Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle & Culloden Battlefield

Explore the Best of Inverness: Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle & Culloden Battlefield

This private tour from Inverness, costing $949.63 per group (up to 7 people), offers a full day of Scottish history, scenic views, and legendary landmarks. It lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours and includes pickup, a mobile ticket, and parking fees. The itinerary covers all the “must-see” sites around Inverness, making it an ideal choice for those eager to see key historic, prehistoric, and natural sights in a single day.

This tour is especially suited for travelers who value expert narration, comfort, and a well-paced journey through Scotland’s most iconic locations. The small-group setting allows for a more personalized experience, and the inclusion of private transportation makes for a seamless day of sightseeing. A notable highlight is the flexibility to adjust the schedule if specific sites interest you most.

Key Points

• Private, guided day trip from Inverness designed to hit all major Scottish landmarks
• Includes visits to Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle, Cawdor Castle, and Culloden Battlefield
• Duration of 7 to 8 hours, with pickup and air-conditioned transport
• Entry fees to Urquhart Castle, Cawdor Castle, and Culloden Battlefield are not included but can be paid on-site
• Ideal for history buffs, scenery lovers, and those wanting a rundown of northern Scotland

Starting Point and Transportation: Comfort and Convenience

The tour departs from Inverness with pickup offered, ensuring a hassle-free start to the day. You travel in an air-conditioned vehicle that provides a comfortable environment throughout the approximately 7 to 8-hour experience. Since this is a private tour, only your group participates, giving you the flexibility to customize the schedule to suit your interests, especially if you want to spend more time at specific sites.

The route includes scenic drives along the Cromarty Firth from Invergordon or over the Kessock Bridge from Inverness, providing picturesque views of Beauly and Moray Firths early in the day. The transportation arrangement makes exploring the Highlands straightforward and relaxing, without the stress of self-driving or navigating.

Visiting Beauly Priory: A 13th-Century Monastic Site

The tour begins with a stop at Beauly Priory, a tranquil site founded around 1230 for monks of the Valliscaulian order. Originating from Val-des-Choux near Dijon, France, these monks adhered to strict vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience. Today, only the abbey church remains, housing funerary monuments that hint at its medieval grandeur.

This site offers a quiet glimpse into Scotland’s monastic past and the influence of French religious orders in the region. The visit takes about 30 minutes and is a free attraction, making it an accessible and meaningful start to the day.

Urquhart Castle: Over 1000 Years of Scottish History

One of the tour’s highlights is the visit to Urquhart Castle, situated on the shores of Loch Ness. The castle has a history spanning over 1,000 years, witnessing conflicts during the Wars of Independence and multiple power struggles involving the Scots, English, and Lords of the Isles.

Once one of Scotland’s largest castles, Urquhart was heavily involved in medieval warfare and the Jacobite Risings. The ruins that stand today are a dramatic reminder of these turbulent times, offering plenty of photo opportunities and insights into medieval life. Visitors are encouraged to explore at their own pace during the 1 hour 30 minutes allotted, though admission is extra (£13 for adults, £7.80 for children).

Inverness: Capital of the Highlands and Its Historic Sights

A brief one-hour stop in Inverness features landmarks like Tomnahurich Hill (also called the Hill of the Fairies), the Caledonian Canal, River Ness, and Inverness Cathedral. The tour includes glimpses of the Old High Church and the oldest buildings in the city.

This stop provides a chance to appreciate Inverness’s blend of history and modern life. It’s an ideal moment for photos, a quick walk along the river, or to appreciate the city’s scenic setting nestled along the River Ness.

Cawdor Castle: A Medieval Fortress Full of Intrigue

Next, the tour visits Cawdor Castle, a medieval tower house built for the 3rd Thane of Cawdor. The castle boasts an iron gate, moat, drawbridge, and turrets, making it one of Scotland’s most iconic castles. Over 23 generations of the Cawdor family have called it home.

Inside, visitors can explore 12 principal rooms, which house collections of tapestries, art, furniture, and sculpture spanning 3,500 years. The gardens surrounding the castle add to the charm. The visit lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, with an admission fee of £13 for adults and £8 for children.

Prehistoric Clava Cairns: Scotland’s Ancient Burial Site

The Clava Cairns, approximately 4,000 years old, are a significant prehistoric site perched above the River Nairn. This ancient cemetery features burial chambers and monuments that reveal insights into Bronze Age society and their beliefs.

The site remains free to visit and offers a short 30-minute stop, giving travelers a tangible connection to Scotland’s prehistoric past. The remains of a medieval chapel are also present on the site, adding layers to its historical significance.

Culloden Battlefield: The Final Jacobite Stand

The tour’s emotional climax is Culloden Battlefield, the site of the 1746 battle that marked the end of the Jacobite rebellion. The Duke of Cumberland’s government troops faced off against Jacobite supporters seeking to restore the Stuart monarchy.

In less than an hour, approximately 1,600 men fell, with around 1,500 Jacobites among the casualties. The Culloden Visitor Centre offers interactive exhibits, artefacts, and detailed information about the battle’s background, making it both a memorial and an educational experience. Entry fees are not included (£14 for adults, £11 for children).

Practical Details and Additional Inclusions

The tour includes bottled water, snacks, and parking fees, ensuring comfort and convenience. Transportation is provided in an air-conditioned vehicle, and the tour operates as a private experience, meaning only your group participates.

The experience is well-suited for most travelers, including those with mobility, as most sites are accessible. Since it’s also available as a shore excursion from Invergordon Cruise Ship Port, it appeals to cruise passengers seeking a comprehensive inland tour.

Final Thoughts on This Inverness Day Trip

This private tour stands out for its careful selection of sites, offering a mix of history, prehistoric archaeology, and spectacular scenery. The flexible schedule allows for a personalized experience, and the small-group setting ensures more interaction and comfort.

While admission fees are extra at some key sites, the overall value is high considering the comprehensive coverage of Scotland’s highlights in a single day. The expert narration, scenic drives, and well-paced stops make this an excellent choice for those eager to learn about and enjoy the best of Highland Scotland.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price?
The price covers private transportation, bottled water, snacks, parking fees, and pickup.

Are admission fees extra?
Yes, admission fees for Urquhart Castle, Cawdor Castle, and Culloden Battlefield are not included and must be paid separately.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, including all stops and travel time.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, since it is a private tour, the schedule can be adjusted based on your interests, especially if you wish to spend more time at specific sites.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and children under 6 may have free entry at some sites like Cawdor Castle.

Is food included?
No, meals are not included, but snacks and water are provided.

Is pickup available?
Yes, pickup is offered, making the start of the tour convenient.

Can I visit the sites independently afterward?
Yes, the sites are open for exploration during your scheduled time, but the tour guides provide context and narration.

What makes this tour different from others?
It is a private, flexible experience that covers all the major highlights with personalized narration and comfort in transportation.

Is this tour suitable for cruise ship passengers?
Absolutely, it is available as a shore excursion from Invergordon Cruise Ship Port, allowing cruise visitors to enjoy a full Scottish day inland.