Invergordon is a prime base for exploring the Scottish Highlands. Its convenient port location makes it a natural hub for a variety of tours and experiences. Whether you’re after a comprehensive Highland adventure, a private castle visit, or a scenic drive along Loch Ness, Invergordon offers options that suit all interests. We particularly like private tours that maximize your time and comfort, giving you personalized insights and the chance to avoid crowds. For example, the Loch Ness, Cawdor Castle, Inverness, Culloden Battlefield & more from Invergordon is a top choice for those wanting to see multiple highlights in just one day, with a private guide taking care of logistics and storytelling.
Invergordon’s tours also include smaller group excursions, scenic drives, and even relaxing whisky tastings. Whatever your style or pace, there’s something here to help you experience the Highlands in an authentic, engaging way.
Quick Overview
This list features a mix of private and group tours that cover major sights like Loch Ness, Cawdor Castle, Urquhart Castle, and other Highland landmarks. They range from full-day private adventures to shore excursions designed for cruise travelers. Whether you prefer a luxurious private tour like this one, a guided walking tour of Invergordon itself, or an adventure that combines castle visits, whisky tasting, and scenic drives, there’s a wide range of options.
Now, let’s explore each of these top experiences in detail to help you find the right fit.
1. Loch Ness, Cawdor Castle, Inverness, Culloden Battlefield, & more from Invergordon
This private tour is perfect if you want to see multiple Highland highlights in one day without the hassle of driving yourself. Starting at Invergordon port, the tour visits Loch Ness, Beauly Priory, Cawdor Castle, Culloden Battlefield, and more. The key benefit here is the personalized experience — your guide shares stories and insights as you move between sites, making history come alive. The tour lasts around 7 to 8 hours and costs approximately $800.54 for a group of up to four.
What makes this tour stand out is the ability to customize your pace and stops. Guests rave about guides like Stuart and Susan, who are described as knowledgeable, flexible, and engaging. The itinerary includes a stop at Robertson’s Farm Shop to see Highland cows and goats, then an exploration of Beauly Priory, founded around 1230. The highlight for many is Culloden Battlefield, where you can walk the historic moor and learn about the Jacobite uprising. The visit to Cawdor Castle offers a glimpse into Shakespearean legend and stunning gardens.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a private, flexible day with lots of local flavor and history. It’s a bit pricier but offers a comprehensive Highland experience in one trip.
2. Secret Loch Ness, Inverness, Culloden, Cawdor Castle from port
This full-day shore excursion offers a cost-effective way to see major Highland sights without the stress of planning. For around $191.85 per person, you hop aboard a comfortable minibus to explore Loch Ness, Inverness, Culloden, and Cawdor Castle. The tour lasts about 6 to 8 hours and is perfect for cruise travelers eager to maximize their port time.
The guide provides lively commentary on Highland history and customs. Highlights include visiting Culloden Battlefield, the inspiration for the series Outlander, and the clava cairns, mysterious ancient stone tombs. You’ll also stop at Cawdor Castle, famous for Macbeth, and enjoy scenic drives through Inverness. The tour is well-liked for its manageable schedule and opportunity for photos — even Highland cows are sometimes part of the experience.
Guests note that guides are knowledgeable and flexible, often customizing stops based on the group’s interests. Reviewers say it’s a fun, efficient way to cover a lot of ground.
Bottom Line: A smart choice for cruise passengers wanting a guided, no-fuss day that hits all the highlights without breaking the bank.
3. Full-Day Private Tour to Urquhart Castle, Loch Ness, and Inverness
For travelers who want a tailored experience, this private tour offers a flexible itinerary that includes Urquhart Castle, Loch Ness, Beauly Priory, and Inverness Castle. Starting with pickup from Invergordon, the tour lasts about 7 to 8 hours and costs around $812.69 for up to four people.
This tour’s advantage is the customization — your guide adapts to your interests. The route includes a visit to Beauly Priory, which is currently closed but still viewable from outside, and then to Urquhart Castle, where you can explore the ruins and enjoy stunning views over Loch Ness. The vehicle is equipped with Wi-Fi, making it easy to share photos or look up facts on the go.
Guests appreciate the personal attention and the opportunity to stop at scenic spots for photos or quick walks. The guide’s local knowledge shines in explaining the history of the castles and the loch. There’s also the chance to enjoy more relaxed visits, making this ideal for couples or small groups seeking a comfortable, private day.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want an exclusive, personalized Highland tour with plenty of photo stops and flexibility.
4. Loch Ness with Castles, Beaches, Mountains, and Monsters
This private, full-day adventure emphasizes Loch Ness’s legendary appeal and the scenic beauty of the surrounding Highlands. For up to seven people, the tour costs about $1,089.88 and covers beaches, mountains, and castles. The trip can be customized to include a Loch Ness cruise, visiting Urquhart Castle, or even an optional trek with Loch Ness alpacas (additional fee).
The tour is designed for those who want an immersive experience, visiting Dores Beach, the Falls of Foyers, and Fort Augustus. Guests often enjoy the alpaca trek, and the tour can include visits to Loch Ness’s most iconic spots or quieter scenic drives. The flexibility allows for a personalized journey through the Great Glen.
