Loch Fyne, Scottish Highlands

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.

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.

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.

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.

You’ll depart Edinburgh in the morning and travel through Scotland's bustling central belt, across to Glasgow, the country’s largest city. From Glasgow, it’s on to Loch Lomond, the largest expanse of fresh water in the country. Stop at the conservation village of Luss for coffee and sightseeing. Head deep into the Highlands, traveling through breathtaking scenery, on this full-day tour. You’ll see Loch Awe, the longest of Scotland’s lakes, and countryside with a rich history. You’ll come to haunting Kilchurn Castle, historically a stronghold of the Campbell Clan, and the Pass of Brander, where Robert the Bruce had a notable victory. Enjoy lunch in Oban and then take time to explore this lovely Victorian seaside town. Climb up McCaig's Tower, take in the views of the islands of Mull and Kerrera, and try some of the freshest seafood you’ve ever tasted! On the way back to Edinburgh, you'll visit Inveraray, the seat of the Campbell Clan, with a stop for ice cream, homemade sweets, or cakes. Enjoy a coffee and take in the beauty of Loch Fyne.

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.

Day 1 Leaving Edinburgh behind, you head straight for the Highlands, with your first stop in Trossachs National Park to soak in Scotland's breathtaking scenery and savor local delicacies. Your driver-guide may entertain you with Scottish folklore tales as you journey through the mountainous landscapes of the Western Highlands to Oban. Once a hub for feuding clans, Oban is now renowned for its fresh seafood and 200-year-old whisky perfected at its own distillery. Enjoy a tasting and lunch of delicious local seafood here. Continuing your adventure, you pass through Kilmartin Glen, home to ancient standing stones and strongholds dating back over 1,500 years. At Kennacraig, board the evening ferry to Islay, a two-hour sail where you might catch sight of the Paps of Jura, guiding you to the Queen of the Hebrides, Islay. Upon arrival, settle into your accommodation on the island. Day 2 We know whisky tasting can be hard work, so you begin the day with a little sleep in. After you’ve had an ample amount of breakfast, you enjoy a tour of Bowmore Distillery, one of the oldest distilleries in Scotland. You have time for a tour and a whisky tasting here before you continue exploring the island. Next, your driver-guide takes you to Kilchoman Distillery for a tour and a lunch of local treats. Kilchoman is known as Islay's only Single Farm Single Match Scotch Whisky, reviving traditional farm distilling of barley to bottle, making their whisky 100% Islay. After trying local larder, you travel through the beautiful countryside to the third distillery of the day. On Thursday and Saturday, you visit Bruichladdich, the progressive distillery specialising in unpeated whisky. On Tuesday, you taste the unpeated and salty notes of Bunnahabhain in the most remote distillery on Islay. You head back to Bowmore where you can either stumble back to your room for the night or relax and explore the village. Day 3 Today, you'll explore the southern side of the island, home to Scotland's renowned distilleries: Laphroaig, Lagavulin, and Ardbeg. After breakfast, your first stop is Ardbeg*, where a tour and tasting await. Then, visit Laphroaig*, a 200-year-old favorite of the British royal family, marked by the Prince of Wales's seal. Throughout the day, your driver-guide showcases historical sites like the ruins of Kildalton church and Dunyvaig Castle. Stop at Lagavulin for intensely flavored, rich, and smoky whisky.End your day back in Bowmore. Day 4 This morning, you take the ferry back to the mainland. You travel through coastal scenery to the beautiful village of Inveraray on the banks of Loch Fyne. The town is adorned with historic buildings, old boats, and a great whisky shop. Your trip continues to Loch Lomond where you have a chance to admire Great Britain’s largest body of water by surface area. You arrive in Edinburgh in the early evening. *Itinerary and distillery visits are subject to change.

Start your tour from Glasgow with a scenic drive through the breathtaking Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. Next, travel across the rugged Rannoch Moor, stopping to admire the awe-inspiring Glen Coe. The highlight of the day is the famous Jacobite Steam Train! Departing from Fort William, this journey takes you along the west coast, crossing the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, as seen in the Harry Potter films. Disembark in Mallaig, a charming fishing town where you can enjoy lunch and sample fresh seafood. Afterwards, continue along the scenic Appin coast, passing Kilchurn Castle on the shores of Loch Awe. Our journey then takes us to the historic town of Inveraray, nestled by the peaceful waters of Loch Fyne. End the day with stunning views of the Arrochar Alps as we pass the famous Rest and Be Thankful viewpoint, before returning to Glasgow in the evening.

Your tour starts in Glasgow, where you’ll set off on a scenic drive through the beautiful Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. Cross the wild expanse of Rannoch Moor, then stop at the breathtaking Glen Coe to take in its towering peaks and dramatic views. Next, board the iconic Jacobite Steam Train! Departing from Fort William, this legendary train ride takes you along Scotland’s rugged west coast, crossing the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, recognized from the Harry Potter films. In the harbor town of Mallaig, explore the area and savor a fresh seafood lunch — a local specialty. Continue your adventure along the stunning Appin coastline, passing the historic Kilchurn Castle nestled on the shores of Loch Awe. Stop in Inveraray, a charming town where you can stroll its streets and enjoy views of the tranquil Loch Fyne. Before heading back to Glasgow, pause at the renowned Rest and Be Thankful viewpoint for breathtaking panoramic vistas of the surrounding hills. Arrive back in the city in the evening, having experienced the very best of Scotland’s natural beauty and historic landmarks.