality boots are in Scotland. Get a pair that has good grips (Vibram soles are best) and is waterproof, and make sure they have supportive ankle protection. I personally swear by Berghaus boots, as although they’re a wee bit more expensive, they last much longer than cheaper brands, plus they’re supremely comfy.

3: Pack high-energy food and drinks to replenish the energy you’ll be burning to keep warm in the cold. With regard to water, bear in mind that you should take 2 litres per person per day, and each litre weighs 1 kg. I take two bottles on my winter walks: one insulated Thermos flask for a cup of hot tea down the road, and a tough metal water bottle to keep me hydrated.

4: You’ll need somewhere to pack all that equipment away so a backpack isn’t just handy, it’s essential. The majority of people don’t need a top-of-the-range pack for short walks, so if you’re only visiting the Highlands on a day trip, you’ll be fine with any rainproof backpack costing under £30 from Amazon.

This article will help you choose a budget backpack: The 5 Best Lightweight Backpacks to Use in Scotland , which lists small backpacks that are perfect for a brief sightseeing tour of the Highlands.

5: Take walking poles. Not only will they help you balance on slippery surfaces but they’ll allow you to poke the ground in front of you so you don’t end up falling into a snow-covered hole.

6: Take a map and compass and learn how to use them. After a snowfall, the landscape can change dramatically, and it’s easy to lose your bearings. Ordnance Survey, which offers a selection of extremely robust, waterproof maps, produces by far the best maps.

The main reason to use a paper map instead of a mobile phone app is that you never need to worry about battery life, which is a serious consideration on a multi-day hike.

Buy OS Landranger maps direct from Ordnance Survey.

7: Become familiar with your route before you leave and stick to it. One of the main reasons winter hikers get lost is because they suddenly decide to take a different path and then find themselves unable to get back onto their pre-planned track.

If you want to keep costs down the  Walk Highlands website is a fantastic resource for walking routes in Scotland, and Google Maps is very handy as a GPS – but make sure you have a power pack in your bag as a backup.

8: If you happen to find yourself lost in the middle of nowhere in the winter, there’s one thing that could mean the difference between life and death. That ‘thing’ is Scotland’s network of bothies, which are weatherproofed huts located in the remotest regions of the country.

Bothies are always unlocked, and they’re free to use, with the only requirement being that you leave them clean and tidy after you’ve used them. I recommend getting this guidebook for finding bothies in the Highlands: The Scottish Bothy Bible .

Where to Stay in the Highlands

Visiting the Highlands is different from visiting the rest of Scotland for many reasons, not least because it’s such a vast area with towns and villages spread miles and miles apart. In fact, Highland settlements are so spread out that some areas have fewer people than the Steppes of Russia!

That means tourists can have a wonderful time exploring the great outdoors in peace and quiet, but it also means it’s very difficult to find accommodation.

While you could pack a tent, you’ll have to brave the midges in summer and it will be absolutely freezing in winter. Camper vans are an option, but unless you already own one you’ll have to pay upwards of £1000 per week for a rental.

That leaves hotels and B&Bs, which are probably best for the majority of people travelling to the Highlands. Because there are so few of them and because they’re so popular, it’s very important to book your accommodation well in advance in order to secure a room, and from personal experience, I suggest booking at least 6 months beforehand if you’re planning a summer trip.

One thing to be aware of is that hotels ramp up their prices during the tourist season and even more so during the school holidays, so by planning a little, you could save 50% or more by simply adjusting the weeks of your stay.

The following is a list of more tips that will save you money when booking your next hotel in the Highlands of Scotland:

1: Although the cheapest time of year for hotel rooms is winter, in some places, like Inverness, the prices will ramp up again the closer you get to Christmas due to the Christmas markets and festivals. If you’re after a cheap winter holiday in the Highlands, check the prices in early January, when hotels are desperate for business.

2: Two suggestions for saving money on chain hotels like Marriott are to book via their own website, which is often cheaper than price comparison websites, and join their loyalty points scheme while you’re there. Most of these schemes build points for each stay, which you can later redeem for rewards such as a free meal in the hotel restaurant or a free overnight stay.

3: Hostels are by far the cheapest option for cheap accommodation in Scotland, and the days of sticky carpets and cold, dingy rooms are long gone. Most even offer single rooms with an en-suite bathroom these days. In Inverness, take a look at Bazpackers, and in Fort William, I recommend Ben Nevis Inn Rooms.

4: Another alternative for cheap overnight accommodation is to find a Groupon deal. The only thing to bear in mind is that you’ll likely have to book well in advance, so Groupon isn’t much good for an impromptu overnight stay.

5: Airbnb is a fantastic option for the budget-conscious traveller and there are some real bargains to be had, plus you can cook your own meals which saves even more money. A recommended alternative to AirBnB is Vrbo.

6: Even cheaper than hostels and Airbnb is pitching a tent. It’s legal to pitch your tent wherever you like in Scotland as long as it isn’t on privately owned land, but make sure you abide by the Scottish Outdoor Access Code . If you need help finding a suitable tent, check out this article: The 5 Best Tents for Summer Camping in Scotland .

7: As already mentioned, Scotland has lots of bothies, so use them! Although they’re not exactly up to hotel standards, they’re completely free, so check out  The Mountain Bothies Association  for more information about them. Another great resource is The Scottish Bothy Bible, which you can buy on Amazon .

Where to Stay in Fort William

• Victoria House B&B . Lochy Bridge, Lochyside, Fort William, PH33 7NX. Full Scottish breakfast, free parking, non-smoking rooms, pets allowed, free WiFi, family rooms, tea/coffee maker in all rooms, full Scottish breakfast.
• Alexandra Hotel . The Parade, Fort William, PH33 6AZ. Free parking, non-smoking rooms, restaurant, facilities for disabled guests, free WiFi, family rooms, tea/coffee maker in all rooms, bar, very good breakfast.
• Ardrhu House, Fort William . Ardrhu House Onich, Fort William, PH33 6SD. Free parking, non-smoking rooms, beachfront, restaurant, facilities for disabled guests, free WiFi, tea and coffee makers in all rooms, and a good breakfast.

Where to Stay in Inverness

• Chieftain Hotel , 2, Millburn Road, Inverness, IV2 3PS. Free parking, non-smoking rooms, restaurant, free WiFi, pets allowed, family rooms, bar, and superb breakfast.
• Culliss House B&B . Culliss House, 15 Culduthel Road, Inverness, IV2 4AG. Free parking, non-smoking rooms, free WiFi, tea and coffee makers in all rooms, and an exceptional breakfast.
• Heathmount Hotel . Kingsmills Road, Inverness, IV2 3JU. Free parking, non-smoking rooms, restaurant, pets allowed, family rooms, bar, superb breakfast.

Where to stay in Braemar & Cairngorms

• Braemar Lodge Hotel . Glenshee Road, Braemar, AB35 5YQ.  tea/coffee maker in all rooms, bar, breakfast.
• The Gordon Guest House . Station Square, Ballater, AB35 5QB. Non-smoking rooms, free parking, free WiFi, exceptional breakfast.
• Hilton Grand Vacations Club at Craigendarroch . Braemar Road, Ballater, AB35 5XA. Swimming pool, spa and wellness centre, non-smoking rooms, restaurant, facilities for disabled guests, free parking, bar, breakfast.

Where to Stay In Crianlarich

• Best Western The Crianlarich Hotel . Main Street, Crianlarich, FK20 8RW. Free parking, non-smoking rooms, pets allowed, free WiFi, tea/coffee maker in all rooms, bar, very good breakfast.
• Inverardran House Bed and Breakfast . Crianlarich, FK20 8QS. Free parking, free WiFi, tea/coffee maker in all rooms, exceptional breakfast.
• Craigbank Guest House . Main Street, Crianlarich, FK20 8QS. Free parking, free WiFi, tea/coffee maker in all rooms, superb breakfast.

How to Get Around the Highlands

Getting anywhere in the Highlands takes much longer than it does when you’re in the main cities, purely because it’s such an enormous region and everything is spread so far apart. However, there are a few ways to get to the Highlands, so don’t let that deter you.

Flights to the Highlands

If you’re an international visitor you’ll arrive in Scotland at one of our main international airports depending on where you’re coming from – most likely Aberdeen airport (Address: Dyce, Aberdeen, AB21 7DU), Glasgow airport (Address: Paisley, PA3 2SW), or Edinburgh airport (Address: Edinburgh EH12 9DN).

Once at these hubs, you have the option of continuing your journey inland by train or car or booking an internal flight from Aberdeen or Glasgow, with the former serving Orkney and Shetland and the latter connecting to the Western Isles.

The infrastructure between these airport hubs is excellent, and you can take a train from Edinburgh and be at Glasgow in less than an hour, so flying into the capital city and ending up on remote islands like Barra and Tiree is remarkably easy. You’ll find everything you need to know about travelling to Scotland by air in this article: The Complete Guide to Scotland’s Airports .

Using Trains in the Highlands

Scotland has a love/hate relationship with its train network, mainly because the services are generally overpriced and subject to frequent delays, but they can be an easy way to get to the Highlands if you do a bit of planning before you set off.

The West Highland Line is particularly recommended because it’s extraordinarily pretty along much of its route,whether you’re travelling from Glasgow to Oban where you can then catch a Calmac ferry to the Hebrides Islands, or Glasgow to Fort William, where you can step on board the Jacobite steam train that runs to the northwest fishing town of Mallaig.

If you’re intending to use the train you really should experience this route to Mallaig as it’s absolutely beautiful and has, in fact, been described as one of the greatest train journeys in the world. You’ll find out more about it in this article: A Guide to the Jacobite Steam Train .

While these routes are very scenic, they can also be a huge pain in the wallet, so I recommend getting a rail travel pass to save money. The  Spirit of Scotland travel pass  offers unlimited rail travel throughout Scotland for either 4 or 8 days, and you’ll find stations in most towns in the Highlands.

Alternatively, the  Highland Rover travel pass  gives you four days of unlimited travel over eight consecutive days, and it also gives you 20% off ferry services to Orkney and Shetland,which can be useful if you’re planning to head to the far north during your holiday. You can also book tickets with The Trainline (my preferred option), which usually saves at least 1/3 compared to purchasing tickets at the station.

Using a Car in the Highlands

By far the most convenient form of transport in the Highlands is a car, but if you’re travelling here from overseas, it can also be the most expensive. Hire car costs can be extortionate once you add on fuel (we have some of the highest fuel prices in Europe) and insurance (likewise), but there are ways you can keep your costs as low as possible.

Unless you’re travelling in a big group I suggest getting as small a car as is practical, and you’ll find something like a Ford Fiesta or Vauxhall Corsa will whisk families around Scotland’s narrow roads economically, safely, and comfortably.

My top tips for getting a hire car in Scotland are to think seriously before splashing out on collision waiver damage (it’s often a rip-off), go direct to a rental company like SIXT or Hertz instead of using a rental car broker, and don’t get conned into taking out a load of vaguely worded insurance you probably won’t need.

Once you’re out on the open road, you’ll find the scenery gob-smacking, and being able to pull over onto the roadside whenever you like is definitely a bonus, but there are some downsides to driving in Scotland.

First and foremost, I strongly advise you not to drive in the Highlands in winter if you’re an inexperienced driver, as weather conditions can change at the drop of a hat and a road that started off clear in the morning can be buried under a thick blanket of snow in the afternoon. That, coupled with the fact that many roads are winding and single-track, can make for treacherous driving conditions.

On the other hand, embarking on a road trip through the Scottish Highlands in summer when it’s green and lush is a not-to-be-missed experience, especially if you head to the far north and drive one of the greatest road journeys in the world on the North Coast 500 .

I think it’s safe to say there are more than enough places to visit in the Scottish Highlands that you could easily spend a two-week holiday there and never get bored, and it makes a great alternative to spending a summer break in the busy cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the scottish highlands.

Traditional thinking divides Scotland into two halves, the Highlands and the Lowlands, by a geological line that follows the Highland Boundary Fault. This fault line starts close to the area of Helensburgh,approximately 40 miles north of Glasgow,and extends all the way to Stonehaven in the northeast.

What are the most popular attractions in the Scottish Highlands?

Glencoe and Bidean Nam Bian . Ben Nevis in the Nevis Range . Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle . The Cairngorms National Park. Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. Eilean Donan Castle . Glenfinnan Monument . Duncansby Head .

How do I tour the Highlands by train?

The West Highland Line runs from Glasgow to Oban where you can catch a Calmac ferry to the Inner Hebrides or you can take the train from Glasgow to Fort William. You can then step on board the Jacobite steam train which runs to the northwest fishing town of Mallaig.

What towns and villages should I visit in the Highlands?

Applecross sits on a peninsula in Strathcarron and is notable for the Bealach na Ba pass, which is one of the highest roads in the UK, reaching 2,053 feet at its highest point. Braemar is best known as the home of the annual Braemar Gathering and Highland Games, held in September. Glencoe is a popular destination for hikers, and it’s a great starting point for treks into the surrounding Glencoe mountains. Fort William is the starting point for the Jacobite steam train. The town is known as the outdoor capital of the UK. Fort Augustus is located on the southernmost tip of Loch Ness and is the main hub for exploring the loch after Inverness, which is located to the north.

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Loch Morar Visitor Guide

Craig Neil is the author, photographer, admin, and pretty much everything else behind Out About Scotland. He lives near Edinburgh and spends his free time exploring Scotland and writing about his experiences. Follow him on Pinterest , Facebook , and YouTube .

11 Best Scottish Highlands Tours from Edinburgh in 2024 (local approved)

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Ready to take on the absolutely gorgeous Scottish Highlands on a Scottish Highlands tour from Edinburgh?

You’re in for a treat, as we’re going to explore the best 11 Scottish Highlands tours that depart from Edinburgh to make sure that you’re choosing the right one for you and your travel style.

Bonus: you’ll skip the tourist traps and the tours that aren’t worth your time or money.

If you don’t have time to read the whole guide, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

The best Scottish Highlands tour from Edinburgh is this Loch Ness, Glencoe, and Scottish Highlands Complete Tour.

It has about 1,800 amazing reviews, so there’s no going wrong.

From the sweeping vistas to the gorgeous waterfalls to the adorable wildlife (Highland Coo, anyone?), this is one of the must-see parts of the UK and it’s really difficult to tour the Highlands from Edinburgh on your own without a tour as a visitor to Scotland.

If you want to see the full list of options, here are 10 more tours from Edinburgh to the Scottish Highlands that are worth it.

Let’s get into the list so you can book it already!

PS – booking in advance is highly, highly recommended so you don’t miss out.

⏳ Don’t have time to read the whole list?

The best option is this Loch Ness, Glencoe, and Scottish Highlands complete tour.

Hey! Want more honest UK tips and planning advice? Click here to join my London and UK Travel Tips Facebook group , where I can answer more of your questions!

Easy Guide: Best Scottish Highlands Tour from Edinburgh Picks

11 best scottish highlands tours from edinburgh, 1. loch ness, glencoe, and scottish highlands complete tour.

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 1800+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  12 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR

• Round-trip transportation from Edinburgh
• A friendly driver guide with plenty of stories
• Option for a Loch Ness cruise
• Stops in Callander, Glencoe, Loch Ness, and Pitlochry

If you want the highest rated and most complete Scottish Highlands day trip from Edinburgh, then this one is for you.

You’ll start in the beautiful town of Callander, the “Gateway to the Highlands,” where you’ll have some time to explore and take a comfort break. Along the way, your guide will dazzle you with stories of Scottish heroes and myths, as well as pointing out famous landmarks like Stirling Castle and the Kelpies.

Then it’s off to Glencoe, which has some of the most picturesque scenery in all of Scotland.

The main event, Fort Augustus Abbey, is situated on the shores of Loch Ness, and you can have the option of taking a 1 hour cruise along Loch Ness or you can explore the beautiful village and the canal lock system.

You’ll also enjoy such beautiful stops like the Commando Monument, Loch Lomond, and Forth Bridge.

Pitlochry is the final stop before you return to Edinburgh, where you’ll enjoy gorgeous surrounding hills and mountain views. Don’t forget to buy some shortbread – a must in the Highlands!

The tour guides are always friendly and welcoming, the Scottish Highlands are always worth the trip, and past visitors can’t find enough good things to say about this tour.

