From Edinburgh: The Kelpies, Glencoe & Loch Lomond Day Tour

Experience the Best of the Scottish Highlands in a Private Day Tour from Edinburgh

This private day tour from Edinburgh offers an in-depth look at some of Scotland’s most iconic sights, all in a comfortable executive Mercedes V Class. Priced at $477 per person, the tour lasts approximately 8.5 hours and allows for a personalized experience with a dedicated driver-guide. It’s ideal for visitors seeking a flexible, intimate journey through the rugged landscapes, historic sites, and famous landmarks of the Highlands.

What makes this tour stand out is its combination of scenic stops, storytelling, and exclusive control over the itinerary. The private group format means no large buses, just your immediate party, giving you freedom to spend more time at each location. While it’s on the higher end in price, the positive reviews highlight the excellent guide storytelling, breathtaking scenery, and the ability to customize stops — making it well worth the cost for many travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience in a luxury Mercedes V Class
• 8.5-hour tour covering Glencoe, Loch Lomond, and The Kelpies
• Flexible stop durations and route control for your group
• Expert driver-guide providing live commentary and local insights
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off right outside your accommodation
• Perfect for scenery lovers, history buffs, and those wanting a tailored Scottish Highlands trip

How the Tour Starts in Edinburgh and the Convenience of Private Pickup

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Edinburgh, making the start seamless and stress-free. Traveling privately in an executive Mercedes V Class means you avoid the crowds and large tour buses, gaining a more relaxed, intimate experience. The driver-guide greets you with a friendly approach, ready to share stories and tailor the journey based on your interests.

Departure from Edinburgh’s busy streets is quick, with a drive past Edinburgh Castle and other iconic sights en route to the Highlands. The pickup service ensures that your day begins comfortably, with no need to navigate or worry about timing. This setup is especially ideal for those who prefer a more personal touch and flexibility in their sightseeing itinerary.

Enchanting Stops at Kilmahog and Highland Cows

The first notable stop is Kilmahog, where you have about 30 minutes to explore. This Highland village offers a chance to see Highland Cows, also called “Heilan coos”, which are a favorite photo subject. Visitors can also feed these friendly furry animals, adding a fun, tactile element to the experience.

This stop provides a glimpse into traditional Scottish rural life and allows for some quick, memorable photos. The relaxed pace here sets the tone for the rest of the day, emphasizing personalized exploration rather than rushing through attractions.

Glencoe’s Stunning Landscapes and Historic Significance

A major highlight of this tour is the two-hour stop in Glencoe. Known for its dramatic scenery, Glencoe is a landscape photographer’s dream, with towering mountains, waterfalls, and rugged terrain. The drive through Glencoe is accompanied by stories about its history, including the infamous massacre of the MacDonald clan in 1692.

The guide leads you on a guided tour of the area, explaining the significance of sites such as the house where Highlanders stayed from the 16th century. You’ll also have time for photos at scenic spots, capturing views that have appeared in movies like Skyfall and scenes from the Harry Potter series**. The landscape’s rugged beauty and historical stories combine for a memorable visit.

More Great Tours Nearby

Lunch in Glencoe and Its Slight Time Limit

A one-hour lunch break is included during the Glencoe stop. The specific dining options are not detailed, but this pause allows you to rest and enjoy the surroundings. Considering the length of the tour, this meal break is well-placed, giving a chance to recharge before continuing the adventure.

It’s worth noting that the tour’s focus remains on sightseeing, so travelers should be prepared for a quick, efficient lunch rather than a long culinary experience. The flexible stop durations mean you can enjoy the scenery at a comfortable pace if desired.

Exploring Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park

Following Glencoe, the tour continues to Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park for about two hours. This area is renowned for its stunning waterside vistas, mountains, and lush landscapes. The driver-guide shares fascinating stories about Loch Lomond, emphasizing its fame and natural beauty.

Visitors are encouraged to take plenty of photos of the calm waters and picturesque hills. The stop also provides an opportunity to learn about the area’s cultural and natural significance, making it a peaceful yet visually impressive part of the journey.

The Kelpies: Iconic Sculptures and Photo Highlights

The tour concludes with a 30-minute visit to The Kelpies, located near Falkirk. These 30-meter-high horse sculptures are a world-famous landmark and a favorite Instagram spot. Their striking size and design make for impressive photos, especially at sunset or with the right lighting.

The Kelpies symbolize Scotland’s horse-powered history and are an excellent final stop that offers a blend of art, history, and modern engineering. This quick visit leaves a lasting impression, rounding out the scenic and cultural discovery of the day.

The Return and Easy Drop-off in Edinburgh

After visiting The Kelpies, the journey circles back to Edinburgh. The tour ends with drop-off right outside your accommodation, making the whole experience convenient and hassle-free. The private nature of the tour means no waiting or bus transfers, allowing you to relax after a full day of sightseeing.

This seamless return is especially appreciated by travelers who want to maximize their time exploring rather than navigating public transport or crowded tours.

What Sets This Tour Apart: Personalized Control and Expert Guides

This private tour truly shines in its ability to let you dictate stop durations and focus points. The driver-guide provides insightful live commentary, making the journey both informative and engaging. Multiple reviews praise guides like Richard, Donnie, James, Ricky, and Alex for their knowledgeable storytelling, friendliness, and flexibility.

The luxury transportation enhances comfort, and the hotel pickup and drop-off add an extra layer of convenience. While the price is higher than some group tours, the customization, exclusivity, and quality of the experience are highlighted as worth the investment.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour the Most

This tour suits visitors who value personalized attention, flexibility, and scenic beauty. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or families with children over 4 years old who want to avoid large tour buses. Travelers interested in history, nature, and photography will find plenty to appreciate.

However, those seeking a casual, leisurely meal or with mobility challenges might need to plan accordingly, as the tour requires walking to some scenic spots and includes a few hours of active exploration.

Final Thoughts on the From Edinburgh: The Kelpies, Glencoe & Loch Lomond Tour

This 8.5-hour private tour offers a highly customizable and scenic experience of the Scottish Highlands. It combines stunning landscapes, historic tales, and notable landmarks like The Kelpies into a seamless day. The exclusive transportation in a luxury vehicle and live storytelling stand out as strong points that justify the premium price.

While it may not be suitable for very young children or those with limited mobility, it’s perfect for anyone wanting a personalized, in-depth look at Scotland’s iconic scenery and history. The positive reviews confirm its status as a popular tour offering excellent value for those who appreciate quality, flexibility, and expert guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off directly outside your accommodation in Edinburgh.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8.5 hours, giving plenty of time for stops and sightseeing.

Can I customize stop durations?
Yes, the tour offers full control over stop durations and route choices, allowing a personalized experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 4 years are not suitable, but older children and families are welcome, depending on mobility and interest.

What landmarks will I see?
You will visit Glencoe, Loch Lomond and the Trossachs, and The Kelpies. You also see Highland Cows at Kilmahog and scenic landscapes from movies like Harry Potter and Skyfall.

Is lunch included?
A one-hour lunch stop occurs in Glencoe, but specific dining options are not detailed; travelers should plan accordingly.

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