2 Days on the Loch Ness Canal of Caledonia and the Highlands

Discover the Best of Scottish Highlands and Loch Ness on a 2-Day Tour

This 2-day tour from Edinburgh offers an in-depth look at some of Scotland’s most iconic sights, including Loch Ness, the Caledonian Canal, Glencoe, and Cairngorms National Park. Priced at $245, this experience provides a comprehensive itinerary that combines sightseeing with cultural experiences, all led by a professional guide. The tour includes one night of accommodation with full breakfast, making it a great option for travelers seeking convenience and richness in scenery.

What sets this tour apart is its focus on Scotland’s natural beauty and historic landmarks within a manageable two-day window. With pickup offered and a mobile ticket, it offers flexibility and ease of access. While the tour covers a lot of ground, it is particularly suited for those eager to see Scotland’s landscapes without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• Two-day guided tour starting from Edinburgh with accommodation and breakfast included
• Visits to Loch Ness, Glencoe, Cairngorms, and Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park
• Includes entry tickets to key sites like Blair Athol Distillery and Urquhart Castle
• A professional guide leads you through Scotland’s most striking sights and stories
• Tour size limited to 8 travelers for a more personalized experience
• Flexible pickup and mobile tickets make logistics simple

The Itinerary: A Day-by-Day Breakdown

Day 1: From Edinburgh to the Heart of the Highlands

On the first day, the tour begins in Edinburgh with a pickup in the morning. The route takes you across the longest bridge in the world under construction, crossing into the Highlands. The first stop is the charming Pitlochry, a Victorian-style town renowned for its scenic High Street and inviting taverns, where a short walk and a coffee or lunch set the tone for the day.

Next, the Blair Athol Distillery offers a one-hour tour and tasting of Scotland’s famous whisky. Visitors get to explore historic buildings from the 18th century, gaining insight into the traditional whisky-making process. The tour then heads to Queen’s View, a spectacular lookout over Loch Tummel with views that are widely regarded as among Scotland’s most breathtaking.

The afternoon includes visits to the Falls of Bruar, where a relaxing walk reveals waterfalls and scenic vistas. The group then visits Blair Castle & Gardens, a fairy-tale castle home to the Atholl Highlanders, Europe’s only private army. The castle’s grounds, including the Hercules garden, provide a glimpse into Scottish aristocratic history. Later, the tour visits Loch an Eilein, a forested lake with tower ruins, perfect for photographs and quiet reflection.

The day concludes in Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, where the group enjoys the lively atmosphere and views of the river Ness, castle, and cathedral. Travelers have the chance to soak in local culture at a Scottish tavern before overnight accommodation.

Day 2: Loch Ness, Glencoe, and Scottish National Parks

The second day starts with a Scottish breakfast before heading toward Loch Ness. The journey includes a boat cruise aboard a catamaran across Loch Ness, giving a chance to spot Nessie, the legendary monster, while enjoying the vast scenery surrounding the lake. The boat ride is 30 minutes and provides a memorable perspective of Loch Ness’s size and beauty.

After the cruise, visitors explore the Urquhart Castle ruins, a 12th-century fortress on the lake’s shores, which offers insight into Scotland’s medieval past. The next stop is Fort Augustus, a picturesque town where the caledonian Canal locks are on display, and a short walk allows for sightseeing, coffee, and lunch options.

Travel continues along the Caledonian Canal, passing forests, lakes, and mountains that showcase Scotland’s wild terrain. The group arrives in Fort William, known as the outdoor sports hub of the UK, with views of the Ben Nevis mountain. Here, visitors can see Inverlochy Castle ruins and explore the small, charming High Street.

A highlight of the day is the visit to Glencoe, famed for its dramatic landscapes and history. The Glen features the Three Sisters mountains and has served as the backdrop for films like Skyfall and Braveheart. The Glencoe National Nature Reserve offers a 30-minute walk through one of Scotland’s most striking valleys, famous for its rugged cliffs and mystical ambiance.

