Leaving Edinburgh, this Loch Ness tour heads northwest, passing the impressive Stirling Castle before reaching our first stop in the Callander area for light refreshments. Depending on the season, you may even spot a Highland coo. We then continue through Rob Roy Country, linked to the MacGregor and Campbell clans, and cross the striking landscapes of Rannoch Moor and the Black Mount before arriving in Glencoe—one of Scotland’s most iconic glens and the site of the 1692 MacDonald Clan massacre. Here, we pause for photos and to take in the atmosphere of this dramatic valley.
Experience the beauty of Loch Ness
After travelling along Loch Linnhe, we stop near Fort William for lunch, then continue through the Great Glen, passing beneath Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK. We drive on through the charming village of Fort Augustus before reaching Urquhart Castle, where you may choose to join an optional cruise-and-castle experience.
If you prefer not to participate, the tour continues to the Clansman Hotel, where you will have an hour of free time. You can relax at the hotel and optionally join the “Donald Fraser – Illicit Whisky Experience,” a 20–30 minute presentation featuring a film on the history of illegal whisky distilling, accompanied by a dram of the Donald Fraser blend.
You may also explore the surroundings—for example, the Old Coffin Road Walk starting at the hotel—or take a one-hour cruise on the loch with fantastic views of Urquhart Castle (optional).
Loch Ness, stretching 24 miles and reaching depths of over 700 feet, is world-famous for sightings of the legendary “Nessie.” Here, you can enjoy your time by taking an optional scenic cruise on the loch.
The return journey to Edinburgh then begins, passing through Cairngorms National Park and the forests of Perthshire, including the Atholl woodland. We make an evening stop in the Victorian town of Pitlochry before finally arriving back in Edinburgh.
Travel tip: To maximize your time at each stop, consider bringing a packed cold lunch!