Inverness : Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle & Highland Cows Tour

Nestled in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, the Inverness: Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle & Highland Cows Tour promises an enchanting adventure. Discover the mystic allure of Loch Ness, explore the captivating ruins of Urquhart Castle, and come face-to-face with the iconic Highland cows. This private tour, led by a knowledgeable kilted guide, offers a unique opportunity to take in the region’s rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural landscapes. Whether you’re a couple, a group of friends, or a family, this tour is sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Key Points

• This 4-hour private tour takes visitors to Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle, and a Highland cow farm, with a kilted guide providing local stories and insights.
• The tour is priced at $419.90 for up to 7 participants and includes entry tickets to Urquhart Castle.
• Highlights include a photo stop at Loch Ness, a 1.5-hour exploration of Urquhart Castle, and an optional visit to interact with Highland cows.
• The tour features scenic views of the Scottish Highlands, captivating landscapes, and a comprehensive exploration of the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
• With a 5-star rating based on 4 reviews, the tour is suitable for couples, friends, solo adventurers, and families, with a personalized and enriching experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Inverness: Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle & Highland Cows Tour is priced from $419.90 per group, accommodating up to 7 participants.

The 4-hour tour includes sightseeing at Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle, and an optional visit to Highland cows. Guests will enjoy exclusive use of a vehicle and a kilted guide/driver who’ll share local stories and folklore.

Entry tickets to Urquhart Castle are included. The tour has a 5/5 customer rating based on 4 reviews, with positive feedback on the guide’s attentiveness.

Comfortable shoes, a camera, and water are recommended. The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and smoking isn’t allowed.

Itinerary Highlights

This tour features a captivating itinerary that showcases the stunning landscapes and rich history of the Scottish Highlands.

The journey begins with a photo stop at the iconic Loch Ness, home to the legendary Loch Ness Monster. Visitors then explore the impressive Urquhart Castle, learning about its turbulent past during a 1.5-hour visit.

Discover the mystical Loch Ness and explore the turbulent history of Urquhart Castle on this captivating tour.

The tour also includes a guided tour of the Corrimony Chambered Cairn, offering a glimpse into the region’s ancient heritage.

Lastly, guests have the opportunity to visit a local farm and interact with the iconic Highland cows for 20 minutes.

Tour Features

With a private kilted guide/driver, guests on this tour enjoy exclusive use of the vehicle throughout their journey.

The guide provides local stories and folklore, enhancing the experience. Pickup and drop-off are at the chosen location, ensuring convenience.

Entry tickets to Urquhart Castle are included, allowing visitors to explore this historic site at their own pace.

The tour showcases scenic views of the Scottish Highlands, offering a well-rounded exploration of the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Guest Experience

Guests consistently rate this tour 5 out of 5 stars based on 4 reviews.

Feedback highlights the attentiveness of the guide, Colin, who captivates guests with local stories and folklore throughout the journey.

The tour is suitable for various traveler types, including:

1. Couples seeking a romantic and immersive experience in the Scottish Highlands.

2. Friends looking to explore the region’s natural beauty and historical landmarks together.

3. Solo adventurers and families interested in a personalized and enriching sightseeing excursion.

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Preparation and Restrictions

To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience, guests are recommended to wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera and water.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to the uneven terrain. Smoking isn’t allowed during the tour.

Guests should be prepared for the Scottish weather and dress accordingly. The tour’s itinerary may involve walking and climbing, so a moderate level of fitness is recommended.

Exploring Loch Ness

The tour begins with a visit to the iconic Loch Ness, Scotland’s most famous lake. Guests are treated to stunning views of the deep, dark waters as the guide shares intriguing tales of the legendary Loch Ness Monster.

The 1.5-hour photo stop allows visitors to:

1. Capture the picturesque scenery, including the breathtaking mountain backdrop.

2. Scan the surface of the loch for any signs of the elusive Nessie.

3. Soak in the serene atmosphere and enjoy the mystique surrounding this legendary body of water.

Whether a believer or skeptic, the experience at Loch Ness sets the stage for an unforgettable journey through the Scottish Highlands.

Discovering Urquhart Castle

From Loch Ness, the tour then ventures to the iconic Urquhart Castle, one of Scotland’s most famous historical landmarks.

Visitors are given 1.5 hours to explore the impressive medieval ruins, which command stunning views over Loch Ness. The castle’s history dates back to the 13th century, when it played a crucial role in the Wars of Scottish Independence.

Visitors are allotted 1.5 hours to explore Urquhart Castle’s impressive medieval ruins overlooking the iconic Loch Ness, steeped in the history of the Wars of Scottish Independence.

Guests can wander the castle grounds, discover its tower house, and learn about its tumultuous past from the knowledgeable guide.

This stop offers a unique opportunity to take in Scotland’s rich heritage and scenic landscapes.

Encountering Highland Cows

After visiting the iconic Urquhart Castle, the tour proceeds to an optional stop to encounter the famous Highland cows.

These shaggy, horned bovines are a symbol of the Scottish Highlands, known for their hardy nature and distinctive appearance.

The tour provides an opportunity to:

1. Observe the Highland cows grazing in their natural habitat, allowing visitors to appreciate their gentle demeanor and the picturesque pastoral setting.

2. Learn about the cultural significance of these animals in the region, including their role in traditional farming practices and their representation in Scottish folklore.

3. Capture memorable photographs with the majestic creatures as a backdrop, creating lasting memories of the unique Highland experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Loch Ness?

The best time to visit Loch Ness is during the summer months of June through August when the weather is warmest and driest, allowing for optimal sightseeing and outdoor activities around the picturesque loch.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, the tour operator doesn’t provide any onboard refreshments. Guests should keep in mind the vehicle’s size and plan accordingly for the 4-hour duration of the tour.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour doesn’t offer any specific discounts for seniors or students. However, the per-group pricing allows groups of up to 7 participants to share the cost, which could make it more affordable for families or smaller groups.

How Much Time Is Spent at Each Location During the Tour?

The tour spends 1.5 hours at Urquhart Castle, 30 minutes on a guided tour of Corrimony Chambered Cairn, and an optional 20 minutes visiting Highland cows. The remaining time is spent on scenic drives and photo stops along Loch Ness.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration if Desired?

The tour doesn’t offer an option to extend the duration, but the guide can be flexible to accommodate guest requests within the 4-hour time frame. Participants should communicate any needs or preferences to the guide.

The Sum Up

The "Inverness: Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle & Highland Cows Tour" offers a captivating exploration of Scotland’s natural wonders and cultural heritage. From the enchanting Loch Ness to the historic Urquhart Castle and the charming Highland cows, this private tour provides an unforgettable experience for visitors seeking to enjoy the captivating landscapes and traditions of the Scottish Highlands.

You can check availability for your dates here: