From Greenock Cruise Terminal: West Highland Private Tour

Key Points

• Private 8-hour tour starting from Greenock Ocean Terminal, perfect for up to 7 people.
• Flexible itinerary allowing customization and adjustments on the day.
• Visits include Luss, Kilchurn Castle, Inverary, Rannoch Moor, and Loch Fyne.
• Scenic drives through the Highlands, with views of mountains, lochs, and wilderness.
• Includes transportation with a private vehicle and a local guide with expert storytelling.
• No entrance fees included, but tickets are available for Inverary Castle and other sites.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discover the West Highland Private Tour from Greenock

This 8-hour private tour offers an intimate exploration of the Scottish Highlands, departing from Greenock Ocean Terminal. For $781 per group, up to 7 guests can enjoy a fully customizable experience led by a knowledgeable local guide. The tour combines scenic drives, historic castles, charming villages, and breathtaking landscapes, making it ideal for those wanting an in-depth, flexible journey into Argyll and the Highlands.

What sets this tour apart is its flexibility: guests are encouraged to suggest changes and tailor the itinerary on the day, weather and geography permitting. The focus on comfort and convenience means you travel in a private vehicle, with the driver turning into a personal guide who shares captivating stories along the way. This tour suits travelers seeking a private, personalized day of sightseeing, with an emphasis on scenic beauty and local history.

Scenic Drives and Highland Landscapes

The journey begins with a 45-minute drive from Greenock to the village of Luss on the western shores of Loch Lomond. Here, it’s easy to stroll past traditional sandstone and slate cottages toward the pier, with views of Ben Lomond and the expansive loch. The short walk into Luss Graveyard reveals graves dating back to the 5th and 6th centuries, including a Viking grave with an 11th-century Hogback Stone—a fascinating glimpse into early Scottish history.

Following Luss, the tour continues with a 60-minute scenic drive into the Highlands proper. Traveling through Tyndrum, the route gradually gains altitude as it approaches the Loch Tulla viewpoint, offering excellent vistas of the Highland terrain. The landscape begins to transform into open wilderness, with rugged mountains and vast skies.

Exploring Rannoch Moor’s Wilderness

One of the tour’s highlights is a stop at Rannoch Moor, one of Europe’s last remaining wilderness areas. Covering a vast boggy expanse dotted with small lochs, streams, and rocky outcrops, this area offers a raw and untouched feel. Visitors can walk at various points along the way and soak in the atmosphere of this remote landscape. From Tyndrum, the view of Rannoch Moor becomes even more impressive, emphasizing its grandeur and wildness.

Kilchurn Castle and Its Mountain Setting

Next, the tour visits Kilchurn Castle, built around 1450, perched on the edge of Loch Awe. Although long abandoned, it remains remarkably striking against the backdrop of mountains. The 30-minute stop allows visitors to appreciate its formidable ruins and the surrounding scenery, including potential Highland Cattle grazing nearby. The castle’s commanding position makes it a memorable photo spot and a glimpse into medieval Scottish architecture.

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Inverary: Village and Castle

The charming village of Inverary on Loch Fyne is a key stop. Known for its scenic setting and Inverary Castle, which is a popular walk for visitors, the village also boasts shops where one can browse for souvenirs. The tour includes a stop at the Loch Fyne Oyster Bar, where the classic fish and chips enjoyed outdoors with views of the loch and mountains prove to be a favorite for many.

The Rest and Be Thankful: Iconic Highland Pass

One of the most iconic parts of the journey is the Rest and Be Thankful, a mountain pass that divides Glen Kinglas from Glen Croe. The viewpoint at the top offers stunning vistas of Glen Croe, revealing the old valley road engineered during the aftermath of the Jacobite rebellion. This 10-minute stop provides a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to appreciate the engineering heritage of Scotland.

Final Scenic Drives and Return to Greenock

The tour concludes with a 1.5-hour scenic drive back to Greenock, passing through more Highland landscapes. The entire experience balances sightseeing, relaxation, and storytelling, with the guide always ready to adapt the schedule to your interests.

Practical Details and Booking

The pick-up takes place right outside the cruise arrivals hall at Greenock Ocean Terminal, making this tour highly convenient for cruise travelers. The vehicle is exclusively yours for the day, and the local guide provides commentary and insights throughout.

The tour covers many highlights without rushing, but it’s important to note that entrance fees for sites like Inverary Castle are not included. Visitors can purchase tickets on-site, with prices around £12-£18. The tour is also not suitable for children under 4, wheelchair users, or those over 95 years old.

Why Choose This Private Highland Tour?

Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides who tailor the experience, making sure it fits your interests. The scenic drives and dramatic landscapes are consistently highlighted as memorable. The flexibility of the itinerary and the personalized attention make this tour stand out compared to larger group options.

The focus on comfort, customization, and storytelling creates a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for travelers wanting a deeper connection to the Highlands. The price per group offers good value for an exclusive, private experience that includes transport and a local guide.

Final Thoughts on the West Highland Private Tour

This tour offers a well-rounded experience of the Scottish Highlands, combining history, scenery, and local culture. The stops at Kilchurn Castle, Inverary, and Rannoch Moor provide a diverse look at the region’s landscape and heritage. The flexible schedule allows you to explore the areas that interest you most, making each trip unique.

While entrance fees are extra, the overall value comes from the private transport and expert guiding. This tour suits those who value personalized service and want to explore at their own pace, especially if traveling with a small group. Expect breathtaking views, interesting stories, and a memorable day of Scottish discovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
All guiding fees, vehicle costs, and pickup/drop-off at Greenock Cruise Terminal are included. Entrance fees and meals are not.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is fully flexible, and your driver-guide will accommodate your requests if feasible on the day.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, with a start time that varies depending on availability.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 4, and not accessible for wheelchair users or those over 95.

What are the stops at Loch Lomond and Loch Fyne like?
They include scenic drives, walks, and stops for sightseeing, with opportunities for photos and enjoying local scenery.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, but stops like the Loch Fyne Oyster Bar offer popular options.

How do I meet the guide?
The guide meets guests outside the cruise arrivals hall with a sign displaying the name.

Is the tour good for photography?
Absolutely, stops like Kilchurn Castle, Rest and Be Thankful, and Loch Lomond provide excellent photo opportunities.

What’s the difficulty level of walking involved?
Walking is minimal and mostly optional during stops like Rannoch Moor and Luss, suitable for all moderate fitness levels.

How far in advance should I book?
Availability depends on the date, but booking at least a few days ahead is recommended to ensure flexibility and planning.

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