Inveraray Castle

Departing from Glasgow you travel northwest along the shores of Loch Lomond. Here you will cross the Highland Boundary Fault Line where the scenery changes quickly and dramatically - the flat fertile plains of the Lowlands giving way to shimmering lochs, rugged mountain tops, and forest-filled glens. It's easy to forget that this was once thought of as a dangerous frontier fought over by the fiercely territorial Highland clans such as the MacGregors, made famous by highland folk hero, Rob Roy MacGregor. You will then take a leisurely drive over the at 'Rest and Be Thankful' mountain pass. It was given its name in 1753 by the weary soldiers who had just finished building the old military road up through Glen Croe (not to be confused with Glencoe which you will visit later in the day). From here you will travel through the steep-sided mountains, known as the Arrochar Alps, to the picturesque harbour town of Inveraray on the shores of Loch Fyne, home of the Duke of Argyll, chief of the Campbell clan. The town is a classic 18th-century planned village with its straight wide streets and dignified Georgian houses, designed by Robert Adam, famous for his architecture in Edinburgh’s New Town. From here you will drive along the shore of Scotland’s longest loch, Loch Awe, where you stop to take your photos of Kilchurn Castle, a magnificent ruin situated in the middle of Loch Awe and former home of the Campbells of Breadalbane. You will then continue to the harbour town of Oban, gateway to the Isles, for lunch of your choice. After lunch you will then travel north along the west coast around Appin, passing the impregnable Castle Stalker, and into Scotland's most famous valley, Glencoe. Stunningly beautiful, with its dramatic cliff faces and steep slopes, Glencoe is infamous as the site of the Glencoe massacre in 1692. Following orders from King William, Scottish soldiers under the leadership of Captain Robert Campbell slaughtered 38 men, women and children of the Macdonald clan. This was especially shocking as the soldiers had been living with the people of Glencoe for two weeks and killed them in their own homes. Nobody was ever punished for this crime, as the King himself had signed the order, but the Highlands would never be the same again. Travelling south, as you pass the majestic peak of Buachaille Etive Mor (meaning 'the great shepherd of Etive'), you descend towards the wild desolation of Rannoch Moor. At an altitude of over 1000ft, covered by heather and peat-bogs and dotted with dozens of lochs, it's a unique landscape. From here you will then travel through Glen Falloch, and then drive south towards Loch Lomond. This is Scotland's largest loch and it takes its name from the mountain Ben Lomond on the eastern shore. From here you return to Glasgow.

Explore the Scottish Highlands on this bus day trip from Edinburgh. Take in classic sights like Stirling, Doune, and Inveraray castle. Admire natural landscapes like Loch Lubnaig, Glen Ogle, and the Arrochar Alps. Hop aboard the spacious and airconditioned bus in Edinburgh and travel west, passing in the imposing show of Stirling Castle which rests high on its volcanic rock. Visit to Doune Castle which was featured in "Monty Python and the Holy Grail". Drive into the Highlands, past the lovely Loch Lubnaig, and up through impressive Glen Ogle. Stopping nearby at a place where you can purchase lunch with views of the surrounding natural scenery. After lunch, drive further into the Highlands, stopping to view one of the most photographed castles in Scotland, Kilchurn Castle. Marvel at this relic which juts into Loch Awe and is stunningly framed by mountain peaks. Venture to Inveraray, a quaint town built in the mid-18th century, on the shore of Loch Fyne. Have free time to explore the town and pick up some Highland souvenirs, or pay an optional visit to Inveraray Castle (closed Tuesdays & Wednesdays), the historic home of the Duke of Argyll. Begin your homeward journey, driving over the Arrochar Alps, an attractive range of mountains, with a brief pause near the top of the "Rest and Be Thankful Pass. Reach Loch Lomond, and visit the charming village of Luss before returning to Edinburgh. • Please note: from 3rd December 2024 our Edinburgh tours will depart from NCP Castle Terrace, EH1 2EW.

On this tour, you will experience the shimmering lochs, scenic mountain views, and romantic and historic castles of the western highlands. From Glasgow cross the Firth of Clyde, passing Dumbarton's famous and imposing rock fortress. The first stop is the pretty conservation village of Luss, on the 'Bonny, Bonny Banks' of Loch Lomond. Here you can walk along the shore or stay to admire the village. Pass several dramatic castles and lochs as the tour climb into the Highlands. Make a stop for lunch at the fishing town of Oban. Journey on a southern route that takes you past the spectacular Kilchurn Castle, majestically situated on Loch Awe. Our final stop is Inveraray, the historic seat of the Duke of Argyll, where you can choose to either visit Inveraray Castle (April-October only) or explore the town’s Georgian houses and wide streets. Return to Glasgow via the Rest and Be Thankful pass.

Set off from Edinburgh and travel west, past Stirling Castle, to your first short stop at the conservation village of Luss on the "Bonnie, Bonnie Banks" of Loch Lomond. Wander around, taking in its quaint houses and stunning views across the loch, and try to spot the iconic Ben Lomond. Continue west through the steep-sided mountains known as the Arrochar Alps to the great viewpoint at "Rest and Be Thankful." From there, head to the picturesque town of Inveraray on the shores of Loch Fyne. Here, admire the 18th-century castle (open to visitors from April until October), take time to explore the town, or visit the Old Jail. Next, travel north and enjoy a photo stop to admire Kilchurn Castle, a magnificent ruin situated on the edge of Loch Awe and the former home of the Campbells of Breadalbane. Some say it’s cursed, so it’s better if you admire it from a distance. Then, pass through Callander and cross the Highland Boundary Fault Line, leaving behind the Highland crags. Arrive at Doune Castle and come face-to-face with over 600 years of history. Take time to visit this iconic stronghold and learn about the filming of Monty Python and The Holy Grail, The Outlaw King, or the Outlander series. After a day full of views of mysterious lochs, charming castles, and rugged mountains, relax on a smooth transfer back to Edinburgh and arrive in the capital in the early evening.

Departing from Buchanan Bus Station in Glasgow, you’ll follow the western shores of Loch Lomond and enter the Highlands. The first stop of the day is a photo stop at "Rest and be Thankful" - a viewpoint overlooking the valley. Then it’s onwards to the town of Inveraray, on the banks of Loch Fyne. Here you can explore the town or pay entry to Inveraray Castle (April - October only). From Inveraray, you’ll continue north to Loch Awe, another beautiful Highland loch. On the banks of the loch sits the ruins of Kilchurn Castle. There’s a perfect viewpoint for you to admire the panoramic views here. At lunchtime you will reach the coastal town of Oban. Known as the seafood capital of Scotland, there are lots of places to enjoy some delicious food. For the more adventurous there’s the walk up to McCaig’s tower, a stone folly with spectacular views over towards the Isle of Mull and beyond. After lunch you can visit a viewpoint overlooking Castle Stalker. It’s a unique castle which sits on a tidal islet in Loch Laich. Next up: Glencoe. A dramatic valley with an equally dramatic past, there are stories to be told here as you surround yourself with mountains and spot deer. The final stop of the day is for an evening refreshment within the Loch Lomond National Park before returning to Glasgow.

Depart Edinburgh city center early in the morning on this small group tour and head towards the west of Scotland, including Argyll, Loch Lomond, Inveraray, and more. Your first stop of the day is Doune Castle, where you have the option of exploring Doune Castle, widely recognized for the famous TV series "Outlander." From Doune, make your way to Tyndrum for a comfort break. Continue to the impressive ruins of Kilchurn Castle. Once home to the Campbells of Glenorchy, Kilchurn Castle overlooks the peaceful Loch Awe and has a rich history connected to the Jacobite rebellion. Then head to your next stop at Inveraray's beautiful Loch Fyne for lunch before an optional visit to Inveraray Jail, one of the best-reserved prisons in Britain. In the afternoon, begin your journey back to Edinburgh, making a quick stop at the aptly named "Rest and Be Thankful," where you do exactly that. Take in the amazing views before continuing east. The day's final stop is in Luss, where you will be transported back in time and breathe in the west highland air one last time before we return to Edinburgh.

Day One Departing Edinburgh, our two-day tour will begin by heading west and collecting our Glasgow passengers. From there, we will head north, passing by the bonnie, bonnie banks of Loch Lomond and stopping for a comfort break in the scenic loch-side village of Luss. We continue west, passing the magnificent Rest and Be Thankful pass before arriving in Inveraray. Home to the spectacular Inveraray Castle, which you might recognise from Downton Abbey, the Royal Burgh of Inveraray makes for a perfect stop. We will take time here to enjoy the loch-side views, explore the streets, and grab some lunch before continuing north into the Highlands. On our way north, we will pass through dramatic Glencoe, site of the 1692 massacre of the MacDonald Clan. You might recognise this valley from James Bond’s Skyfall. We will take time here to learn about the area’s history, as well as getting some fantastic photos. Following a quick comfort break in the area, we will continue on to the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, which you may recognise from the Harry Potter movies. During summer months, we will arrive with time to see the Jacobite Steam Train (or Hogwarts Express) crossing the bridge and get that famous photo. We then end our exciting first day of touring by arriving in Fort William, where you will check in to your accommodation for the night. Day Two After a hearty highland breakfast, we will begin our second day of touring by checking out of our accommodation and heading north to Glengarry Viewpoint, offering spectacular views. Keep an eye out for how Loch Garry looks for the viewpoint, as it is meant to look like a bird’s eye view of mainland Scotland. From that brilliant view, our tour continues eastwards towards Scotland’s most photographed castle, Eilean Donan. Take time here to explore the castle and its grounds and learn about its fascinating history. Our tour then heads to the beautiful town of Fort Augustus, at the foot of Loch Ness. We will spend time here for lunch, and to take in the views of Loch Ness - and keep an eye out for Nessie of course! From Fort Augustus, we begin to head south, stopping at the Commando Memorial on the way. Here, take time to learn about the memorial and enjoy views of Ben Nevis, Britain’s tallest mountain. On our return journey to Edinburgh, enjoy a relaxing journey through a beautiful highland setting. We will enjoy a comfort break in Dunkeld or Pitlochry where you can soak up the atmosphere in these picturesque towns. We then begin the final stretch of our journey back towards Edinburgh, crossing over the impressive Queensferry Crossing. This engineering giant spans the Firth of Forth, and joins the Forth Road Bridge and iconic Forth Rail Bridge, representing 3 centuries of Scottish engineering and innovation. After a short journey, we then arrive back in Edinburgh.

Embark on an epic small-group tour from Edinburgh to the wild northwest of Scotland. Travel through the legendary lands of Stirlingshire, see the ruins of Kilchurn Castle, and stop at the postcard-perfect village of Luss. Begin your adventure as you roll out of Edinburgh, bound for the wild northwest. Travel through the legendary lands of Stirlingshire, home to Scotland’s ultimate warrior, William Wallace, before pulling up at Doune Castle. If it looks familiar, that’s because it’s been a star in Outlander, Game of Thrones, and the cult classic Monty Python and the Holy Grail. Dive straight into the breathtaking landscapes of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, where rugged mountains, shimmering lochs, and historic castles paint a scene straight out of a fantasy novel. Then it’s south to the hauntingly beautiful ruins of Kilchurn Castle, standing proud on the shores of Loch Awe which is a perfect spot to stretch your legs and soak in the serenity. Lunchtime calls in the charming town of Inveraray, where you’ve got free time to explore. Fancy a peek inside the grand Inveraray Castle? It’s open Thursday to Monday. Or, if you’re up for a spine-tingling experience, head to Inveraray Jail, one of the best-preserved historic prisons in the world. Step inside, if you dare! Continue to the legendary Rest and Be Thankful viewpoint, where jaw-dropping Highland panoramas demand your attention. Here, the mighty Arrochar Alps steal the show, offering the perfect backdrop for a Highland-style breather. The final stop is the postcard-perfect village of Luss, nestled on the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond. As a conservation village, it’s bursting with traditional Scottish charm, quaint cottages, tranquil shores, and scenery that’ll have your camera working overtime.

