From Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Glencoe & Scottish Highlands Tour
Hightlight
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English-Speaking
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Group-Friendly
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Reservations
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Transport Access
History
The Scottish Highlands, a rugged region of mountains, glens, and lochs, have been central to Scotland’s identity for centuries, shaped by clan warfare, Jacobite rebellions, and folklore like the Loch Ness Monster, Nessie, whose legend traces back to a 6th-century sighting by St. Columba. The area’s dramatic landscapes, including Glencoe’s site of the 1692 MacDonald clan massacre, reflect a turbulent history of resistance and survival that continues to captivate visitors.
This tour also touches on modern cultural touchstones, with Glencoe’s cinematic fame in James Bond: Skyfall and Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. The Highlands’ blend of ancient history, from Rob Roy MacGregor’s exploits to the 20th-century Commando Memorial honoring WWII soldiers, makes this journey a rich exploration of Scotland’s past and its global influence.
Highlights
- Search for Nessie at Loch Ness and relax in charming Fort Augustus.
- Capture dramatic photos at Glencoe, featured in James Bond and Harry Potter.
- Meet iconic Highland cows, the beloved “hairy coos,” in Callander.
- Explore the Victorian village of Pitlochry during a scenic stop.
- Choose an optional Loch Ness boat cruise or Deanston Distillery tour.
Full Description
Embark on a 12.5-hour adventure from Edinburgh’s Burns Monument, traveling in a luxury air-conditioned coach through Scotland’s breathtaking Highlands. Pass Stirling Castle, where your guide shares tales of historic battles, before stopping in Callander, the gateway to the Trossachs, for a break and a chance to meet Highland cows (seasonal). If you’ve chosen the Whisky Distillery option, start with a guided tour of Deanston Distillery, learning about single malt production in a historic cotton mill.
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Journey through Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, hearing stories of outlaw Rob Roy MacGregor, and pause at Glencoe for a photo stop amid its haunting valley, site of the 1692 massacre and a Harry Potter filming location. In Fort Augustus, enjoy a lunch break by the Caledonian Canal (bring a packed lunch to save time) and opt for a 1-hour Loch Ness boat cruise to hunt for Nessie (extra fee). Continue to the Commando Memorial for panoramic Nevis Range views, then stop in Pitlochry’s Victorian charm for a snack before returning to Edinburgh around 8:30 PM.
The tour, which may run in reverse during peak season to avoid congestion, covers long distances, offering ample time to soak in the Highlands’ scenery from the coach. With engaging commentary, optional activities, and regular stops, this journey blends history, myth, and natural splendor for an unforgettable Scottish experience.
Why Choose This Experience?
This tour combines the Highlands’ iconic sights—Loch Ness, Glencoe, and Pitlochry—with flexible options like a boat cruise or whisky tour, catering to diverse interests. The expert guide’s storytelling, from clan battles to Nessie myths, brings Scotland’s history alive, while the luxury coach ensures comfort over the 12.5-hour journey. Free cancellation up to 24 hours and reserve-now-pay-later add planning ease.
Consistently praised for its engaging guides and stunning scenery, this tour appeals to history buffs, nature lovers, and film fans alike. Whether meeting hairy coos, exploring Fort Augustus, or marveling at Glencoe’s cinematic landscapes, it offers a comprehensive, immersive dive into the heart of Scotland’s Highlands.
What’s Included
- Professional driver/guide with live commentary.
- Transportation by luxury air-conditioned bus.
- Regular comfort and photo stops.
- Option for Loch Ness boat cruise or Deanston Distillery tour (if selected, extra fee).
- Digital or verbal insights into Scottish history and culture.
Itinerary
- Depart from Burns Monument, 1759 Regent Road, Edinburgh.
- Pass Stirling Castle with historical commentary.
- Break in Callander to meet Highland cows (seasonal) or alternative stop.
- Optional Deanston Distillery tour (if selected).
- Photo stop at Glencoe, site of the 1692 massacre.
- Lunch break and sightseeing in Fort Augustus; optional Loch Ness boat cruise.
- Photo stop at Commando Memorial with Nevis Range views.
- Snack stop in Pitlochry.
- Return to Burns Monument (approx. 8:30 PM).
Pricing
From $72 per person.
Meeting Point
Meet in front of Burns Monument, 1759 Regent Road, Edinburgh (What3Words: ///allow.topped.joined). Boat cruise option check-in: 7:15–7:55 AM, departs 8:00 AM. Whisky Distillery option check-in: 7:50 AM, departs 8:05 AM.
