Planning a romantic getaway or a special celebration in the Scottish Highlands? The Inverness Celtic Handfasting Ceremony and Picnic offers a chance to participate in an ancient ritual, set against the stunning backdrop of Loch Ness. While this experience isn’t a legally binding ceremony, it provides a deeply meaningful way for couples—whether married, same-sex, or mixed-sex—to mark their love in a truly Scottish style.
What makes this experience stand out? First, the authentic Celtic handfasting brings a slice of Highland tradition to life with knowledgeable guides leading the way. Second, the scenic location on Loch Ness ensures a memorable setting, perfect for creating lasting memories. Third, the gourmet picnic offers a delicious taste of local delicacies with a cozy, intimate setup that feels just right for romance.
That said, there are a few considerations. The cost, at $108 per person, might seem steep for some, especially considering some reviewers felt the picnic food was somewhat underwhelming for the price. Plus, the handfasting ties are not included in the base price, which might surprise guests expecting everything to be covered. Still, if you value one-of-a-kind experiences and beautiful scenery, this tour is well worth considering—especially if you’re celebrating a milestone or just want an unusual Highland adventure.
This tour suits couples looking to celebrate love in a unique way or those interested in Scottish culture without the legal commitments. It’s ideal for romantics, history buffs, or anyone eager to add a special story to their Highland trip.
Key Points
- Authentic Celtic Rituals: Experience a traditional handfasting ceremony led by knowledgeable Highlanders.
- Stunning Scenery: The ceremony takes place at a secret, scenic spot near Loch Ness.
- Gourmet Picnic: Enjoy a cozy setup with local delicacies, perfect for a romantic moment.
- Personalized Vows: Opportunity to recite your own vows enhances the intimacy.
- Not Legally Binding: This is a symbolic ritual, not a legal marriage.
- Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
An In-Depth Look at the Experience
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The Setting and Location
The highlight of this experience is the location. Held at a secret spot on the shores of Loch Ness, you’re promised privacy and stunning views. The specific meeting point is at the Clansman Hotel carpark, with the ceremony taking place just a short walk from there. Guests have described the scenery as “beautiful” and “unbelievably romantic”, with some reviews mentioning the walk through a field to reach the ceremony site—adding a touch of Highland adventure.
The Ceremony
The handfasting ritual is steeped in Gaelic tradition, and your Highland guide, often dressed in traditional Scottish attire, will introduce you to the history and meaning behind it. The ceremony begins with a Gaelic welcome, then progresses to the vows in English, with the option to recite personal vows if you wish. The use of handfasting ties symbolizes the binding of two souls, a ritual that’s both historically significant and emotionally moving.
Reviews highlight how “very welcoming and friendly” the guides are, with one reviewer calling the ceremony “very moving and special”. However, some guests mentioned that they had to purchase the ties separately for an additional fee (£30), which could be a surprise if you’re not prepared.
The Picnic Experience
Post-ceremony, the gourmet picnic is designed to be intimate and relaxing. The setup includes rugs, blankets, and crockery—creating a cozy atmosphere. The menu features local delicacies, although one guest pointed out that the “Italian platter of cheese, meats, and olives” was perhaps not quite what they expected from a Scottish-themed picnic.
Despite some criticisms about the food being underwhelming for the price and the picnic feeling somewhat hurried—“they kinda hurried you along after an hour”—most guests appreciated the beautiful views and the effort to create a special moment. The picnic drinks, included in the package, complement the experience, adding to the romantic ambiance.
More Great Tours NearbyDuration and Group Size
The entire experience lasts approximately an hour, making it a manageable yet meaningful addition to your Highland itinerary. The group size is generally small, ensuring a personalized atmosphere, and the guides are praised for their attentiveness and knowledge.
Value for Money
At $108 per person, this experience is on the higher end for a non-legally binding ceremony, especially considering some reviews felt the picnic and included items didn’t fully match expectations. The additional cost for the ties and optional extras might add to the overall expense. However, many find the stunning scenery, authentic ritual, and personalized touches make it worthwhile—particularly if you’re seeking a unique Highland memory.
Practical Tips for Your Booking
- Transportation: You’ll need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point at the Clansman Hotel carpark.
- Timing: The ceremony lasts around an hour, so plan accordingly to include travel time.
- Reservation: Booking allows you to reserve now and pay later, with the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
- Children: Parents can bring children under 2, making this a family-friendly experience if desired.
- Language: The entire experience is conducted in English.
- Not suitable for anyone under 17, so keep that in mind when booking for younger family members.
What Reviewers Say
A diverse range of reviews gives a well-rounded picture. One guest, Uwe, rated it 5/5, calling the picnic “high quality and plentiful,” and noting the beautiful location suitable even for non-Outlander fans. Darren called it an “exceptional experience”, especially meaningful for celebrating a milestone like a 25th anniversary. Others, like Jo, felt the “ceremony was beautiful,” but expressed disappointment in the picnic food and the additional cost for the ties, calling the overall value into question.
Authentic Experiences
Many reviewers appreciated the knowledgeable guides—notably Kacey and her husband—who created a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The walk to the site and the music added to the romantic Highland vibe, making it more than just a ceremony, but a memorable Highland outing.
Final Thoughts
This Celtic handfasting experience offers a chance to connect with Scottish tradition in a breathtaking setting. While it might not be the cheapest option, the scenery, personalized vows, and cultural richness make it a compelling choice for couples wanting something special. Keep in mind the costs for extras and the non-legally-binding nature—it’s more about the symbolic act and the memories created than a wedding certificate.
It’s best suited for romantics, culture lovers, and those celebrating a special milestone. If you’re after a romantic Highland story with a touch of tradition, this experience delivers. Just be prepared for the possibility of some ups and downs regarding food and extras—yet, in the end, the setting alone makes this a truly unique Highland highlight.
FAQ
Is this ceremony legally binding?
No, this is a symbolic, non-legally binding ritual meant to celebrate love.
Do I need to arrange transportation?
Yes, guests are responsible for their own transport to the meeting point at the Clansman Hotel carpark.
Can I bring children?
Yes, parents can bring children under 2 years old to the ceremony.
How long does the entire experience last?
The ceremony and picnic together typically take about an hour.
Are the handfasting ties included in the price?
No, the ties are not included in the base price and must be purchased separately for £30 if you wish to keep them.
What language is used during the ceremony?
The entire experience is conducted in English.
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the event for a full refund.
This experience offers a genuine taste of Highland tradition, wrapped in stunning scenery and a romantic setting. While some extras and food might not meet everyone’s expectations, the overall value lies in the unique atmosphere and the chance to celebrate love in a truly Scottish way. Perfect for those looking to add a memorable, culturally rich story to their Highland adventures.
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