Reviews praise the guide’s professionalism and knowledge, especially noting their ability to share interesting facts and adapt to the group’s interests. It’s perfect for families or groups wanting a comprehensive, private day with options for extra activities.
Bottom Line: Suited for those seeking a highly customizable, in-depth exploration of Loch Ness and surroundings—an excellent choice for an all-encompassing Highlands day.
5. North Highland Tour Dunrobin Castle & More From Invergordon Port
This full-day tour focuses on Dunrobin Castle, often called the “little Versailles of the North,” and other scenic Highland sites. At about $795.13 for a group of up to four, it offers a personalized look at the North Highlands including Millionaire’s View and Falls of Shin.
Starting with a visit to Alness, the tour heads toward Dornoch Firth, a protected area for wildlife. At Dunrobin Castle, you explore the furnished rooms, gardens, and watch a falconry display — a highlight for families and history lovers alike. The guide shares stories about the castle’s history and the region’s natural beauty.
Guests praise the knowledgeable guides and the flexibility to add stops or spend more time at favored sites. The focus on scenic vistas and local history makes this a good pick for those interested in both natural and man-made attractions.
Bottom Line: A great option for travelers who want to combine castle touring with scenic Highland views and wildlife spotting.
6. Invergordon: Luxury Relaxed South Shore Excursion
For those seeking a luxurious, relaxed experience, this tour offers a leisurely drive through key Highland sights with private transport. Lasting about 7.5 hours, it includes stops at Battlefield, Ancient Monuments, Cawdor Castle, Loch Ness, and a whisky tasting at Glenord Distillery.
The tour emphasizes comfort and culture. Guests can enjoy scenic drives along Loch Ness, visit Culloden Battlefield, and experience a tasting session at a local distillery. The private nature of this trip makes it ideal for couples or small groups wanting an elegant, unhurried day.
Reviews highlight the friendly, knowledgeable guides and the relaxed pace. It’s best for travelers who prioritize comfort, cultural insights, and a bit of whisky indulgence.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who appreciate a more refined, less hurried Highland experience, combining history and whisky in style.
7. Hidden History Walking Tour With a Guide
Aimed at those who want to explore Invergordon itself, this 1.5-hour walking tour costs just $24 per person. It’s ideal for cruise passengers wanting a quick, insider’s look at the town’s murals, naval heritage, and connection to the World’s Strongest Men.
Your guide walks you through the town’s development from a small village to a busy port and points out murals and historic sites. You’ll learn about Invergordon’s naval history and its local whisky connections. It’s a compact but informative experience that offers a taste of local life.
Guests praise the guide’s friendliness and the easy pace. It’s best for history enthusiasts or those wanting a quick overview without leaving the port area.
Bottom Line: A good, affordable way to get acquainted with Invergordon’s stories and murals in a brief visit.
8. From Invergordon: Private Northern Highlands Shore Excursion
This flexible private tour offers a customizable day exploring the Northern Highlands. For around 7 hours, it includes Dunrobin Castle, Loch Fleet, Clynelish Distillery, and Dornoch.
Ideal for travelers who want to tailor their itinerary, it focuses on scenery, whisky, and charming towns. The guide can adjust stops based on your interests, making it a personalized experience. Reviewers rave about the friendly guides and flexibility.
This trip is perfect for those looking for a more relaxed, less structured day that balances history, nature, and whisky. It’s best suited for small groups or couples seeking a private Highland adventure.
Bottom Line: Great for flexible travelers who want to focus on specific interests like distilleries or scenic town visits.
9. Invergordon Shore Tour: Loch Ness, Distillery, and Castles
This 8-hour group tour offers a rundown of the Highlands’ top attractions. At $3.1/ review with 11 reviews, it’s one of the more budget-friendly options, focusing on Loch Ness, Cawdor Castle, and a distillery visit.
Included are visits to Urquhart Castle ruins, a distillery with tastings, and a panoramic drive through the countryside. You also stop in Inverness for photos and a walk around its historic center. Although reviews are mixed, it’s a solid choice for those who want a comprehensive, guided overview without the private tour price.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers on a budget who want to see the Highlands’ key sights with a larger group.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Invergordon
When selecting your perfect experience, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. Want a personalized, private day with the flexibility to customize stops? The full-day private options or luxury excursions are excellent. For cruise travelers with limited time, the shore excursions and shorter walking tours are perfect.
Think about whether you want to include whisky tastings, castle visits, or nature walks. Book early, especially for private and small-group tours, to secure your spot.
Invergordon’s diverse options ensure that every traveler finds a memorable way to experience the Scottish Highlands. From private castle visits to scenic Loch Ness drives, the choice depends on your interests and style. We recommend balancing your budget with your desire for comfort and exclusivity—some trips are more luxurious, while others focus on quick, budget-friendly exploration. Whichever you pick, these tours promise a deeper, richer taste of Scotland’s northern beauty.
Happy planning, and don’t forget—booking ahead is key to securing your preferred time and tour!