How to Get There
- By foot: 10-minute walk from Edinburgh’s Old Town or Waverley Station.
- By public transport: Bus to Regent Road or Calton Hill, then a 5-minute walk.
- By car: Limited parking near Regent Road; use nearby public car parks like St. James Quarter.
- By taxi: £6-£8 from Edinburgh city center to Burns Monument.
Good to Know
What to Bring
- Comfortable shoes for walking at Glencoe and Fort Augustus.
- Comfortable clothes for variable Highland weather.
- Passport or ID for children (minimum age 7, 8 for distillery).
- Cash for optional activities or snacks.
- Packed cold lunch to maximize stop time.
Know Before You Go
- No pets allowed; smoking prohibited on the coach.
- Book the correct option (boat cruise or distillery) for your preferred activity.
- Distillery tour has stairs, limiting accessibility.
- Winding roads may affect those prone to motion sickness; take precautions.
- No seat reservations; small bags and snacks allowed onboard.
- Allow 2 hours buffer for return (approx. 8:30 PM) for onward travel.
Reviews
- John made the day amazing with his humor and deep knowledge of Scottish history. The hairy coos and Glencoe were highlights for our group!
- Nick was a fantastic guide, blending stories and laughs. The Loch Ness views and Pitlochry’s charm were unforgettable. Highly recommend!
- David’s storytelling brought the Highlands to life. The scenery was stunning, and the tour was perfectly paced. A mega experience!
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FAQ's
What makes Loch Ness and Fort Augustus special on this tour?
Loch Ness, one of Scotland’s deepest lochs, is famous for the Nessie legend, dating back to a 565 AD sighting by St. Columba, and its 23-mile shoreline offers stunning views. In Fort Augustus, you’ll enjoy a lunch break by the Caledonian Canal, with cafes, shops, and scenic walks. The optional 1-hour boat cruise (£15-£20, extra fee) lets you hunt for Nessie and see the loch’s beauty up close. The guide’s tales of local history and myths, paired with Fort Augustus’s charm, make this stop a highlight. It blends folklore, natural splendor, and relaxation for all travelers.
What is the significance of Glencoe, and what will I see there?
Glencoe is a dramatic valley known for the 1692 massacre, where 38 MacDonald clan members were killed by government forces, a pivotal event in Scottish history. Its rugged peaks, featured in Skyfall and Harry Potter, make it a cinematic gem. The tour’s photo stop (15-20 minutes) lets you capture the misty, towering landscapes of Rannoch Moor and Glencoe. Your guide shares haunting stories of the massacre, enriched with traditional music. Sturdy shoes are advised for the brief walk, ensuring you experience this historic and visually striking site fully.
Is the Deanston Distillery tour worth choosing, and what does it involve?
The Deanston Distillery tour (extra fee, ~£15) is ideal for whisky enthusiasts, set in a historic cotton mill by the River Teith. The guided tour explores the traditional whisky-making process, from malting to casking, and includes a tasting of their premium single malt. You’ll learn about Deanston’s 1960s founding and its unique water-powered production. The tour lasts about 45 minutes but involves stairs, limiting accessibility. It’s a rich addition for those interested in Scotland’s whisky heritage, though the boat cruise may appeal more to nature lovers.
Is this tour suitable for families with children?
The tour is suitable for families with children aged 7+ (8+ for the distillery), but the 12.5-hour duration and long coach segments may tire younger kids. The hairy coos in Callander and Loch Ness’s Nessie stories engage children, while Glencoe and Pitlochry offer short, manageable stops. Bring a packed lunch and snacks, as food options in Fort Augustus may be limited. Comfortable shoes and motion sickness precautions are key for winding roads. Guides tailor commentary to all ages, making it a fun, educational adventure for families.
What happens if I miss the coach departure or arrive late?
Missing the coach at Burns Monument (8:00 AM for boat cruise, 8:05 AM for distillery) likely means you can’t join, as departures are strict to cover the 12.5-hour itinerary. Arrive 10-15 minutes early for check-in (7:15 AM for cruise, 7:50 AM for distillery). If delayed, contact the operator, but alternatives aren’t guaranteed. Free cancellation up to 24 hours and reserve-now-pay-later offer flexibility. Check other departure times online, and plan transport to Regent Road to ensure a smooth start to this full-day Highland adventure.