The tour then crosses into Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, stopping at the village of Luss. On the shores of Loch Lomond, the village provides a peaceful setting for a brief walk among Celtic history and scenic views. The day concludes with a drive past Stirling Castle and the monument to William Wallace, before returning to Edinburgh to end the tour.

Practical Logistics and Group Size

This tour departs from West Register House, 17 Charlotte Square, Edinburgh, with pickups available for convenience. The journey is designed for groups of up to 8 travelers, ensuring a more personalized and engaging experience. The entire trip lasts approximately two days, with the second day ending back at the starting point.

The tour includes breakfast, one night’s accommodation, entrance tickets to major sites, and the services of a professional guide. It does not cover light lunches or optional dinners, which travelers can arrange separately.

Highlights of the Guided Experience

The guide on this tour receives praise for their knowledge and pleasant demeanor. Reviews mention how the guide never skips a beat, providing informative commentary throughout the journey. The hands-on experience at Blair Athol Distillery and the historical insights at Blair Castle enrich the trip, making it both educational and visually stunning.

Scenic Stops and Photo Opportunities

Each stop offers memorable sights: from the spectacular Queen’s View to the falls of Bruar, and the ruins of Urquhart Castle. The Glen landscapes are often used as filming locations, adding a cinematic element. Travelers are encouraged to bring their cameras, as many scenic vistas are perfect for capturing Scotland’s rugged beauty.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This two-day experience appeals most to those eager to see Scotland’s iconic landscapes without extensive planning. It suits travelers who enjoy guided tours that combine nature, history, and local culture. The pace is moderate, involving some walking at stops like Blair Castle and Glencoe, but overall accessible for most physically able travelers. The small group size enhances comfort and personalized attention.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

For $245, this tour combines guided visits to major landmarks, entrance fees, accommodation, and breakfast in a comprehensive package. The inclusion of a boat cruise on Loch Ness and visits to famous castles add to its value. The flexible pickup logistics and positive reviews about the guide’s expertise make this a dependable choice for exploring Scotland’s highlights efficiently.

The Sum Up: A Rich Snapshot of Scotland’s Highlands

This 2-day tour offers a well-rounded experience of Scotland’s wilderness, history, and legends. The carefully curated stops, combined with professional guidance, ensure travelers enjoy a rich and engaging trip. The tour’s strengths are its scenic variety, cultural insights, and manageable group size.

While it is packed with sights, some may find the pace a bit brisk given the number of locations. It’s best suited for those who want a rundown without the hassle of self-driving or extra planning. For anyone looking to capture the essence of Scotland’s most beautiful landscapes in just two days, this tour provides a memorable, well-organized experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $245 price covers breakfast, one night of accommodation, guide services, and entrance tickets to sites like Blair Athol Distillery and Urquhart Castle.

How long are each of the stops?
Stops vary in length, with highlights like Blair Castle lasting about 1 hour 30 minutes, while scenic viewpoints like Queen’s View are around 15 minutes.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
Most stops involve some walking, but the overall pace and group size make it accessible for most physically able travelers. No specific accessibility info is provided.

What are the main sights I will see?
You will visit Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle, Glencoe, Loch Lomond, Luss, Ben Nevis from afar, and historic sites like Blair Castle and Blair Athol Distillery.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, cancellations are permitted up to 6 days before the tour date for a full refund. Within 6 days, refunds are not available.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour limits groups to 8 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Does the tour include meals?
Breakfast is included, but lunch and dinner are not covered and are at the discretion of the traveler.

Where does the tour end?
The tour concludes back at the initial meeting point in Edinburgh, making logistics easy for travelers returning to the city.

Is this tour customizable?
No specific customization options are mentioned; the itinerary follows a set route with included stops.

Is there a guide on the boat cruise at Loch Ness?
Yes, the catamaran cruise on Loch Ness is part of the guided experience, and is included in the tour price.

This comprehensive, well-reviewed tour offers a rich taste of Scotland’s natural beauty and historic sites in just two days, making it an excellent choice for those eager to experience the Highlands and Loch Ness with ease and expert guidance.