Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Glencoe, and Highlands Day Tour

Explore Scotland’s iconic landscapes on the Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Glencoe, and Highlands Day Tour offered by Haggis Adventures. Priced at just $94 per person for a 12-hour journey, this tour takes you through some of the most breathtaking parts of the Scottish Highlands, including Glen Coe, Ben Nevis, and Loch Ness. With local guides explaining legends and history, and stops at charming villages, it offers a well-paced adventure suitable for those eager to see Scotland’s most famous sights in one day.

While the tour features many scenic stops and engaging commentary, it’s important to note that transportation is by coach, and the long bus ride might be tiring for some. The optional Loch Ness boat cruise adds a fun element, with a chance to hunt for the legendary monster using sonar technology. This tour balances spectacular scenery, informative storytelling, and flexible options making it a popular choice for visitors wanting a comprehensive Highlands experience.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The tour costs $94 per person and lasts 12 hours, making it an affordable full-day trip.
• Departure and Return: It departs from Haggis Adventures in Edinburgh and returns there at the end of the day.
• Major Highlights: Includes Glen Coe, Loch Ness, Ben Nevis, and stops at Highland villages like Fort Augustus and Pitlochry.
• Expert Guides: Guides are praised for their knowledgeable storytelling, sharing legends, history, and local facts.
• Optional Activities: You can choose to go on a Loch Ness boat cruise with sonar technology to try spotting Nessie or explore the village shops.
• Comfort and Convenience: The tour uses transportation, with audio guides available in multiple languages, but note that long bus rides are involved.
• Reviews: Rated 4.2 out of 5 based on 746 reviews, with many praising the guide’s personality and scenic stops.
• Booking Flexibility: Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before departure, and you can reserve now and pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Logistics in Edinburgh

The tour begins at Haggis Adventures, where travelers are asked to arrive 15 minutes early for check-in. The actual departure time varies, so checking availability in advance is recommended. The return is back at the original meeting point, allowing for easy connection to other plans in Edinburgh.

Transportation is provided by coach, which offers comfortable seating for long hours on the road. The itinerary includes multiple stops for sightseeing, photo opportunities, and breaks, giving a good balance between travel and exploration.

Journey Through the Scottish Highlands

The route takes travelers through stunning landscapes like Rannoch Moor and Glen Coe, where the dramatic scenery makes a lasting impression. At Glen Coe, a photo stop lets visitors admire its rugged beauty and learn about the legend of The Three Sisters and historic clan events.

Passing Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain, adds a sense of grandeur to the scenery. The tour continues through the Great Glen, a geological fault line filled with lakes and forests, showcasing some of Scotland’s most iconic natural features.

Stops in Highland Villages and Historic Sites

The tour includes stops at quaint Highland villages such as Fort Augustus and Pitlochry. In Fort Augustus, travelers can choose to embark on a Loch Ness cruise or explore the local shops and scenery. The cruise involves sonar tech and storytelling about Nessie, while exploring the village provides a glimpse into Highland life and historic sites.

At Pitlochry, there’s a photo stop and free time for a quick break, offering scenic views and chances to stretch legs before continuing the journey back to Edinburgh.

Exploring Loch Ness and the Possibility of Nessie

The highlight for many is the visit to Loch Ness, with an optional boat cruise available. This one-hour cruise offers the chance to hunt for Nessie using advanced sonar and underwater imaging, while the crew shares stories of the monster’s legends. For those less interested in the cruise, the scenic shores of Loch Ness provide a peaceful setting to imagine the mysteries lurking beneath.

The cruise fee is not included in the base price, but the experience is praised for its entertainment value and informative narration. If weather conditions are extreme, the cruise may be canceled, and tickets refunded.

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Scenic Stops and Highlighted Landmarks

Throughout the day, travelers visit Glen Coe, known for its spectacular mountain views and historical significance. The photo stop there offers lasting memories of the rugged terrain. The route also includes views of Ben Nevis, the tallest mountain in Britain, and stops at other Highland villages while your guide shares stories about local legends and history.

On the return journey, the route traces Loch Laggan and other scenic areas, with additional stops for photos and short walks. These stops provide fresh air, beautiful vistas, and a chance to absorb the tranquility of the Highlands.

The Role of the Guides and Audio Guides

Many reviews praise the guides for their expertise, storytelling skills, and personalities. Guides like Paul, Dusty, Brodie, and Euan are highlighted for their entertainment and knowledge, making the long drive engaging and informative.

The tour offers downloadable audio guides in Spanish, Chinese, French, German, Italian, and Portuguese, allowing non-English speakers to enjoy the commentary if preferred. The guides often share local legends, history, and fun facts about the landscape, making each stop more meaningful.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Since the tour is long and involves many stops, travelers should be prepared for a full day on the coach. Bringing snacks and water can help maximize stops, as food and drinks are not included. The coach is generally comfortable, but some reviews mention cramped conditions during longer stretches.

For accessibility, collapsible wheelchairs with removable wheels are accommodated, but assistance is required. It’s advisable to arrive early for check-in, as late arrivals forfeit their spot.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This full-day tour is ideal for visitors who want an overview of Scotland’s natural beauty and history in one trip. It suits those interested in legendary sites like Loch Ness, Glen Coe, and Ben Nevis, and who enjoy guided storytelling. The optional Loch Ness cruise adds a fun element, perfect for families or curious explorers.

While the long coach ride might be tiring for some, the spectacular scenery and engaging guides make this a worthwhile option for most visitors seeking an immersive Highlands experience.

Final Thoughts on the Edinburgh Highlands Tour

This affordable 12-hour adventure offers a comprehensive look at Scotland’s landscape, history, and legends. With many stops, expert guides, and the chance to search for Nessie, it creates a memorable day. The reviews show consistent praise for the guides’ personalities and scenery, though some note the long bus ride and cramped conditions during the journey.

This tour suits anyone looking for a well-organized, informative, and beautiful day trip from Edinburgh. It provides good value for money, especially with the flexibility of free cancellation and pay later options. If your schedule allows a full day of sightseeing and you’re excited by the idea of Highland legends and landscapes, this tour is worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening.

What is included in the price?
The ticket includes transportation, a legendary guide, and downloadable audio guides in multiple languages. The Loch Ness cruise fee is optional and not included.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Haggis Adventures in Edinburgh. Travelers should arrive 15 minutes early for check-in.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Is food included?
No, meals and drinks are not included. Bringing snacks or purchasing at stops is recommended.

What stops will I visit?
You’ll stop at Callander, Glen Coe, Fort Augustus, Pitlochry, and other scenic sites. You can choose to cruise Loch Ness or explore the village shops.

Is the tour accessible?
Collapsible wheelchairs with removable wheels are accommodated with assistance. It’s advisable to notify the provider in advance.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, snacks, water, and camera. Check the weather forecast and prepare for variable conditions.

Will I see Nessie?
The boat cruise offers the best chance to spot Nessie using sonar. Sightings are not guaranteed, but the experience is highly praised.

Who is this tour best suited for?
Anyone interested in Scotland’s scenery, legends, and history will enjoy this trip. It is especially suitable for those wanting a guided, full-day Highland experience with flexible options.

Is the bus ride long?
Yes, the journey involves long coach travel, but frequent stops and engaging guides help make it enjoyable.

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