Glasgow: 2-Day Loch Ness, Inverness & Highlands Tour

Discover Scotland’s Highland Wonders in Two Days

The Glasgow: 2-Day Loch Ness, Inverness & Highlands Tour offers an engaging way to experience some of Scotland’s most iconic sights in a comfortable two-day journey. Priced at $167 per person, this tour is designed for those eager to explore the dramatic landscapes, historic battlegrounds, and legendary lochs of the Scottish Highlands.

Departing from Glasgow, the tour makes its way through Loch Lomond, Glencoe, and Fort William, with an overnight stay in Inverness. The second day is dedicated to historical sites like Culloden Battlefield and prehistoric landmarks like Clava Cairns, followed by a scenic drive through Cairngorms National Park. The trip wraps up with a visit to Ruthven Barracks and, if available, a whisky tasting at Blair Athol Distillery.

While the tour focuses on sightseeing and cultural insights, it does not include entrance fees or meals, making it a flexible option for those who prefer to explore independently at some stops. The guided commentary is lively and informative, enhancing each experience. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a well-rounded Highland adventure without the hassle of self-driving.

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Key Points

• 2-day guided tour departing from Glasgow, covering major Highland highlights
• Includes transportation by modern, air-conditioned bus with live commentary
• Overnight in Inverness, with breakfast included on the second day
• Visit iconic sites like Glencoe, Loch Ness, Culloden Battlefield, and Clava Cairns
• Optional whisky tasting at Blair Athol Distillery, subject to availability
• Rated 4.7 out of 5 from 42 reviews, with strong praise for guides and scenery

From Glasgow to the Highlands: The Scenic Route Begins

The tour kicks off at 19 Killermont Street, right outside the Royal Scottish National Orchestra, at 10am. It’s a well-located starting point close to Buchanan Bus Station, making it easy to access. The journey departs with a group of fellow travelers eager to see Scotland’s wild beauty.

Traveling in a modern, air-conditioned bus, the atmosphere is comfortable and relaxed. The guide provides live commentary, sharing stories and insights throughout the trip. The small group size ensures a personal experience, with a minimum of six participants required to operate.

Visiting Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park

The first scenic stop takes place in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, famous for its shimmering waters and lush landscapes. Here, passengers enjoy a quick comfort break to take in the views and snap photos. This peaceful area sets the tone for the trip’s scenic highlights.

Exploring Glencoe’s Haunted Landscapes

Next, the tour heads toward Glencoe, a location recognized for its striking beauty and the tragic history tied to the 1692 clan massacre. The haunting scenery of Glencoe Valley offers plenty of photo opportunities, and the guide explains its history, adding context to the stunning vistas. It’s a poignant spot that travelers find particularly memorable.

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The Commandos and Ben Nevis Views

After leaving Glencoe, the group visits the Commando Memorial near Fort William, where magnificent views of Ben Nevis—Britain’s tallest mountain—are on full display. This site also offers a chance to learn about the Scottish military and the history of the commando forces.

Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle

The journey toward Loch Ness includes a stop at Fort Augustus, a picturesque town at the loch’s southern end. Travelers have opportunities to look for the famous Nessie, the legendary monster said to inhabit the loch. Time permitting, there may also be a visit to the Urquhart Castle ruins, perched on the loch’s edge, offering dramatic photo moments and a sense of Scottish history.

Inverness: The Highland Capital

The first day concludes in Inverness, where the group checks into local accommodation for the night. The city is the hub for Highland culture and history, and it provides a comfortable base for exploring the following day.

Historical Sites and Prehistoric Monuments on Day Two

Starting with a hearty Highland breakfast, the second day begins with a visit to Culloden Battlefield. This site commemorates the 1746 battle that saw Bonnie Prince Charlie’s Jacobites defeated by the Duke of Cumberland, marking a pivotal moment in Scottish history.

From there, the tour visits Clava Cairns, a group of Bronze Age burial monuments over 4,000 years old. These ancient sites give a glimpse into prehistoric Scottish rituals and life, adding depth to the historic narrative.

Scenic Drive through Cairngorms National Park

A photo stop at Carrbridge captures the charm of a small village before entering Cairngorms National Park, the UK’s largest national park. Travelers enjoy a lunch break beside Loch Morlich, surrounded by wildlife and breathtaking scenery.

Ruthven Barracks and Whisky Tasting

The tour continues to Ruthven Barracks, a historic military outpost built after the Jacobite Rising of 1715. The structure’s ruins evoke a sense of Scotland’s turbulent past.

On the return to Edinburgh, there is an opportunity to visit Blair Athol Distillery for a whisky tour and tasting, though availability depends on timing. If unavailable, the group explores the Victorian town of Pitlochry, which offers additional sightseeing and local charm.

Journey Back to Edinburgh and Glasgow

The trip concludes as the bus crosses the Queensferry Crossing, enjoying views of the Firth of Forth. The group arrives back in Edinburgh, with options to travel onward to Glasgow via a courtesy train ticket arranged by Timberbush Tours.

Practical Details and Accessibility

The tour includes digital written translations on request, and the meeting point is conveniently located. Travelers are advised to bring comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, as stops involve walking and outdoor exposure. Assistance dogs are permitted, but pets are not allowed.

The tour requires a minimum of 6 passengers to operate and is not suitable for children under 4 years or wheelchair users unless collapsible with assistance. Cancellation is possible up to 3 days in advance for a full refund.

The Guides: Experts with Great Feedback

Multiple reviews praise the guides, highlighting their knowledge, friendliness, and entertaining styles. Names like Gillian, Mary, and Andrew T. are mentioned, with comments about their ability to tailor stops and share fascinating stories. The guides’ personalities add significantly to the enjoyment of the trip, making each location more engaging.

The Experience: Scenic, Historic, and Well-Organized

This tour’s strength lies in its carefully curated stops, balancing natural beauty, historic sites, and cultural insights. The route covers highlights like Glencoe, Loch Ness, and Culloden, along with lesser-known but equally interesting places like Ruthven Barracks and Clava Cairns.

Reviews consistently note the breathtaking views, the friendly guides, and the flexibility of the stops for photography. The overnight stay in Inverness provides a restful break and a chance to explore the city independently.

Final Thoughts on the Scottish Highlands Tour

The 2-day Loch Ness, Inverness & Highlands Tour offers a practical, well-organized way to see some of Scotland’s most iconic sights without the stress of self-driving. The $167 price includes transportation, a guide, and accommodation in Inverness, making it a good value for a comprehensive Highland experience.

While entry to attractions and meals are not included, this allows travelers to customize their day and focus on the scenery and storytelling. The tour’s enthusiastic guides and beautiful locations make it a compelling choice for anyone wanting a taste of Scotland’s legendary landscapes and history.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include meals?
No, food and drinks are not included. Travelers should plan to bring snacks or purchase lunch during stops.

Is the whisky tasting at Blair Athol Distillery guaranteed?
No, it depends on availability. If it’s not possible to visit the distillery, the group will explore the Victorian town of Pitlochry instead.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Children under 4 years old are not permitted. The tour is better suited for older children and adults.

Can I bring a wheelchair?
Collapsible wheelchairs with removable wheels can be accommodated if the traveler is accompanied by someone to assist with boarding and disembarking. The tour is not suitable for all wheelchair users.

What is the best way to get back to Glasgow?
The guide provides a return train ticket to Glasgow from Edinburgh, which is included in the tour package.

How physically demanding is the tour?
Stops usually involve walking and outdoor exposure, so comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. The tour involves some uneven terrain at historic sites.

This 2-day adventure balances scenic drives, historic sites, and cultural stories, making it a memorable journey into Scotland’s storied landscape.

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