From Glasgow; Loch Lomond and Highlands Private Day Tour

Key Points

• Private, customizable tour with a dedicated vehicle and guide for up to 7 people.
• Seven-hour journey covering iconic locations like Loch Lomond, Rannoch Moor, Kilchurn Castle, and Inverary.
• Scenic drives through the Highlands, including the famous Rest and Be Thankful pass.
• Stops at historic sites including Kilchurn Castle, Inverary, and St Conan’s Kirk.
• Expert local guide provides insightful commentary and effortlessly navigates the countryside.
• Includes all guiding fees and transport, with optional entrance fees for castles and other attractions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Intimate Scottish Highlands Experience from Glasgow

The From Glasgow; Loch Lomond and Highlands Private Day Tour offers an expertly guided journey into some of Scotland’s most captivating scenery. For $431 per group, up to 7 travelers enjoy a seven-hour adventure through the rugged landscapes, historic castles, and charming villages of the Scottish Highlands. The tour is fully customizable, allowing your group to tailor stops and experiences to your interests.

Guided by a knowledgeable local, the tour combines comfort and flexibility, with a private vehicle and driver dedicated solely to your party. This setup creates an ideal environment for exploring at your own pace, with options to linger or skip locations based on your preferences. The seven-hour duration makes it a manageable day trip from Glasgow, perfect for those seeking a comprehensive Highland experience without feeling rushed.

Although there are additional costs for entrance fees—such as Inverary Castle at £15–£18—this tour provides a rich itinerary of scenic drives, historical sites, and picturesque villages. It’s especially suited for travelers who value personalized attention, stunning views, and in-depth explanations of Scotland’s history and landscapes.

Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park: Starting with Scenic Beauty

The tour begins with a pickup from Glasgow, followed by a 40-minute scenic drive through Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. This region is renowned for its breathtaking lakes, lush hills, and dense forests, setting the tone for a day filled with natural wonders.

Your journey takes you into Loch Lomond, where a 30-minute stop allows for a stroll along the shoreline, passing sandstone and slate cottages. You’ll have the chance to walk to the pier for panoramic views up and down the loch and across to distant mountains. The atmospheric church graveyard nearby dates back to 600AD/700AD, with a 1,000-year-old Viking grave adding an intriguing historical layer.

This initial segment captures Scotland’s timeless charm and offers perfect opportunities for photos and gentle exploration, setting a peaceful tone for the adventure ahead.

Transition to the Highlands: Tyndrum and Loch Tulla Viewpoint

After leaving Loch Lomond, the vehicle heads northward into the Highlands, with a 60-minute drive passing through Tyndrum. As the altitude rises, the scenery transforms from lakeside serenity to the vast, rugged wilderness of the Highlands.

The route includes a visit to the Loch Tulla viewpoint, where you can pause to appreciate the sweeping Highland landscape. The views here are expansive, highlighting the dramatic mountain ranges and open spaces that define this part of Scotland. This stretch offers an immersive glimpse into the wilder side of the country, with plenty of space for photos and quiet reflection.

From Tyndrum, the tour approaches Rannoch Moor, a last remaining wilderness area in Europe. This vast bogland features small lochs, streams, and rock formations, creating a nearly untouched environment. Multiple stops allow for short walks to absorb the atmosphere of this remarkable location, which is often praised for its raw, natural beauty.

Rannoch Moor: Europe’s Last Wilderness

The highlight of the Highland section is a photo stop at Rannoch Moor, where the expansiveness of the landscape truly impresses. Recognized for its remote, unspoiled environment, the moor has appeared in films like “Skyfall,” where the iconic Aston Martin chase scene was shot.

The tour includes a 20-minute stop on this section of the road, giving visitors a chance to breathe in the wilderness and capture stunning photos. When returning to Tyndrum, the views become even more impressive, with the grandeur of Rannoch Moor dominating the horizon. This area exemplifies Scotland’s untamed beauty, making it a favorite among landscape enthusiasts.

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Kilchurn Castle: A Picturesque Ruined Fortress

Continuing into Argyll, the tour visits the impressive Kilchurn Castle, built around 1450. Perched on Loch Awe, this long-abandoned fortress offers a striking scene with the mountains as a backdrop. The 30-minute stop provides ample time to explore the ruins, which still evoke a sense of history and mystery.

The presence of Highland Cattle nearby is a common sight, adding to the authentic rural atmosphere. The castle’s scenic setting makes it a popular photo location, especially with the mountain-ringed loch behind it. The site’s atmosphere and historic significance make it a memorable highlight of the trip.

St Conan’s Kirk: A Fairy-Tale Lochside Church

Just five minutes from Kilchurn Castle, the tour includes a visit to St Conan’s Kirk. This unique and enchanting church is perched on the edge of Loch Awe and is described as magical and fascinating.

The stop is brief but impactful, offering a chance to walk around this architectural gem. Its quaint charm and picturesque setting make it a favorite for those appreciating Scottish architecture and scenic churchyards. The visit adds a touch of quaintness to the rugged landscape, balancing the ruggedness of castles and wilderness with a sense of peace and beauty.

Inverary: Village, Castle, and Scotch Whisky

Inverary, located on Loch Fyne, is a charming village that offers a mix of scenic strolls and historic sites. Visitors often walk to the Inverary Castle, which is known for its grand architecture and beautiful grounds—admission costs apply.

The village has several shops, including a notable whisky shop where sampling and browsing are popular. The famous Loch Fyne Oyster Bar is a common stop on the way to the next location, where the take-away fish and chips are enjoyed at outdoor tables with views of the loch and mountains, making the meal particularly satisfying.

The 30-minute stop in Inverary allows for exploring the village and soaking in the scenic setting, making it a perfect spot for leisurely exploration and tasting local specialties.

The Rest and Be Thankful: Scenic Highland Pass

The famous Rest and Be Thankful pass marks the dividing line between Glen Kinglas and Glen Croe. The viewpoint at the top offers spectacular vistas of Glen Croe and the old valley road, which was engineered by General Wade after the Jacobite rebellion.

This 10-minute stop provides a great photo opportunity and a chance to appreciate the historical engineering of the area. The pass is renowned for its dramatic scenery and its connection to Scottish history, making it a fitting conclusion to the scenic part of the journey.

Returning to Glasgow: Scenic Drive and Final Views

The tour concludes with a 50-minute scenic drive back to Glasgow, passing through more of the beautiful Scottish landscape. The driver and guide often share interesting insights about the sights along the way, rounding out the experience with final panoramic views of the Highlands.

This final stretch ensures a relaxed end to a full day of exploration, with the beauty of the countryside lingering in memory. Guests appreciate the comfort of the private vehicle and the personalized attention that makes this return journey smooth and enjoyable.

A Tour Designed for Comfort, Customization, and Rich Scenery

This private tour provides an excellent way to see Scottish Highlands and Loch Lomond in a single day, with the flexibility to customize stops. The dedicated guide ensures insightful commentary, while the private vehicle offers comfort and convenience.

While entrance fees for attractions like Inverary Castle are not included, the tour’s value lies in its scenic drives, historic sites, and intimate experience. It’s especially recommended for those who want a personalized, relaxed experience with a knowledgeable local leading the way.

The reviews highlight Mike as an exceptional guide, praised for his knowledge, humor, and pride in Scotland. This tour suits travelers who enjoy beautiful landscapes, history, and cultural touches, making it a memorable way to discover the Highlands from Glasgow.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is not suitable for children under 4 years old.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts approximately 7 hours.

What is included in the price?
All guiding fees, vehicle costs, and Glasgow pickup and drop-off are included. Entrance fees for attractions like Inverary Castle are extra.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is fully customizable to meet your group’s interests.

What are the payment options?
You can reserve now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
The provided data does not specify accessibility options, so check with the provider for specific needs.

How many people can join this tour?
Up to 7 people can join a private group.

What are the tour’s highlights?
Expect scenic drives, visits to Kilchurn Castle, Loch Lomond, Inverary, and the Rest and Be Thankful, with plenty of photo opportunities and historical insights.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring suitable clothing for outdoor stops and photographs, and consider any optional entrance fees or meals you may wish to purchase.

Is the guide knowledgeable about Scottish history?
Yes, reviews praise the guide, Mike, for his endless knowledge and engaging storytelling about the area, history, and climate.

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