Glasgow Greenock Shore Excursion Highland Lochs, Castles & Glens

Explore the Best of Scotland on a Private Highland Tour from Greenock

The Glasgow Greenock Shore Excursion Highland Lochs, Castles & Glens offers an intimate way to experience Scotland’s stunning landscapes and historic sites. Priced at $462.60 per person, this 7 to 8-hour tour departs from the Greenock cruise terminal and is operated by Macleod Heilan Tours. The journey is led by a local guide in a luxury Mercedes V Class minivan or similar, providing a more personalized experience compared to larger coach tours. This private setup allows flexibility, with start and end times adjusted to your cruise schedule, and the option to add or skip stops based on your interests.

What sets this tour apart is the exclusivity of a private guide and the luxury vehicle, making for a comfortable, relaxed day of sightseeing. The tour is ideal for those who appreciate flexible itineraries and want to explore Scottish castles, lochs, and scenic viewpoints without the hustle of large group tours. The only notable consideration is the advisability to pre-book meals, as lunch options can be arranged in advance. This tour best suits those seeking a personalized, well-paced adventure in the Scottish Highlands.

Key Points

• Private, luxury transportation in a Mercedes V Class or similar
• Flexible start and end times to match cruise schedules
• Seven to eight hours of exploring Scotland’s highlights
• Stops include Loch Lomond, Inveraray Castle, Kilchurn Castle, and more
• Knowledgeable local guides provide rich stories and insights
• Admission fees are not included for some sites like Inveraray Castle

From the Cruise Terminal to the Historic Town of Dumbarton

The tour begins at the Greenock cruise terminal, with a pickup offered for your group. The driver and guide greet you with friendly local knowledge, ready to share stories of Scotland as you depart. You will cross the Erskine Bridge in less than an hour, passing through the historic Dumbarton, where Dumbarton Castle looms on the skyline. Your guide highlights William Wallace’s connection to Dumbarton, noting his betrayal in 1305 at the castle.

After passing Dumbarton, the tour heads toward Luss, a charming conservation village on the shores of Loch Lomond. This first stop provides opportunities for walking along the Loch, taking in scenic views, and exploring the Luss Parish Church grounds, built on the site of an ancient cemetery. The village’s tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty make it a favorite photo spot.

Scenic Drive to Rest and be Thankful Viewpoint

Leaving Luss, the journey continues with a 30-minute drive along Loch Long, passing through Arrochar and into the vast landscapes of Glencroe. The highlight of this segment is the stop at Rest and be Thankful, a viewpoint at the top of the Glen. Historically named by soldiers building the military road in 1773, the viewpoint offers spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

This stop is a quick 10-minute photo opportunity, but it leaves a lasting impression with its sweeping vistas. The site features a stone inscribed by the military workers, adding a touch of history to the stunning scenery.

Inveraray Castle and Gardens: A Regal Stop

Driving approximately 30 minutes, the tour reaches Inveraray, home to the imposing Inveraray Castle, the seat of the Clan Campbell. The castle was built in 1745 on the foundation of a 15th-century structure and serves as the residence of the Duke of Argyll. Your guide shares stories about the Campbells’ rise to power, emphasizing their influence in Scottish history.

Visitors can explore the interior of the castle and enjoy the beautiful gardens surrounding it. Please note that Inveraray Castle is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, so the visit might need to be adjusted depending on the day of the tour. The admission fee for the castle is not included in the tour price.

Exploring Inveraray Town and Optional Historic Sites

Adjacent to the castle visit, your group has the option to explore Inveraray town for about an hour. This small town, established in 1770, features a quaint Main Street with local shops offering whisky, local produce, and souvenirs. Alternatively, you might visit the Old Inveraray Jail, built in 1820, for a glimpse into Scotland’s penal history.

For lunch, it’s advisable to pre-arrange meals to maximize sightseeing time or inform the guide in advance if you prefer a flexible schedule. This allows for a personalized dining experience during the day.

Kilchurn Castle and Loch Awe Views

Next, the journey takes you 30 minutes along the A819 road to the shores of Loch Awe, Scotland’s longest freshwater loch. Here, the ruins of Kilchurn Castle await—built in 1450, it was once a powerful Campbell stronghold. The castle suffered damage from lightning in 1760 and was abandoned in favor of Inveraray Castle.

The stop at Kilchurn is a 10-minute viewpoint where you can admire the castle ruins against the scenic backdrop of Loch Awe. The viewpoint offers a striking photo opportunity, capturing the essence of Scottish castle ruins in a natural setting.

Visiting St Conan’s Kirk: A Unique Architectural Highlight

Just a 5-minute drive from Kilchurn, the tour visits St Conan’s Kirk, an architectural gem ranked among Scotland’s top ten buildings over the last century. Built between 1881 and 1914, this church was constructed by Walter Douglas Campbell for his mother. The building’s design combines various architectural styles, making it visually captivating.

Entry to the Kirk is via optional donation, making it accessible and budget-friendly. The structure’s unique character and history make this stop particularly memorable.

Inveruglas Pyramid: Final Scenic Overlook

The last stop, subject to time, is at An Ceann Mor, also known as Inveruglas Pyramid. This viewing platform looks southward down Loch Lomond, revealing how the loch widens in its southern section. The viewpoint offers stunning vistas of the landscape and completes the exploration of scenic Highland scenery.

This 15-minute stop emphasizes the natural beauty of the area and provides a final opportunity to take photos before heading back to the cruise ship.

Return Journey to Greenock Cruise Terminal

After the last scenic stop, the group departs for a roughly 1-hour drive back to Greenock, concluding the day’s adventure. The driver ensures a smooth and comfortable return, wrapping up a day filled with history, breathtaking views, and Scottish charm.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The tour includes driver and guide services, the private luxury Mercedes V Class or similar vehicle, air conditioning, bottled water, and parking fees. However, admission fees for Inveraray Castle are not included, and the castle is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Meals are not included but can be pre-booked or arranged informally if preferred.

This tour is suitable for most travelers, offering step-free access and a flexible schedule. It’s particularly well-suited for those who value private, personalized experiences and want to explore Scotland’s scenic highlights without the constraints of large group travel.

Scotland’s Highland Lochs, Castles & Glens: A Personalized Highland Adventure

The Glasgow Greenock Shore Excursion provides a luxurious, flexible, and insightful exploration of Scotland’s iconic landscapes and castles. The private guide, expert storytelling, and carefully curated stops make it a compelling choice for those seeking a comfortable yet comprehensive Scottish highlands experience.

While the admission costs and limited access on certain days for Inveraray Castle** should be considered, the overall package offers a well-balanced day of sightseeing, history, and scenery. The positive reviews highlight the value of knowledgeable guides and stunning views, making this a trip that delivers the authentic Scottish experience in style.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is designed to accommodate most travelers, with accessible stops and flexible pacing.

Can I customize the stops or itinerary?
As a private tour, the schedule can be adjusted depending on your preferences and cruise timing.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, meals are not included, but you can pre-book lunch or inform the guide for recommendations.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour start time for a full refund.

How long is the drive between stops?
Most drives are between 10 and 30 minutes, providing ample time to enjoy the scenery and travel comfortably.

Is admission to Inveraray Castle included?
No, the admission fee for Inveraray Castle is not included, and the castle is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

This private Scottish Highlands tour offers an inviting, tailored way to discover the region’s stunning scenery, historic castles, and scenic viewpoints—all led by passionate locals eager to share their homeland.