From Edinburgh: Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle & Kelpies Tour

Discover the captivating landscapes and historic landmarks beyond Edinburgh on this comprehensive tour. Explore the legends of the magnificent Kelpies sculptures, learn about the serene beauty of Loch Lomond, and uncover the regal grandeur of Stirling Castle. With transportation, live commentary, and an optional boat cruise, this enriching excursion promises an unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re a history buff or nature enthusiast, this tour offers an unparalleled glimpse into Scotland’s enchanting wonders.

Key Points

• Offers a 9-hour excursion from Edinburgh featuring Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle, and the iconic Kelpies sculptures.
• Highlights the Kelpies, the largest equine sculptures in the world, and provides guided tours for an immersive cultural experience.
• Includes a scenic boat cruise option on Loch Lomond, allowing visitors to appreciate the natural beauty of the Trossachs National Park.
• Provides access to Stirling Castle, a historically significant fortress with an ornate Renaissance-era palace and walkable ramparts.
• Requires comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, with the tour not suitable for children under 4 and wheelchair users.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle & Kelpies Tour is a 9-hour excursion that offers visitors the opportunity to explore some of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks.

Priced at $63.05 per person, the tour includes transportation, live commentary, and digital translations.

Travelers can opt for a scenic boat cruise on Loch Lomond and visit Stirling Castle, one of Scotland’s historically significant fortresses.

The tour also features a stop at the Kelpies, the world’s largest equine sculptures.

Flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance make this tour an attractive choice for those seeking a comprehensive Scottish experience.

Exploring The Kelpies

Towering 30 meters high, the Kelpies are the largest equine sculptures in the world and undoubtedly one of the highlights of the Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle & Kelpies Tour.

Depicting mythical water horses, these magnificent structures stand as a testament to Scotland’s rich folklore and cultural heritage.

Visitors can marvel at the intricate details and sheer scale of the sculptures, capturing stunning photos from various vantage points.

The guided tour provides insightful commentary, enhancing the experience and allowing travelers to fully appreciate the significance of the Kelpies within the local landscape.

Discovering Loch Lomond

After marveling at the grand scale and mythical essence of the Kelpies, the tour moves on to the serene beauty of Loch Lomond.

Nestled in the Trossachs National Park, this iconic Scottish lake offers a tranquil oasis with its picturesque shores and surrounding hills. Guests have the option to embark on a scenic 1-hour boat cruise, allowing them to fully enjoy the breathtaking landscape.

Whether exploring the shoreline or gliding across the calm waters, Loch Lomond provides a picturesque respite and a chance to appreciate the natural wonders that make Scotland so captivating.

Taking in Trossachs National Park

As the tour ventures deeper into the stunning Trossachs National Park, often referred to as the "Highlands in Miniature," visitors find themselves immersed in a world of rugged beauty and serene tranquility.

Rolling hills, sparkling lochs, and ancient forests create a picturesque landscape that captivates the senses. The park’s diverse wildlife, including red deer and golden eagles, can be spotted with the keen eye of the guide.

Visitors have the opportunity to explore the natural wonders of this enchanting region, taking in the breathtaking vistas and connecting with the unique heritage of the Scottish Highlands.

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Visiting Stirling Castle

What makes Stirling Castle such a captivating destination on this tour? As one of Scotland’s most historically significant fortresses, Stirling Castle offers a glimpse into the country’s turbulent past.

Perched atop a rocky outcrop, the castle’s impressive architecture and commanding views make it a must-see stop. Tour-goers can explore the ornate Renaissance-era palace, walk the ramparts, and learn about the castle’s role in pivotal events like the Wars of Scottish Independence.

With the option to visit Stirling Castle, travelers can enjoy Scotland’s rich history and gain a deeper appreciation for the nation’s storied past.

Admiring the South Queensferry Viewpoint

Why does the tour make a stop at the South Queensferry Viewpoint?

The stop provides a stunning vista overlooking the iconic Forth Bridge. This UNESCO World Heritage site is an engineering marvel, featuring a trio of cantilever bridges that span the Forth Estuary.

From the viewing point, guests can admire the graceful curves and immense scale of this Victorian-era structure. It’s an ideal photo opportunity to capture the bridge’s architectural beauty against the picturesque backdrop of the surrounding waterfront.

The brief stop allows travelers to stretch their legs and appreciate the scenic splendor before continuing on to the next destination.

Included Features and Amenities

The tour includes a variety of features and amenities to enhance the overall experience.

Travelers will be transported in a modern, air-conditioned bus with live commentary provided by the knowledgeable driver-guide. Digital written translations are available to ensure language accessibility.

Travelers will enjoy a comfortable, air-conditioned bus ride with live commentary and digital translations for language accessibility.

On-board restroom facilities offer convenience throughout the day. While gratuities aren’t included, the exceptional value and quality of the tour are reflected in the 4.5/5 overall rating from over 1,600 reviews.

With flexibility to reserve now and pay later, the tour provides an immersive and hassle-free exploration of Scotland’s iconic landmarks.

Important Information and Preparation

To make the most of the Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle & Kelpies Tour, travelers should come prepared with comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 4 years and wheelchair users. The meeting point is at Castle Terrace, Edinburgh EH1 2EW, outside the NCP Car Park.

The tour’s itinerary may vary, and some areas of Stirling Castle may be closed due to safety concerns.

Here are a few key items to remember:

• Bring comfortable walking shoes

• Dress for the Scottish weather

• Check meeting point location and timing

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, participants are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, the tour operator does not provide any food or beverages, so guests should plan accordingly.

Is There a Restroom on the Bus During the Drive?

Yes, the tour bus has restroom facilities on board, allowing you to comfortably use the restroom during the drive. This provides convenience and helps ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience throughout the tour.

Do the Boat Cruises at Loch Lomond Have Indoor Seating?

The boat cruises at Loch Lomond do have indoor seating. This allows passengers to enjoy the scenic views in comfort, especially during inclement weather. The boats are equipped with both indoor and outdoor seating areas.

Can I Extend My Stay at Stirling Castle Beyond the Tour Time?

Yes, visitors can extend their stay at Stirling Castle beyond the tour time. The tour includes an optional visit to the castle, and travelers are free to explore it further on their own after the guided portion is complete.

Is There a Luggage Storage Option at the Tour’s Starting Point?

There is no luggage storage option provided at the tour’s starting point on Castle Terrace in Edinburgh. Guests are advised to only bring essential items they can carry with them during the tour.

The Sum Up

This 9-hour tour from Edinburgh offers an enriching experience, showcasing the stunning landscapes of Loch Lomond, the historic grandeur of Stirling Castle, and the impressive Kelpies sculptures. At $63.05 per person, the tour includes transportation, live commentary, and an optional scenic boat cruise, providing an engaging and immersive exploration of Scotland’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: