Private Tour of Loch Ness, Pitlochry, Glencoe and Highlands

Key Points

• Private, tailored experience for groups of up to 4 people at $989.
• 10-hour journey through iconic Highlands locations including Loch Ness, Glencoe, and Pitlochry.
• Highlights include a Loch Ness cruise, visit to the Three Sisters of Glencoe, and feeding Highland Cows.
• Stops at notable sites such as Fort Augustus, Rannoch Moor, and the Commando Monument with views of Ben Nevis.
• Includes Scottish snacks, bottled water, and air-conditioned transport, with an optional Loch Ness cruise available.

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Discovering the Private Highland Tour for Small Groups

This private tour of the Scottish Highlands offers a comprehensive day exploring some of Scotland’s most breathtaking landscapes and historic sites. Priced at $989 per group (up to 4 people), the tour lasts approximately 10 hours, making it an ideal choice for those wanting an in-depth, personalized experience. The tour departs from Stirling, Glasgow, or Edinburgh, with pickup included at your hotel or holiday accommodation. The private nature of this tour means you get the flexibility to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed or crowded.

The tour offers a mix of scenic drives, cultural highlights, and unique encounters. From Loch Ness to Glencoe, and the charming town of Pitlochry, each stop provides photo opportunities and insights into Scotland’s natural and historical treasures. An optional Loch Ness cruise is available, starting from £20 per person, adding a mystical element to the day. The tour also features Scottish snacks and bottled water, ensuring comfort throughout the long day.

Scenic Drive through the Heart of the Scottish Highlands

The journey begins with a scenic drive from your chosen pickup point, passing through iconic landscapes toward the Highlands. As the air-conditioned vehicle winds through the countryside, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of mountains, lochs, and forests. The route includes a pass by Dalwhinnie Distillery, renowned as the highest distillery in Scotland at over 1,000 feet above sea level, although the tour does not include a distillery visit.

Driving past Rannoch Moor, the largest bog expanse in the UK, you witness a stark, desolate beauty that served as a filming location for Harry Potter movies. The guide offers commentary on the landscape’s history and geography, making the long drive educational and engaging.

Fort Augustus and Loch Ness: A Deep Dive into Scotland’s Mystique

Arriving at Fort Augustus, the town is known for its ‘Neptune’s staircase’, a series of locks that assist boats in navigating the lock system. Guests have plenty of time to explore the town’s quaint cafes and take in the view of Loch Ness, famous worldwide for its legendary monster and stunning water reflections. The Loch Ness cruise is optional, with a 1 pm sailing providing a chance to see the loch from the water, although it is not included in the tour price.

The viewpoint over Loch Ness offers great photo opportunities, capturing the broody waters backed by lush greenery and distant hills. The guide highlights the folklore behind the monster and the loch’s natural beauty, adding a touch of mystery to the experience.

Glencoe: Iconic Mountains and the Three Sisters

Driving through Glencoe, the landscape becomes even more dramatic. Known for its towering mountains and cascading waterfalls, Glencoe’s scenery is one of Scotland’s most photographed sights. If time permits, the tour stops at the Glencoe Visitor Centre, where visitors can see a reconstruction of a traditional 18th-century Turf and Creel house—a glimpse into life in the valley 300 years ago.

The Three Sisters of Glencoe are a breathtaking sight, with jagged peaks that have become an emblem of Scottish natural beauty. This photo stop of 15 minutes allows for capturing the rugged terrain and appreciating the area’s geological history.

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Unique Stops: Commando Monument and Rannoch Moor

A visit to the Commando Monument offers a poignant moment with a bronze statue commemorating Allied troops from WWII. The monument is set against a background of Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest mountain, providing a stunning contrast. The tour includes a 15-minute stop here, giving time for reflection and photos.

Driving past Rannoch Moor, known as the most desolate place in the UK, you experience a landscape famously used in Harry Potter filming scenes. The vast expanse of peat bogs and rugged terrain exemplifies the raw beauty of the Highlands, making it an essential part of this scenic journey.

Pitlochry: A Charming Highland Town

The tour includes a 20-minute stop in Pitlochry, one of Scotland’s most renowned small towns. Here, visitors can browse independent shops and cafes, and enjoy the town’s lively atmosphere. The town’s quaint streets and local eateries offer a relaxing break amid the natural scenery, making it a favorite stop for those wanting a taste of Highland life.

Optional Food and Additional Sightseeing

While meals are not included in the tour, the stops provide opportunities to enjoy local cuisine or snacks purchased from cafes. The scenic route allows for additional optional stops depending on the group’s pace and interests, including a quick visit to Fort William for views of Ben Nevis—the UK’s tallest mountain.

The itinerary is flexible enough to accommodate additional sightseeing, within the overall 10-hour framework. The guide ensures that each location is given sufficient time to enjoy the scenery and take photos, balancing the long day with memorable experiences.

Ease of Booking and Tour Accessibility

The tour offers live guides in a variety of languages, including English, Italian, Hindi, Punjabi, Urdu, French, Portuguese, and Spanish, accommodating international travelers. Booking is flexible with a pay later option and full cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance. Pickup and drop-off are included at your hotel or holiday residence, simplifying logistics for visitors.

This private group experience guarantees a personalized approach, with a small group size ensuring comfort and intimacy. The air-conditioned vehicle and inclusion of Scottish snacks and bottled water enhance the overall experience, making it both comfortable and convenient.

Final Thoughts on the Highland Adventure

This private 10-hour tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Scotland’s Highland landscapes and historic sites. With stops at Loch Ness, Glencoe, and the charming town of Pitlochry, it balances scenic beauty with cultural insights. The optional Loch Ness cruise adds a special touch for those curious about the legendary monster and the loch’s mystique.

The personalized nature and flexible itinerary make this tour a strong choice for small groups looking for an in-depth, authentic Highland experience. The price of $989 for a private group ensures an intimate journey through some of Scotland’s most iconic scenery, with knowledgeable guides to bring the landscape and history to life.

While the long day may be tiring for some, the sheer variety of highlights and the comfort of a private vehicle make this tour well worth considering for those eager to see Scotland with ease, comfort, and personalized attention.

Frequently Asked Questions

What locations does the tour include?
The tour visits Loch Ness, Pitlochry, Glencoe, Rannoch Moor, Fort Augustus, and the Commando Monument, with optional stops at Fort William and the Glencoe Visitor Centre.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 10 hours.

Is the Loch Ness cruise included?
No, the Loch Ness cruise is optional and costs from £20 per person. It departs at 1 pm from Fort Augustus.

What is the group size?
The tour is exclusively for private groups up to 4 people.

What languages are available for guides?
Guides are available in English, Italian, Hindi, Punjabi, Urdu, French, Portuguese, and Spanish.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers private transportation, Scottish snacks, bottled water, and a live guide.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but there are opportunities to buy food during stops.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of scenic drives, historic sites, and the personalized private experience makes this tour unique in the Highlands.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How do I book?
Reservations can be made with flexible pay later options, and the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your accommodation.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby