Loch Ness, Glen Coe & the Highlands Day Tour From Edinburgh

Exploring the captivating Loch Ness, Glencoe, and the Scottish Highlands is an unforgettable experience. This day tour from Edinburgh takes travelers on a journey through some of Scotland’s most iconic landscapes, offering glimpses of historic landmarks, stunning scenery, and the chance to search for the legendary Loch Ness Monster. Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture, or simply breathtaking vistas, this tour promises an unforgettable day in the Highlands.

Key Points

• A day trip from Edinburgh exploring the Scottish Highlands, including iconic landmarks like Glencoe, Ben Nevis, and Loch Ness.
• Visit Stirling Castle, Fort William, and Fort Augustus, and enjoy a scenic drive through Trossachs and Great Glen.
• Includes a picnic lunch by Loch Ness and an optional Loch Ness cruise to spot the Loch Ness Monster.
• Tour led by local, English-speaking guides in an air-conditioned vehicle, with a maximum of 41 travelers for a small-group experience.
• Collapsible wheelchairs can be accommodated, but the tour is not fully wheelchair accessible.

Tour Overview

This day trip from Edinburgh takes visitors on a scenic journey through the stunning Highlands, with stops at iconic landmarks such as Glencoe, Ben Nevis, and Loch Ness.

Along the way, guests will explore Stirling Castle, Fort William, and Fort Augustus, while enjoying a scenic drive through the Trossachs and Great Glen.

The tour includes a picnic lunch by Loch Ness, providing a chance to soak in the breathtaking natural beauty of the region.

With a maximum of 41 travelers, this small-group experience offers a personalized and immersive exploration of the Scottish Highlands.

Tour Details

The tour boasts 230 reviews and a 4.6 rating, earning it a Badge of Excellence.

It’s led by local, English-speaking guides and travels in an air-conditioned vehicle. An optional Loch Ness cruise can be booked in advance for around £16.50. The tour has a maximum of 41 travelers.

While not wheelchair accessible, collapsible wheelchairs can be accommodated with assistance. Travelers should plan to arrive 15 minutes early for the 7:30 am departure from the meeting point.

After the tour, allow 3 hours for onward travel. Extreme weather may lead to cancellation of the Loch Ness cruise.

Meeting and Departure

The tour departs from the Haggis Adventures office at 60 High Street in Edinburgh at 7:30 am.

Travelers should arrive 15 minutes early to ensure a prompt departure. The tour returns to the same meeting point at the end of the day.

It’s recommended to book any onward travel from the meeting point in advance, as the tour may not return until 3 hours after the scheduled end time.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but collapsible wheelchairs can be accommodated with assistance. Guests are advised to plan their transportation to the departure point ahead of time.

Accessibility & Additional Information

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, collapsible wheelchairs can be accommodated with assistance.

It’s recommended to book transport to the departure point in advance, as the tour meeting point may be challenging to reach otherwise.

Travelers should allow 3 hours post-return for onward travel, as the tour may run with Highland Explorer Tours.

Potential cancellation of the Loch Ness cruise due to extreme weather is also something to be aware of.

• Be prepared for a full-day adventure
• Bring appropriate gear for the Highlands’ climate
• Ensure you have necessary arrangements for onward travel
• Consider the weather’s potential impact on activities

Highlights of the Tour

This day tour from Edinburgh offers travelers a chance to explore the stunning natural landscapes of the Scottish Highlands.

The itinerary includes visits to iconic landmarks like Stirling Castle, Fort William, and Fort Augustus. Guests will embark on a scenic drive through the Trossachs and Great Glen, taking in the breathtaking views of Glencoe and Ben Nevis.

The highlight of the tour is a cruise on Loch Ness, where visitors have the chance to spot the elusive Loch Ness Monster.

The tour also includes a picnic lunch by the loch, providing a chance to soak in the peaceful surroundings.

Exploring the Highlands

As travelers embark on this Highlands day tour, they’ll be immersed in the region’s stunning natural beauty.

The itinerary takes them through the Trossachs and Great Glen, showcasing the dramatic landscapes that have captivated visitors for centuries.

Key highlights include:

Stirling Castle, a magnificent fortress with a rich history; Fort William, the gateway to Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest mountain.

• Stirling Castle, a magnificent fortress with a rich history
• Fort William, the gateway to Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest mountain
• Fort Augustus, a quaint village on the banks of Loch Ness
• A picnic lunch by the legendary Loch Ness, home to the elusive Loch Ness Monster.

Loch Ness and the Cruise

A highlight of the Highlands day tour is the opportunity to cruise along the legendary Loch Ness.

The tour includes an approximately 1-hour boat ride on Loch Ness, with the chance to spot the fabled Loch Ness Monster. The cruise departs from Fort Augustus and provides stunning views of the loch’s dramatic shores and surrounding mountains.

Tickets for the cruise must be booked in advance and cost around £16.50. While the cruise isn’t guaranteed, it’s a popular addition to the tour that allows visitors to enjoy the mystery and natural beauty of this iconic Scottish landmark.

Feedback From Customers

Customers have overwhelmingly praised the Highlands day tour, with many highlighting the knowledgeable and engaging tour guides.

The tour’s scenic beauty of the Highlands has been a major draw, leaving a lasting impression on travelers.

However, some critiques have emerged regarding the balance between bus time and exploration time, as well as mixed experiences with the lunch and Loch Ness cruise.

Despite these minor issues, the tour receives a strong overall recommendation for those seeking a memorable experience in the Scottish Highlands.

• Positive feedback on guides’ expertise and storytelling
• Stunning Highland landscapes captivate visitors
• Some concerns about time allocation during the tour
• Mixed reviews on the lunch and cruise components

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food on the Tour?

Yes, you can bring your own food on the tour. The tour allows for a picnic lunch by Loch Ness, so feel free to pack your own meal or snacks to enjoy during the scenic stop.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour can’t be extended, but travelers can book additional options like a Loch Ness cruise separately. The standard tour duration is fixed, though there may be flexibility to spend more time at certain stops.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment?

The tour doesn’t require any special equipment, though travelers should dress warmly and wear comfortable walking shoes. Collapsible wheelchairs can be accommodated with assistance, but the tour isn’t fully wheelchair accessible.

Can I Split up From the Group During the Tour?

Splitting from the group during the tour is generally discouraged. The tour operates on a set schedule, and you’d miss key activities and transportation. It’s best to stay with the group to fully experience the tour’s highlights and logistics.

Is There Flexibility in the Pick-Up/Drop-Off Locations?

The tour has a set meeting point and departure time, but travelers can arrange their own transportation to and from the departure location. There is limited flexibility in pick-up and drop-off locations beyond the main meeting point.

The Sum Up

The Loch Ness, Glen Coe & the Highlands Day Tour from Edinburgh offers an unforgettable journey through Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes. Travelers can explore iconic landmarks, enjoy a scenic drive, and seek the legendary Loch Ness Monster. With a range of activities and stunning natural beauty, this tour is a must-do for those seeking to enjoy the Scottish Highlands.