Loch Laggan, Scotland

Set off in the comfort of an air-conditioned luxury coach and journey through the heart of Scotland’s natural beauty and legendary history. Pass by the iconic Stirling Castle as your Scottish guide shares thrilling tales of the battles that shaped a nation. Continue to the charming town of Callander, gateway to the Highlands and nestled at the foot of the Trossachs. If you’ve selected the Tour with Whisky Distillery option, we'll stop at Deanston Distillery for an optional tour and tasting. Meet some of Scotland’s most beloved residents - our Highland cows, or "hairy coos" up close before driving through the stunning landscapes of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. Hear stories of the infamous Highlander Rob Roy MacGregor from your guide. Marvel at the dramatic scenery of Glencoe, featured in James Bond ("Skyfall") and Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, and learn about the haunting 1692 Clan MacDonald massacre. Pass through Fort William, home to mighty Ben Nevis, the tallest peak in the British Isles. We'll arrive on the south bank of Loch Ness in the charming village of Fort Augustus. Stroll along the Caledonian Canal and enjoy the cafes, shops, and restaurants during a relaxing lunch break. For those joining the Tour with Boat Cruise option, you can choose to explore Loch Ness on the optional 1-hour boat cruise and try to catch a glimpse of "Nessie" - the legendary Loch Ness Monster! Pro tip: Bring a packed lunch to make the most of your time at each stop! Then, admire the impressive Commando Memorial at Spean Bridge with views of the Nevis Range. Continue your scenic journey by the majestic Cairngorms National Park, drive along Loch Laggan and ascend the Pass of Drumochter, a glacially-carved mountain pass linking the northern and southern Highlands. Finally, stop briefly in the beautiful Victorian town of Pitlochry before heading back to Edinburgh City Centre, arriving at approximately 8:30 PM. *Due to the long distances covered, much of the day is spent on the coach—perfect for enjoying Scotland’s scenic landscapes. Tour may run in reverse during peak season to reduce congestion in local communities.*

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.

Embark on a journey from Edinburgh to the Glenfinnan Viaduct. Pass by iconic sights, including The Kelpies and Stirling Castle as you head north to the Scottish Highlands. After crossing into the Highlands, pause for refreshments in Balquhidder (Callander during the winter months). Get your cameras ready for Highland wildlife — including meeting a few Highland cows, also known as hairy coos! Onwards to Glencoe, a dramatic and renowned glen featured in films such as “James Bond’s Skyfall”, "Monty Python and The Holy Grail" and “Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban”. Stop for photos and delve into Glencoe’s history, including the 1692 massacre of the MacDonald clan. Depart this scenic valley and follow the banks of Loch Linnhe to Fort William, a Highland town situated at the base of Ben Nevis, the tallest mountain in Britain. Pause here to enjoy the fresh Highland air before continuing to the Glenfinnan Viaduct. Drive west to the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, best known for its scenes in the Harry Potter film series, which is beautifully set among mountains on the shores of Loch Shiel. This enchanting location is famous for the Jacobite Steam Train, often compared to the Hogwarts Express. Take a short nature walk to reach the best viewing point of the Glenfinnan Viaduct. We aim to arrive in time to watch the train cross the viaduct, please note that the Jacobite Steam train runs on a seasonal basis (schedule is set by the train operator and is subject to change). Loch Shiel also plays the role of the “Black Lake”, used as the backdrop to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in several of the films. Enjoy the stunning views by the shores of the lake, a short walk away from our stop at Glenfinnan. Our scenic journey back to Edinburgh begins with our first stop is the Commando Memorial at Spean Bridge, where you can take in the impressive views of the Nevis Range. Continue along the picturesque Loch Laggan and then ascend above the Grampian Mountains. Travel through the western regions of the beautiful Cairngorms National Park and pause in the charming village of Pitlochry for refreshments. Take a stroll through this picturesque Victorian town or grab a quick bite to eat before making your way back to Edinburgh, arriving at approximately 7 PM for tours departing 7 AM, and 8:30 PM for tours departing at 8:30 AM.. **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.**

