Hairy Coos & Highland Views: A Short Escape from Edinburgh

Explore Scotland in a Day with Hairy Coos & Highland Views

For those seeking a short yet immersive escape from Edinburgh, the Hairy Coos & Highland Views tour offers a fantastic way to see some of Scotland’s most iconic sights. Priced at $61 per person and lasting 6.5 hours, this trip provides a well-rounded taste of Scotland’s natural beauty, historic landmarks, and local culture.

This tour offers two options: a visit to Blackness Castle or a tour of the Deanston Distillery. Both choices suit different interests—history lovers can explore the impressive fortress, while whisky enthusiasts can enjoy a guided tasting at the distillery. The tour is designed for small groups, with a focus on quality time at each stop, though it’s best suited for those over 8 years old and over 120 cm tall.

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Key Points

• Price of $61 per person for a 6.5-hour trip from Edinburgh
• Two options: Blackness Castle or Deanston Distillery
• Includes scenic stops at Loch Katrine and Queensferry with iconic views
• Professional guide provides live commentary and storytelling
• Luxury, air-conditioned coaches ensure comfort throughout the day
• Stops for photos, wildlife viewing, and relaxed walks in the Highlands

Departing from the Heart of Edinburgh at Regent Road

The tour begins at 1759 Regent Rd, in front of the Burns Monument, with check-in starting at 10:15 AM. The bus departs promptly at 10:30 AM, so arriving early is recommended. The luxury, modern coach ensures a comfortable ride for the entire group, and the live commentary enhances each stop with engaging stories about Scotland’s landscapes and history.

The group size remains small, fostering a friendly atmosphere. Since there are no hotel pickups or drop-offs included, travelers should plan for their own transport to the meeting point. The departure point is easy to find and close to central Edinburgh, making it a convenient starting location for a day trip.

From the Kelpies to Stirling: Early Highlights

The journey kicks off with a pass-by of The Kelpies, the striking horse-head sculptures known worldwide for their impressive size and craftsmanship. As the coach moves through the countryside, vantage points of Stirling come into view along the way, with Stirling Castle and the Wallace Monument visible from the bus, giving an early taste of Scotland’s historic strength.

These sights set the tone for a day filled with stunning scenery and tales of Scottish bravery. The guide’s live commentary helps bring these iconic landmarks to life, making the drive both informative and visually engaging.

Choose Your Adventure: Blackness Castle or Deanston Distillery

The first stop depends on the selected option. Those opting for the Castle visit will explore Blackness Castle, a 15th-century fortress sitting dramatically on the Firth of Forth. Known for its ship-like shape, it’s often called the “ship that never sailed.” The castle has served as a royal residence, fortress, and prison, and features in the TV series Outlander as Fort William.

Please note Blackness Castle is closed from September 29 to October 19, 2025. During this period, the Castle option includes visits to Linlithgow Palace or Doune Castle, depending on the date. The castle offers panoramic views across the water and a glimpse into Scotland’s medieval past.

For whisky fans, the Deanston Distillery offers a guided tour inside a former cotton mill turned renowned whisky producer. The tour reveals the craft of whisky-making, ending with a tasting of Deanston’s single malts. Visitors can also enjoy a relaxed stroll along the River Teith or unwind in the distillery’s cozy Coffee Bothy.

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Scenic Drive to Loch Katrine and the Highlands

After the castle or distillery visit, the tour guides you deeper into the Trossachs National Park, home to Loch Katrine. This tranquil freshwater loch is famous for its sublime views, with forests and mountains surrounding the water. It’s a perfect spot for photos and peaceful reflection.

The scenic drive continues past Loch Achray, a smaller yet equally picturesque loch nestled between Ben Aan and Ben Venue. This part of the trip highlights the classic Highland landscape: lush greenery, rugged mountains, and quiet waters. The guide shares stories about the area’s natural beauty, adding depth to the stunning views.

Highland Cattle: Hairy Coos and Photo Opportunities

A highlight on this tour is the encounter with the Hairy Coos, the iconic Highland cattle with shaggy coats and gentle personalities. This photo stop offers a chance to snap pictures of these charming animals, which symbolize Scotland’s rural charm. The cattle are usually seen grazing in open fields, and visitors may have the chance to feed them—though cash is needed for food, supplied by the owners.

The Hairy Coos are a favorite for many visitors, adding a personal touch to the day’s scenic experience. The relaxed stop provides a break from driving, with ample time to appreciate the countryside.

Queensferry and the Forth Bridges: Panoramic Water Views

On the way back to Edinburgh, the tour pauses at Queensferry, a quaint town famous for its Forth Bridges. The view of the Forth Rail Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is particularly impressive. Travelers can take photos of the iconic red structure spanning the water and enjoy the lively riverside atmosphere.

This stop offers a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to soak in the last scenic vistas of the day before returning to the city. The guide shares interesting facts about the bridges’ history and engineering, enriching the experience.

Return to Edinburgh by 5 PM with Memories of Scotland

The journey concludes back at 1759 Regent Rd around 5 PM, giving travelers the rest of the evening to relax or explore more of Edinburgh. The overall experience balances scenic views, historic landmarks, and local culture, making it an ideal day trip for those wanting to leave the city behind for a few hours.

The small group size and professional guide ensure a comfortable and engaging day. The tour’s value is enhanced by the inclusion of photo stops, a distillery visit or castle tour, and scenic drives through some of Scotland’s most beautiful landscapes.

Final Thoughts on the Hairy Coos & Highland Views Tour

This tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of Scotland, suited for travelers who appreciate stunning scenery, historic sites, and local animal encounters. The $61 price point provides good value considering the scenic drives, guided commentary, and multiple stops.

While the Blackness Castle visit is a highlight for history buffs and Deanston Distillery appeals to whisky lovers, both options are equally enriching. The guided storytelling, comfortable coach, and beautiful vistas make this an engaging day out, especially for those short on time but eager to experience Scotland’s charm.

The tour may feel rushed at times, especially during wildlife or animal stops, but the overall pacing allows ample time for photos and relaxation. It is not suitable for children under 8 years or wheelchair users, and no toilets are available on the coach, so plan accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation on a luxury coach, a live guide, photo stops, and the distillery or castle visit (tickets purchased on the day).

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, but there are stops where food and refreshments can be purchased.

Can I visit Blackness Castle?
Yes, Blackness Castle is included in the Castle option, with tickets available for purchase on the day. Please note it is closed from September 29 to October 19, 2025.

What should I bring?
A small bag is allowed onboard. Bring cash if you wish to feed the Highland cattle, and consider weather-appropriate clothing for outdoor stops.

Is there a minimum age?
Yes, the minimum age is 7, and over 8 for the whisky tasting.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts 6.5 hours, with an estimated return around 5 PM.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
No, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.

Are there restroom facilities on the bus?
No, there are no toilets onboard; plan accordingly before departure.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, the tour begins at 1759 Regent Rd, and there is no hotel pickup service.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of scenic Highland views, historic castles or distilleries, and personalized storytelling from the guide makes this a highly recommended way to experience Scotland in a single, enjoyable day.

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