Loch Fyne, Scottish Highlands: Our most recommended tours and activities

From Glasgow: Oban, Glencoe, Highland Lochs & Castles Tour

1. From Glasgow: Oban, Glencoe, Highland Lochs & Castles Tour

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.

From Edinburgh: West Highland Lochs & Castles Full-Day Trip

2. From Edinburgh: West Highland Lochs & Castles Full-Day Trip

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.

From Edinburgh: West Highlands, Lochs, and Castles Tour

3. From Edinburgh: West Highlands, Lochs, and Castles Tour

Discover the stunning scenery and historic landmarks of the West Highlands of Scotland on a day tour from Edinburgh. Find out more about Scottish history and culture as you explore Doune Castle, Loch Lubnai, the town of Inveraray, and iconic Loch Lomond. Meet your guide and board the bus in central Edinburgh. Travel west out of the city and enjoy the scenery as you pass Stirling Castle on your way to your first stop at Doune Castle. Admire the sight of the imposing Doune Castle*, which has been standing for 600 years. You can choose to visit the inside on the day. If you’re a fan of Monty Python and The Holy Grail, The Outlaw King, or the Outlander series, you can learn about how the castle was used as a filming location. Continue on your adventure through the charming town of Callander and cross the Highland Boundary Fault Line. Leave behind the rolling hills of farmland for the wild mountains and forests of the Highlands. Make a short stop at Loch Lubnaig and continue over the Braes of Balquhidder. From Balquhidder, the tour winds its way through the tough knot of mountains known as Breadalbane (meaning the 'high country of Scotland'). Before lunch, you have a photo stop to take in the sight of Kilchurn Castle, a magnificent ruin situated on the edge of Loch Awe and former home of the Campbells of Breadalbane. Travel by the banks of Loch Awe through Campbell country to the picturesque town of Inveraray on the shores of Loch Fyne. Here you can admire the 18th-century castle (open to visitors from April until October), take time to explore the town, or head to the Old Jail. Leaving Inveraray, drive up through the steep-sided mountains known as the Arrochar Alps to the great viewpoint at 'Rest and Be Thankful'. Skirt around Loch Long and then down to the "Bonnie, Bonnie Banks" of Loch Lomond. Visit the conservation village of Luss, where you can wander around taking in its quaint houses and stunning views across the loch. From here, relax on the return journey back to Edinburgh, arriving in the capital in the early evening. *Please note that Doune Castle is closed from 8th January - 18th February 2024. We will instead take you to Stirling Castle. We apologise for the inconvenience.

From Glasgow: Standing Stones, Castles & Highlands Tour

4. From Glasgow: Standing Stones, Castles & Highlands Tour

Take in the beauty of the Scottish Highlands on a guided day trip to locations steeped in fascinating folklore. Admire the stunning views of the landscape as you visit some historic locations which are deeply linked to Scottish history and heritage. Start your tour from Glasgow and take in the wonderful views looking out over the River Clyde and west towards the Clyde Estuary, where fresh water and saltwater meet. On a clear day, you may even be able to see where the Vikings moored their longboats over 1300 years ago. Pass through Trossachs National Park and all its scenic splendour. From Scotland’s first National Park, travel west towards Argyll for a visit to Inveraray Castle. Admire the collection of antique weaponry, used against the Jacobite soldiers and other historic artefacts. (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. After your first historic Castle visit, travel along the shores of Loch Fyne, the longest saltwater Loch in Scotland. Keep a watchful eye on the water as there’s a good chance you will see some seals and other marine wildlife. Next, stop at Kilmartin Glen, where there are over 350 ancient monuments spread across the valley, making this one of the most historically important locations in the whole of Scotland. Explore a large finding of cup and ring marks, dating from thousands of years back. Continue towards the historical standing stones, stone circles, and burial cairns located within the area. Discover these mysterious ancient formations, believed to be over 5000 years old. Afterward, travel to Kilchurn Castle. Explore the abandoned 15th-century castle located at the head of Loch Awe, which was once home to the large and powerful Campbell Clan of Glenorchy. Leave Kilchurn and make your way further into the Highlands towards the mountainous Trossachs region. Stop along the banks of Loch Lomond to enjoy some of the magnificent Highland scenery, before returning to Glasgow.

Oban, Lochs & Inveraray Full-Day Tour from Edinburgh

5. Oban, Lochs & Inveraray Full-Day Tour from Edinburgh

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.