Gray Line Scotland’s Loch Ness and Highlands Day Tour is a dream for anyone looking to experience the heart of Scotland's breath-taking landscapes. Here's an overview of what makes this tour so captivating: Tour Highlights: Scenic Adventure: Covering over 500 km in just 12 hours, you'll be immersed in the beauty of the Scottish Highlands, crossing dramatic mountains and magical glens, and arriving at the iconic Loch Ness. Callander: A cozy stop in this charming village sets the perfect tone for your journey, offering a peaceful respite before diving deeper into Scotland’s stunning winter landscapes. Great Rannoch Moor: This vast wilderness introduces you to Scotland’s rugged, untamed natural beauty, with its sweeping, desolate views providing a sense of serenity and awe. Glen Coe: Known for its dramatic, towering mountains, Glen Coe is as much about history as it is about beauty. The tragic tales surrounding this region make it all the more fascinating, and its landscape will leave you speechless. Loch Ness: No trip to Scotland’s Highlands is complete without a visit to this legendary loch. You’ll be surrounded by an atmosphere of mystery as you gaze upon the misty waters, and perhaps catch a glimpse of the famous “Nessie.” It’s a peaceful yet thrilling stop that combines natural beauty with the intrigue of Scotland’s most famous myth. Loch Laggan & Pitlochry: On the return journey, you’ll encounter more serene landscapes, including Loch Laggan’s still waters and the picturesque Victorian village of Pitlochry, which is sure to make you feel like you've stepped into a postcard. Why Choose This Tour: Comfort & Convenience: With comfortable travel arrangements, easy booking options, and the flexibility of free cancellations, this tour is designed to provide you with a hassle-free experience. Expert Guide: The knowledgeable driver-guide will not only take you to the most iconic spots but will also enrich your journey with tales of Scotland’s history, culture, and folklore. Flexible Vouchers: You can use both mobile and printed vouchers, making the tour even more convenient to book and join. Perfect for Those Who Love: Stunning landscapes Rich history and legends Mystery and folklore, especially the Loch Ness legend Cosy escapes in charming villages Learning about Scotland's heritage in a relaxed, scenic environment Whether you're a photography enthusiast, history buff, or simply someone looking to escape into a winter wonderland, this tour will take you through Scotland’s most captivating and mysterious locations. Does this sound like the type of adventure you'd love to go on?

Welcome adventurers! Embark on a journey through the heart of Scotland, where every turn reveals a tale of history and mystery while you take in the dramatic scenery. Departing from the vibrant city of Edinburgh, our tour takes you on awesome adventure through some of Scotland's most iconic landscapes! Catch a glimpse of the mighty Stirling Castle as we make our way north, and cruise through the untamed beauty of Rannoch Moor before arriving at the hauntingly dramatic Glen Coe to learn about the legend of The Three Sisters and the clan massacre that inspired “The Red Wedding” from Game of Thrones. The exploration continues! On our way to legendary Loch Ness we will pass the towering Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain, and travel through the rugged Great Glen, before we stop at the charming Highland village of Fort Augustus. Here, you’ll have two choices: 1) Hop on a cruise of the infamous loch and go hunting for the elusive monster! Sonars and underwater imaging systems will reveal secrets of the loch, while the crew share mystic stories and legends of the area and Nessie. Grab a coffee or a beer from the onboard bar to stay sharp! 2) Experience a taste of Highland life while wandering through the local shops, imagining yourself centuries before, and take in the historic sights. Maybe you’ll catch a glimpse of Nessie from the scenic shores? On our way back to Edinburgh we’ll trace Loch Laggan, see more of the rugged Scottish landscape, and stop at wee Highland villages while your epic guide shares tales of the land. As the day draws to an end, we savour one last glimpse of the iconic Fort Bridges before returning in the evening, filled with memories to last a lifetime!

You leave the cobbled streets of Edinburgh and travel past Linlithgow Palace and Stirling Castle. This region is soaked in history, so sit back and relax as your driver-guide entertains you with the tales of Mary Queen of Scots, William Wallace, and Scottish folklore. If you keep a look out, you can catch a glimpse of the Kelpies. These 30-metre tall horse head sculptures need to be seen to be believed. Your driver-guide takes you to their favourite stop within the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park where you can grab coffee and enjoy the views. After this stop, it’s time to get your camera ready. Because as you travel north into the Highlands, the landscapes suddenly become more provocative. Shimmering lochs, rugged mountains, forest filled glens: it’s all so beautiful that it’s easy to forget these were once battlegrounds for fiercely territorial Highland clans. You stop in Glencoe, one of the most famous natural landmarks in all of Scotland. This beautiful area boasts steep slopes and photogenic peaks. Your driver-guide may reveal to you the tragic tale that’s haunted this valley for over 300 years. You then enter the glacial valley known as the Great Glen and pass under the shadow of Ben Nevis, Britain’s tallest mountain. After this visual feast of mighty inclines, you arrive in Fort Augustus on the banks of Loch Ness. At 23 miles long and over 700ft deep, Loch Ness is the largest loch by volume in Scotland. You have around one hour and a half here. You can search for the infamous monster on a relaxing boat cruise,* wander around the shores of the loch at your own pace, and grab a bite to eat. Your journey south is packed full of classic Highland scenery. You travel through the curvy Cairngorms National Park, along Loch Laggan, and past Blair Castle. Amongst the tall trees of Perthshire, you have a final refreshment break before journeying alongside the UNESCO Forth Rail Bridge and back into Edinburgh. *The Loch Ness boat cruise is weather dependent and may be cancelled without notice. This route may be reversed on some occasions.

Day 1: You depart Edinburgh and travel west. This part of your journey is a history lover’s dream. You pass Stirling Castle, the Wallace Monument, and Doune Castle, before stopping in Callander for refreshments. Next, we venture north through the splendid scenery surrounding Loch Lubnaig and up to the wild desolation of Rannoch Moor. You continue through the spectacular mountain pass of Glencoe, scene of the great massacre of the Clan MacDonald in 1692. And after lunch we pass Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis, and head into the Great Glen. Travelling west, you head past the Five Sisters of Kintail. You then stop at the famous Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland’s most photographed castles. Crossing over the bridge to Skye, you follow the dramatic coastline, towards the island’s capital, Portree. And after all this breath-taking beauty, you’re dropped off at your accommodation in the early evening with enough time to go out and explore the town. Day 2: Today is a flexible day on Skye; and your driver-guide ensures you take a unique route that suits the weather, the local events, and your group's interests. You can travel north to the Trotternish Ridge and beyond. Here you find the geological wonders like Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock, and the stunning mountain pass of the Quiraing. Or your guide may take you back in time and teach you about the legends and clan culture surrounding the 13th-century home of the Clan MacLeod, Dunvegan Castle. You return to Portree in the evening. Day 3: You travel south through the Cuillin Hills and back over to the mainland for stunning views over Loch Duich and the Five Sisters of Kintail. You visit Loch Ness for lunch and the chance to spot "Nessie"!* Heading south through the Grampian mountains along Loch Laggan, famous now as "Monarch of the Glen Country" before passing Dalwhinnie and onwards past Blair Castle. We stop for refreshments in one of the Perthshire villages before heading past Perth, over the Firth of Forth, and back to Edinburgh.

Depart from Edinburgh with your guide, the tour travels past Stirling and stops for morning refreshments in the bustling Highland town of Callander. Explore the high street filled with tearooms and small shops. Continue north through Rannoch Moor, one of Europe's last wildernesses. Stop to admire the beauty of Glencoe and take time to capture a photo or two. Afterward, recharge at Glencoe Visitor Centre with lunch.  Learn about the everyday life of 17th-century Scottish people in the nearby Turf House, before heading to Glenfinnan, home to both the Glenfinnan Viaduct, or as some may know it, the 'bridge to Hogwarts', and the Glenfinnan Monument. From April - October there's a chance to view the Jacobite Steam Train as it crosses the viaduct, a spectacular experience. At the foot of the monument is Loch Shiel, also featured in the Harry Potter films, as part of the lake of Hogwarts Castle. Stop here to take in this landscape and learn a little about its history too.  Lastly while departing Glenfinnan the tour travels through Fort William and across the country to Pitlochry. Relax for a while in this Victorian town, a great place to enjoy evening refreshments before returning to Edinburgh.

Meet your professional guide at Buchanan Bus Station in Glasgow and travel north to Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. Enjoy some time by the loch while you take in the views of the country voted the most beautiful in the world in 2019. Travel deeper into the Highlands and through desolate Rannoch Moor, one of last remaining wildernesses in Europe. Then, Glencoe will open up in front of you, with a haunting history and dramatic scenery it's an essential place to visit to see the true heart of the country. Next it's lunchtime, with a stop in Fort Augustus. This town at the southern tip of Loch Ness has a great choice of cafes and restaurants as well as local shops to browse. You can choose to purchase a ticket for a Loch Ness cruise and spend some time hunting Nessie. Afterwards, it's time to travel across the country and though the Grampian Mountains as you head to the forests of Perthshire. A final stop is enjoyed in the Victorian town of Pitlochry before the tour returns to Glasgow.

After departing from Edinburgh your tour will travel past Stirling and its stunning hill-top castle. Then, stop for refreshments in the Highland town of Callander. From Callander, you’ll travel north through the Trossachs National park and the desolate Rannoch Moor, one of the last remaining wildernesses in Europe. Stop for photographs in Glencoe which has very dramatic scenery and a dark past. Travel through Fort William with the sublime mountain Ben Nevis looming overhead. Continue on and follow the Great Glen Canal to Fort Augustus which is at the southern top of Loch Ness. You’ll have time to enjoy some lunch here and explore the town. There is also the option to take a 1-hour monster spotting cruise on the loch. Once back on dry land, your tour will travel through the Grampian Mountains and south through Perthshire. Arrive at the Victorian resort town of Pitlochry, favoured by Queen Victoria and Scots novelist Robert Louis Stevenson. This will be your evening refreshment stop. Finally, you’ll return to Scotland’s capital city Edinburgh, ending your Loch Ness tour via the Queensferry Crossing. As you cross, look left for a great view of one of Scotland’s most iconic structures, the Forth Rail Bridge which has been declared a UNESCO world heritage site.