guided tours of the scottish highlands

Award-Winning Tours of Scotland

Departing from Edinburgh and Inverness

Expertly Guided by Passionate Locals

Welcome to a journey like no other. Crafted and led by locals who live and love the land they call home, our tours immerse you in the magic of Scotland; from its breath-taking mountains to its legendary lochs.

Embark from either Edinburgh or Inverness and select from our range of 1-day Highland getaways to extensive 2 to 8 day adventures across the Scottish Highlands, venturing as far as the Inner and Outer Hebrides, Orkney, and Shetland.

Our local guides reveal all the history and stories with a passion that truly brings Scotland to life.

Each multi-day tour offers handpicked accommodations and breakfast as part of the package.

Reserve your spot on selected multi-day tours with a small deposit and pay the rest later.

Our day trips offer free audio guides in French, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, German, and Mandarin.

Handpicked Tours of Scotland

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Visit beautiful Dunkeld, a Highland whisky distillery, and the famous Military Tattoo.

See More Tour details

Moray Coast, Wildlife & Speyside Whisky Explorer

Wildlife spotting on the Moray Coast, picturesque fishing villages, and Speyside whisky tasting.

Loch Ness Explorer

Legendary Loch Ness with optional boat cruise, Glen Coe, and the Highlands.

Mull, Iona & Staffa Wildlife Experience

Visit remote islands of Mull, Iona and Staffa, and enjoy a wildlife cruise.

Isle of Skye Volunteer Adventure

Plant trees in Tormore Forest, experience a Gaelic language workshop and explore magical Skye.

18 Years of Award-Winning Trips

Tripadvisor Rating

From over 9374+ customer reviews

96% Guest Recommendation Rate

Dacmelaus 22/05/2024

A terrific 6 days. The success of any tour can never be just the places you visit. The weather, accommodation assuming multiple days, size and make up of the group, comfort of the bus all play a part. But you need a fantastic, talented, knowledgeable, quick witted and engaging tour guide and we did. ‘Sophie’ was all of these and more. She kept us entertained with lots of information, updates times and places coming up, histories, stories of the myths and mysteries of the highland clans. Sophie had created a playlist to keep us entertained and welcomed additions from us. She is competent driver we never felt unnerved at any time. If you do this tour make sure you ask when she is leading.

Hannah 10/05/2024

Martin (our tour guide) was incredible. I really could list a million things but to name a few: kind soul, great story teller, safe driver, positive attitude, super knowledgeable. The tour was incredible, but made even better with Martin as our tour guide! It will be sad to say goodbye to everyone that I got to know on this tour. It was an amazing time. Highly recommend it!

Kelsey 29/04/2024

Absolutely stellar experience on the 3-day tour from Edinburgh to the Isle of Skye! Our guide, Laurie, was an absolute gem, making the weekend an unforgettable adventure filled with laughter and fun. The breathtaking views and perfect weather only added to the magic of the trip. Laurie went above and beyond, not only providing excellent commentary but also assisting with travel arrangements, ensuring a seamless journey throughout. And don’t miss out on asking her about ‘the key game’ for Dunvegan Castle – it’s an experience you won’t want to miss. Five stars all around for an incredible tour!

Gaurav 03/05/2024

We had an amazing 3 day tour of Isle of Skye from Edinburgh. Our guide, driver, entertainer, the all in one .. Dusty.. provided an amazing experience right from the point we boarded the bus. The tour covered almost all the attractions en route to Isle of Skye, stay in Portree, Jacobite train experience. A big shout out to Dusty for providing us 3 amazing days on our vacation. Thanks

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What's on Your Bucket List?

Isle of Skye

Its landscapes are otherworldly, its tales mythical, and its atmospheric weather utterly captivating. Let us take you to the famous Isle of Skye!

Explore Tours

Jacobite Steam Train

Embark on what is said to be the world's greatest railway journey, made famous by the Harry Potter movies, when joining us on tour.

Outlander Filming Locations

Step into the world of Outlander and follow the footsteps of Jamie and Claire from the beloved books and TV series.

Travel With Impact

Discover our range of MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences offering a balanced mix between sightseeing and creating a positive impact in Scotland.

Winter Getaways

Dreaming of a winter escape to a true wonderland? Our winter tours offer the the perfect retreat, where you can indulge in crisp winter scenery and warm Highland hospitality.

No trip to Scotland is complete without a taste of our favourite national drink - Uisge beatha, known as the 'water of life' in Scottish Gaelic.

Private Group Tours

Dreaming of your very own adventure in Scotland? Craft your own tour, picking the spots, stays, and timeline. From personalised whisky trails and golf escapes to tracing your ancestral clan's history, it's your trip, your way.

Create Your Own Tour

Early Bird Deals 2025

For a limited time, you can now book some of our most popular 2025 tours at 2024 prices!

Sign up for our Newsletter and get 10% off your first tour!

Highland Experience Tours

Day & multi day guided tours of scotland.

Experience the best of Scotland with Highland Experience’s expertly crafted tours. Our guided tours of Scotland offer an immersive journey through breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Discover hidden gems and iconic landmarks with our knowledgeable guides who provide deep insights beyond the typical tourist experience. Whether you’re interested in package tours of Scotland or private Scotland tours, our personalised itineraries ensure an unforgettable adventure tailored to your interests. Book your ultimate Scottish adventure today and explore Scotland like never before.

• Most popular tour!

From Edinburgh: 1-Day Loch Ness, Glen Coe & the Highlands Tour

Loch Ness, Glen Coe & the Highlands. On this tour, drive the full length of Loch Ness, get the opportunity to cruise on the loch and explore Urquhart Castle, and pass through Cairngorms National Park and the stunning Glen Coe.

• Calendar All year
• User 3+ years old
• Hour Glass 12.5 hrs
• Hour Glass 3 days

3-Day Ultimate Skye Experience Tour

Stay, explore and travel like a local in one of Scotland’s most scenic locations, the Isle of Skye, and see the spectacular Eilean Donan Castle. Book today!

• Hour Glass 9 hrs 45 min

From Edinburgh: 1-Day Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond & Whisky Tour

This is the Scottish experience ‘distilled’. It gives you a taste of three classic Scottish ingredients — castles, lochs and whisky. Book online today!

• Hour Glass 8.5 hrs

From Edinburgh: 1-Day Rosslyn Chapel, Stirling Castle & Dunfermline Abbey Tour

We take you behind the headlines of Dan Brown’s ‘Da Vinci Code’, explaining the background of one of the world’s most enduring mysteries. Book online today!

Why Choose Highland Experience Tours?

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5-Star Customer Service & Value

Award-Winning Local Guides

Comfort on Our Luxury Eco-Friendly Vehicles

Choices: Departure City, Accommodation, and More

• 1-day tours – 100% refund with 24 hours notice or more
• 2-3 day tours – 100% refund with 7 days notice or more
• 4-8 day tours – 100% refund with 14 days notice of more

This means you can book and be safe in the knowledge that if your plans change, we’ll change with you.

Experience Scotland with us!

As you might have noticed, we LOVE Scotland. From the challenging mountains to the glistening lochs and mysterious glens, the variety in its natural features is as striking as it is beautiful. But that’s not all; Scotland is also a nation boasting rich Scottish folklore and historical heritage. Clans, tartans, kilts and bagpipes are world-famous Scottish symbols, and so are our myths and historical figures. Are you curious about the origins of Nessie or want to learn about William Wallace or the battle of Culloden ? Scotland has an extensive history to be unearthed. With Highland Experience Tours, you enjoy world-famous Highland hospitality and experience all that Scotland has to offer. But don’t just take our word for it. Take a tour and experience it for yourself.

We hope to see you soon.

Award-Winning Guided Scotland Tours

Your Scotland experience starts here. From monsters and mountains , chapels and chieftains to castles and whisky , we want to give you the most authentic Scottish experience possible. From the comfort of our luxury bespoke vehicles to our legendary, fully qualified guides, we can’t wait to show you our stunning country.

We consider ourselves extremely lucky to have a job doing something we really enjoy; everyone at Highland Experience shares a passion for travel and helping other people discover Scotland’s Highlands.

Our love for real, sustainable and unique tour experiences makes us who we are.

Tours from Edinburgh

Tours from glasgow, tours from inverness.

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A Week In... Scotland

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• Small Group

Year, Departure Type

Select small group departures (averaging 24 Tauck guests), or classic departures, and the year you would like to travel.

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Uniquely Tauck

EXPERIENCE WITH TAUCK

TAUCK'S YELLOW ROADS – A drive off-the-beaten path in the dramatic Scottish Highlands

TAUCK VALUE INCLUDES

Entertainment during dinner in Inverness, featuring Scottish bagpipers and Highland dancers

Private tour of Glenturret Distillery, the Highland's oldest single malt distillery

Travel through scenic Glencoe, home to Highland moors, forests, & mountains

Castle visits steeped in history & lore: Cawdor, Blair, and Edinburgh

Private visit to Holyroodhouse (when the King is not in residence)

SEE WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES

Guests should be able to easily walk one to two miles, which may include climbing one or two flights of stairs and walking over uneven pavement, groomed hiking trails or cobblestones. Standing up to one hour or more may be required.

Moderately paced, and may include some early morning hotel departures, one or two on-tour flights, and extended motor coach travel.

Along Europe's Scenic "Yellow Roads"

The haunting skirl of the bagpipes during a private evening in Inverness... treasured family tartans... the strong traditions of the Clans... a private tour of Glenturret Distillery, the Highland's oldest single malt distillery...

This is Scotland. Tartans and kilts... the fields of Culloden where Bonnie Prince Charlie lost his chance at the crown and a piece of the nation's heart... the King's residence at Holyroodhouse... Cawdor Castle (home of Macbeth)... St. Andrews (the home of golf)... Edinburgh and the Royal Mile of pubs, shops, and enchanting historical sites... you'll become part of the unique story of Scotland, today and yesterday...

Special evening celebrating Scottish traditions

Celebrate the best of scotland at a lively evening of scottish traditions.

Bagpipers... Highland dancers... tartan and kilt making demonstration... iconic Scottish traditions that come to life on a special Scottish evening following dinner at Kingsmills Hotel.

Private tour of 244-year-old The Glenturret, one of the Highlands' oldest distilleries

Enjoy a privately guided tour at the glenturret, the highlands' oldest working distillery.

A tour and tasting at the Highlands' oldest single malt distillery reveals, in the words of The Glenturret, "Since its origins among the smugglers and illicit stills of the 18th century, The Glenturret has had some fascinating stories to tell. Whisky booms and prohibition might have ruffled its feathers, but The Glenturret scotch malt whisky, still made by hand in the traditional way, weathered all these challenges and has matured into an enduring brand that remains as the only traditionally hand mashed whisky in Scotland."