2. Scottish Highlands and Hogwarts Express Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 300+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  13 hours, 30 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• ride on the Jacobite Steam Train, the real Hogwarts Express!
• Stops in Pitlochry, Glenfinnan, Mallaig, and Glencoe
• Plenty of Scottish stories and Harry Potter behind-the-scenes info!

If you’ve got a Harry Potter fan in tow, then this tour is your best bet for a Scottish Highlands tour from Edinburgh.

Not only does it include some absolutely stunning stops in the Scottish Highlands, like Pitlochry (known for its gorgeous high street and stunning hillside views) and Mallaig, an adorable fishing town, but there’s one thing this tour has that the first one doesn’t.

A ride on the Hogwarts Express.

Of course, it’s not the real Hogwarts Express – it’s really known as the Jacobite Steam Train, but this was used as the Hogwarts Express in the movie.

Any exterior shot where you see the train “heading to Hogwarts” – yeah, that’s the real life Jacobite Steam Train.

This particular tour also includes lots of Harry Potter filming locations and behind-the-scenes information, but not exclusively – so you’ll satisfy both fans and non-fans as you explore the Highlands.

The transportation to and from Edinburgh is a comfortable coach and you won’t have to do any of the logistics – just let yourself enjoy as you’re picked up and whisked away and then returned safely to Edinburgh at the end of the day.

3. 3-Day Isle of Skye and Scottish Highlands Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 487+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 days | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• 2 nights and 3 days of guided adventure around the Scottish Highlands
• Hotel or bed-and-breakfast for 2 nights
• Isle of Skye and Scottish Highlands stops
• Ride on the Jacobite Steam Train, known for being the Hogwarts Express

If you’ve got some time in your schedule, this 3-day tour of the Scottish Highlands from Edinburgh is the best way to pack in as much as possible.

You’ll still get round trip transportation from Edinburgh included, but with 2 nights of hotel or bed and breakfast in between.

You’ll get to stay on the Isle of Skye, using this as your base, and along the way you’ll wander through the Highlands with your expert guide as you see everything from the mythical Old Man of Storr to Dunkeld Cathedral and Eilean Donan Castle.

You’ll also experience Loch Ness, and on the final day you’ll take a ride on the Jacobite Steam Train, better known to Harry Potter fans as the Hogwarts Express.

Don’t miss this chance to experience the best of the Highlands – with a 3 Day Highlands tour from Edinburgh, you’ll see more than what you can see on a single day tour.

4. Day Trip to Scottish Highlands and Loch Ness with Lunch

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 1,312+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  12 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• A picnic lunch
• Stops in Callandar, Fort Augustus/Loch Ness, and Pitlochry
• Optional boat cruise on Loch Ness, searching for Nessie
• Friendly driver-guide who won’t let you miss a moment of fun

If you want a day tour of the Scottish Highlands with lunch included, this tour is for you!

You’ll enjoy the gorgeous village of Callandar, the gateway to the Highlands, and then you’ll carry on north as you explore Fort Augustus Abbey, on the shores of Loch Ness.

Once there, you can enjoy your included picnic lunch and you can also take an optional boat tour of Loch Ness before the tour departs again.

Enjoy the stop at Pitlochry, where you should definitely check out the gift shops and buy some authentic Scottish souvenirs like shortbread or “tablet” (basically pure sugar – yes, please).

You’ll also get to drive through Glencoe as well as passing by famous Scottish Highlands landmarks like Ben Nevis (a mountain) and Stirling Castle (which seriously has to be seen to believe how magical it looks from below).

Tour the Highlands from Edinburgh in style and with total confidence with this tour!

5. Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle Day Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 1420+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  12 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Visit to the stunning Urquhart Castle, overlooking Loch Ness
• Time to take an optional Loch Ness cruise
• Stops in charming Highlands villages like Pitlochry
• Expert, friendly guide
• Round trip transportation from Edinburgh

Including Loch Ness, Glencoe, and Pitlochry, this tour , a Scottish Highlands day tour from Edinburgh, is a fascinating day trip from Edinburgh compete with the option to see Urquhart Castle, a gorgeous castle on the shores of Loch Ness.

There is also time for an optional boat tour on Loch Ness, as well as plenty of photo pit stops along the way to make sure you capture all of the best memories.

The guides for this tour are exceptional, highly rated for their friendliness and enthusiasm, and just all-around fun.

If you want to include a castle in your Scottish Highlands day trip, then definitely choose this one.

6. Loch Ness and Glencoe Tour from Edinburgh

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 650+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  12 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR , one of the best one day Highlands tours from Edinburgh

• On-board commentary
• Boat tour of Loch Ness
• Time for lunch in a charming Scottish Highlands village
• Expert, friendly guide and multiple pick-up points

Another Scottish Highlands day trip option is this one with Gray Line Scotland , who will whisk you through all of the major sites and make sure that you’ve got the full scoop on Scottish lore.

The guides are known for being incredibly helpful and knowledgeable, and past visitors appreciated the storytelling and interesting facts they have to share.

See the picturesque vistas at Glencoe, known for being used as a scene setting in plenty of famous TV shows and movies, and enjoy your time in charming Scottish villages and towns like Pitlochry, a Victorian resort town.

Children over the age of 6 are more than welcome on board, so plan a day out with the whole family as you tour the Highlands together.

7. Scottish Highland Games Day Trip from Edinburgh

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 30+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  9 to 12 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Day spent at one of the Highland Games (runs late May to September)
• Expert, friendly guide to tell you more about the Games and the Highlands
• Gorgeous views on your ride to and from the games

There’s something incredibly magical about the Scottish Highlands games that take place in various villages and towns in the summer months.

Getting to them on your own as a visitor would be almost impossible in many locations without a car, so book onto this tour to experience the fun for yourself without having to worry about the logistics.

With so many Highland coach tours from Edinburgh to choose from, this one is truly unique.

Not only will you pass by gorgeous Scottish Highlands scenery with a chance for a photo or two en route, but you’ll get to spend the day at the Scottish Highlands Games, taking in local culture and appreciating this authentic Scottish thing to do!

Your expert and friendly guide will tell you everything you need to know about the Games and you’ll get to have what is, for many visitors, a once-in-a-lifetime Scottish Highlands experience.

8. Scottish Highlands Luxury Private Tour with Local

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  8 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Private tour of the Scottish Highlands with no other passengers
• Fully customizable experience (or let the guide pick the best spots!)
• Pick-up service from wherever you are in Edinburgh
• Plenty of time for sightseeing

Want to see the Scottish Highlands in the ultimate comfort and luxury?

Hop into your private Mercedes-Benz and let your private chauffer take you all around the Scottish Highlands on this incredible private tour .

You can use their existing route, selected to show off the absolute best of the Highlands, or you can work with them to customize your experience.

Better yet, while on this Scottish Highlands tour from Edinburgh, you can ask to stop wherever you want – this is your tour, after all, and as long as it fits into the day you have, there’s no worries if you want to stop and get out and take a picture, use the bathrooms, or stop at scenic viewpoints to admire the view a while longer.

You’ll get door-to-door service, picking you up and dropping you off from your hotel or accommodation, and you’ll make incredible family memories that will most definitely last a lifetime.

9. Small Group 3-Day Scottish Highlands and Isle of Skye Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 960+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 days | ✔️  BOOK NOW

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR , one of the best Highlands tours from Edinburgh

• 2 nights in Portree on the Isle of Skye with breakfast included
• Small group for a more intimate experience (16 people or less)
• A combination of guided tours plus leisure time to explore on your own

Another option for those having a little bit longer to see the Highlands, this 3-day Scottish Highlands tour from Edinburgh is a small group version, meaning you won’t be traveling with more than 16 people total on your tour.

You’ll get 2 nights of accommodation in a hotel or B&B in Portree, on the Isle of Skye, and you’ll use this as your base as you travel around the Highlands for three full days.

Enjoy the stunning beauty of Loch Ness and keep an eye out for Nessie, explore the enchanting vistas of Glencoe, and enjoy free time in the Highlands to visit distilleries, breweries, gift shops and so much more.

You’ll depart and return back to Edinburgh, so you don’t have to worry about any of the logistics and can get to know your friendly guide as they tell you all of the stories of the Highlands over your 3-day experience.