Day One Our tour will begin in Glasgow City Centre and from there, we will head north, passing by the bonnie, bonnie banks of Loch Lomond and stopping for a comfort break in the scenic loch-side village of Luss. We continue west, passing the magnificent Rest and Be Thankful pass before arriving in Inveraray. Home to the spectacular Inveraray Castle, which you might recognise from Downton Abbey, the Royal Burgh of Inveraray makes for a perfect stop. We will take time here to enjoy the loch-side views, explore the streets, and grab some lunch before continuing north into the Highlands. On our way north, we will pass through dramatic Glencoe, site of the 1692 massacre of the MacDonald Clan. You might recognise this valley from James Bond’s Skyfall. We will take time here to learn about the area’s history, as well as getting some fantastic photos. Following a quick comfort break in the area, we will continue on to the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, which you may recognise from the Harry Potter movies. During summer months, we will arrive with time to see the Jacobite Steam Train (or Hogwarts Express) crossing the bridge and get that famous photo. We then end our exciting first day of touring by arriving in Fort William, where you will check in to your accommodation for the night. Day Two Immerse yourself in history and beauty at Eilean Donan Castle After a hearty highland breakfast, we will begin our second day of touring by checking out of our accommodation and heading north to Glengarry Viewpoint, offering spectacular views. Keep an eye out for how Loch Garry looks for the viewpoint, as it is meant to look like a bird’s eye view of mainland Scotland. From that brilliant view, our tour continues eastwards towards Scotland’s most photographed castle, Eilean Donan. Take time here to explore the castle and its grounds and learn about its fascinating history. Our tour then heads to the beautiful town of Fort Augustus, at the foot of Loch Ness. We will spend time here for lunch, and to take in the views of Loch Ness - and keep an eye out for Nessie of course! From Fort Augustus, we begin to head south, stopping at the Commando Memorial on the way. Here, take time to learn about the memorial and enjoy views of Ben Nevis, Britain’s tallest mountain. On our return journey to Edinburgh, enjoy a relaxing journey through a beautiful highland setting. We will enjoy a comfort break in Dunkeld or Pitlochry where you can soak up the atmosphere in these picturesque towns. We then begin the final stretch of our journey back towards Edinburgh, crossing over the impressive Queensferry Crossing. After a short journey, we then arrive back in Edinburgh, where our 2-day Eilean Donan, Loch Ness and the Highlands tour comes to an end. If continuing to Glasgow, your guide will take you to Edinburgh Waverley railway station for the 50 minute journey by train.

Meet your friendly guide and get ready for your adventure into the heart of Scotland. After having a stroll around Luss, relax on a beautiful drive along the western shore of Loch Lomond, stopping at viewing points to admire the scenery of Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park. Travel towards Argyll and visit the Gothic Inveraray Castle, learning about the Jacobite uprising and seeing rifles used against the Jacobite soldiers. Roam around the castle's 16 acres of wonderful gardens and soak in the smell of flowers in the air. (Castle Closed - 1st November to 31st March) During this period you'll get to enjoy the town of Inveraray, built in the 1700's, along with getting to spend more time at the historical locations later in the day. Leave the castle and keep an eye out for swimming seals as you travel along the shoreline of Loch Fyne, one of the deepest sea lochs in Scotland. Travel past Dunadd Fort and hear stories of this historic site once home to Celtic kings who crossed the Irish Sea and made Scotland their kingdom. Steeped in rich history, Dunadd is first recorded in AD 683 and is believed to have been the powerful stronghold of Dál Riata. Discover the roots of Scotland's ancient past as you travel past this remarkable location. Pretend you're Claire from Outlander as you discover a collection of monolithic standing stones, stone circles, and burial cairns believed to be over 5,000 years old. This truly is a special moment. Take time to explore the ruins of Kilchurn Castle, a former fortress on the banks of Loch Awe. Watch for signs of thunderous clouds in the sky, as rumour has it that this historic castle was destroyed by lightning! Finish your unforgettable day trip by enjoying the most magnificent landscapes on the banks of Loch Lomond as we journey back to Glasgow.