Stirling

Island tours

Set off from Edinburgh 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. (Please note that during the summer, one coach per day will drive the route in reserve and will make an alternative comfort stop due to limited opening hours in Callander). If you’ve selected the Tour with Whisky Distillery option, your journey begins with a visit to Deanston Distillery, nestled on the banks of the River Teith. Housed in a former cotton mill, the distillery produces a range of premium single malt whiskies. Enjoy a guided tour through the distillery, where you’ll learn about the traditional whisky-making process and the history behind this unique location. 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.*

Take in the stunning Highland locations made famous by the Harry Potter and James Bond film series on a full-day trip from Edinburgh. Pass famous landmarks such as Linlithgow Palace, the mythical Kelpies, and the dramatically perched Stirling Castle. Head north through Glencoe while your driver/guide points out the film locations for the James Bond and Harry Potter franchises. Stop in the Fort William area for lunch before a short drive to the Glenfinnan Viaduct which was made famous from its scenes in the Harry Potter movies from the filming of the Hogwarts Express. Take a short walk to the viewpoint where you will have unparalleled views over Loch Shiel and across to the viaduct in time for the Jacobite Steam train crossing*. The road home will be time to relax and take in the Highland scenery. The final stop is at the historic town of Pitlochry before continuing home over the Firth of Forth alongside UNESCO Forth Rail Bridge en route back into Edinburgh. *Please note that the Jacobite Steam Train is operated by separate company and although our tour is scheduled around seeing this we cannot guarantee train will run on the day of your tour. This service is seasonal and runs from Monday 7th April to Friday 24th October 2025.

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.

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.**

Depart from Balloch village and set sail beyond the stately homes of historic Scottish industrialists within view of Ben Lomond, Scotland's most southerly Munro. Continue towards Inchmurrin Island, the largest inland island in Great Britain and home to the ruins of the 12th century Lennox Castle. Learn the history and legend of Loch Lomond and the surrounding areas while enjoying some of Scotland's most spectacular scenery. Enjoy a cruise commentary by famed historian and archaeologist Neil Oliver, best known from BBC's "Coast" and "A History of Scotland." 

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 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. **

Departing Edinburgh, we head towards our first stop of the day; the Kelpies. At 30m high, they are the largest equine sculptures in the world and depict mythical creatures from Scottish folklore. We then travel westwards towards the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond; one of the prettiest and largest lochs in the whole of Scotland. Here you can enjoy an hour long cruise (optional extra) taking in spectacular views of the loch's many islands and surrounding mountains. We continue through the Trossachs National Park, also known as 'the Highlands in Miniature' for it's abundance of lochs, mountains and forests. It's also famous for the legendary outlaw, Rob Roy MacGregor. We will spend time exploring the area before stopping for lunch in a small village immersed in its beautiful surroundings. After lunch, we make our way through the town of Callander, past the medieval Doune Castle before we make our final stop of the day at Stirling Castle (optional extra). The site is one of Scotland's most historically significant fortresses, sitting high on volcanic rock and offering wonderful views of the surrounding landscape. You will have time to visit the castle and learn of the exploits of key historical figures including William Wallace, Robert the Bruce and Mary Queen of Scots. With lots of interesting things to see and do here, the Stirling Castle experience is a must for any visitor to Scotland. We then begin our journey homebound to Edinburgh. Please note: this tour may run in reverse. Certain areas of Stirling Castle are closed due to safety. Please visit their access guide for more information.

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.

Departing central Edinburgh hop aboard an air-conditioned coach and Follow in the footsteps of Jamie and Claire, stop at the beautiful village of Falkland, nestled between the two Lomond Hills in the Howe of Fife. Fans of Outlander will recognize Falkland as the stand-in for Inverness, where Claire and Frank honeymoon. Our 2nd Location of the day will be the village of Culross. Several parts of Culross are used to depict the village of Cranesmuir, predominantly for season 1 of Outlander. During your time here, you'll notice many of the scenes come to life as you step into the actual shooting location of the show. Explore Doune Castle*, also known as Castle Leoch which features predominantly in season 1 of Outlander, where the exterior entrance, the courtyard and the great hall are all used in filming. Castle Leoch is a very important location within the story world as it is where many characters for season 1 are introduced & developed. The tour continues to the town of Linlithgow, famous for its palace, birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots. Here, outlander fans have the opportunity to see Linlithgow Palace, used as the set for the infamous Wentworth Prison in Outlander. Linlithgow Palace is where Outlander's Jamie was held prisoner and tortured by Black Jack Randall, one of the most intense scenes filmed during the TV series. Enjoy some time for refreshments and exploring before the next stop. Our last location of the day, Midhope Castle, a must for Outlander fans. The Midhope Castle is the external location of the Fraser family home known as Lallybroch. Spend time at the castle for photos and live out your Outlander fantasy On returning to Edinburgh, ask for directions to Bakehouse Close, a location featured in the third series of Outlander as Jamie's print house. *On occasions DOUNE CASTLE may be substituted for BLACKNESS CASTLE *Midhope Castle is only available March-December