Truly, if you have the time – do it. Book it right now.

These are some of the best Highlands tours around and the extra couple of days mean you can fit in so much more.

10. Private Full Day Highlands Tour with Hairy Coo Meeting

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 38+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  12 hours 30 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Completely private guided tour of the Scottish Highlands
• A dedicated stop to get to see the iconic Highland Coos or Hairy Coos (those adorable cows!)
• Dedicated driver and guide with as much local knowledge as you can possibly handle
• Organic tea or coffee, shortbread, and a nip of Scottish whiskey!

Another private tour of the Scottish Highlands, this one specifically includes the chance to get up close to the famous Highland Coos, a type of cow that you’ll instantly recognize once you see them with their adorable shaggy hair!

Let your private guide whisk you around and show you all of the local sites without any other visitors to compete with – no worrying about whether you can hear the guide, no problems waiting for people at stops.

It’s just you and your travel party, an expert Scottish local guide and driver, and the chance to live out your Highlands dreams as you travel throughout this gorgeous part of the country.

11. Brilliant Scottish Highlands e-Bike Tour from Edinburgh

⭐️  RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars, 9+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  9 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Bike or e-Bike for the day
• Relaxing bike rides through the Highlands, as well as hiking opportunities
• Time for lunch and sightseeing

A unique option for taking a tour of the Highlands from Edinburgh is this bike tour of the Highlands!

No, you’re not riding your bike all the way there, don’t worry. It’s also a Highlands bus tour from Edinburgh.

You’ll be picked up in a coach/bus and then be driven to the Highlands, where you’ll get to go on an easy bike tour (you can choose an electric bike if you feel that is a better option for your fitness level) around destinations in the Highlands.

There’s plenty of time for lunch, and some hiking options during the day to make sure that you fit it all in and enjoy an active day out.

This is a great option for families with teenagers or those who want a bit of a different way to see the Highlands instead of just sitting in the bus all day.

The guides are top notch and the path for the bikes is easy enough that you don’t need to be some sort of cycle guru to enjoy yourself and take part.

Hey! Want to use our trusty guides to the best tours in other places across the UK? Check these out!

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UK Travel Planning Guide: the FAQs

🏥 Should I buy UK travel insurance?

Absolutely yes. Basic coverage is not expensive, and as a visitor you are NOT covered under the NHS. Compare policies and prices with Travel Insurance Master here , a big name in the travel insurance business, and cross that off your list.

🔌 Do I need travel adapters for the UK?

Yes, you do, otherwise you won’t be able to plug in your electronics/phone/lifelines. I recommend this one , which is all-in-one so you can use it in other countries.

🚗 What do I need to drive in the UK?

The first thing you need to check out if you’re planning on renting a car in the UK is this guide to driving in the UK for visitors – the roads, signs, and driving experience will likely not be what you’re used to and it’s essential to prepare yourself to stay safe and aware.

🛌 What’s the best way to book hotels in the UK?

For UK hotels, Booking is the best site as it offers free cancellation on many properties. If you want an apartment, I always recommend VRBO over AirBnb.

📳 Will my phone work in the UK?

Yes – if you set it up right. Check out my guide on making your foreign phone work in the UK to ensure that you get the type of service you need.

🚿 Can I drink the water in the UK?

Yes, UK water is great and perfectly safe. But drink out of taps in any kitchen or use water fountains. Double check before drinking out of the taps in hotel bathrooms, though, as they may be on a different system. London water is safe to drink .

Heading to London? Want the best tips?

Check out my Ultimate Guide to London for Visitors. Using text, images and video, this guide is packed full of tips, tricks, safety advice, knowledge on how to get around and what to do, and more!

Moving to the UK or already an Expat?

Grab my book which covers moving to the UK, struggles I faced and that you might face too, and uplifting advice to help you along the way! Available in hard copy and on Kindle.

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7 of the Best Highland Tours from Edinburgh 2024

Interested in finding the best highland tours from edinburgh you’re in the right place, i have your back.

Are you thinking about exploring the Scottish Highlands from Edinburgh but feeling unsure about which tour to choose?

The Highlands offer some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world, with vast landscapes, historic castles, and serene lochs. With so many tour options available, deciding on the best one can be a bit confusing.

Whether you’re interested in discovering the mysteries of Loch Ness, walking through the battlefields of Culloden, or simply soaking in the stunning views of mountains and glens, there’s a Highland tour from Edinburgh designed for you.

We’re here to help you sift through the options and find the tour that matches your interests and gives you a memorable journey into the heart of Scotland.

Let’s dive in and find out how you can experience the magic of the Scottish Highlands with the perfect tour from Edinburgh. Get ready for an adventure that will take you through some of the most iconic and majestic landscapes Scotland has to offer!

Table of Contents

My Top 3 Picks: the Best Highland Tours from Edinburgh

Highland Lochs, Glens & Whisky Day Tour

• Admission fee included
• Small group tour

Loch Ness & Highlands Day Tour

• 50 minute cruise on Loch Ness

Loch Ness and the Highlands

• Very small group
• Local guide

7 of the Best Highland Tours from Edinburgh in 2024

1. highland lochs, glens & whisky day tour including admission.

⭐️ RATING: 5/5  | ⏳ LENGTH: 10 hours | ✅ Book it!

Explore the scenic Scottish countryside with a tour of Scotland Highlands and a whisky tour that kicks off in Edinburgh. With a small group, you will embark on an adventure through the Lowlands and Highlands of Scotland, where you’ll witness waterfalls and the salmon migration in the River Braan.

Along the way, you will stop at charming villages to enjoy refreshments and taste whisky while soaking in the picturesque scenery of lush valleys, serene lakes, and winding rivers. During this tour, you will be travelling comfortably in a Mercedes mini-coach.

“What a great day! We’re so glad we booked this tour. Penny, our guide was excellent!!! She kept us entertained with history, stories and useful info as we drove through the countryside. The mini coach was comfortable and the group size of 16 was perfect. The day flew by and it was just the right mix of driving and spending time at the various stops. I also liked the mix of seeing the natural sights like the hermitage walk/queens view along with stopping at 2 cute little towns where we could have lunch and do a little exploring. And the distillery stop was great. I will recommend this to to anyone I know going to Edinburgh!!” – Meribeth_M

There are a variety of tours departing from Edinburgh. So, if you’re looking for the best Edinburgh Highland tours, this small group tour is something you can’t miss. 

During the tour, you will go to the Hermitage Woodland Walk, where you can venture through the dense forest, offering views of a majestic waterfall. At Queen’s View, you’ll see the favourite viewpoint of queens. 

After sightseeing, your group will head to either Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery or Glenturret Distillery to sample some of the best whiskey around. After whiskey tasting, you will finally proceed to Dunkeld Cathedral, a historic cathedral by the river surrounded by a lush forest. 

Important details 

• Start Time (and location): 9:00 AM at Bus Station Edinburgh EH1 3AY, UK
• Duration: 10 hours
• Includes: Admission Fee: Tour & Tasting at Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery, Small Group Tour (maximum 16 passengers), Top range 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach, The stories and services of an English-speaking driver-guide

🤩 Check Prices and Availability!

2. Loch Ness & Highlands Day Tour Including Cruise from Edinburgh

⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 | ⏳ LENGTH: 12 hours | ✅ Book it!

Make the most of your time and go on one of the best day tours from Edinburgh Scotland, and enjoy a personalised excursion to Loch Ness in the heart of the Scottish Highlands. Witness the lakes surrounded by forests and the tucked-away villages on your way to Glencoe and Fort Augustus.

During the tour, you will go boating while looking for the elusive Loch Ness Monster. You will also explore Cairngorms National Park as part of your Scottish highlands tour. Your travel experience improves as you ride a high-quality, 16-seater Mercedes mini-coach. Being in a small group tour makes your experience more intimate and personalised. 

“ Ally was great! He had a lot of jokes, information on history and different aspects of places/things were we seeing and kept the trip entertaining! Definitely recommend to do this trip if you are wanting a day tour. Sufficient breaks if you need the washroom or to get food/drink along with short stops to check sights out and get pictures.” – Cayla_O

In this one day Highland tour from Edinburgh, not only will you pass by iconic landmarks like Stirling Castle, the Wallace Monument, and Linlithgow Palace, but also find comfort in a luxurious 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach. 