Experience an unforgettable evening of music, ceremony, theatre and dance at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo (seasonal)

Attend a performance of the fabulous royal edinburgh military tattoo.

Attend an outdoor evening performance of the annual Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, taking place on the esplanade of Edinburgh's iconic castle. an unforgettable evening of music, ceremony, theatre and dance. See Pricing & Availability for more details.

St. Andrews

It is the birthplace of golf and home to the third oldest university in the English-speaking country, where Prince William graduated himself. St. Andrews in Scotland is a treasure trove of history with remarkable coastlines and castle finds. If you choose to visit this beautiful city, you'll have time to visit the historic town and learn more about its golf origins that date back to the 15th century. During those early days, the ball was a pebble and players would attempt to hit one over the dunes and around tracks using a bent stick or club. The sport was banned in 1457 by the Scottish Parliament, but locals refused to stop, and in 1502 it gained the royal seal of approval by King James IV of Scotland, making it the world's first golfing monarch.

Tauck takes the worry out of travel and allows you to experience unique events that would be very difficult to arrange on your own.

Tauck Traveler Review

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All the information you need for this journey at your fingertips – day-by-day details, map, hotel descriptions, key highlights and more.

Where you stay is an important part of your journey – with Tauck, accommodations have been handpicked and carefully selected for their location and ambiance, enhancing the destinations you explore. Download accommodation details and your travel plans begin!

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Overnight Accommodations

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The kimpton blythswood square hotel.

Glasgow, Scotland

Kingsmills Hotel

Inverness, Scotland

The Balmoral

Edinburgh, Scotland

Your Journey

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About Booking This Tour

Travel Documents

If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally, you will need a passport valid for six months after the completion of your Tauck journey to enter the United Kingdom; however, you do not need a visa for the short duration of this tour.

If you are a citizen of another country traveling internationally, you should contact an embassy or consulate of the United Kingdom to determine what travel documentation is required.

Please note that longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation.

We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN: If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

• Tour Name and Departure Date
• Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
• Traveler's Address(es)
• Email Address*
• Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
• Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number  of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
• Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
• Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
• Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

* Required Fields

Deposits & Final Payment

Deposits and fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $600 per person

Final Payments:

Final Payment is due to Tauck  90  days before departure for lands trips, and  120  days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Travel Protection Plan

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Tauck's Guest Protection

Tauck's Guest Protection provides you with cancellation protection before your journey begins as well as insurance benefits while you are traveling. Guest Protection includes the following:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON up to the day before departure and receive a money-back refund (except in Extreme Circumstances*) on the land tour cost, based on your original method of payment.

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.

Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

• Trip Cancellation –  If you must cancel your tour due to a covered reason, the plan provides coverage for the amount you paid for your travel arrangements. Since the non-insurance cancellation waiver takes care of the land package cancellation fees already, this benefit reimburses the airfare cancellation charges up to the value of your original airfare purchase.
• Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement to catch up to your tour or return home.
• Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
• Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
• Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.
• Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Guest Protection is: $449  per person

This protection provides insurance coverage that applies only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Guest Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included with initial payment. Fees are based on costs as of July 1, 2021, and are subject to change. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your tour reservation. Guest Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

The Guest Protection plan waives cancellation fees outlined below, provided we are notified of cancellation before your tour departs. Tour cancellation fees are waived regardless of reason, without written notice, and Tauck will refund land tour cost.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit  affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACGPPINTL .

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees. If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply.

Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Guest Protection Plan:

Loss of Guest Protection fee, per person 

Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Guest Protection Plan :

90 days or more before departure = $600 per person

89-8 days before departure = $900 per person

7-1 days before departure = $1500 per person

Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation terms outlined herein.

Note:  All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Guest Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

Travel Terms and Conditions

Click here  to find Tauck's Travel Terms & Conditions.

Travel Requirements For This Tour

Air Information and Luggage Restrictions

AIRFARE: Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the journey cost. If purchasing your air elsewhere, it is very important to provide us with your confirmed arriving and departing flight information no later than 3 weeks before your arrival date. Flight information can be submitted to Tauck (or verified, if you've already provided it) in the My Account section of Tauck.com.

TAUCK AIRPORT TRANSFERS are included at the start and end of the journey between the airport and the Tauck hotel. Airport transfers are available for any pre tour or post tour hotel stays immediately consecutive to the tour, providing flight information is received in the Tauck office no later than three weeks in advance. Details on locating your transfer upon arrival to the tour start city will be included in your final documents.

AIRLINES and CHECKED LUGGAGE: Due to space limitations during your Tauck journey, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person. Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and are free to revise luggage policies without notice. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies. PLEASE NOTE that if you are booked on a tour that includes on-tour flights, the checked luggage weight restrictions for these flights may be lower than the weight restrictions for your international flights.

Checked Luggage – General

Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).

Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences.

Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.

Tauck luggage tags will be provided by your Tauck Director on Day 1 of your itinerary. Please do not attach a Tauck luggage tag to any carry-on items, as the Tauck tags designate luggage that is to be handled and transferred by ground operators and hotel staff during your journey.

Carry-on Luggage - General

Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.

For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or on the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.

Health, Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

While drinking water is generally safe at all our hotels, bottled water will be available wherever the local water is not fit to drink. We also provide bottled water on the motor coaches.

There is a smoking ban in public places throughout Scotland. The Blythswood Square Hotel and the Charlotte Square Hotel are a non-smoking property, with no 'smoking' rooms available. The Kingsmills Hotel has 5 guest rooms designated as 'smoking' rooms, and these must be requested at time of booking and cannot be guaranteed.

Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.

If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.

VACCINATIONS  

If you are a resident of the U.S., no vaccinations are currently required for travel to Scotland. For complete vaccination and inoculation information, please contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to obtain information about vaccinations that may be required for your journey. The CDC operates a 24-hour information line at 800-232-4636 (toll-free in the U.S.). You may also log on to the CDC website by clicking here .

If you are a resident of another country, please contact an embassy or consulate of the United Kingdom to determine what vaccination(s) may be required for your travel.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.

A Week in… Scotland involves a considerable amount of walking. To enjoy this tour, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. Some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. The visits to the castles involve some stair climbing and walking up inclines. The amount of walking you do, however, is at your discretion.

PLEASE NOTE: We regret that this Tauck itinerary cannot accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters. Likewise, we regret that we're unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs. The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest. Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.

Reading List

We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey!

You can view the reading list  here.

Scotland's climate is temperate and, as in the rest of the U. K., the weather tends to be unpredictable. In general, Scotland tends to be cool, damp and cloudy, and is colder on average than the rest of the U.K. The coldest areas are the highlands, and the northern latitude has short winter days and very long summer evenings. The east coast experiences more sunshine, but colder winters, compared to the west. The average high temperatures for May through September range from 55 to 65˚F (13 to 18˚C) and the average low temperatures range from 45 to 55˚F (7 to 13˚C). Glasgow on the west coast has almost 50% more rain per year than either Inverness or Edinburgh.

To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website by clicking here .

What To Pack

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we've partnered with New Headings who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site .

The weather in Scotland is moderate but unpredictable. Your journey is designed with leisure in mind. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is adaptable and allows for layering. Generally, during the day, casual, comfortable, cotton clothing is recommended. Cool weather at higher elevations or at night will require warmer, layered clothing.

In Europe, especially in finer restaurants, it is generally customary to dress somewhat formally. Slacks or a dress for women and a jacket and tie for men are acceptable dining attire, although not required. It is advisable to avoid wearing jeans, sneakers or shorts for dinner. You may also wish to dress up a bit for the welcome reception and the farewell dinner, but by all means be comfortable.

You will find a hair dryer located in your hotel guest room. Irons and ironing boards are available upon request. Valet laundry and dry cleaning services are also available for a fee.

We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor's prescription or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, a list of the generic names of your medication, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed.

Following is a list of recommended items to pack for your trip to Scotland:

• Casual daytime wear – shorts, slacks, long and short-sleeved shirts
• An optional jacket and tie for men
• Casually elegant evening wear for ladies
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
• A light sweater or jacket for higher elevations or a breezy night
• Binoculars (7x50 preferably)
• Insect repellent
• Camera, lenses, batteries, memory cards and chargers
• Lightweight, comfortable, sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in
• Travel alarm clock/cell phone with alarm function (many hotels do not have clocks in the rooms)
• Rain poncho and collapsible umbrella
• Daypack for camera equipment
• Sundries and toiletries that may be difficult to find en route
• Copies of your travel documents that should be secured in the safe in your hotel room while traveling

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Scottish Highlands

Scotland’s handsome heights.

You know when you watch a movie and think 'That place can't possibly exist, it must be CGI'? That's why travellers and photographers, poets, filmmakers, and dreamers have continuously found themselves drawn to the Scottish Highlands .

Haven't been yet? Can't picture it? Imagine a place of wild beauty and mystery; where spectacular mountains overlook deep lochs. A place where battle-ravaged castles are spectators of the peaceful wildlife.

The Highlands are a mystical location and more than just a visit to the iconic landmarks of Loch Ness and Glencoe.

Tour the Highlands on our small group tours of up to 16 people and experience the stories, scenery, and incredible traditions.

Explore Scottish Highlands tours

Why you'll love the Highlands

Lovely Landscapes

Some landscapes tell tales of terrible battles. Others feel like they’re home to giants and fairies. Whereas many are so stunning, you’re stopped in your tracks. From barren moors to dense forests, you don’t need to delve deep into the Highlands to find beauty.

Wonderful Wildlife

In the evening, you hear the owls cry. In the morning, you see silhouettes of stags in the forests. And by the sea, you can admire thrashing whales and dolphins. Scotland’s Highlands are abundant with wildlife; so it’s a good idea to bring wildlife books and binoculars on your tour.

Curious Castles

Mysteries lie within. Like a hidden passageway. A strange portrait looming above you in a dark hallway. A wall torn to shreds by violence and time. The castles of Scotland display their history proudly. They sigh over their own ruinous state, welcoming your admiration over all they’ve endured.

Heartfelt Hospitality

Quaint and snug cottages. Large and eerie castles. Cosy and traditional pubs. No matter where you go in the Highlands, you’re sure to receive a warm welcome. Highland hospitality is genuine and typically involves a hearty meal shared amongst new and old friends.

Scottish Highland Tours

Select by month

Loch Ness, Glencoe & the Highlands - 1 day tour

Monsters and mountains: this is the best way to see the best of Scotland, from Glencoe to Loch Ness.

Prices from £69.00

DEPARTING FROM: Edinburgh

Skye & Eilean Donan Castle - 1 day tour

Experience your own slice of heaven on Scotland's most famous island.

