Fort Augustus
Tours

Our most recommended things to do in Fort Augustus

From Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Glencoe & Scottish Highlands Tour

From Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Glencoe & Scottish Highlands Tour

Explore the incredible nature and beauty of the Scottish Highlands from Edinburgh! Departing on an air-conditioned luxury coach we pass by Stirling Castle, hear your tour guide tell tales of William Wallace and Robert the Bruce and the bloody battles fought out on these lands. First, pass through Callander town, nestled at the foot of the Trossachs. If you have joined the Tour with Whisky Distillery option, we'll stop at Deanston Distillery for an optional distillery tour and tasting. Next, we'll make a visit to the local Highland Cows when possible, or as we like to call them - hairy coos! Drive through Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. Your Scottish guide will tell you about Rob Roy MacGregor, the infamous Highlander. Follow in the footsteps of James Bond ("Skyfall") and Harry Potter ("Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban") as you travel to the stunning Highland valley of Glencoe. Hear the eerie story of the Clan MacDonald massacre of 1692. Travel through Fort William, home to Ben Nevis, which at 4,409 feet is the highest mountain of the British Isles. Arrive on the south bank of Loch Ness in the charming village of Fort Augustus, where lots of cafes, shops, and restaurants offer a relaxing lunch. Stroll along the banks of the Caledonian Canal and try to catch a glimpse of "Nessie," the legendary Loch Ness Monster. For those joining the Tour with Boat Cruise option, experience Loch Ness on the optional 1-hour boat cruise. Pro tip: Bring a packed lunch to avoid queuing and make the most out of the stops! Admire the impressive Commando Memorial at Spean Bridge with views of the Nevis Range. Enter the Cairngorms National Park and discover "Monarch of the Glen" country. Drive along Loch Laggan before the roads climb above the Grampian Mountains. Travel over the Pass of Drumochter, linking the northern and southern Central Highlands. Experience the majesty of a mountain pass created by glacial activity during successive Ice Ages. Finally, stop briefly in the beautiful Victorian town of Pitlochry before heading back to Edinburgh city center, arriving at approximately 8:30 PM. Please note that during the winter season, we may be arriving earlier than estimated. *Please note, to meet demand and to prevent overcrowding in smaller Scottish towns, this tour will be provided in reverse in our peak season. **This tour has been designed to show you as much of Scotland as we can fit into one day! Due to the distance driven a large portion of the tour is spent on the bus, taking in the views and scenery of Scotland.

From Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Glencoe & The Highlands Day Trip

From Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Glencoe & The Highlands Day Trip

Embark on a breathtaking journey through Scotland on a day trip from Edinburgh. Head northwest passing famous landmarks such as Linlithgow Palace, the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots, the mystical Kelpies, and the dramatically perched Stirling Castle. Continue north and arrive in Glencoe for some photos of the dramatic ridges called the Three Sisters. Stop in the Fort William area for lunch before heading into the natural beauty of the Great Glen as you pass Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis. Head further into the Scottish highlands and arrive in the small picturesque village of Fort Augustus at the south-west end of Loch Ness. Choose to take part in an optional boat cruise here. On the way back to Edinburgh, relax and take in the Highland scenery. Stop for a final refreshment at the historic town of Pitlochry before continuing the journey home over the Firth of Forth alongside the UNESCO Forth Rail Bridge.

Edinburgh: Loch Ness & Scottish Highlands Tour

Edinburgh: Loch Ness & Scottish Highlands Tour

This full day tour is perfect for seeing as much of bonnie Scotland as possible in a relaxing manner while taking in dramatic landscapes, history, and personal stories from the local, passionate guide as the gorgeous scenery rolls by. Leaving Edinburgh behind, we journey north, passing the imposing Stirling Castle and rolling into the heart of the Trossachs National Park, Rob Roy country. Crossing the vast wilderness of Rannoch Moor, we pause at hauntingly beautiful Glen Coe, where echoes of the infamous 1692 massacre still linger. Our route takes us through Fort William, beneath the towering peak of Ben Nevis, before we enter the Great Glen. Reaching Fort Augustus on the shores of Loch Ness, you’ll have time to take a boat cruise in search of Nessie, enjoy a scenic walk in this Highland village, or simply soak up the Highland charm by the Caledonian Canal. If choosing the cruise, your boat is equipped with the latest hi-tech color, sonar, and underwater imaging system, giving you a fascinating view of the underwater terrain and life. You might even see Nessie! You can also relax with a coffee or beer in the onboard bar. If you choose to sail along the waters of Loch Ness, it really is an unforgettable experience. We then head south past the shimmering waters of Loch Laggan and climb through the dramatic Drumochter Pass in the Cairngorms National Park. Travelling through Perthshire’s stunning landscapes of forests, rivers, and mountains, we cross the Firth of Forth, taking in views of the spectacular Forth Bridges, before returning to Edinburgh in the evening.

From Edinburgh: 3-Day Isle of Skye and The Highlands Tour

From Edinburgh: 3-Day Isle of Skye and The Highlands Tour

Embark on a 3-day guided tour of the Scottish Highlands and visit highlights, including Loch Ness and the Isle of Skye. Learn the history of this lush region from your guide and spend two nights in Inverness. Day 1: Departing Edinburgh, we will drive by the famous Forth Bridges before making a short stop at the mysterious Kelpies. We continue north, to the historic village of Pitlochry. From there we drive through the east edge of the dramatic Cairngorms National Park to stop at the Highland Folk Museum (seasonal April - October). Here you'll experience highland life in the 17th century. See the buildings, the clothes and weapons, and how people lived 300 years ago. Continue north, to visit Culloden Battlefield, site of the last Jacobite Rising, then 'Clava Cairns', incredible 4,000-year-old, Bronze-Age standing stones. A short drive onwards, we arrive at the Capital of the Highlands, where you'll stay for 2 nights, choosing from a local guesthouse, hostel, or hotel (accommodation not included). We arrive at approximately 6:30 PM to dour drop-off/meeting point at Inverness Cathedral on Ardross Street, IV3 5NN. Day 2: After breakfast, depart Inverness and drive across the Kessock Bridge to the Black Isle and marvel at the spectacular scenery of Achnasheen and Loch Carron. Arriving on the Isle of Skye, venture north to explore the highlights of the island, including; the Cuillin Mountains, Trotternish Peninsula, Portree, the Old Man Storr, Kilt Rock and the famous Quiraing. In late afternoon, stop for photographs of the most beautiful castle in Scotland, "Eilean Donan Castle." Backdrop to many famous films, such as 'Highlander' and 'Made of Honor', this castle is another must-see iconic landmark! A scenic drive through stunning Glen Shiel follows, returning to Inverness to stay your final night at approximately 7:30 PM. The evening is free for you to do as you wish. Day 3: Depart Inverness for an optional morning cruise of the famous Loch Ness. Drive south to admire the spectacular Glenfinnan Viaduct and the breath-taking views of the Nevis Range at the Commando Memorial. Discover beautiful Glencoe, the most famous valley in Scotland, and hear of its tragic history. Continue south, into the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, while enjoying the scenery on the journey back to Edinburgh, arriving at approximately 7 PM. ** Please note that during the winter season, we will be swapping Day 1 and Day 3’s itineraries to enable us to visit as many places as possible while it is still light outside. Due to weather and/or road conditions during the winter season the route may change at the driver/guide’s discretion. **

Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Inverness & Highlands Tour in Spanish

Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Inverness & Highlands Tour in Spanish

We leave early in the morning to enter the territory of the Highlands. We stopped at the old farm of Kilmahog to meet the famous 'Hairy Cows'. It will be the time to grab a coffee or have some breakfast. We arrive at the majestic valley of Glen Coe to admire its beauty. We will stop at up to 3 different points to take the perfect photo. The Three Sisters are waiting for us! Once in Fort Augustus, a charming village on the shores of Loch Ness, we will have the opportunity to go sailing in search of Nessie, the 'monster' of the lake. Fort Augustus is also the place where to take a photo of the famous Loch Ness sign to immortalize the moment. Enjoy the different restaurants and take aways of the area. Recharge your batteries! We travel the 37kms of the lake to reach its northern end where the city of Inverness sits. We can walk through its streets next to the River Ness and discover the capital of the Highlands. The last stop will take place in the charming Victorian village of Pitlochry. If everything runs smoothly, we will be back at 20:30h.

From Glasgow: Loch Ness, Glencoe and the Highlands Tour

From Glasgow: Loch Ness, Glencoe and the Highlands Tour

Embark on a full-day guided bus tour of the Scottish Highlands from Glasgow. Marvel at the wild beauty of the Scottish countryside and visit highlights, including Loch Lomond and Loch Ness. Head north towards the Highlands and admire the lush pastures of the Scottish countryside from an air-conditioned bus. Stop for a cup of tea or coffee at a café on the shores of Loch Lomond before ascending into the Highlands. Traverse the desolate landscape of Rannoch Moor and the Black Mount to Glencoe, the site of the 1692 massacre of the MacDonald clan. Learn about the events and history of the area from your guide. After lunch in the Fort William area, pass beneath Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis, and into the Great Glen. At Loch Ness, opt for a sightseeing cruise on the loch or choose to admire the views from the shore. On your way back to Glasgow, cross the Grampian Mountains and admire the woodland scenery of Perthshire, including the Forest of Atholl.

From Inverness: Jacobite Steam Train and Highlands Tour

From Inverness: Jacobite Steam Train and Highlands Tour

Immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the Scottish Highlands and board the Jacobite Steam Train on a day trip from Inverness. Begin your journey by bus and drive along the world-famous Loch Ness, stopping for photos above the ruins of Urquhart Castle. Continue south and visit the Commando Memorial, overlooking the Nevis Range - home to the UK’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis. Next, set your sights on the Jacobite Steam Train and hop on board at Fort William. Your journey through magnificent landscapes will end in the fishing port of Mallaig, where you can try fresh seafood for lunch (at your expense) or explore the town. Take the scenic ‘Road to the Isles’ and admire beautiful scenery as you ride to Fort Augustus, the Caledonian Canal, and Loch Ness. Finish your tour at Falls of Foyers and Dores Beach on the banks of Loch Ness.

Edinburgh: 3-Day Isle of Skye, Highlands, and Loch Ness Tour

Edinburgh: 3-Day Isle of Skye, Highlands, and Loch Ness Tour

Embark on a 3-day small group tour to the Scottish Highlands from Edinburgh. See the Glencoe Valley and the Eilean Donan Castle. Admire the rolling pastures of the Isle of Skye and visit lake Loch Ness. Day 1 From Edinburgh, you will head west where your first stop will be at the picturesque conservation village of Luss, on the ‘Bonny, Bonny’ banks of Loch Lomond. Traveling north via Tyndrum you will pass over the atmospheric Rannoch Moor before enjoying time to walk and admire the dramatic Glencoe valley, site of the 1692 massacre of the MacDonald Clan. After lunch in the Fort William area, your tour will pause for photos at Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis, then stop to admire Glen Garry and the stunning Five Sisters of Kintail mountain range. Your first day ends in the charming village of Portree, on the Isle of Skye. Day 2 After breakfast, your will depart Portree for a full day’s touring - options include Dunvegan Castle, a trip to Uig, and a visit to Flora MacDonald’s grave and the unique Black Houses, ancient dwellings of the Scottish Highlanders. Other options include viewing Duntulum Castle, enjoying breathtaking views of Kilt Rock, or perhaps a bracing walk at the Lealt Falls. The day will end with the opportunity to admire the Old Man of Storr, before returning to Portree. Day 3 Small Group You will commence your final day of the tour via the much-admired Eilean Donan Castle, the backdrop for the movie, ‘Highlander’; (interior closed in winter) then move on to the pretty lochside village of Fort Augustus for lunch and views of Loch Ness. The tour continues south over Laggan and the Grampian mountains with the last stop, for refreshments, in the Victorian resort town of Pitlochry, before returning to Edinburgh, where the tour will end.

Glasgow: Loch Ness, Glencoe and Highlands Tour with Cruise

Glasgow: Loch Ness, Glencoe and Highlands Tour with Cruise

You depart Glasgow and travel towards the Highlands along the “bonnie, bonnie” banks of Loch Lomond. This is Scotland's largest loch and it takes its name from the mountain, Ben Lomond, on the eastern shore. You cross the ancient natural fault line that runs across Scotland and venture into the majestic Highlands where the scenery changes dramatically. The flat plains of the Lowlands transform into shimmering lochs, rugged mountains, and forest-filled glens. The alluring beauty makes it easy to forget this was once a battleground of the fiercely territorial Highland clans. Travelling north through Breadalbane (meaning the 'High Country of Scotland'), you climb towards Rannoch Moor. This 1000ft plain is covered by heather, peat bogs, and dozens of lochs. You’ll love how it contrasts with the spectacular mountain scenery of Buachaille Etive Mor (meaning 'the great shepherd of Etive'). You then head down to Scotland's most famous valley, Glencoe, where you’ll be mesmerised by the beautiful cliff faces and steep slopes. After Glencoe, you enter a deep glacial valley, known as the Great Glen. Passing through the town of Fort William you travel under Britain's highest mountain, Ben Nevis, before arriving at Fort Augustus on the shore of Loch Ness. Fort Augustus boasts the Caledonian Canal, which is a great spot to relax and watch the boats sail by. You stop here for one hour to give you time for lunch. After your lunch, you get the opportunity to take a five-star Cruise Loch Ness boat cruise from Fort Augustus*. Taking to the waters is the best chance you'll get to spot the monster and admire the beauty of this mysterious loch. You leave the scenic village and begin your journey back towards Glagsow, but not to worry, there are many lovely stops along the way for photos and views, including the quiant town of Pitlochry. You continue south through the forests of Perthshire before finally reaching Glasgow in the evening. *The Loch Ness boat cruise is weather dependent and may be cancelled without notice.

From Inverness: Loch Ness and the Highlands Day Trip

From Inverness: Loch Ness and the Highlands Day Trip

Try to catch a glimpse of the Loch Ness Monster on this day trip from Inverness. Board an airconditioned coach and travel to iconic Highlands locations like Fort Augustus, the Caledonian Canal, and Invermoriston. Leave Inverness in the morning and follow the beautiful Caledonian Canal to its source at Loch Ness. The loch is home to the famous Loch Ness monster, affectionately known as Nessie. You'll spend most of the morning at Loch Ness, allowing plenty of time to look for Nessie. Choose to take a 5-star cruise across the loch to Urquhart Castle. If you’d rather see the loch from the shore, then stay on board the bus and your driver will take you to Urquhart Castle. Explore the ruins of the castle, enjoy the visitor center, and soak up the atmosphere of Scotland’s most famous Loch. Your tour continues to Invermoriston, where you'll pause to take photos of the bridge and Columbus Well. Afterwards, journey to Fort Augustus, the furthermost point of your full-day Highlands tour. Fort Augustus is a small town of only 650 people and a perfect spot to watch boats passing through the Caledonian Canal while you enjoy your lunch. After lunch you'll begin the journey back to Inverness, stopping at the Falls of Foyers. The waterfall was a favorite retreat for poet Rabbie Burns, and is truly breathtaking. Enjoy plenty of time here to appreciate the landscape before continuing on to Dores to see Dores Beach. Spend a short while wandering the sandy shoreline before boarding the bus for the final time and returning to Inverness.

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What people are saying about Fort Augustus

Overall rating

4.6 out of 5 stars
4.6
4.6 out of 5 stars
(8,587 reviews)
5 out of 5 stars

An unforgettable day with our fantastic guide, David H.! From start to finish, the tour was perfectly organized, with breathtaking landscapes at every turn. David's knowledge, humor, and enthusiasm made the journey even more special—he truly brought the region to life with his stories and insights. Every stop was well chosen, allowing us to fully appreciate the beauty of the surroundings. The only small disappointment was our lunch stop, as we couldn't walk along the Loch Ness despite it being the longest break. It would have been wonderful to explore a bit more. However, this did not take away from the overall experience! Thanks again David!

5 out of 5 stars

The guide Fraser made this trip worth every penny. It was a long day but he kept us entertained until the very end with his amazing energy. Also loved the extra entertainment brought to us by lovely Nati and her guitar! The views were amazing, altough Loch Ness boat ride is nothing spectacular. Really enjoyed this tour, best one I’ve been to so far.

5 out of 5 stars

Without exaggeration, the tour with Hairy Coo was the best I’ve ever attended. Fraser was fantastic—knowledgeable, funny, and engaging. I still remember all the details from his tour, including the years he mentioned. He is truly made for this job, and I will happily recommend your company to everyone. We enjoyed every part of the tour!

5 out of 5 stars

Aila is a fantastic guide and extremely knowledgeable and very personable! We had a very enjoyable time. It was lovely being in such an intimately size group.

5 out of 5 stars

The driver explained the whole story very well, stunning landscapes, it was an excellent trip