Now, as you continue through Fort William, you’ll see breathtaking sceneries of the Scottish Highlands, including the magnificent Great Glen. At Fort Augustus, you’ll go to the shores of Loch Ness, where you can opt for a seasonal boat ride in search of the legendary Loch Ness Monster!

After having lunch, you will continue your highlands trip through Spean Bridge village en route to Cairngorms National Park. There, you’ll catch panoramic views of Loch Laggan and Craig Meagaidh, a famous filming location for the TV series ‘Monarch of the Glen.’ 

• Start Time (and location): 7:45 AM at Bus Station Edinburgh EH1 3AY, UK
• Duration: 12 hours 
• Includes: Admission Fee – includes 50 minute cruise on Loch Ness, The chance to see “Nessie”, the Loch Ness monster, Small Group Tour (maximum 16 passengers), Top range 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach, The stories and services of an English-speaking driver-guide

3. Loch Ness and the Highlands Very Small Group Tour from Edinburgh

⭐️ RATING: 5/5  | ⏳ LENGTH: 12 hours | ✅ Book it!

If you’re looking for the best Loch Ness tour from Edinburgh, this high-rated tour is among the top choices. In this 12-hour day tour, you’ll delve into the mysteries surrounding the legendary loch during an exciting day trip. 

You will be taken north along Scotland’s picturesque West Coast to explore one of the nation’s most renowned lochs. Encounter amazing sights, including the haunting ruins of Linlithgow Palace, the peak of Ben Nevis and the Highland landscapes featured in films like ‘Skyfall.’

The tour comes with an expert guide who will amuse you with captivating tales and fascinating information about the region, ensuring your journey is thrilling and highly informative.

“ Angela was amazing! Great commentary over the whole 12 hour tour and extremely knowledgeable. She answered all of my questions too. This is around a 400 mile loop trip so don’t expect long stops at multiple locations. There are a few long stops, including the longest at Loch Ness. Other quick stops are for photos only. I read the reviews before I booked and understood this. Some negative reviews don’t seem to realize that you can’t take a day trip to these locations and spend long periods at multiple places. Worth every pence!” – Nicholas_L

You will pass by many historic sites during this ultimate Loch Ness tour from Edinburgh, paired with Scotland highland tours. Some places included are Linlithgow Palace and Stirling Castle. Explore the natural beauty of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park and the dramatic scenery of Glencoe National Nature Reserve.

With your guide throughout the tour, pass along the wilderness of Rannoch Moor and take in views of Ben Nevis from the Commando Memorial. Enjoy lunch in Fort Augustus by Loch Ness, and remember to go for that must-needed boat cruise!

Then, experience Cairngorms National Park before concluding your journey in the heart of the Scottish Highlands. Finally, return to Edinburgh via the Forth Road Bridge.

• Start Time (and location): 7:45 AM at Waterloo Pl, Edinburgh EH1 3BQ, UK
• Duration: 12 hours
• Includes: Very small group tour – average group size of around 12 passengers, Live commentary on board, Local guide, Transport by air-conditioned Mercedes mini-coach, Driver/guide

4. 2-Day Loch Ness and Inverness Small-Group Tour from Edinburgh

⭐️ RATING: 5/5  | ⏳ LENGTH: 2 days | ✅ Book it!

Unlike other tours, this 2-day Loch Ness and Inverness tour gives you ample time to explore more destinations during your vacation, making it one of the best day trip tours from Edinburgh. The tour includes overnight accommodations at a hotel or bed & breakfast. 

Explore two of Scotland’s renowned destinations—Loch Ness and Inverness—while enjoying scenic drives through pine forests, passing by majestic castles, and visiting charming villages. 

Travel in style and comfort aboard a Mercedes mini-coach, ensuring an intimate experience with a small group of up to 16 passengers. Your informative guide will make this excursion personalised and one of the most memorable Scottish Highlands tours. 

“ Our driver/tour guide Donald was excellent. He is so passionate about sharing information and history about Scotland. Donald was very thoughtful about passengers’ needs. His commentary was interesting and helpful. I would definitely take another tour with Donald. I also really enjoyed the boat trip on Loch Ness and the drive through the glens and near other lochs. The countryside was amazingly beautiful.” – Gary_K

If you want to make the most of exploring Loch Ness and the Scottish Highlands from Edinburgh, this 2-day tour is a great way to do it. You will meet with your driver/guide at an accessible location in Edinburgh and board your comfortable vehicle en route to your journey. 

On your first day, you will have quick stops at Loch Lubnaig and Glencoe Mountain; take advantage and take great photos of these scenic places. Then, you will have an hour to explore Urquhart Castle before heading to Loch Ness to have an opportunity to go boating and discover the river’s mystery! You will then pass by the Commando Monument as you head to Inverness to spend the night. 

For your second day, you will travel through scenic back roads and visit Clava Cairns, a 4000-year-old cemetery. Enjoy the majestic views of Scotland’s round peaked mountains at Cairngorms National Park. Before heading back to Edinburgh, you’ll also have a chance to visit The House of Bruar to stroll to a scenic waterfall. 

• Start Time (and location): 9:15 AM at Bus Station Edinburgh EH1 3AY, UK
• Duration: 2 days
• Includes: Breakfast, Overnight en-suite accommodation with breakfast, 
• Small-group tour (maximum 16 passengers), Transportation by top-of-the-range 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach, Driver/guide

5. West Highlands, Lochs & Castles Day Tour Including Admission

⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 | ⏳ LENGTH: 10 hours | ✅ Book it!

This is one of the most captivating Scottish Highland tours from Edinburgh that travels through the stunning West Highlands. You can enjoy dramatic landscapes stretching from the Breadalbane Mountains to the enchanting Trossachs National Park during the tour, while a knowledgeable guide accompanies you. 

Explore charming villages like Luss and Inveraray while listening to tales of celebrated Scottish heroes and rebels. Visit Doune Castle, a renowned filming location of Monty Python and The Holy Grail.

“ I’ve booked and taken several day trips, and this one was the best on all counts. We made several stops at castles, lochs, mountains, and to see the highland cattle. Our guide, Stephen, was so knowledgeable about the history and had interesting stories that helped make it come alive. We loved traveling with the small bus and group, we were able to make friends with several on board.” – MaryAnne_N

Set out on an unforgettable journey through the Scotland Highlands from Edinburgh, beginning your journey early in the morning. Your first destination is Stirling, where you can explore the renowned Doune Castle and the surrounding scenery. 

Throughout your trip, your guide will comment on stories about local legends like Rob Roy MacGregor. Along the shores of Lock Lomond, you’ll visit Luss Village Paths.

After lunch, you will see Loch Awe, Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. Upon arriving at Inveraray Castle, you’ll learn about the historic battles that occurred in the region. 

• Start Time (and location): 8:15 AM at Bus Station Edinburgh EH1 3AY, UK
• Includes: Admission Fees – Doune Castle included in tour price, Small Group Tour (maximum 16 passengers), Top range 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach, The stories and services of an English-speaking driver-guide

6. Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands, Glencoe & Pitlochry Tour from Edinburgh

⭐️ RATING: 5/5  | ⏳ LENGTH: 12 hours and 30 minutes | ✅ Book it!

Enjoy a Loch Ness Tour and a trip to the Scottish Highlands, Glencoe and Pitlochry as you join one of the best Highland day trips from Edinburgh. This full-day adventure takes you to some of Scotland’s spectacular areas. Journey through the Scottish Highlands, with stops at Glencoe and Loch Ness. 

The tour includes a ride from a comfortable vehicle, an experienced driver/guide, and admission tickets. You’ll also visit Fort Augustus Abbey, Commando Monument and Pitlochry. 

“ This was a great trip, and the highlight of my visit to Scotland. Colin was my tour guide and he was absolutely great. He was funny and extremely knowledgeable about the land, culture and history of Scotland and the highlands. The tour was long but he kept us entertained the entire trip. I highly recommend it.” – Julie_B

If you only have a day to spare, this Highland tours Edinburgh takes you to multiple iconic spots in Scotland within 12 hours. You’ll head north from Edinburgh to Callander, known as “The Gateways to the Highlands. Then, pass by Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park for a quick selfie. 