Prices from £68.00

DEPARTING FROM: Inverness

Oban, Glencoe, Highland Lochs & Castles - 1 day tour

Iconic castles. Tales of old clan rivalries. Brilliant mountain scenery. This is the Scottish Highlands.

Prices from £56.00

DEPARTING FROM: Glasgow

Loch Lomond National Park, Kelpies & Stirling Castle - 1 day tour

Step back in time and discover the legends, landscapes, and landmarks that defined Scottish history.

Prices from £57.00

The Isle of Skye - 3 day tour

Roam the breathtaking Isle of Skye and its beautifully unique landscape that's something out of a dream.

Prices from £225.00

Prices from £67.00

West Highlands, Lochs & Castles - 1 day tour

Capture the spirit of the Western Highlands and explore Scotland's most atmospheric lochs and castles.

Prices from £64.00

The Complete Loch Ness Experience - 1 day tour

Your ultimate Loch Ness adventure, from frothy waterfalls to cosy villages and maybe a monster or two.

Prices from £40.00

Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond & Cruise - 1 day tour

What do you love more? The grandeur of Stirling Castle or the beauty of Loch Lomond? We can't decide.

Prices from £49.00

Glen Affric, Culloden & Clava Cairns - 1 day tour

A true Highland adventure exploring 'Scotland's most beautiful glen' and learning about Culloden.

Prices from £44.00

Isle of Skye & West Highlands - 4 day tour

Travel to where ancient mountains meet thrilling myths, where beauty waits in every forest and mountain.

Prices from £289.00

Loch Ness, Inverness & the Highlands - 2 day tour

Explore the majesty of Loch Ness, the Caledonian pine forest and the Cairngorms National Park.

Prices from £130.00

Scotland Tours from Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness and London

• Scotland Tours
• Highlands and Island...

• Isle of Skye
• Luskentyre Beach
• Jacobite Steam Train
• Callanish Standing Stones
• Eilean Donan Castle
• Culloden Battlefield

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Highlands and Islands - 8 day tour

Highlands and Islands  8 day / 7 night tour

On this wide-ranging tour of Scotland’s glorious West Coast, visit Skye to discover the towering peaks of the craggy Cuillin Mountains and the dramatic scenery of the Quiraing. Spend time in Glen Coe then Loch Ness before travelling to the very edge of Europe to explore the magical islands of Harris and Lewis. Discover ancient sites, walks along unspoilt beaches and experience the lilt of Gaelic.

Kilmartin Glen - discover 5,000 years of history at the birthplace of the Scottish nation

Jacobite Steam Train - selected tours enjoy a one-way ride on the famous West Highland Line aboard the real Hogwarts Express

Skye - discover the unrivalled beauty of the Cuillin Hills and the lunar landscape of the famous Trotternish Peninsula

Lewis - explore the mysterious pre-historic Callanish standing stones  

Harris - take a stroll along the golden sands of Luskentyre Beach

Movie locations - Harry Potter, The Land That Time Forgot and The Rocket Post

Guest house accommodation included

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Full Tour Itinerary

Select Day:

Day 1 - Edinburgh - Inveraray - Oban

Departing from Edinburgh, we travel westwards across Scotland to reach Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city.

Soon we enter the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park , a natural wonder just waiting to be discovered. Loch Lomond is a real highlight - it's Britain's largest lake and one of Scotland's loveliest. It has 30 islands, including one inhabited by a colony of wallabies! We’ll make a stop in the pretty village of Luss so you can stroll by the "bonnie, bonnie banks".

The Argyll Forest Park is famed for its ancient trees, tranquil lochs and mountains. Look out for Ben Arthur, affectionately known as "The Cobbler” - it’s one of Scotland’s most popular climbs.

Soon our coach starts our ascent of the "Rest and be Thankful” mountain pass. You’ll soon realise why this road has such an unusual name when you look down on General Wade's original road that winds its way through Glen Croe all the way to the summit!

The 3rd Duke of Argyll built the "new" town of Inveraray at the head of Loch Fyne. The town sits in the shadow of Inveraray Castle  and, as we will discover, this pleasant town retains much of its 18th Century charm.

From Lochgilphead we enter Kilmartin Glen . This mysterious Glen has one of the most concentrated areas of prehistoric sites in Scotland, including a linear cemetery – a line of burial cairns stretching over 2 miles.

Nearby is Dunadd, a hill fort that dates from the Iron Age. Dunadd was the capital of the ancient Kingdom of Dalriada, so this part of Argyll has played an important part in the creation of modern Scotland!

Soon we arrive in the bustling, beautiful port of Oban, our stop for tonight. Oban is known as the "gateway to the isles", so why not take a pre-dinner stroll and admire the views over the busy harbour?

Overnight: Oban

Day 2 - Oban - Glen Coe - Isle of Skye

We bid farewell to Oban and make our way to the Connel Bridge. As we cross Loch Etive, look out for the Falls of Lora below. 

Glen Coe is arguably Scotland's most famous Glen partly because of its awe-inspiring beauty and, more sinisterly, because of the infamous massacre that took place here in 1692. The sad tale will be told as we make a short diversion to explore this special place for ourselves.

Fort William's glorious setting on the banks of Loch Linnhe has made it a popular tourist destination since the arrival of the steamships in the mid-1900s. The town sits in the shadow of Ben Nevis, which, at 4,406 feet, is the tallest mountain in the UK.

Here selected departures* will board the famous Jacobite Steam Train for a trip along one of the most scenic railway routes in Europe!

Along the way, see Ben Nevis, Britain's tallest mountain and savour stunning loch-side vistas at every turn.

One of the journey's highlights is crossing the 21 arches of the Glenfinnan Viaduct, famous for its appearance in the Harry Potter movies. Look out for the evocative Glenfinnan Monument built in tribute to the Jacobite clansmen.

There are lovely coastal views as we head towards Mallaig, where there is free time to explore before boarding a ferry to cross to the magical Isle of Skye, our home for the next two nights.

* Departures from 6 May to 26 September 2024

All other departures will include a cruise on Loch Ness and a visit to Urquhart Castle instead. The journey between Mallaig and Fort William will be undertaken by road.

Overnight: Isle of Skye (2 nights)

Day 3 - Touring the Magical Isle

After breakfast, we board our coach to explore the beautiful Isle of Skye .

From the little villages and gentle scenery of the southern part of the island, the views will change dramatically as the Cuillin Hills come into sight. Considered by many to be amongst the finest hills in Britain, the Cuillins present a simply unforgettable vista.

Set around its natural harbour, the picturesque town of Portree is the largest community on the Isle of Skye. The town's name means the "King's Port" following a visit by King James V in 1540. Today the pretty painted houses surrounding the harbour give Portree an old-fashioned appeal. During our stop, there will be time to explore the town and browse the interesting shops surrounding bustling Somerled Square.

Later we tour the famed Trotternish Peninsula. From Portree, we travel northwards to the little ferry port of Uig, where ferries sail to the Outer Hebrides. At little Kilmuir, there is a monument to Flora MacDonald , who famously assisted Bonnie Prince Charlie in escaping the Government Troops who were hunting for him.

We'll stop to explore The Quiraing, a dramatic terrain formed by a landslide and enjoy a walk through a landscape that dates from Jurassic times! See if you can identify the rock formations that are known as the "Needle", "Table" and "Prison".

A short drive brings us to Kilt Rock, so named because the basalt columns of this rock fall to resemble the pleats of a kilt - we will stop so you can snap an "I was there" photograph!

Day 4 - Isle of Skye - Eilean Donan Castle - Inverness

After breakfast we bid farewell to the Isle of Skye and return to the mainland.

We stop to visit picturesque Eilean Donan Castle . This is, without doubt, one of Scotland's most iconic sights. The castle stands on a little island situated at the confluence of Loch's Alsh and Duich. We'll have time to discover the castle for ourselves during our stop here.

There are wonderful views as we travel through Glen Shiel, look out for the impressive mountain range known as the Five Sisters of Kintail . Wildlife thrives in this part of Scotland so as we drive through this striking scenery you might see local residents such as red deer, golden eagles and pine martins.

Enjoy a scenic drive along the banks of mysterious Loch Ness and free time to explore the attractive village of Drumnadrochit. This afternoon take the opportunity to visit impressive Urquhart Castle and take a monster-spotting cruise on the dark and deep waters of Loch Ness.

A relaxing drive brings a late afternoon arrival in Inverness, the Capital of the Highlands.

Overnight: Inverness

Day 5 - Inverness - Arnol Blackhouse - Stornoway (Isle of Lewis)

From Inverness, we head across the Black Isle, then tour westwards to the fishing port of Ullapool . Founded in 1788 at the height of the herring boom , this attractive town sits on the banks of Loch Broom. Here, we board our ferry bound for the Isle of Lewis.  

After crossing The Minch, landfall is the bustling port of Stornoway, the island's main town and our base for exploring Lewis and Harris . 

We step back in time when we visit Arnol Blackhouse , a traditional style of Hebridean dwelling that is a barn, byre and home all under a thatched roof. The last residents left in 1965 and left behind a well-preserved time capsule of life on these islands not so very long ago. 

Harris Tweed is a luxury fabric handwoven by islanders using local wool. Our last stop of the day will be to a local weaver who will demonstrate the manufacturing process using a traditional handloom – a truly fascinating process. 

It is a short drive to our comfortable accommodation in Stornoway. After settling in, there is time to explore before heading for dinner.

Overnight: Stornoway, Isle of Lewis (2 nights)

Day 6 - Exploring Lewis and Harris

Together, Harris and Lewis make Scotland's largest island. These islands have been inhabited for over 6,000 years, and there is a real sense of history as we will discover as we spend today discovering these neighbouring islands.

After breakfast, we will head to the impressive Dun Carloway Broch , an Iron Age stone fort known to have been built more than 2,000 years ago. This is one of the best-preserved fortified towers in Scotland, and it has a beautiful location with incredible views over Loch Carloway and the sea beyond. 

It is a short drive to our next visit*, the astonishing Callanish Standing Stones . Archaeologists believe Neolithic people placed these 15-foot (5 m) stones here sometime between 3,000 and 1,000 BC. The site is rated second in importance only to Stonehenge . 

We'll travel through the imposing hills of North Harris, which offer beautiful vistas, to reach the ferry port of Tarbert, the main community on Harris. We'll stop here to explore this pleasant little village - a great place to pick up a souvenir of your Hebridean travels!

Our scenic tour continues with a drive to the island's west coast to savour the views over to the picturesque island of Taransay, the location of the BBC TV series "Castaway". Harris is home to some breathtaking beaches. The most famous is Luskentyre , whose white sands appear never-ending - it's the perfect place for some beach-combing!