From Edinburgh: Islay and The Whisky Coast 4-Day Tour

6. From Edinburgh: Islay and The Whisky Coast 4-Day Tour

Explore Islay and become a whisky expert on this unique 4-day tour. Sit back and enjoy the action-packed itinerary as you are driven in style in a luxury minicoach. And learn about the long history and traditions of this special Island. Discover everything Islay has to offer, from stunning sandy beaches to fascinating wildlife and a vibrant local culture. And try the famous Islay whiskies, renowned for their strong peaty flavors and nurtured by the salty sea air. Day 1 On day 1 you’ll travel through Loch Lomond National Park, with visits to Inveraray, Loch Fyne and the Kingdom of Dalriada. Here you can see the Kilmartin standing stones and community museum before catching the ferry to Islay for 3 nights in Bowmore. Day 2 Day 2 gives you the flexibility to visit the lovely sandy bays of Islay’s west coast, Saligo Bay, Kilchoman Distillery, Machair Bay, the tiny harbor village of Portnahaven, Bruichladdich Distillery, Ardnahoe Distillery, and the Islay Museum. Day 3 On day 3 you’ll explore the south side of Islay followed by a tour, tasting and lunch with local produce at Ardbeg. Other options include the ruins of Kildalton church or a visit to the community craft producers at Islay House Square and the woodlands along the River Sorn. Day 4 On day 4 you’ll take the ferry back to Argyll and the ancient Kingdom of Dalriada. Lunch will be at Kilmartin, home to 350 pre-historic monuments and stone circles, with some free time in Oban before returning to Edinburgh via Glasgow.

From Glasgow: Oban, Lochs & Inveraray Day Tour

7. From Glasgow: Oban, Lochs & Inveraray Day Tour

Depart Glasgow and travel to Loch Lomond (the largest expanse of fresh water in the country) where you will stop off at the conservation village of Luss for coffee and sightseeing. Then head deep into the Highlands, passing through breathtaking scenery, including views along Loch Awe, the longest loch in Scotland. The countryside here is rich with history and you will pass the haunting Kilchurn Castle, historically a stronghold of the Campbell Clan, and the Pass of Brander (where Robert the Bruce had a notable victory). By lunchtime, you'll have reached Oban where you will have time to explore this Victorian seaside town, climb up to McCaig's Tower, take in the views to the isles of Mull and Kerrera and try some of the freshest seafood you've ever tasted. On the way back to Glasgow, you'll visit the seat of the Campbell Clan at Inveraray, where you'll stop to enjoy ice-cream, homemade sweets, cakes and coffee and drink in the beauty of Loch Fyne.

Isle of Mull and Iona 3-Day Small-Group Tour from Glasgow

8. Isle of Mull and Iona 3-Day Small-Group Tour from Glasgow

On your first day, saunter around Loch Lomond in the pretty village of Luss. Find the perfect spot to drink a coffee and sing the ‘Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond.’ Journey with your driver through the unforgettable landscapes of Glencoe before a lunch stop at the traditional Clachaig Inn. Hop on a 10-minute ferry to a mountainous peninsula and travel to the port of Lochaline. Board another ferry and make your way to the east coast of Mull. Admire the abundant wild nature in Aros Park, a beautiful area boasting waterfalls and forest footpaths. In the early evening, arrive in Tobermory with time to wander where you will spend the night. The next morning travel past epic mountains to the south of Mull. Take a ferry to two of the most mysterious and dramatic locations in the region, Iona Abbey and *Fingal’s Cave. After satisfying your adventurous spirit, head north back to Tobermory where you can perhaps try the seafood before your second overnight stay. On the third day, travel south to Craignure and catch a ferry back to the mainland. When you arrive in Oban, taste the fantastic local seafood and wander around this Victorian harbor town. Venture to Kilmartin Glen, an archaeologist’s dream. Discover around 800 ancient monuments, including burial chambers, rock carvings, standing stones, castles and more within this area. Enjoy learning about the significance of these monuments from your driver-guide. Make a final stop in Inveraray, a gorgeous little town which boasts an impressive view over Loch Fyne. Return to Glasgow in the evening.

Isle of Skye, Oban, St Andrews and Highlands 5-Day Tour

9. Isle of Skye, Oban, St Andrews and Highlands 5-Day Tour

Departing from Edinburgh, travel through Scotland’s Central Belt to Glasgow, here there's time to visit the magnificent Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, opened in 1901. Then cross the Kingston Bridge over the River Clyde and head north to the village of Luss on the shores of Loch Lomond. Next, it’s onwards and upwards over the steep pass of 'Rest and be Thankful' in the village of Inveraray, a town lapped by the sea water of Loch Fyne and famed for its oysters and seafood. Next head to Dunadd Iron Age Fort, the coronation site of kings and queens of Dalriada, the ancient Gaelic speaking kingdom. Follow in the footsteps of kings and queens and take the steep but thankfully short path to the summit of the hill. After a stop at Kilmartin Museum, drive through the stunning Argyll scenery to the bustling port and fishing town of Oban, the location of your first night’s stay. In the morning discover the beautiful Glencoe, considered to be the most impressive glen in Scotland. After a short hike and photograph stop, head to the Glenfinnan Monument and Viaduct. Fom Glenfinnan travel to Fort William where you have two options – a tour of Ben Nevis Whisky distillery or a visit to Inverlochy Castle and Neptune’s Staircase. Time to head north and arrive at the southern banks of Loch Ness to get photos of the infamous monster Nessie! Your route then takes you into some of the most spectacular scenery in all of the Highlands as you pass through Glenshiel and the iconic Five Sisters of Kintail to the meeting point of 3 sea lochs – Loch Duich, Loch Long and Loch Alsh – the wonderful setting for Eilean Donan Castle. On Day 3, explore the sights of the Trotternish Peninsula to the Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock and the Quiraing, hear about the local folklore of how the Fairies, Fishermen and Giants created the landscape. Next, visit the Museum of Island Life, and then loop around north Skye to take in magnificent views across the sea, east to the Torridon Mountains and west to the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides. Journey onto the Cuillin Mountains and travel through Kyle of Lochalsh to the unbelievably pretty village of Plockton. At Plockton there is the option of taking a one-hour cruise or a short hike through nearby woodland. In the evening, visit a local highland pub to drink some Scotch whisky or beer and eat some traditional Scottish food, whilst listening to some local musicians perform. On Day 4, visit Kessock bridge and then head to the North West Highlands. The first stop of the day is at Corrieshalloch Gorge, Scotland’s deepest gorge, and then onto the legendary North Coast 500 Route traveling passed towering peaks to the ancient ruin of Ardvreck Castle. After this fascinating slice of Scottish history, head to the very wonderful Knockan Crag to learn more about the incredible geology of this area, next head to the pretty ferry port and fishing town of Ullapool. After lunch, travel to Rogie Falls and find frothing water cascading down the falls and gentle trails among the forest. From Rogie Falls it’s a short drive to the town of Beauly, the one time favorite town of Mary Queen of Scots. On the last day the first stop is Clava Cairns, the site of incredible standing stones and burial chambers dating back to at least 4000 years ago. Culloden Battlefield is the next stop location of the last battle to be fought on British soil. Onto Cairngorms National Park next, and then the final stop of the tour at the ancient east Fife town of St Andrews. This medieval walled town is home to St Andrews University, the oldest in Scotland, as well St Andrews Cathedral. It’s always hard to drag yourself away from St Andrews but in the early evening it's time to start winding your way through the fishing villages of the East Neuk of Fife, across the Forth Road Bridge with views of the 1890 Railway Bridge and the 2017 Queensferry Crossing, and back into Edinburgh.

Edinburgh: Oban, Kilchurn Castle & Inveraray Tour in Spanish

10. Edinburgh: Oban, Kilchurn Castle & Inveraray Tour in Spanish

Start your tour by bordering Glasgow to reach the west of Loch Lomond, the heart of Trossachs National Park. Loch Lomond is the largest expanse of fresh water in the country, where you will stop off at the conservation village of Luss. From here, the landscape turns into an unforgettable picture. The tour proceeds through mansions, golf courses, and nature, while the Military Road will guide you throughout history.  Continue on your tour of Oban with a visit to Loch Awe, a location that will surely delight you with one of the most impressive pictures of Scotland: the majestic and imperturbable Kilchurn Castle. This fortress belonged to the Clan Campbell of Glenorchy from the 15th-century. Later, in the 18th-century, it was abandoned and its ruins made it a source of inspiration for artists like William Turner, making this one of the most photographed castles in Scotland. If the rain makes access to the Castle difficult, you will have the chance to visit Saint Conan Kirk. This church and its cloister were designed by Walter Douglas Campbell at the end of the 19th-century. It was an architectonic whim made of granite, and nowadays it’s a tribute to Norman and Ancient Roman styles.  After the Castle visit, Oban awaits you. It is here that you will get a taste of the local gastronomy. This location, known as the “Seafood Capital of Scotland” will offer you many culinary possibilities in a welcoming environment. The west coast village is characterized by its Victorian style and the opening to the Atlantic Ocean, with views to the islands of Kerrera, Lismore or Mull. Before the trek back to Edinburgh, you will stop in Inveraray, Royal Burgh and home to the ancient Duke of Argyll, this town is situated next to Loch Fyne. Inveraray will show you the good taste of the most prominent architect of the Scottish Enlightenment, William Adam. Afterward, you will drive through the Argyll Forest Park, the oldest among the British forest parks, with very steep risks, hidden glens, and winding rivers. In the South of Loch Lomond, you will find the town of Balloch, where you will enjoy a hot drink before starting the last stage of your route to Edinburgh.

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Things to do in
Loch Fyne, Scottish Highlands

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What people are saying about Loch Fyne, Scottish Highlands

Overall rating

4.7 / 5

based on 1,089 reviews

We had a fantastic time on our tour with John. From the moment we stepped onto the bus in the morning, he made us feel welcome and had us laughing with his Scottish humour. He spent the day sharing many stories and anecdotes about the countryside and it’s history, with a witty twist that kept us entertained. As for the actual route of the tour - it was amazing! We were blessed with great weather and got to see many different Scottish landscapes and castles. This is definitely a tour worth doing with Rubbies! I’d book to do it again in a heart beat!

We took the tour during winter time so it was the perfect time to enjoy Highland area. Some of the Castles unfortunately was close due to renovation, so maybe it is better to check first before book the tour. Our guide also manage the time very well so we could enjoy everything before dark arrived.

It was a really pleasant day. The guide Fraser was expectional. I enjoyed the music during the trip, it enhanced the experience and the stories he told were funny and interesting.

Great experience despite the tricky rainy weather. Our guide was fun and knowledgeable and made the best out of each stop. Highly recommend

Ben was our guide. He was excellent. Seriously recommend to go for this tour.