Your guide will tell you all about Glencoe, a place with an eerie past, before heading to Fort Augustus Abbey. There, you could cruise and hear tales about the loch monster, Nessie!

After 2 hours at the lake, you’ll continue your trip and stop at Commando Monument for a quick tribute. Before heading back to Edinburgh, you will visit Pitlochry, a town with a majestic background. 

• Start Time (and location): 8:00 AM at Deacon’s House Cafe 304 Lawnmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2PS, UK
• Duration: 12 hours and 30 minutes
• Includes: All taxes, fees and handling charges, Experienced ‘Hairy Coo’ Driver-Guide providing live commentary and storytelling throughout, Air-conditioned vehicle, Regular Comfort Breaks

7. Full-Day Trip to Loch Ness and the Scottish Highlands with Lunch from Edinburgh

⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5  | ⏳ LENGTH: 12 hours | ✅ Book it!

Among the many tours, this is considered one of the best highland tours from Edinburgh you could take if you’re looking to see the spectacular sights of the mountains and visit Loch Ness. 

You will travel through Rannoch Moor to Glen Coe and across Great Glen to Fort Augustus during the tour. Also included in the tour is a visit to numerous iconic locations like Stirling Castle, Ben Nevis, Cairngorms National Park, and Forth Bridge. An English-speaking guide accompanies you throughout your trip, and a complimentary lunch picnic at the Fort will be provided. 

“ Laurie and Jada were absolutely wonderful and so friendly. Exactly the right amount of being talked-at… have fun facts and history when it applied but left long stretches for us to just admire the landscape. I live in Scotland so I was worried it would feel overly-touristy but it absolutely did not!” – Analia_K

The tour takes you through several remarkable places in Scotland. You’ll pass by Stirling Castle as you drive through the Trossachs National Park. You’ll then have a brief stop in the highland town of Callander before visiting the town of Glencoe, famous for a tragic massacre in 1692.

As you continue, you’ll pass by Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain, on the way to the Great Glen. Arriving at Loch Ness in Fort Augustus, you can take a Loch Ness boat cruise, take a walk, or relax by the Caledonian Canal in this picturesque Highland village. 

The journey then leads you through the Cairngorms National Park, crossing over the Drumochter Pass, a wild and lonely stretch. Heading south, you’ll enter Perthshire, known for its forests, rivers, and mountains, with a stop in Pitlochry or a similar town.

• Start Time (and location): 8:00 AM at Bus Station Edinburgh EH1 3AY, UK
• Includes: Local Scottish English Speaking Guide, Picnic lunch – freshly made & locally sourced valued at £4.50. Drink not included

FAQs About highlands tour from edinburgh

Highland tours from Edinburgh can vary in length, ranging from one-day trips to several days. One-day tours offer a snapshot of the Highlands, covering key sites and scenic spots. Multi-day tours provide a deeper exploration of the Highlands, allowing you to visit more destinations and even some of the islands. Depending on your schedule and interests, you can choose a tour that fits your travel plans best.

The Scottish weather can be unpredictable, so it’s best to dress in layers and be prepared for all conditions. Wear comfortable walking shoes or boots for exploring the rugged terrain. Bring a waterproof jacket or raincoat, as rain showers can happen anytime. Don’t forget to pack a hat and gloves, especially outside of summer, as it can get quite chilly, especially in higher elevations or near the coast.

While each tour has its unique itinerary, many Highland tours from Edinburgh include visits to iconic landmarks and natural wonders. Popular stops often include Loch Ness, known for its legendary monster; Glencoe, with its dramatic landscapes and dark history; the picturesque Eilean Donan Castle; and Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest mountain. Other tours may explore the Isle of Skye, famous for its rugged beauty and mystical sites.

Final Thoughts: scottish highlands tour from edinburgh

As we wrap up our look into the best Highland tours from Edinburgh, it’s clear that an adventure into the heart of Scotland awaits you.

Whether you’re drawn by the allure of Loch Ness, the dramatic vistas of Glencoe, or the historic battles of Culloden, there’s a tour tailored to bring these experiences to life. The Scottish Highlands are not just a place to visit; they’re a journey through time, nature, and the stories that have shaped Scotland.

Choosing the right tour means aligning your interests with the wonders that these tours unveil. From one-day escapes to immersive multi-day adventures, the opportunity to explore the Highlands’ majestic landscapes and rich history from Edinburgh has never been more accessible.

So, pack your spirit of adventure, prepare for all kinds of weather, and set off to discover the magic of the Scottish Highlands.

Each tour promises not just sights and sounds but memories that will linger long after you’ve returned. Safe travels, and may your Highland adventure be as breathtaking as the landscapes you’re about to explore!

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• 6 of the  Best Isle of Skye Tours from Edinburgh  
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Meet Angelica, who at 22, boldly pivoted from a legal career to pursue her passions in travel and writing. With a focus on sustainable travel, she has explored Asia and Europe, emphasizing local cultural engagement along the way | Specializing in digital nomad travel, crafting comprehensive itineraries, identifying top tour guides, sharing regional insights on Asia, The Americas, and Europe, and advising on eco-friendly travel practices.

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Aura Journeys Glasgow Whisky Tour

© Aura Journeys

Deanston Distillery

Highlands & Lowlands Whisky Distillery Day Tour & Tasting

Your Private Whisky Distillery Tour & Shore Excursion takes in 2 Scottish Whisky Distilleries, with Door to Door service from Glasgow or Greenock using a luxury vehicle & local Scottish driver with years of experience.

• Private Door to Door Service with your very own Scottish Local.
• Escape the City for a day in the Scottish Highlands and Lowlands.
• Distillery Tasting Experiences Included in the tour cost.

As you travel back toward your first distillery you will pass Stiling the “Gateway to the Scottish Highlands”.

The mighty Stirling Castle sits proudly keeping watch over the city.

Deanston Distillery is on the banks of the River Teith and started life back in 1785 as a cotton mill until 1966 where it transformed into today’s distillery.

The only distillery in Scotland to be self-sufficient in electricity with its power coming from the River Teith.

• Distillery Experience | Deanston Tour

Discover where and how we make our delicious scotch whisky on one of our distillery tours.

After we’ve shown you round, you’ll get the chance to taste 2 delicious single malts.

We’ll explore the impact that time, cask and climate has on our spirit for a real in-depth tasting journey in our dedicated tasting room.

Callander is a bustling tourist town situated on the River Teith, west of Stirling, and gives visitors a taste of the Highlands.

No visit to Scotland is complete without a stop and Photos with our famous “Highland Coos”

Located next to the Trossachs Woollen Mill you will have the opportunity to meet some coos and feed them, freshly made goodie bags are available in the store for purchase.

A highland distillery on Glasgow’s doorstep, Glengoyne is distilled more slowly than any other malt whisky.

They nurse the spirit through the stills to create the complex, fruity, award-winning spirit of which they are so rightly proud.

Glengoyne never rush anything and neither should you, enjoy the experience and a Dram or two.

• Distillery Experience | Glengoyne Tour & Tasting

The Distillery Ambassadors will take you on the unhurried journey the Glengoyne spirit makes.

Enjoy a tutored tasting of 2 Glengoyne Highland Single Malt Whiskies.

Learn about the bold, complex flavours from the slowest stills in Scotland matured in only the finest casks.

• Published Price based on 4 Travellers
• Please Request a Tour Quote for different Traveller Numbers

Tour Duration: 7 Hours

Tour Cost: £165.00 PP (Based on 6 Passengers)

Tour Notes: Entrance Fees Included

COVID-19 information

This business has confirmed that they have implemented, and will ensure ongoing compliance with, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) Safe Travels protocols. The Safe Travels stamp is based on self-assessment and it is not a certification.

From £165 per adult

Departure days.

• W Wednesday

January — December

Contact details

• +44 (0333) 3552872
• View tour details
• [email protected]

Key facilities

Tour information.

• Glasgow Airport
• Glasgow City Centre
• Driver guide
• Small Group (1-16)
• Food and drink

Tour prices

From £165 Per Adult

Prices are subject to change depending on season

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Tour gallery

Tour company information

Aura journeys scotland.