The little village of Rodel is our final stop of the day. St Clement's Church is an impressive structure erected for the Chief of the MacLeods of Harris around 1520. It is believed to be the most significant medieval building in the Outer Hebrides. The church's interior is captivating and showcases some exquisite late medieval sculptures, such as a splendid wall tomb made in 1528 for Alasdair Crotach MacLeod, the 8th Chief.

*  Due to planned facility closures, tours departing in September 2024 will be unable to visit Callanish Standing Stones.

Day 7 - Stornoway - Ullapool - Inverness

Our last day on these islands takes us westwards to see the Butt of Lewis lighthouse and to experience stunning clifftop views over the Atlantic Ocean. This remote location has the record for the windiest place in Britain, and due west from here, there is nothing but wild sea until the next landfall in North America! 

We return to Stornoway for some free time to explore this bustling port before our island interlude comes to an end. Later, we make for the ferry port where the MV Loch Seaforth waits for our crossing back to the mainland. 

On arrival in Ullapool, we head for our overnight accommodation in Inverness.

Day 8 - Inverness - Cairngorm National Park - Edinburgh

There’s time to explore Inverness, the Capital of the Highlands, before travelling the short distance to visit tragic Culloden Moor . It was here that the Jacobite army of Bonnie Prince Charlie was routed by Government troops in a bloody battle in 1746.

We’ll stop at Dalwhinnie Malt Whisky Distillery so that you can discover how our National drink is lovingly produced. After our tour, you’ll have the chance to sample a "wee nip” and shop for souvenirs.

The  Cairngorms National Park is Britain’s largest and contains five of Scotland’s six highest peaks. The park provides a stunning backdrop to our travels through the Spey Valley then, we descend through the Drumochter Pass to reach the pleasant Victorian tourist town of Pitlochry, where we will stop for refreshments.

The dramatic scenery of Highland Perthshire gives way to rolling farmland as we reach the "Fair City” of Perth then we join the motorway for our journey through the ancient Kingdom of Fife.

The final part of our drive offers wonderful views of the Forth Bridge as we make our way into Edinburgh.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can i expect on this signature multi-day tour.

For the discerning traveller a Signature Multi-day Tour offers amazing value for money, comfortable accommodation, well-paced sightseeing and luxury travel.

All of this combines to create the definitive Scottish experience.

Each tour is hosted by a professional driver/guide, who has been chosen for their extensive knowledge as well as their driving skills. And being locals you are sure to get that extra insight. If you should have any problems during your stay, they’ll go out of their way to help.

You will want to see as much as possible, but you don’t want to be rushed. Our tours are carefully planned to strike the right balance, and as well as comfortable mini/midicoach travel many feature memorable railway or ferry journeys.

Having somewhere pleasant to stay after an exciting day of discovery is an important part of your holiday experience. Comfortable guest house accommodation with en-suite bathrooms, tv and other amenities is included in the price of all tours.

A tasty Scottish breakfast is included each morning of your stay.

Can you tell me more about the optional extras on this tour?

To give you complete choice, admission fees are not included in the cost of this tour. The tour itinerary has been carefully designed to provide sufficient time for you to visit these attractions:

Eilean Donan Castle Loch Ness Cruise  Arnol Blackhouse Callanish Standing Stones Culloden Moor Visitor Centre Malt Whisky Distillery

If you click on the links above, they will provide you with more information on each attraction, including current admission prices. Sometimes a special discount is offered to tour passengers, your driver/guide will provide details if this applies.

Please note that credit/debit cards are not always accepted, so it is recommended that you carry sufficient cash with you should you want to visit.

What type of room should I choose?

There are different bedrooms types to choose from, here is what you can expect:

Single room - one person sleeping in a single bed Twin room - two people sleeping in two separate beds Double room - two people sharing one large bed Family room - three people sharing a room sleeping in one large bed (2 people) and one single bed (1 person)

Please note that a family room can be a standard double room with either a sofa bed or a rollaway bed.

What is the journey on the Jacobite Steam Train like?

Described as one of the great railway journeys of the world this memorable trip will take you past a list of impressive extremes.

Starting near the highest mountain in Britain, Ben Nevis, it visits Britain’s most westerly mainland railway station, Arisaig; passes close by the deepest freshwater loch in Britain, Loch Morar and the shortest river in Britain, River Morar, finally arriving next to the deepest seawater loch in Europe, Loch Nevis!

The train will cross the 21-arched Glenfinnan viaduct (a location made famous in the Harry Potter films) which overlooks Loch Shiel and the Jacobite monument. The train may pause on the viaduct, time permitting, to allow you to take in the magnificent view.

Standard class tickets are included in the cost of the tour. Unfortunately, it’s not possible to upgrade these tickets to First Class.

Will I hear Gaelic being spoken?

The Outer Hebrides is the heartland of Gaelic culture and the majority of islanders will speak the Gaelic language, as well as English.

Of course, there is no need to learn Gaelic to enjoy your time in the Outer Hebrides, but if you would like to learn a few words why not try:

Hello - Halò Goodbye - Mar sin leibh My name is - Is mise How are you? - Ciamar a tha sibh? I’m fine thank you - Tha gu math tapadh leibh Excuse me - Gabh mo leisgeul Cheers! - Slàinte!

View all Frequently Asked Questions...

Accommodation

• 7 nights guest house accommodation
• Location: Oban (1); Isle of Skye (2): Inverness (2) and Stornoway, Isle of Lewis (2)
• Scottish/Continental breakfast (7)

Visits, Admissions and Experiences

One-way journey on the Jacobite Steam Train or cruise on Loch Ness with a visit to Urquhart Castle

Tour Essentials

• Transportation by luxury air-conditioned mini/midi coach
• Live commentary in English
• Services of an experienced driver/guide
• Service charges and taxes
• Admission charges
• Meals, snacks or items of a personal nature
• Gratuity to your driver/guide

Departure information

From 1 Parliament Square Royal Mile/High Street Edinburgh EH1 1RE

Check-in: 08:15 hrs Tour Departs: 08:30 hrs Tour Returns: 19:00 hrs

Child details

Concession discount applies to adults aged 60 years and above; students and children aged 3 to 15 years inclusive.

We’re really sorry but children aged under 3 years cannot travel on this tour.

Photo-ID may be requested to confirm discount entitlement.  

Price Notes

Accommodation The price of this tour includes guest house accommodation with an en-suite bathroom. 

Luggage Allowance One medium sized suitcase/bag per person (maximum weight: 15 kilos)

Jacobite Steam Train Tours departing between 06 May and 26 September 2024 will include a one-way journey on the Jacobite Steam Train.

All other departures will feature a cruise on Loch Ness and visit to Urquhart Castle.

Admission Prices In order to give you maximum flexibility admission fees are not included in the cost of this tour. 

FAQs Please see the FAQ section for more information on this tour.

Product code   HEX 00790

Blogs and Guides - discover insider tips and ideas

Customer reviews overall rating:.

I really enjoyed my tour . The timing was very well done, and our 2 drivers (Andrew and Fergus were very nice and very knowledgeable). Some of the accomodations were less nice than expected given the price but overall, no complaints at all.

Both Andrew and David were excellent drivers/guides. Each with an unique style. We had a wonderful group of passengers and an unforgettable experience. If I may make one criticism, a little silence every now and again to take in the stunning surroundings would have also been appreciated but the amount of history both men knew was remarkable. I'd definitely recommend you!

This was an excellent tour, Martin and I enjoyed it immensely; we only wish we could have kept travelling for another 8 days! Both Andrew and David were super guides. They both had their own style, one was a strict time keeper while the other was somewhat more laid back. Our group was also brilliant, age range 28 - 72. I've already recommended Highland Experience to many people on Facebook.

8 day tour from £ 1575.00

6 day tour from £ 1395.00

5 day tour from £ 850.00

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Ring of Brodgar

9 Day Highlands & Islands Tour

Experience the the best of our rugged highlands and peaceful islands, on a 9 day escorted tour. Accommodation, breakfast, evening meals and attraction are all included.

This popular Highlands & Islands tour underlines the many contrasts of Scotland; beautiful island and coastal landscapes - the highlights include: the majestic Highlands, magical castles, remote historic places and does so in a relaxing 9 days. Take in the contrasting scenery that Scotland has to offer, from the lochs and forests of the mainland, to the mountainous landscapes of Skye and the Cairngorms as well as the history and culture of the Outer Hebrides. This tour includes carefully selected, quality accommodation.

Day 1 is a fabulous introduction to the Scottish landscape; exploring the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond and Scotland’s first National Park, the fairy-tale castle of Inveraray and fabulous Glencoe, steeped in history with dramatic scenery. Overnight nr Glencoe.

Day 2 takes us west on the spectacular “Road to the Isles” providing wonderful views across the Sound of Arisaig to the Small Isles of Eigg and Rhum. Our journey takes us past Neptune’s Staircase on our way to take the ferry “Over the Sea to Skye”. Overnight Skye.

Day 3  is a tour of the Island of Skye, passing through Broadford and on to the Island capital, Portree. Heading north we take in the fabulous scenery and seascapes with Dunvegan Castle and other options a possibility. Overnight Skye.

Day 4 we travel by ferry from Skye to the Outer Hebrides and we will spend the afternoon exploring the dramatic beauty of the Isle of Harris with highlights including the Golden Road and stunning Luskentyre beach. Overnight North Harris.

Day 5 we explore the rich history of Lewis which has been inhabited by man for around 5000 years or more. Visiting the ancient Calanais Standing Stones, Dun Carloway Broch, and a traditional blackhouse village we will discover the ancient way of life. Overnight Lewis.

Day 6 allows more time to explore Lewis before we head back to the mainland past the Summer Isles and venture through Wester Ross. This is a very old landscape and the area is well known for its spectacular mountain scenery, especially the Torridon Hills. Overnight nr Inverness.

Day 7 we head south into the "Capital of the Highlands"; Inverness and on to Culloden Battlefield to learn about the last Jacobite rebels who fell here. Iconic Loch Ness is next up with fabulous scenery and picturesque villages along the way. Overnight nr Inverness.

Day 8 explores the Cairngorms National Park with towering mountain ranges and large tracts of the original Caledonian Pine Forest. Heading south, we take in Carrbridge, Aviemore and Pitlochry with the opportunity to visit the whisky Distillery. Overnight Pitlochry.

Day 9 explores Highland Perthshire and the beautiful village of Dunkeld before we head south to Edinburgh via the Forth Bridges. A leisurely visit to Rosslyn Chapel, made famous by Dan Brown's book The Da Vinci Code, will be enlightening before we enjoy a walk down the Royal Mile, with its charming medieval architecture and the opportunity to do some last minute speciality shopping.

What We Include

• Your own tour co-ordinator who will work with you to provide the best itinerary to suit you.
• Accommodation Handpicked by Best Scottish Tours
• Quality B&B lodgings
• Full Scottish breakfast each morning
• A luxury touring vehicle with ample space for all luggage and passenger
• Maximum of 8 people per vehicle
• Your own driver/tour guide

What We Don’t Include

• Lunch/snacks and dinners
• Drinks / Beverages
• Attractions

Our tours operate on a dinner, bed and breakfast basis where possible with lunch and beverages excluded. Where dinner is not included in your accommodation, an allocation per head is organised at that evening’s restaurant. 

From £3989 per adult

Departure days.

• W Wednesday

January — December

Contact details

• +44 (0131) 2082208
• View tour details
• [email protected]

Tour information

• Driver guide
• Small Group (1-16)
• Food and drink
• Photography

Tour prices

From £3989 Per Adult

Prices are subject to change depending on season

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Fully Guided Tours & Trips in Scottish Highlands

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Edinburgh, Hebrides & Highlands (Hotel) - 5 days

Hebridean escape 3 day tour, edinburgh, hebrides & highlands - 5 days, isle of skye, loch ness & inverness, inverness to the outer hebrides (hotel) - 3 days, isle of skye and the highlands, 3-day lewis, harris and the outer hebrides small-group tour from inverness, isle of skye & hebridean hopper, 3-day the north coast 500 small-group tour from inverness, outer hebrides & skye explorer - 6 days.

• Coach / Bus
• Sightseeing
• Ullapool - Visit this pretty whitewashed fishing village, on the shore of Loch Broom
• Scottish Highlands - Uncover some of the UK's best scenery as you traverse coastal roads, pass mountains and native pine forests
• Inverness - Enjoy a free evening in the 'Capital of the Highlands'

• In-depth Cultural
• Corrieshalloch Gorge: Admire the incredible scenery of Sutherland from the spectacular viewing platform
• Callanish Standing Stones & Carloway Broch: Explore the islands fascinating pre-historic sites
• Butt of Lewis Lighthouse: The windiest place in the UK

“It was the most wonderful tour ever. He was exceptional and even when I return to Scotland, i fear no one will never match up to his standards.”

• Loch Ness - Hunt for 'Nessie', the mythical beast believed to dwell in the dark waters of Scotland's most famous loch

• Enjoy the greatest railway journey in the world (Mid April – Mid Oct)
• Learn the secrets of historic Glencoe
• Keep an eye out for the monster of Loch Ness

“Our tour was well-planned, very interesting and alot of fun. The Scottish scenery was spectacular and all the people we met were warm and friendly.”

• Christmas & New Year
• Spot Nessie as you explore the shores of Loch Ness
• View the picturesque Eilean Donan in the Highlands

“We had the best three days of our life with our nice happy group. I assure you that we will take tours with you all over the world when we travel.”

“The equipment clean and without problems, seats comfortable and roomy. Would definitely book again.”

• Educational
• We’re the only Tour Operator offering multi-language audio guides on our tours
• German, Mandarin, French, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese
• Hostel Multi-Share Mixed-Gender Dorm accommodation is included in the price of your tour

“I would suggest this tour and company to absolutely anyone who wants to see as much of Scotland.”

• Discover the diversity of Scotland
• Try some fresh seafood
• Gain in-depth knowledge of the North Coast 500

“She was friendly, extremely knowledgeable and keenly attentive. HIGHLY recommended!!”

• Glencoe - Soak up the stunning mountain views and learn about the tragic and famous massacre that took place here in 1692
• Ullapool - Stay in this pretty whitewashed fishing village, on the shore of Loch Broom

“A lovely trip which is well organized. Enjoyed the companionship of the friendly tour mates 😊”

Travel Styles

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Highlander Private Tours

Highland tours with Highlanders

Offering private tours for up to 8 people through the very best of the Scottish Highlands.

We take great pride in showing our visitors the most scenic views of the Highlands alongside historical places of interest.

TOURS FROM INVERNESS, INVERGORDON & EDINBURGH

Private Tour from £400

Highlights:

Hill of the Faeries

Uruqhart Castle

Beauly Priory

Cawdor Castle

Clava Cairns

Culloden Battlefield

Private Tour from £580

Eilean Donan Castle

Skye Bridge Viewpoint

Sligachan Old Bridge

Talisker Distillery

Quiraing Viewpoint

Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls

Old Man of Storr Viewpoint

Private Tour from £450

Loch Maree Viewpoint

Torridon Hills

Five Sisters of Kintail

Urquhart Castle

Dornoch Firth

Falls of Shin

Dunrobin Castle

Loch Fleet National Nature Reserve

Dornoch Cathedral

Glenmorangie Distillery

Castle Leod

Wardlaw Mausoleum

Culloden Battlefield  

2-10 Day Tours

For up to 12 people

Price on Application

Private, bespoke tours all around Scotland in our comfortable Mercedes vehicles. Let us help plan your itinerary!

Distilleries could include:

Glenmorangie

Glenfiddich

and many more...

Travelling to or from the Highlands?  Take a tour along the way...

Our door-to-door transfer tours offer an easy solution for your travel arrangements to and from the Highlands.

• Suidhe Viewpoint
• Fort Augustus
• Well of the Seven Heads
• Commando Monument
• Glenfinnan Monument & Viaduct
• Neptune's Staircase
• Glencoe Visitor Centre

Minimum duration 4 hours

Private Tour from £260

Choose where you wish to go and let us compile an itinerary for you.

* Please note - all prices are for tours only. Entrance fees to attractions, meals and accommodation are not included in tour price.

Why Choose Us?

Born in Stratherrick on the south side of Loch Ness, we have lived here all our lives and know the Highlands as only a local would. We have spent many years guiding visitors to the most stunning, photogenic places in the Highlands. We know and take pride in this land we call home, and we are eager to share it with you.

1-8 People    ●    private, personalised tours   ●   comfortable cars

    Guided ​ To​urs of Scotland

Private tours with dri​ver-guide greg kain.

"Thanks for being such a great guide and wonderful company"

The MacLeods of Calgary, Alberta

Welcome To Guided Tours of Scotland

• Private tours for small groups, families and couples, with an experienced driver-guide
• ​   Bespoke tours , island hopping, whisky tours     &  multi-da​y road trip itineraries to magical places like Skye, Glencoe, Mull, Oban,  Orkney, Shetland, Islay, NW Highlands, Ireland & the Outer Hebrides
• Tailor made tours designed for you, to suit your travel plans and accommodation, with flexible schedules and start & finish points to allow you to explore Scotland at your own pace, visit  the  must see sights, get off-the-beaten-track and onto the back roads that the bus tours cannot reach!
• No loss of deposit in the event of cancellation
• Only a few tour dates left in 2023 - late availability dates in June , July and August ! 
• Book now to guarantee your preferred 2024 dates before they disappear!
• Up to 15% discount off winter tour bookings for tours taken between November 2023 and February 2024!

home >>  multi-day tours >> bespoke tours >> whisky tours >> edinburgh day trips >> glasgow day trips >> quote me ​

E: [email protected]   |  T:  +44 7791 579 573

• Scottish Tours
• Shore Excursions
• Experiences

Exceptional Private Tours

Scotland.  a land of proud heritage, fascinating history and world-famous scenery., luxury highland tours are specialists in chauffeur travel and private guided tours of scotland and the islands - you'll see and experience our castles, mountains, lochs and so much more.  , relax and discover the best that scotland has to offer, all in luxurious comfort. , s cottish tours.

Indulge in a multi-day trip of a lifetime.  The best way to become intimate with Scotland; stay in fabulous hand-picked hotels set in amazing locations and visit world-class attractions.

D ay T ours

Pressed for time?  See more of Scotland with a knowledgable kilted chauffeur guide mixed with exciting attractions and memorable locations, all in one action-packed day.

E xcursions

We can meet you at most cruise ship ports and take you on a historic voyage of discovery!  Let us know what you wish to see and do and we can make it happen.

5 Star Accommodation

Your gateway to the very best of Scottish Luxury and Boutique Hotels.

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* Image: Cameron House, Loch Lomond

The finest of foods

With Scottish seafood and farm produce being celebrated the world over for its quality, it is not surprising that Scotland is home to some of the UK's finest eateries.

Rugged but beautiful

The rugged scenery of the Scottish Highlands is breathtakingly beautiful, with rolling hills, majestic peaks, wooded glens and serene lochs.

Multi Day Tours & Day Trips

All our luxury private guided tours are designed to maximize your experience of our beautiful country allowing you to make memories to last a lifetime.  There are no time restrictions; our tours progress at a pace that allow you to enjoy Scotland, so you decide how long or little you wish to stay at each location.

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Highland Activities & Experiences

The Scottish Highlands and Islands are Europe's last great wilderness, a beautiful landscape filled with mountains, hills, lochs and rivers.  Scotland is the perfect destination for a range of exciting activities to incorporate into your Scottish vacation.  From white water rafting to kayaking, archery to ATV driving, fishing to golf, there are a range of activities to suit everyone, whatever your skill or taste.

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Amazing Britain

17 Locations

2 Countries

Discover Amazing Britain on this unforgettable trip. Explore Shakespeare’s theatrical roots, the mystique of Stonehenge, and the fresh air and rugged landscapes of the Scottish Highlands. There, you’ll visit a traditional whisky distillery and learn about the locals’ favorite drink.

Save up to $322

Best of Scotland

9 Locations

Experience the Best of Scotland from Edinburgh Castle to the eclectic streets of Glasgow. Revel in the romance and history of the Scottish Highlands and contemplate the mysterious depths of Loch Ness, before toasting bonnie Scotland’s lochs, glens and legendary locals.

Save up to $499

Best of Ireland and Scotland

21 Locations

3 Countries

Travel to see the very Best of Ireland and Scotland, from delicate Waterford Crystal to the golfing greats of St. Andrews. Kiss the Blarney Stone and you’ll be sharing tales from Giant’s Causeway, the Ring of Kerry and the Scottish Highlands for years to come.

Save up to $352

Britain and Ireland Highlights

15 Locations

5 Countries

Short on travel time but want to see all the Britain and Ireland highlights? This trip delivers the genius of Shakespeare, Waterford crystal creations in Ireland and a hearty Welsh dinner at a local vineyard, with a side of ancient history, in just 10 days.

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The best of Scotland unlocked for you

Experience Scotland differently. Enjoy one-of-a-kind experiences and uncover local secrets when our friends across the country open their doors to you. Here’s just a sample of the rich experiences you can expect.

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With breathtaking scenery, hearty cuisine and ancient history and culture, it's easy to fall in love with Scotland. Join your expert Trafalgar Travel Director and roam the wild Highlands, misty glens, medieval cities and majestic castles in this land of Vikings, Romans and royalty.

Ramble up the Royal Mile in Edinburgh

Follow in the footsteps of kings and queens from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to Edinburgh Castle. As we wander the once processional route, you will sample Scottish specialties and glimpse the city’s medieval past. Scotland’s authentic charm fills Edinburgh’s narrow closes and wynds.

Journey through Scottish Highlands

Wind north through sweeping glens, and you will understand this ancient land. On your Scottish Highlands tour, you will appreciate the waterfalls and haunted past of Glencoe Valley, the mythical monster of Loch Ness and the medieval ruins of Urquhart Castle.

View Arthur's Seat

Not far from Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, you’ll find a taste of Scotland's wild countryside. Hike up windswept hills alive with heather flower in bloom, and sit atop an ancient volcano watching the sprawling city below.

Hear the story of the Royal Yacht Britannia

Step aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia and discover what royal glamor looks like at sea. The British Monarch’s boat for over 40 years, this extravagant watercraft is now permanently docked in Edinburgh. Spend a few hours exploring the vessel to see where the Princes spent their summers and world leaders and celebrities were once entertained.

Watch a Highland dance or two

There’s nothing quaint about the Scottish pastime of a Highlands dance. Walk into a pub and be enlivened by the many folk musicians playing fiddles, flutes, drums and accordions all around the Isles. You can watch with your pint or let the driving rhythms take you dancing. Either way, you’ll feel connected to the true spirit of Scotland.

Our top 5 things to do in Scotland

You'll uncover plenty of natural beauty and human history on our vibrant trips to Scotland. Stroll Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile, climb the rugged hills of Arthur's Seat and journey through the Highland wilderness.

Edinburgh Castle

The ancient walls of Edinburgh Castle have been touched by soldiers, kings, queens and even the odd pirate. Immerse yourself in Scottish history, gazing at crown jewels worn by Mary Queen of Scots and wooden doors vandalized by prisoners of war. Don’t miss the 1 o'clock gun that rings out over Edinburgh.

National Museum of Scotland

This unassuming Victorian building is brimming with history of Scotland and the world. Discover the wonders of nature, art, design, science and technology through this diverse collection. Spend a day wandering from room to room, never running short of things to learn.

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

Enjoy a captivating lesson in life and expression at Kelvingrove. Delve into natural history, arms and armor, fine art and everything between. From the Spitfire plane hanging from the ceiling of the west court to the collections of the Glasgow Boys and Salvador Dali in the east, this space will leave you spellbound.

Best museums in Scotland

Spend hours and days fascinated by the stories held in the museums of Scotland. Trafalgar's picks will prove these enthralling institutions shouldn't be saved for a cloudy day.

Originally served as a hearty meal to Scots on long journeys across Highland hills and heather-clad moors, the nation still loves Haggis. And with its rustic flavor and peppery kick, you will too. Have a taste and wash it down with a wee dram.

Cullen Skink

Hailing from the town of Cullen, this soup was made to warm the cockles of weary fishermen. Hence it’s made thick, creamy and comforting. With chunks of velvety leeks, potato and smoked fish, this smooth and flavorful meal is not to be missed.

Scottish Whisky

The Scottish isles are home to one of the world's most revered spirits - whisky. Speyside malts, smokey Islay drams and smooth blends can all be found here. Try it in a local pub or an award winning distillery. Either way, there's nothing quite like the taste of Scotch in the land where it was made.

Best food in Scotland

If it seems like Scottish cuisine is designed to warm your insides, that’s because it is. Come sunshine or rain, the dishes you'll enjoy on our trips are just another reason to love Scotland.

What to pack for Scotland

Walking shoes

Something comfortable and flat, with grip. There's a lot of exploring to do and the hills of Scotland are just as abundant in the cities as they are in the countryside.

Something warm

Even in the height of summer the Scottish night air has a bite. To make the most of your Scotland adventure, bring along a quality coat or jacket.

Woollen socks

A couple of pairs of woollen socks will serve you well in Scotland. They're warm and thick but surprisingly light to carry, perfect for protecting feet from long walks or the country’s beloved cold stone floors.

Prepare to sample the finest whisky distilleries around with hydralytes. Enjoy a tipple or two or three and you will still be fresh for adventures the following morning.

When planning a trip to Scotland, plan to pack less. Leave some space to bring home some of their specialties like shortbread for friends and cashmere for yourself.

Pack for sustainable travel

Consider your environmental impact when you next take a trip and go single-use-plastic-free by packing a reusable water bottle, a steel straw, your own shopping bags and reusable toiletry bottles.

Our Europe & Britain destinations

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Czech Republic

Liechtenstein

North Macedonia

Netherlands

Northern Ireland

Switzerland

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Australia and New Zealand

North and Central America

South America

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Every year, we're proud to win some of the most prestigious travel accolades around the world - from the Travel Globes to the Agent's Choice Awards

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Scottish Guided Tours

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2-Day Loch Ness, Inverness & Scottish Highlands Tour

Home » 2 Day Inverness & Highlands Tour

2-Day Private Tour of Scotland from Edinburgh

Enjoy a wonderful 2-day private tour of Scotland from Edinburgh with one of our experienced Scottish tour guides. On this tour you will visit many famous places and some amazing places that you have never heard of but will love. We will visit Glencoe, Glenfinnan, Loch Ness and relax for a night in the Scottish Highlands capital, Inverness. You will see ancient standing stones and Neolithic sites, visit Culloden Moor and walk in the footsteps of Highland clansmen and warriors.  On the return journey we will stroll through the Hermitage Woodland Walk and view the Black Linn Falls.

Private guided tours of Scotland depart from any location - Contact us

• Callander Highland Village
• Ben Nevis View Point

Glenfinnan Viaduct (Harry Potter Bridge)

• Urquart Castle
• Loch Ness Boat Trip

Culloden Moor Tour

Clava Cairns

• Highland Perthshire Walk

Forth Rail Bridge

Your Scottish Highlands Tour Journey

Explore Loch Ness and the Scottish Highlands at a pace that suits you. You will experience mountains, lochs, ancient woodlands and folklore on your incredible two-day private tour of Scotland. As a result, there will be lots of time to experience Scotland and even search for the Loch Ness Monster.

– Walk in the footsteps of Highland Warriors at Culloden Moor – Explore the history of the Jacobites and the tragedy of the last battle fought on British soil – Marvel at Glenfinnan and the Harry Potter Bridge – Private Scotland tours to Inverness are relaxed and a great choice   

Why Scottish Guided Tours?

Door to door service.

Your private tour guide shall greet you at your chosen location. Hotel, B&B or even Cruise Ship Terminal. The most convenient start possible to your private tour of Scotland. Complete Door-to-door service from Scottish Guided Tours. 

Your Guides

Niall and his team of experienced Scottish Tour Guides aim to give the best possible experience, whether heritage-related, historical, cultural or perhaps a mixture of all three. Fun and authentic private guided tours of Scotland – The best Scotland has to offer.

Private Tours of Scotland

Scottish Guided Tours delivers award-winning private tours of Scotland exclusively for your group of travellers. Bespoke tours of Scotland designed around your time frame & interests.

Our brand-new luxury vehicles ensure great views, comfort, and plenty of room for all travellers and luggage. Private Small Group Tours of Scotland are exclusively for you and your travelling companions.

More Tour Information & FAQs

Loch ness, inverness & highlands itinerary.

On day one, we travel from Lowland Scotland to Highland Scotland. A superb journey through the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. After a morning coffee, we continue to Glencoe.

Glencoe attracts visitors for its awe-inspiring scenery, walking, climbing and, of course history. As a result, great photo opportunities and incredible views are what makes Glencoe so memorable. However, hearing the Clan MacDonald’s tragic tale whilst standing in the Glen makes it an unforgettable experience. 

In 1692, the Clan MacDonald of Glencoe suffers a terrible fate that still resonates with Scotland’s people to this day. 

The Harry Potter Bridge  

One of our main stops in the afternoon on our Inverness & Scottish Highlands Tour is the famous 19th-century Glenfinnan Viaduct. The incredible rail bridge spans the glen for over 1000 ft and is a classic piece of railway infrastructure. 

Glenfinnan Viaduct 

Better known in modern times as the Harry Potter Bridge, the Glenfinnan Viaduct is instantly recognisable as the bridge upon which the Hogwarts Express travels. 

The Glen has witnessed so much over the centuries. Bonnie Prince Charlie landed here in 1745 to rally the Highland Clans in what is to become the final Jacobite Rebellion. The Glenfinnan views and history make it an unforgettable stop on our Scottish Guided Tour.

Inverness Capital of the Highlands

In the early evening, we check into Inverness. The largest city and the cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands.

For the best Scotland tour and experience, Inverness is a must-see. Nestled on the River Ness, the small city has an excellent choice of restaurants, traditional pubs and shops. Situated on Scotland’s northeast coast where the River Ness meets the Moray Firth makes this wee city an outstanding overnight stop. The superb choice of Hotels, B&Bs, shops and local eateries means there is a great choice for all travellers in the Capital of the Highlands.

On the morning or our second day, we travel the short distance to Culloden Moor.

The Battle of Culloden was the final battle of the Jacobite rising of 1745. On April 16 th  1746, Charles Edward Stuart’s Jacobite army was decisively defeated by a British government force under William Augustus, Duke of Cumberland, at Culloden Moor. Because of this, Culloden is an emotive and special place for both Scots and international visitors alike. Our 2 day Inverness & Highlands Tour means you have time to take it all in and experience Culloden Moor.

A short journey from Culloden is Clava Cairns. A hugely significant and exceptionally well preserved prehistoric site, Clava Cairns is a fantastic example of the distant history of Highland Scotland, dating back about 4,000 years.  A well-preserved Bronze Age cemetery complex of passage graves, ring cairns, kerb cairns and standing stones in a beautiful setting. 

Standing stones are not uncommon in Scotland but are always very special to touch, walk around and experience.  The Outlander TV series has certainly added to their popularity.  A hugely significant and exceptionally well preserved prehistoric site, Clava Cairns is a fantastic example of the distant history of Highland Scotland, dating back about 4,000 years.

Magical Woodlands

The Hermitage Woodland Walk & Ossians Hall

Come face to face with the thunderous Black Linn Falls –  best viewed from Ossian’s Hall.

Breathe in the earthy woodland and tang of pine needles as you wander along the banks of the River Braan.

Douglas firs tower over the paths leading to the roaring Black Linn Falls, where the Dukes of Athol has been planting “big trees” for hundreds of  years. 

Our final stop is the Unesco protected and world-famous Scottish landmark of the Forth Rail Bridge on our return to Edinburgh.

An incredible engineering feat and still responsible for carrying all the rail traffic over the River Forth. South Queensferry is a historic location within Scotland. Queen Margaret’s ferry crossed this river as far back as the 11th century.

8 am Departure

Callander Village is known as the gateway to the highlands and is nestled in the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. A great Coffee stop/brunch stop

Hairy Coos !! A visit to our famous Highland Cattle is a must !! 

Loch Tulla Viewpoint

Rannoch Moor photo stop

Glencoe (multiple photos stops)

G lencoe Visitor Centre ( Coffee/restrooms)

 Urquart Castle (photo stop)

17.30 Inverness Check-in

Depart 9 am

Culloden Moor & Visitor Centre

Whisky Distillery

Pitlochry Village

Highland Perthshire

Hermtiage Woodland Walk

17.45 Drop off location

Join us on a private guided tour of Scotland and enjoy the best of Scotland.

Scottish guided tours, plan and deliver the best private tours of Scotland

Contact us and start your Scottish Adventure

• Private Day Tour prices – 675 GBP per day (not per person)
• Exclusively for your group of up to 8 passengers (for larger groups, please contact us)
• Multi-day tours – Please add 79.00 GBP per day for your Guide’s overnight expenses.
• Private guiding Services
• Private Transportation
• Scottish Spring Water is provided 
• Please note: Entrance fees to historic buildings-attractions etc are not included unless previously stated.

Transport is in a brand new air-conditioned vehicle with plenty of room for you and your group.

Credit & debit cards or contactless payment are accepted all over Scotland. Its always handy to have a little cash for very small shops 

Scottish Guided Tours offer private tours exclusively for your group. Tours can start and end in any location within Scotland. 

Accommodation is not included in your quote. Payment for accommodation is made directly to Hotel or B&B on arrival, unless by prior arrangement.

Contact us for great accommodation suggestions

We would be delighted to suggest Hotels or B&B’s for your trip. Some clients prefer to book their own but we are always glad to help. Please Contact us  

Scottish Guided Tours - Private Guided Tours of Scotland

Private Day Tours of Scotland

Explore a variety of private day tours of Scotland with Scottish Guided Tours. Private guided tours offering you complete door to door convenience.

Multi-Day Tours of Scotland

Book an overnight private tour of Scotland with Scottish Guided Tours. Embark on a 2 day private tour or plan a 14 day private tour of Scotland.

Bespoke Tours of Scotland

Plan your very own, private bespoke day tours or multi-day tour of Scotland. Private guided tours of Scotland focused your time frame and interests.

Experience an Unforgettable Tour of Scotland

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Scottish Highland Tours

Journey into the Highlands to uncover the fascinating legends and stunning scenery in the heart of Scotland. These Scottish Highland tours offer authentic experiences and come with accommodation, transport and more included in the package.

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Prices per adult based on bookings for two

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Scottish Highlands & Isle of Skye

Highlights of scotland, scottish highlands, loch ness & isle of skye.

Scottish Highlands & Isle of Skye - Private

Classic scotland, grand tour of scotland, scottish highlands & north coast 500, complete scotland, express scotland, wonders of scotland, classic scotland & outer hebrides, classic scotland & the orkney islands, the outlander trail, outlander experience, express scotland - private, scottish highlands & isle of skye winter - private, christmas in scotland, a scottish christmas to remember, best of edinburgh - loch ness & highlands, best of edinburgh - loch ness & highlands - winter, edinburgh complete - loch ness, highlands & glasgow, edinburgh complete - loch ness, highlands & glasgow - winter, taste of scotland - castles & highlands, taste of scotland - castles & highlands - winter, express scotland winter - private, classic scotland - private, complete scotland - private, classic scotland & ireland - private, complete scotland & ireland – private, scottish highlands, isle of skye & wild atlantic way, express scotland - winter, grand tour of scotland & ireland, scenic scotland - express, loch ness & the highlands, scenic scotland express - private, wonders of scotland & ireland, ultimate celtic adventure, need any help so far talk with our local experts.

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About Your Scotland Highlands Tour

Immerse yourself in the wonders of wild Scotland as you explore the majestic Highlands. Expect pristine nature, friendly locals, and fine food and drink on your trip. One of our knowledgeable Scotland travel experts will plan your Highland tour on your behalf, personalising your itinerary to suit you.

When you book a Scottish Highland vacation with Nordic Visitor, you get:

• An authentic travel experience planned by an established and trusted agency • A dedicated travel consultant to arrange your tour • A detailed online personal itinerary with all bookings • Handpicked accommodation for a relaxing stay • 24/7 emergency phone support for peace of mind

Nordic Visitor has made it easy to start planning your trip. Simply follow these steps:

1. Pick your favourite Nordic Visitor tour 2. Confirm your package 3. Check your confirmation email 4. Book your flights 5. Get ready for your trip

Why choose Nordic Visitor

Book With Confidence

Secure your trip your way with Nordic Visitor. Book a tour with as little as 10% deposit. With a 20% deposit or more, you will receive our Cancellation Protection free of charge. You can also pay the full price right away to guarantee today’s exchange rate. Terms & conditions apply.

Trusted local travel experts

Nordic Visitor has been creating authentic travel experiences in Northern Europe since 2002. Leave it to our Scotland travel consultants – who are based in the Scottish capital, Edinburgh – to plan your trip. They know Scotland inside out and will create the perfect Highland tour for you.

You are in good hands

We are here to support you throughout your trip. In the case of any unexpected event, rest assured that your dedicated travel consultant will rework your itinerary where necessary while keeping you safe and informed. You’ll also have access to our 24/7 helpline, so we’re only ever a call away.

Great reviews

Our dedicated teams deliver excellent service quality, and this is reflected year after year when TripAdvisor awards us with their Certificate of Excellence. We also take great pride in our customer feedback: 97% of our travelers say they would recommend us to friends and family.

Stress-free experience

You can leave all the hassle of trip-planning to your knowledgeable Scotland expert. They will take care of making all the bookings and arrangements on your behalf, including accommodation and transport. All you need to do is relax and look forward to your holiday.

Flexible tour options

Our Edinburgh-based travel experts have designed these Scottish getaways so you’ll experience the best of the Highlands. But you can still customise your tour by adding extra nights, optional activities or upgrading your accommodation. Tailor your trip online, or speak to your dedicated travel consultant.

Full financial protection

With Nordic Visitor, you have peace of mind knowing your holiday arrangements with us are 100% financially protected. Your payments are safeguarded as we comply with European Union laws on Package Travel regulations. This guarantees you a refund in the unlikely event that the company experiences insolvency.

SCOTLAND TOUR REVIEWS

Take a look at feedback from our wonderful customers who visited the Scottish Highlands on a Nordic Visitor tour.

Bill United States

We had a wonderful experience and felt well-guided and encouraged by Kirsten our in-country contact who responded... read more

We had a wonderful experience and felt well-guided and encouraged by Kirsten our in-country contact who responded quickly and professionally. We did not have to worry with finding lodgings or booking a rental car and we were presented with a good plan for travelling through this beautiful country. We were able to encounter history and natural beauty at our own pace.

Elizabeth United States

This was a great tour. The high qualIty of our guide and drivers, hotels and general communication put this company... read more

This was a great tour. The high qualIty of our guide and drivers, hotels and general communication put this company at the top of the various tours we have taken.

Your Scottish Highlands Highlights

You’ve arrived in Scotland and your Highland tour is about to begin. The rugged mountains, lochs and forests are coming into view. Next on your Scottish adventure, you could...

• Discover mythical Loch Ness and the ruins of Urquhart Castle
• Hike in the forests and mountains of Cairngorms National Park
• Taste the Scottish “water of life” on a Speyside whisky distillery tour
• Marvel at the majestic peaks around Fort William and Glen Coe
• Visit the Culloden Battlefield and the Bronze Age cemetery, Clava Cairns
• Watch the Jacobite Steam Train glide over the famous viaduct in Glenfinnan
• Soak up Highland heritage at Eilean Donan Castle and Dunrobin Castle
• Drive the  North Coast 500  to witness wild and remote corners of Scotland
• Head to the Isle of Skye and explore the dramatic  Quiraing landscape

Advice About Scotland

Prepare for your Scottish Highlands adventure with these travel guides.

What kind of temperatures can you expect in Scotland?

What to bring

Come prepared for all seasons and activities with the right clothing

Time & Daylight

Find out what time zone you'll be in and when to expect sunrises and sunsets

Driving in Scotland

Read the rules of the road before you start your adventure

Frequently Asked Questions About Highland Tours

You might want to know more about the Scottish Highlands before you book your tour. Below you can find answers to commonly asked questions to help you plan your trip. Read on to learn all about visiting the Highlands or get in touch with our Scotland team .

Alternatively, find out how to make a booking , have a look at our FAQs , or learn about our Book With Confidence travel plan.

1. WHERE ARE THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS?

You’ll find the Highlands in northern Scotland, covering the top part of the country. The southern Highland boundary covers the Fort William area in the west, taking in Aviemore and Inverness in the east. Spanning almost 10,000 square miles (25,900 square kilometres), the Highlands make up a third of Scotland.

2. WHAT ARE THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS FAMOUS FOR?

Visit Scotland’s Highlands and you’ll get to experience iconic elements of Scottish culture and nature. The region is known for unspoiled mountains, glens, lochs , forests and rivers, as well as rugged islands and coastline. 

Plus, you could tour whisky distilleries, and go to a traditional Highland games. The region is also known for its  famous castles , some of which were used as filming locations for the hit TV series The Crown . 

Read more cool facts about scotland on our experts' blog.

3. ARE THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS WORTH VISITING?

Yes, we highly recommend you explore the Scottish Highlands! Visiting this region allows you to delve into some of Scotland’s most breathtaking landscapes. You’d get to enjoy outdoor activities in beautiful settings, look for native wildlife, and discover charming rural villages.

A trip to the Highlands also brings fascinating Scottish history to life. You’ll have the chance to discover centuries-old castles, famous battlefields and insightful museums.

What’s more, as Scotland is a relatively small country, the Highlands are easy to reach. It doesn’t take long to drive here from major cities like Edinburgh or Glasgow. All the more reason to come and explore this mystical corner of Scotland for yourself!

4. WHERE SHOULD I GO IN THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS?

There are so many stunning places awaiting you in the Scottish Highlands. You could explore a mix of hidden gems and famous sites on your trip. Like so many visitors, you’ll probably want to come back to see even more of the region!

These are the top-recommended destinations to visit on your Scottish Highlands vacation:

• Cairngorms National Park
• Fort William
• Isle of Skye

For more inspiration, discover the best Scottish castles and the most beautiful places to visit in Scotland on our experts’ blog.

5. WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS?

The best time to visit Scotland depends on what you’d like to see and do during your time here. If enjoying outdoor activities and reaching remote areas are your thing, we’d recommend visiting Scotland in summer (June to August). You’d get long daylight hours and mild weather at this time of year.

Summer is the most popular season for visitors to the Highlands. The spring and autumn are both great alternatives if you want to travel during a quieter period. You’d also have a better chance of avoiding midges, which are most active in the summer months.

You could consider a winter trip to the Highlands if you love the idea of escaping to a cosy guesthouse amid the frosty landscapes. Compared to the summer, you’d have fewer hours of daylight for exploring and colder weather. But for peace and quiet, winter is your best bet.

For more expert advice on when to visit the Scottish Highlands, check out these guides by season:

Scotland in summer: what to do and where to go

Scotland in winter: what to do and where to go

Why visit Scotland in the spring or autumn

6. HOW DO YOU GET AROUND THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS?

The best way to get around the Scottish Highlands is by driving. You could take the train or bus, but with a car you’d be able to reach more sights and see all that Scotland has to offer.

With Nordic Visitor you can choose from self-drive , privately guided and small group tours of Scotland , depending on how you want to see the country. You might like to take a self-guided trip, or perhaps you’d prefer to explore with a local guide.

To leave the driving to someone else and have a local guide show you around, opt for a privately guided or small group tour. You’d benefit from the insight of a Scotland expert who would share their insider knowledge with you.

Alternatively, a self-drive tour is ideal if you’d prefer the independence of a Scottish road trip. You can travel at your own pace and stop whenever you feel like it. If you are visiting from the UK, you could still enjoy a Nordic Visitor self-drive tour but with your own car. Contact us to find out more .

For inspiration on driving in Scotland, discover the best road trips in Scotland and this complete guide to driving the North Coast 500 .

7. HOW MANY DAYS DO YOU NEED TO SEE SCOTLAND?

Deciding how long to spend in Scotland all depends on the type of experience you are looking for. The longer you stay here, the more you’ll get to see!

For an in-depth tour, we recommend you stay for two to three weeks . This would give you enough time to explore all corners of the country and travel to some of the beautiful islands. For example, you could visit the Hebrides, or the Isles of Mull, Iona and Islay.

Or come for around 10 days to experience the highlights of Scotland. You’d be able to reach the Highlands, Isle of Skye and eastern Scotland in this time.

If you’ve only got one week or less, you can enjoy an express Scotland trip. Take a tour from Edinburgh or Glasgow and see the essential sights like Loch Lomond and the Trossachs, one of the national parks in Scotland. You could also venture further north to visit the Highlands.

8. Is car rental included in your self-drive tours of Scotland?

Yes, your self-drive tour with Nordic Visitor includes car rental with our tried-and-tested hire car suppliers in Scotland.

You receive a collision damage waiver (CDW) and an excess waiver to reduce liability to zero. On top of that, you enjoy unlimited mileage and the authorisation for two drivers. We don’t cover your road trip music: that is all up to you!

When you rent a car for your self-drive tour of Scotland with Nordic Visitor, there are some requirements that you should be aware of.

To rent a car in Scotland, you must hold a valid and full driving licence for a minimum period of 4 years. This reduces to 1 year if you are over 23 years of age.

Drivers aged 23 or 24 can take a self-drive tour with Nordic Visitor, subject to a young driver surcharge of £25 per day. You can hire vehicles in our rental car groups A, B, C or F.

The minimum age to rent a car in Scotland is 21. So if you're aged 21 or 22, we would be delighted to arrange your tour and provide you with information on how you can arrange your own car rental with specific suppliers who can cater to those aged 21 and 22.

If you are aged 80 or above, you can rent a car in Scotland so long as you provide medical proof that you are fit to drive. Please note this should be issued no earlier than 4 weeks before your travel date. You can hire vehicles in our rental car groups A, B or C.

Learn more about vehicle groups and car rental in Scotland on our travel guide.

Alternatively, you could leave the driving to a local expert when you pick one of our privately guided trips or guided small group tours of Scotland .

9. CAN I CUSTOMISE MY TOUR?

Yes, it’s easy to customise your itinerary with extra nights, optional activities and upgrades when you book online. Each of these itineraries has been designed by Edinburgh-based experts, but you can still tailor your trip to suit you.

For the most flexibility, opt for a self-drive or privately guided tour of Scotland . This way, you can add extra nights and day tours to your liking.

Or explore with like-minded travellers on a Scotland small group tour . These are a little different as you’re on a fixed itinerary for the guided portion of the tour. That said, you can extend your stay with additional nights at the beginning or end of your trip.

Don’t hesitate to ask your dedicated travel consultant for recommendations on optional excursions and extra nights.

Find out more about Scottish clans and ancestry on our expert’s blog.

10. CAN I CHOOSE THE ARRIVAL DATES?

Yes, you can select your preferred dates. Our packages are available to purchase online so you can choose the best dates for you.

If you’ve already got a tour but now need to change your dates, contact your travel consultant as soon as possible to rearrange your package.

11. WHEN SHOULD I ORGANISE MY FLIGHTS?

We recommend that you book your Nordic Visitor tour first to secure your preferred dates before buying your flights. Do search for flights in the meantime so you know what’s available, but wait to purchase them until after your travel consultant has confirmed your tour booking.

By securing your Scotland tour first, you get introduced to your dedicated travel consultant and you will receive all of your package details. This means you can make a more informed choice when reserving flights in and out of Scotland. If you have any questions you can always contact us for advice .

12. WHAT TO PACK FOR THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS?

Scotland’s climate can be a little unpredictable, even in summer. You might get lovely sunny days, rain, wind, or snow (in winter). That’s why we suggest you pack clothing and gear for all eventualities.

Here’s our recommended packing list for your Scottish Highlands tour:

• Warm layers
• Waterproof trousers and jackets
• Sensible footwear
• Small rucksack
• Hat, scarf and gloves

You may also wish to bring smart outfits for dining out or attending a special event.

Speak to one of our Scotland travel experts about visiting the Scottish Highlands. They will be delighted to help you and plan your perfect trip.

Our Scottish phone number is +44 (0)131 344 4630

How about a live chat with one of our local travel experts?

Blog Articles

7-day scotland road trips: itinerary ideas from local experts, why scotland is perfect for romantic breaks and getaways, 12 best castles in scotland that you should visit, best time to visit scotland: your complete guide.

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Pedal through pastoral landscapes, ancient forests, and historic villages in Europe’s best bike-touring destinations.

Thanks to its deep history, stunning scenery, and lively cycling culture, Europe is home to the highest concentration of the best bike tours on Earth. Nations like France and Italy, are full of bucket-list classics—but you don’t need to follow the crowds to ensure a brag-worthy biking vacation. Book any one of our self-guided bike tours below, and you’ll find yourself rolling amid spectacular scenery in some of the most stunning locations on the planet. 

Why Choose Self-Guided Biking Tours in Europe

Biking vacations are a healthy and enjoyable way to explore tons of new terrain under your own power. That said, the logistics can get complicated, especially when you’re visiting somewhere new. If you don’t speak the local language, it can be tough to ask for directions or figure out which local bike shop has what you need. That’s where our self-guided tours come in. 

Self-guided biking tours are great for beginner cyclists , avid travelers, and anyone who wants a big adventure without the weeks of tedious planning. With a self-guided bike tour from Macs Adventure, we take care of all the bookings and route-planning for your vacation. You’ll get turn-by-turn instructions, local tips, and a GPS map pre-loaded with all your essential stops in your Macs Adventure app. We also handle luggage transfers —which means you’ll never have to pedal with your suitcase in tow. 

Best Biking Tours in Europe

There are hundreds of incredible biking vacations in Europe, but these adventures are among the most memorable. 

Colorful seaside towns, verdant countryside, and lush pine forests make Portugal a cyclist’s dream. For a mellow tour, cycle Portugal’s Atlantic Coast , a trip that traces canals and medieval city streets from Porto to Coimbra. Want to turn it into an epic pilgrimage? Start at Porto and bike the world-famous Camino Portugues , a nine-day trip that winds through the nation’s most stunning scenery on its way to Spain’s sacred Santiago de Compostela Cathedral . 

United Kingdom

The United Kingdom shares much of the mainland’s enthusiastic cycling spirit. Add to that mild temperatures, rolling hills, and endless country roads, and you’ve got the ingredients for an idyllic biking vacation. For a bite-sized frolic through southern England, try Cycling in the Heart of the Cotswolds , a route that weaves among thatched-roof cottages, green meadows, and blooming rose gardens. Looking for a taste of the north? Head to the Great Glen Cycleway , a legendary journey through the rugged bluffs, deep lochs, and emerald hills of wild Scotland.

Cycling is a deeply quintessential part of French culture. As a result, the country is latticed in a network of stunning bike routes. For a longer journey, try cycling the Camino Frances . One of best-known Camino de Santiago routes , the eight-day trip will take you from Leon, France, to the awe-inspiring Santiago de Compostela Cathedral in Spain. Looking for an option that’s a little less involved? Target the Loire Valley for miles of dedicated bike paths that lead past elegant castles, quaint towns, and thriving French vineyards. 

Italy has it all: white-sand beaches, cypress-dotted highlands, colorful villages, and incredible food. So, it’s no surprise that this nation is also home to some of the best biking vacations on the continent. For a leisurely trip, cycle The Highlights of Puglia , a gentle tour of the architectural marvels and turquoise bays lining the Salento coastline. Have more time? Pedal 284 miles through Tuscan wine country on your way between Lucca and Rome. This route, the Via Francigena , is one of Italy’s most iconic pilgrimages and one of the best ways to sample the incredible variety the country has to offer.  

If you’re considering a self-guided biking tour in Europe but aren’t sure how to choose, give Macs Adventure a call. Our adventure specialists have completed many of the routes we mention above. Tap into their insider knowledge to help you choose a country, dial in your packing list , and select the perfect trip for your needs. 

Cycling Portugal's Atlantic Coast

Cycle the Highlights of Puglia

Cycling in the Heart of the Cotswolds

• Easy-going cycling in Italy's relaxed south
• Stay in a UNESCO trulli house in Alberobello
• Pedal quiet roads between olive groves
• Pedal through quintessential English countryside
• Honey-colored stone cottages and green hills
• Delicious food in cozy local pubs and restaurants

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