Explore the picturesque Scottish Highlands on this captivating tour from Inverness. Explore the history of Cawdor Castle, marvel at the ancient Clava Cairns, and learn about the natural beauty of Cairngorms National Park. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this eight-hour adventure promises an unforgettable blend of culture and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re a history buff or a nature enthusiast, this tour offers something for all.
Key Points
- Full-day tour from Inverness lasting 8 hours, covering Cawdor Castle, Highland cows, and Cairngorms National Park.
- Highlights include ancient Clava Cairns, Cawdor Castle’s historic halls and gardens, and a scenic walk in Cairngorms.
- Tour includes transportation, admission fees, and a knowledgeable local guide providing commentary and insights.
- Tour not suitable for children under 5, individuals with mobility issues, or wheelchair users; minimum age is 5 with accompanying adult requirement.
- Meeting point is across from the Victorian Market entrance, 15 minutes before departure, with approximate return time 3 hours after scheduled return.
Tour Overview
This full-day tour from Inverness takes visitors to the historic Cawdor Castle and the breathtaking Cairngorms National Park.
Lasting 8 hours, the tour costs from $55.14 to $64.87 per person, with flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
This full-day tour from Inverness costs $55.14 to $64.87 per person, with flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Highlights include exploring Cawdor Castle, meeting Highland cows, and strolling through the Scots Pine Forest.
Lunch in Aviemore and a scenic walk through the national park round out the itinerary.
The tour isn’t suitable for young children, those with mobility issues, or wheelchair users, and participants should plan for extra time after the scheduled return.
Looking for more options in Cawdor? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Itinerary Highlights
The tour begins with a visit to the ancient Clava Cairns, a well-preserved Bronze Age burial site.
Guests will then explore the historic halls and landscaped gardens of Cawdor Castle, a medieval castle with ties to Shakespeare’s Macbeth.
Along the way, they’ll have the chance to meet the local celebrities – Highland coos.
The journey continues through the Scots Pine Forest, home to rare native trees, before arriving in Aviemore for lunch and a stroll through the vibrant local atmosphere.
Finally, a scenic walk in Cairngorms National Park offers wildlife sightings.
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Discover ancient history at Clava Cairns
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Step into a medieval castle at Cawdor
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Encounter the famous Highland coos
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Immerse in the natural wonders of Cairngorms
Inclusions
The tour includes a legendary local guide who’ll provide commentary and insights throughout the day.
Transportation to and from the sites is provided. Admission fees to Cawdor Castle are also included, allowing visitors to explore the historic halls and landscaped gardens.
This ensures a seamless and hassle-free experience, allowing participants to focus on soaking in the rich history and natural beauty of the region.
With all the logistics covered, guests can simply sit back, relax, and fully enjoy the enchanting Highlands during this comprehensive day trip.
Participant Information
Participants should note that this tour isn’t suitable for children under 5 years old, individuals with mobility impairments, or wheelchair users.
The minimum age for participants is 5 years, and those aged 5-17 must be accompanied by an adult.
This tour offers an immersive experience for adventurous travelers:
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Explore ancient sites and historic castles with a legendary local guide
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Discover the natural wonders of Cairngorms National Park
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Meet iconic Highland cows and witness rare native wildlife
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Enjoy a scenic lunch in the charming town of Aviemore
Important Details
Travelers should meet the tour group across from the Victorian Market entrance at least 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
The itinerary order may change due to road conditions and weather. While return times are approximate, it’s recommended to allocate at least 3 hours after the scheduled return for onward travel plans.
This tour isn’t suitable for children under 5, individuals with mobility impairments, or wheelchair users. The minimum age is 5 years, and participants aged 5-17 must be accompanied by an adult.
Exploring Clava Cairns
As the tour departs Inverness, the first stop is the ancient Clava Cairns, a well-preserved Bronze Age burial site.
Visitors are captivated by the mystical atmosphere of these prehistoric tombs, which feature:
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Massive stone monuments, standing tall against the rugged landscape
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Intricately carved symbols and petroglyphs, hinting at the site’s spiritual significance
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A serene, contemplative ambiance, inviting guests to connect with the past
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Opportunities to explore the cairns and gain insights from the knowledgeable guide
The Clava Cairns set the stage for a day of immersing in Scotland’s rich history and natural beauty.
Visiting Cawdor Castle
From Clava Cairns, the tour heads to Cawdor Castle, a historic site that captivates visitors with its storied past and enchanting surroundings.
Guests can explore the castle’s chambers, adorned with tapestries and antique furnishings, and learn about its connection to Macbeth.
The beautiful landscaped gardens offer a serene escape, with the opportunity to spot local wildlife.
Visitors can also meet the iconic Highland cows, a beloved symbol of Scottish culture.
The experience at Cawdor Castle provides a unique glimpse into Scotland’s rich history and natural beauty, making it a highlight of the day’s itinerary.
Discovering Cairngorms National Park
Next, the tour heads into the majestic Cairngorms National Park, where guests can enjoy the pristine natural landscapes of the Scottish Highlands.
The scenic walk through the park offers opportunities to:
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Spot rare wildlife, like red deer, golden eagles, and the elusive Scottish wildcat
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Admire the towering peaks of the Cairngorms mountains, sculpted by glaciers
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Breathe in the crisp, clean air and wander through ancient Caledonian pine forests
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Enjoy spectacular views over lochs and glens, with photo-worthy vistas at every turn
Lunch in the charming town of Aviemore allows visitors to soak in the local atmosphere before returning to Inverness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
The tour allows you to bring your own food and drinks. However, there will be an opportunity to have lunch in Aviemore, where you can soak in the local atmosphere and sample the regional cuisine.
Is There a Discount for Senior Citizens or Students?
The tour doesn’t offer specific discounts for seniors or students, but you can save up to 15% by booking early. Contact the tour operator for the latest pricing and availability details.
Do I Need to Bring Any Specific Equipment or Clothing?
Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in warm, weatherproof layers. Bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery. No special equipment is required, but umbrella or rain jacket is recommended in case of changeable weather.
How Many Stops Are There Throughout the Day?
The tour has several stops throughout the day, including visits to Clava Cairns, Cawdor Castle, a Highland coo meet-and-greet, and a scenic walk through Cairngorms National Park. Participants can expect around 4-5 different activities or locations during the 8-hour tour.
Is There an Opportunity to Shop at Local Stores During the Tour?
The tour does not include any scheduled stops for shopping at local stores. However, participants may have free time in Aviemore to explore the town and its shops during the lunch break, depending on the tour itinerary.
The Sum Up
This tour offers a captivating blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty in the heart of the Scottish Highlands. Visitors can enjoy the region’s rich heritage, from the ancient Clava Cairns to the grand Cawdor Castle, before exploring the stunning landscapes of Cairngorms National Park. With a knowledgeable local guide, this eight-hour adventure is a must-do for anyone seeking to uncover the magic of the Scottish Highlands.
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