Aura Journeys are an established provider of Private Tours and Chauffeur Services along with Airport Transfers in Scotland. Providing high quality old fashioned service levels in Scotland using our Luxury vehicles. Located in Edinburgh, Glasgow & Stirling using Scottish locals as drivers with years of experience our tours visit Lochs & Glens to the Scottish Highlands along with the historic St Andrews and Loch Ness. All Services include full Luxury Door to Door Service, with your own private driver so there is no waiting for others, our aim is to offer a fantastic Scottish experience to all.

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Visit Aura Journeys Scotland

Opening times

Office Opening: 09:00 - 18:00 - Monday to Friday 10:30 - 16:30 - Saturday and Sunday Tours: 06:00 - 00:00 - 7 Days Per Week

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The content of many of our web listings is provided by third party operators and not VisitScotland. VisitScotland accepts no responsibility for (1) any error or misrepresentation contained in third party listings, and (2) the contents of any external links within web listings ((1) and (2) together hereinafter referred to as the "Content"). VisitScotland excludes all liability for loss or damage caused by any reliance placed on the Content. The Content is provided for your information only and is not endorsed by VisitScotland.

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Exploring Scotland & Ireland

About this tour.

Bask in the warm Celtic culture and majestic scenery of two remarkable lands. Come to know the regal city of Edinburgh on a panoramic coach tour and by foot. Cruise the famed Loch Ness and explore the ruins of Urquhart Castle. Enjoy a traditional evening of Scottish food and entertainment. Visit the Titanic Experience in Belfast and remember the century-old tragedy that shook the world. Walk the Giant’s Causeway (UNESCO) and soak up incredible views of the Causeway Coast, one of the world’s most breathtaking rail journeys. Visit Ireland’s bustling capital city of Dublin and tour historic St. Patrick’s Cathedral. From rugged natural beauty to vibrant and historical cities, the diverse charms of Scotland and Ireland await.

Your Tour Includes

• 6 Handpicked Accommodations

Included Highlights

• Edinburgh Castle
• St. Andrews
• Loch Ness Cruise

Your Tour at a Glance

11 Breakfasts

Travel Style

Best time for travel, customize your tour.

Optional Excursions

Starting at $80.00

Activity Level

• Level This Tour

For specific details about this tour's activity level and other info to know before you book your trip, click here.

Extension Style

Best time for travel exploring scotland & ireland.

While just about any month is great to visit Scotland and Ireland, there are a few prime times of the year for the Exploring Scotland & Ireland tour. Here are some recommendations from our destination experts.

Spring: Springtime is a wonderful time to visit the region! The countryside comes alive with flowers and shades of green, and the days of sunlight are growing just a bit longer, giving you more time to explore.

Summer: August is the perfect time to visit Edinburgh, as the Military Tattoo and Edinburgh Festival both take place then. It’s crowded, but the city is alive with many cultural events. And generally, it’s good weather (fingers crossed for not too much rain!).

Fall: Daylight hours grow shorter, and the weather is not quite as hospitable as summer, but the changing colors of the landscape are truly lovely. Fewer crowds make it easier to navigate sites and take your time to enjoy them.

Travel Styles

Highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

• Tour the "Fair City" of Dublin with a local guide.

Embark on a scenic cruise on beautiful Loch Ness.

Set out on a walking tour of Derry featuring its medieval city walls.

Cultural Experiences:

Embark on one of the world’s most breathtaking rail journeys along the Causeway Coast.

Explore the Titanic Experience in Belfast.

Discover the heritage of Glasgow with a local guide.

Culinary Inclusions:

Taste apple cider at a family-run farm.

Join in the fun during a night of traditional Scottish food and entertainment.

• Urquhart Castle
• Highland Evening
• Titanic Experience
• Giant's Causeway
• The Causeway Coast Rail Journey
• Cider Farm Tour

Book with Confidence

* With Insurance Purchased

• *No Hassle Refunds
• Traveling Well Safety
• No booking fee, *no change fees
• Top Rated Travel Protection

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Getting Prepared

Know before you go, travel tips, enhance your tour.

Pre and Post Tour Extensions

Pre and Post Night Stay

Unique Experience

Cultural Experiences

Enhance Your Trip

• Tour Extensions

Start your trip with 3 nights in London – the capital of England and the United Kingdom. Use your included Oyster card to navigate the city with a local expert – hopping on the Tube and taking a walking tour by Westminster, The houses of Parliament, and Buckingham Palace. Your tour will end in Trafalger Square, one of London's most iconic landmarks. Take advantage of your included Tower of London pass. You’ll have ample time at leisure to make your stay in London exactly what you want it to be.Your other option is to book a pre stay? Guided You’re accompanied by a Tour Manager throughout the extension, except for any time that’s set aside for independent discovery.

• Overnight Flight
• You’re on your way to the United Kingdom. Begin in England and enjoy a 3-night stay in London.
• London, England - Extension Begins
• Experience London, the esteemed capital of the United Kingdom. Often described as a world within a city, London is a sophisticated metropolis with a timeless style all its own.
• Navigate the city with a local expert. Using your included Oyster card, hop on the famous underground Tube. Take a walking tour around Westminster, The Houses of Parliament and Buckingham Palace. Your tour will end in Trafalgar Square, one of London’s most iconic landmarks. Enjoy the afternoon to further explore the city.
• Start your day with a visit to the Tower of London to peek into the city’s storied past and uncover the secrets of this 11th-century fortress. The rest of the day is yours to see London your way!
• London - Edinburgh, Scotland
• Wish London goodbye as you take a high-speed train through the English countryside to Scotland.

Hotel-Radisson Blu Edinburgh

Hotel-Herbert Park Hotel

Enjoy a traditional pub lunch at a historic pub where you will soak up the atmosphere of days gone by. After lunch, continue on to the nearby Guinness Storehouse, Ireland's top international visitor attraction. Learn about the brewing process that creates this beloved beverage and discover the technique needed to pour the perfect pint! Classic Guinness ads and memorabilia create a nostalgic ambiance as you indulge in a complimentary pint and learn about a different yet key part of Ireland's history.

Join us for a rollicking evening of tastes, sights and sounds that are classically Scottish. Feast on a banquet prepared from a selection of local recipes. Your taste buds will savor the true flavor and goodness of this distinctive country. Tonight will be filled with entertainment including Highland pipers and dancers who deliver the very best in Scottish music, song and dance. Be prepared for a Scottish night of food, fun and many fond memories!

Explore one of Ireland's best-kept secrets. Enjoy a fun and engaging evening with a local singer/songwriter and discover how the tale of Derry is intertwined with many of Ireland's most important events. Come and experience a three-course dinner at a restaurant serving pub-style food. See first-hand why Derry was named the UK City of Culture in 2013.

Tour the "Fair City" of Dublin with a local guide.

Accommodations

Arrive earlier.

Pre Night: Radisson Blu Edinburgh From $200 per night

Radisson Blu Edinburgh

Best western palace hotel inverness, hilton glasgow.

Maldron Hotel Belfast City

City hotel derry, herbert park hotel.

Nights 10-11

Stay Longer

Post Night: Herbert Park Hotel From $155 per night

Need More Information?

We're here to help

Call us toll free at 800.340.5158

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The Best Things to do in Inverness Scotland

H eading to scotland and wondering what to do in inverness this city is full of ancient history and amazing sites. don’t miss these awesome things to do in inverness scotland..

When planning my trip to Ireland , I decided to take a quick flight to Scotland . My favorite thing about being in Europe is that it’s so inexpensive to fly around the continent . You can easily visit both countries with this Ireland and Scotland itinerary . I knew that I wanted to visit the Scottish highlands.

My ancestors are from the Isle of Skye , and I wanted to learn more about them and my ancestral home. I planned to visit Inverness as a half way point between Edinburgh and the Isle of Skye , but I ended up falling in love with the city and surrounding area!

Known as the capital of the highlands, Inverness is an ancient city with a long history. Home to Shakespeare’s infamous MacBeth and the stage for the Jacobite uprising and final defeat, Inverness will allow you to connect with the past like nowhere else. I’ve listed my favorite things to do in Inverness Scotland. I hope you take the time to visit these as they are true national treasures!

Don’t have time to read a bunch of reviews & blog posts? Here are our top picks for visiting Scotland:

Get an easy scotland itinerary, our favorite hotels in scotland.

• Castle Hotel : Crossbasket Castle
• Edinburgh Hotel : Virgin Hotels Edinburgh
• Inverness Hotel : Kingsmills Hotel
• Isle of Skye Hotel : Skeabost House

Our favorite tours in Scotland

• Isle of Skye Tour
• Highlands Tour
• Harry Potter Tour in Edinburgh
• Edinburgh Food Tour
• Book a Photoshoot in Scotland use code WANDERLUST for $25 off

Renting a Car in Scotland

If you want to see authentic Scotland, I recommend you drive yourself. If you’re renting a car, there are two companies we prefer to use:  Rental Cars  and  Expedia Cars.  We have had no issues with them and have been able to find the best prices available.

Get your free Scotland Travel Planner

Culloden battlefield.

Visit the windswept moor where the Jacobites made their final stand. This National Trust Site is beautifully done with a Inverness museum that walks you through the Jacobite uprising of 1745 and the events that lead up to the battle on Culloden Moor, a pivotal event in Scottish and British history.

Be sure to watch the 360 reenactment video of the Battle of Culloden and find the clan stones out on the moor. I recommend booking your ticket to Culloden in advance. 

Clava Cairns

Originally built to house the dead, the Clava Cairns are about 4,000 years old. The cemetery remained a sacred place for millennia. You can visit the stone circles and mounds for free. They are only about a 5 minute drive from Culloden Battlefield.

Just a few miles from Inverness, Loch Ness is the second largest loch in Scotland and famous for its supposed occupant, the Loch Ness Monster, or “Nessie.” Make sure you visit Loch Ness and see if you can catch a glimpse for yourself!

Be sure to take a cruise so that you can take in all the beautiful views and hopefully find Nessie! 

Urquhart Castle

For fantastic views of Loch Ness and an awesome history lesson, head to Urquhart Castle. Wander around the ancient ruins of this ancient castle that has been there since the 13th century.

Explore Inverness City

Many people will stay in Inverness and use it as a home base to see the highlands, Edinburgh and the Isle of Skye , but don’t skip exploring this beautiful city with it’s old stone buildings and a castle to boot! Be sure to see Inverness Castle, the Old High Church, Victorian Market, and St. Andrews Cathedral. 

I recommend taking a walking tour of the old city centre to help you learn the Scottish history of this incredible city. 

Have Dinner on a Family Farm

I highly recommend having dinner with my friends Kacey and James. Enjoy a lovely evening with this Scottish Crofting family where you an enjoy real homemade Scottish food and hospitality, see the animals on the Croft (small farm), and enjoy learning about Scottish folklore during a whiskey tasting.

This is a great family friendly option and feels like visiting old friends. Book ASAP as they fill up fast. It’s quite pricey, but for the great food and unforgettable experience, I think it’s a worthy splurge. Whatever you do in Inverness, it’s sure to have you leaving Scotland with a feeling of connection to its ancient past and unforgettable memories.

If you’re seeing more of Scotland, be sure to visit Edinburgh and the Isle of Skye . And while you’re there, take a cheap flight over to Ireland!

Best Tours in Inverness

Invergordon shore excursion – best of the highlands tour, highlander loch ness and culloden battlefield 8-seater tour from inverness.

If you want to immerse yourself in Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes, this tour is for you. You’ll visit Clava Cairns, Culloden Battlefield, and Glen Ord Whisky Distillery in one day. On an 8-person tour, your guide will take you through some of Scotland’s most beautiful scenery and tell you stories of the past.

Best of the Highlands

Invergordon Shore Excursions – Sights, Tastes, and Sounds of the Highlands

A traditional experience that takes you to some of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks. Enjoy the incredible views of Highland cows, Inverness botanic gardens, charming villages, and a photo stop at the iconic Loch Ness.

This tour includes:

• Transport from Invergordon
• English Speaking Tour Guide
• 4-course tasting lunch
• Dram of Whisky
• Entertainment

Tastes and Sounds of the Highlands

Whisky galore! Tour

Go on a truly unique experience and visit Scotland’s distilleries, taste whisky, and learn about the making process. Expert guides will take you through some of Scotland’s most famous distilleries, revealing some of the best-kept secrets.

Whiskey Tour

Heroes & Villains (Private) Tour

Glenfinnan viaduct and the great glen 8 seater tour from inverness, inverness city daily walking tour.

If you want a short tour to discover the best of Inverness, this 2-hour walking tour is the perfect option. Your local guide will take you through the mighty Inverness Castle, the Inverness Cathedral, and Balnain House.

These are other things you can expect on this tour:

• Guided walking tour of Inverness: Discover the city’s heritage
• Small-group tour (maximum 14): A more personal experience
• Learn all about the city’s history and culture from your guide
• See Inverness’ main attractions, as well as some off-the-beaten-path spots that most visitors miss

Inverness Walking Tour

Loch Ness: Urquhart Castle Round-Trip Cruise

Loch ness, glencoe & the highlands, best hotels in inverness, loch ness lodge, the glenmoriston townhouse hotel, victorian stone villa in the riverside conservation area, things to do in inverness faq, is it worth it to go to inverness.

Absolutely, the place is rich in culture, history, and beauty that everyone should experience! To make your vacation worthwhile, try going on tours so you can spend most of your time in the city and visit the most iconic attractions.

What is Inverness best known for?

Inverness is best known for its natural landscapes, quaint towns, medieval ruins, and prehistoric sites. There are so much to explore in Inverness, from the Highlands to Loch Ness and its famous monster.

What is Inverness UK known for?

Aside from its iconic attractions, Inverness in the UK is known to be the capital of the Scottish Highlands. It is also known for its vibrant culture, whisky distilleries, and great food!

What is special in Inverness?

If you ask me, I can say that the people and culture of Inverness are truly special. Everyone I’ve met is friendly and helpful, making me feel welcome even though it was my first time visiting the city. Additionally, the vibrant culture and all the natural attractions make Inverness a truly unique and special destination!

The post The Best Things to do in Inverness Scotland appeared first on Wanderlust Crew .

UCI Gravel World Series – Brennan Wertz, Jenna Rinehart claim top step at Highlands Gravel Classic

Cobe Freeburn, Nicholas Roche complete men's podium with Maude Farrell, Flavia Oliveira Parks second and third in women's race

Brennan Wertz and Jenna Rinehart won the Highlands Gravel Classic over the weekend, taking out the only US round of the 2024 UCI Gravel World Series .

Wertz, who also won the Sea Otter Classic Gravel Race last weekend, came over the line in 3:25:20, 12 seconds ahead of Cobe Freeburn. Nicholas Roche was 34 seconds back in third at the race which wound its way over the canopy-covered gravel roads and through more than a dozen climbs as it traversed the changing terrain of the Ozarks.

"Thrilled to land on the top step here in Arkansas and in doing so, also qualify for the UCI Gravel World Championships in Belgium in October," said Wertz in an Instagram post . "It’s been a busy last 9 days, with 3 races on two different sides of the US. I’m tired, satisfied, and hungry to keep building towards the many goals still to come later in the year."

Reinhart first had to catch up with Maude Farrell and Flavia Oliveira Parks after her chain came off early in the race, leaving her watching the field ride off into the distance as she put it back on. Still, ultimately she took off on them both, finishing in 3:51:55, 25 seconds ahead of Farrell and more than four minutes ahead of Oliveira Parks.

"I got a little gap on Maude I think maybe with ten miles to go and decided to go for it and see if I could hold it ... she wasn't too far away so I had to push super hard to the end," Reinhart said in a post-race interview.

The Highlands Gravel Classic ran over a 67.6 mile (109km) course featuring 7,000 ft (2,100 m) of climbing, was 95% gravel and started and finished on a farm outside Fayetteville, Arkansas.

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Simone is a degree-qualified journalist that has accumulated decades of wide-ranging experience while working across a variety of leading media organisations. She joined Cyclingnews as a Production Editor at the start of the 2021 season and has now moved into the role of Australia Editor. Previously she worked as a freelance writer, Australian Editor at Ella CyclingTips and as a correspondent for Reuters and Bloomberg . Cycling was initially purely a leisure pursuit for Simone, who started out as a business journalist, but in 2015 her career focus also shifted to the sport.

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