From Edinburgh: Highland Lochs, Glens, and Castles Tour

Venturing beyond the bustling city of Edinburgh, this comprehensive Highland tour promises an immersive experience amidst Scotland’s natural splendor. Travelers can expect a captivating journey through picturesque lochs, serene glens, and the grandeur of historic castles. From the iconic Doune Castle to the breathtaking vistas of Loch Lubnaig, this excursion offers a tantalizing glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes. Whether seeking to uncover the past or simply revel in the tranquility of the Highlands, this tour beckons visitors to embark on an unforgettable adventure.

Key Points

• This 10-hour tour from Edinburgh explores historic castles, picturesque lochs, and scenic glens in the Scottish Highlands.
• Key locations visited include Doune Castle, Loch Lubnaig, Kilchurn Castle, Inveraray, and Luss.
• The tour is conducted in an air-conditioned 16-seater mini-coach with an English-speaking driver-guide.
• Castle entry fees are available for purchase during the tour’s operating season from April to October.
• Customers rate the tour highly for its scenic views and engaging storytelling from the knowledgeable guide.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Details

The Highland Lochs, Glens, and Castles Tour is a 10-hour excursion that departs from Edinburgh’s Waterloo Place.

Priced from $81.73 per person, it offers a flexible booking policy with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour visits Doune Castle, Loch Lubnaig, Kilchurn Castle, Inveraray, the Rest and Be Thankful viewpoint, and Luss.

Highlights include exploring Doune Castle, enjoying scenic views, and discovering the charm of Inveraray and Luss.

Transportation is provided by an air-conditioned 16-seater mini-coach, and the tour is led by an English-speaking driver-guide.

Entry to Doune Castle and Inveraray Castle can be purchased on the day during the season.

Itinerary Highlights

Departing from Edinburgh, the tour first stops at Doune Castle, a 14th-century stronghold where visitors can spend an hour exploring and taking photos.

Next, the group heads to Loch Lubnaig, where they’ll have 30 minutes to enjoy the scenic views and grab refreshments.

Take in the serene vistas of Loch Lubnaig while enjoying refreshments during the 30-minute stopover.

The journey continues to Kilchurn Castle for a brief 10-minute photo stop.

In Inveraray, guests can spend 2 hours exploring the charming town, with an optional visit to Inveraray Castle or Jail.

The tour then stops at the Rest and Be Thankful viewpoint before visiting Luss, where they’ll have 45 minutes of free time.

Inclusions

The tour includes transportation by a 16-seater air-conditioned mini-coach and an English-speaking driver-guide.

Lunch and refreshments are provided along the way.

Entrance to Doune Castle and Inveraray Castle can be purchased on the day, but only during the April to October season.

The tour covers a range of highlights, including scenic viewpoints at Loch Lubnaig and Rest and Be Thankful, as well as time to explore the charming towns of Inveraray and Luss.

Tour Experience

Visitors begin the Highland Lochs, Glens, and Castles Tour by departing Edinburgh, passing Stirling and its iconic castle.

The first stop is Doune Castle, a 14th-century stronghold where they’ll have an hour to explore and take photos.

Next, they’ll visit Loch Lubnaig for a 30-minute photo stop and refreshments.

Kilchurn Castle provides another brief photo opportunity before reaching Inveraray, where they’ll have 2 hours for lunch, shopping, and sightseeing, with an optional visit to Inveraray Castle or Jail.

The tour then stops at the scenic Rest and Be Thankful viewpoint and Luss before returning to Edinburgh.

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Customer Feedback

According to the available reviews, the Highland Lochs, Glens, and Castles Tour has received an impressive overall rating of 5/5 from 7 customers. Reviewers highlighted the guide’s friendliness and storytelling ability, which enhanced the tour experience. However, the tour may not be suitable for children under 5 years old.

| Positive Feedback | Neutral Feedback | Negative Feedback |

|——————|——————|——————-|

| Friendly guide | N/A | Not suitable for children under 5 |

| Engaging stories | N/A | N/A |

| Scenic views | N/A | N/A |

Meeting Point

Customers can check in for the Highland Lochs, Glens, and Castles Tour at Bus Stand ZE, Waterloo Place (Opposite Howies Restaurant) in Edinburgh.

The tour departs from this location, so it’s important for customers to arrive on time. Participants should check availability for starting times, as the tour operates at various times throughout the day.

Once checked in, customers can look forward to an exciting journey exploring the stunning landscapes and historical sites of the Scottish Highlands, guided by an English-speaking driver-guide.

Exploring Doune Castle

After departing Edinburgh, the tour makes its first stop at Doune Castle, a 14th-century stronghold that captivates visitors with its historical significance and architectural charm.

Guests have an hour to explore the castle, which features a well-preserved courtyard, tower house, and intricate stonework. The knowledgeable guide provides insights into the castle’s storied past, including its role in the Jacobite risings.

Visitors can wander the grounds, snap photos of the impressive structure, and imagine life in the medieval era. The stop at Doune Castle sets the stage for a day of discovering Scotland’s remarkable history and natural beauty.

Discovering Scenic Wonders

As the tour departs Doune Castle, travelers are treated to a visual feast of Scotland’s renowned landscapes.

The coach winds through the rolling hills, passing the serene Loch Lubnaig, where a brief stop allows for photography and refreshments.

Next, the group arrives at the picturesque Kilchurn Castle, situated on the banks of Loch Awe, offering a stunning backdrop for photos.

The tour then continues to the charming town of Inveraray, providing ample time for lunch, shopping, and an optional visit to the historic Inveraray Castle or Jail.

Finally, the journey culminates at the Rest and Be Thankful viewpoint, showcasing breathtaking vistas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Schedule for the Return Trip to Edinburgh?

The tour returns to Edinburgh after visiting Luss for 45 minutes. The total duration of the tour is 10 hours, starting from the initial departure at Waterloo Place in Edinburgh.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Preferences Accommodated?

The tour accommodates dietary restrictions and preferences. Customers can notify the tour provider of any dietary needs when booking, and the tour includes lunch, allowing the provider to cater to individual requirements.

Can We Make Additional Stops During the Tour?

The tour itinerary is fixed, but passengers can request additional stops along the way. The tour operator will try to accommodate reasonable requests, subject to time constraints and the agreement of other passengers.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There doesn’t appear to be an option to extend the tour duration. The tour is fixed at 10 hours, and the itinerary highlights suggest a full day’s schedule. Extending the tour may require booking a separate, customized tour.

How Can We Purchase Tickets for Inveraray Castle?

Tickets for Inveraray Castle can be purchased on the day during the tour’s 2-hour stop in Inveraray. The castle is open seasonally from April to October, and entry is an optional extra.

The Sum Up

This captivating Highland tour from Edinburgh offers an immersive journey through Scotland’s stunning natural landscapes and rich historical sites. With visits to iconic castles, tranquil lochs, and charming towns, travelers can enjoy the country’s breathtaking scenery and captivating heritage. Whether it’s exploring Doune Castle or taking in the views at Loch Lubnaig, this 10-hour excursion promises an unforgettable Scottish adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: