Set out on a captivating journey through the breathtaking Scottish Highlands with the Loch Ness and The Highland Experience tour. Departing from Edinburgh, this 12.5-hour adventure offers travelers a chance to explore stunning landscapes, including a stop at the charming village of Kilmahog and a photo opportunity at the majestic Glencoe. With ample time in Fort Augustus, visitors can even opt for an exciting boat trip on the legendary Loch Ness. From the live guide’s insights to the luxury coach‘s modern amenities, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Scotland’s natural wonders.
Key Points
- A 12.5-hour journey through the Scottish Highlands, with a stop at Loch Ness for an optional boat tour.
- Departs from Edinburgh at 07:45 and returns around 20:15, with prices starting from €83.65 per person.
- Offers free time and photo stops at various destinations, including Kilmahog, Glencoe, Fort Augustus, and Pitlochry.
- Provides a live guided tour with a knowledgeable guide, a professional driver, and a luxury coach with amenities.
- Accommodates individuals with mobility challenges and is suitable for guests aged 5 and above.
Tour Overview
The Loch Ness and The Highland Experience tour offers a comprehensive 12.5-hour journey through the breathtaking Scottish Highlands, departing from West Register House in Edinburgh at 07:45 and returning approximately at 20:15.
A comprehensive 12.5-hour journey through the breathtaking Scottish Highlands, departing from Edinburgh and returning in the evening.
Priced from €83.65 per person, the tour includes luxury coach travel, a dedicated live guide, and free time to explore destinations like Kilmahog, Glencoe, Fort Augustus, and Pitlochry.
Travelers can opt for an additional boat trip on Loch Ness for an extra fee. The tour is wheelchair accessible but not suitable for children under 5 years old.
Guests can reserve their spot without upfront payment and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Looking for more options in Edinburgh? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Booking Information
Customers can reserve their spot without upfront payment through the "Reserve now & pay later" option. This allows flexibility in booking the tour. Plus, the company offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind for travelers.
| Booking Information | |
|———————|—————–|
| Reserve now & pay later | Book spot without upfront payment |
| Free cancellation | Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for full refund |
| Check availability | For starting times |
Customers can check availability for starting times to find the best option that fits their schedule.
Itinerary Highlights
After departing from the starting location, the tour transports guests by bus/coach for 105 minutes to the first stop at Kilmahog, where they enjoy 30 minutes of free time.
Next, the tour makes a 10-minute photo stop at the scenic Glencoe.
Then, visitors spend 2.25 hours in Fort Augustus, with an optional boat trip on Loch Ness available for an additional fee.
Finally, the tour stops in Pitlochry for a 30-minute self-guided tour before returning to the starting point at West Register House.
Tour Features
This tour offers a range of features to enhance the overall experience. Travelers will enjoy a live guided tour in English, led by a dedicated guide who shares insightful information about Scotland. A professional driver focuses solely on the road, ensuring a comfortable and safe journey. The luxury coach is equipped with amenities such as WiFi, USB charging, a toilet, and air conditioning, making the trip more enjoyable.
| Feature | Description |
| — | — |
| Live Guided Tour | Tour led by a knowledgeable guide in English |
| Dedicated Guide | Shares insights about Scotland |
| Professional Driver | Focused on driving |
| Luxury Coach | Equipped with WiFi, USB, toilet, and AC |
| Comfortable Journey | Enhances the overall experience |
More Great Tours NearbyAccessibility and Restrictions
The tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing individuals with mobility challenges to join the experience.
However, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 5 years old. This restriction ensures the safety and enjoyment of all participants.
The coach is equipped with features to accommodate various needs, such as air-conditioning and on-board facilities.
Guests should inform the tour operator of any special requirements during the booking process to ensure a seamless experience.
- Haunted Vaults and Graveyard Walking Tour in Edinburgh
- The Mountebank Comedy Walk of Edinburgh
- The Scotch Whisky Experience Guided Whisky Tour – An Introduction to Whisky
- Old Town Walking Tour History and Tales in Edinburgh
- Edinburgh Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
- 3-Day Isle of Skye, Hogwarts Express Train and Highlands Tour
Explore Kilmahog
On the journey, guests make their first stop at Kilmahog, a charming village nestled in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
Here, they’re granted 30 minutes of free time to explore the quaint streets and visit the local shops. Many travelers choose to browse the famous Woollen Mill, known for its selection of traditional Scottish tartans, cashmere, and woolen goods.
Others may opt to visit the nearby Highland Gatehouse, which features a small exhibit on the history and culture of the region.
This brief respite allows guests to stretch their legs and get a taste of authentic Highland life.
Admire the Glencoe Landscape
After departing Kilmahog, the tour proceeds to the awe-inspiring Glencoe valley.
Glencoe is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, carved by glaciers and carved by the forces of nature over millions of years. The coach will make a brief 10-minute photo stop, allowing guests to capture the rugged beauty of the towering mountains and the verdant glen.
Glencoe’s dramatic landscapes, carved by glaciers and nature over millennia, offer a 10-minute photo stop to capture its rugged beauty.
Visitors can admire the iconic peaks, such as the formidable Buachaille Etive Mòr, and soak in the serene atmosphere of this historic and geologically significant area.
The Glencoe stop offers a chance to appreciate Scotland’s breathtaking natural wonders.
Discover Fort Augustus and Loch Ness
Next, the tour arrives at the charming village of Fort Augustus, situated at the southern end of the famous Loch Ness.
Visitors can explore the village, taking in the scenic canal locks and quaint shops. The highlight is an optional boat trip on Loch Ness, offering the chance to spot the legendary Loch Ness Monster.
The tour includes:
-
2.25 hours to explore Fort Augustus
-
Optional Loch Ness boat trip (additional fee)
-
Time to wander the village and see the canal locks
-
Chance to search for the elusive Loch Ness Monster
-
Return to the starting point in Edinburgh around 8:15 PM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Yes, guests can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The coach has a toilet, so refreshments can be consumed during the journey. However, it’s recommended to check with the tour operator for any specific policies or restrictions.
How Much Time Is Allowed for Exploring Each Location?
The tour allows 30 minutes in Kilmahog, 10 minutes for a photo stop in Glencoe, 2.25 hours in Fort Augustus, and 30 minutes for a self-guided tour in Pitlochry. The total tour duration is 12.5 hours.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?
The tour doesn’t offer any specific discounts for students or seniors. However, customers can save by booking in advance and taking advantage of the flexible cancellation policy to get a full refund up to 24 hours before the tour.
Can I Extend My Stay in Fort Augustus or Pitlochry?
You can extend your stay in Fort Augustus or Pitlochry, but it’s not included in the tour package. You’d need to book any additional time separately from the tour. The tour’s itinerary and schedule are fixed.
Is There a Limit on the Number of Passengers per Tour?
The tour does not appear to have a set limit on the number of passengers per departure. However, availability for each date is likely limited, so it’s best to check the website or contact the operator for the latest information.
The Sum Up
The Loch Ness and The Highland Experience offers an unforgettable journey through Scotland’s stunning landscapes. With a live guide, modern coach, and optional boat trip on Loch Ness, this tour combines comfort and adventure for an immersive exploration of the Highlands. Whether you’re seeking breathtaking scenery, historical insights, or a chance to uncover the Loch Ness monster, this tour provides an exceptional way to discover the beauty of Scotland.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tours in Edinburgh
More Tour Reviews in Edinburgh
Still browsing? Here are more Edinburgh experiences we've covered recently
- From Edinburgh: St Andrews & Whisky Tour (Small-Group)
- Tranent: Glenkinchie Whisky Distillery Tour and Tasting
- From Edinburgh: The Kelpies, Glencoe & Loch Lomond Day Tour
- Edinburgh: Castle Guided Tour & Holyrood Palace Ticket
- Leith Walking Tour
- Edinburgh: Isle of Skye, Inverness, and Highlands 3-Day Tour
- Makars Mushroom Farm Summerhall Tour with DIY Block Making
- Private Photography Tour in Edinburgh
- Edinburgh’s Dark and Hidden History Walking Tour
- Edinburgh: Cycle Tour to the Coast (family friendly)
- Edinburgh: Rosslyn Chapel Entry Ticket
- Edinburgh: Pickles, Jams, and Chutneys Workshop