INVERGORDON Highland Shore Excursion for up to 14 pax (Private)

Explore the Scottish Highlands in Comfort and Style

The Invergordon Highland Shore Excursion for up to 14 people offers an intimate and personalized experience through Scotland’s stunning landscapes and historic sites. Priced at $153.86 per person, this private tour provides a flexible, stress-free day with round-trip pickup, snacks, bottled water, and the guidance of a local who grew up in Inverness. The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, making it ideal for cruise passengers or visitors seeking a comprehensive Highlands adventure in one day.

This tour stands out for its small-group setting, ensuring attentive service and a tailored experience. The highly positive reviews, with a perfect 5.0 rating from 34 reviews, highlight the knowledgeable guides and the memorable sights encountered along the route. It’s perfect for those who want a personalized exploration of Scotland’s most iconic spots, with plenty of opportunities for photos, stories, and local insights.

Key Points

• Private group of up to 14 people ensures an intimate experience
• Includes snacks, bottled water, and round-trip pickup for convenience
• Seven to eight hours of sightseeing covering Loch Ness, Inverness, Culloden, and Clava Cairns
• Expert local guides share stories, legends, and historical details
• Stops at Dores Beach, Highland coos, and historical battlefields
• Highly rated with 5.0 out of 5 stars based on 34 reviews

Starting Point and Convenient Pickup in Invergordon

The tour begins right at Stop 1: Invergordon Cruise Port at 31 Shore Rd, where the guides welcome your group with warm Highland hospitality. The pickup process is straightforward, and the tour is designed to keep logistics simple, allowing you to relax and focus on the scenery and stories ahead.

Once onboard, the guide provides bottled water and snacks, helping you stay refreshed during the long day of exploration. This stress-free start is a key feature that helps set the tone for an enjoyable adventure.

Visiting Loch Ness at Dores Beach for a Close-up View

One of the highlights is the drive to the East Coast of Loch Ness, stopping at Dores Beach, a spot renowned for its breathtaking views of the loch. Here, guests get up close to Loch Ness, with plenty of photo opportunities. If luck is on your side, you might catch a glimpse of the legendary Nessie.

This 15-minute stop allows for a quick but memorable encounter with one of Scotland’s most famous natural attractions. The scenery here is often described as stunning, offering a peaceful contrast to the historical sites that follow.

Inverness: A Walk Through the City’s Hidden Gems

The tour then includes a walking tour of Inverness, led by a local guide who shares stories only known to those who grew up in the city. Highlights include the oldest pub in Inverness, a site where Jacobite soldiers were executed after Culloden, and a vantage point to view the castle from an old bridge.

Guests enjoy about 1 hour and 15 minutes of free time to explore, grab a coffee, or browse local shops. The guide’s personal insight makes this city stop stand out, offering a blend of history and local flavor.

Highland Cows at Dochgarroch: Iconic Scottish Animals

A visit to Dochgarroch gives guests the chance to see some of Scotland’s most beloved highland coos. This 15-minute stop offers photo opportunities of these hairy, gentle animals often associated with the Highlands. It’s a fun and relaxed moment, perfect for animal lovers or families.

The guide points out these famous Scottish cattle, emphasizing their importance in Highland culture. Expect a brief but charming encounter with one of Scotland’s most recognizable symbols.

Culloden Battlefield: The Last Battle on British Soil

The Culloden Battlefield stop is a poignant moment on the tour, offering 45 minutes of exploration. The guide narrates the story of the Jacobite Rebellion and the final pitched battle in 1746. Key points include the viewpoint of the troops, the makeshift hospital cottage, and grave markers.

Guests are encouraged to absorb the somber atmosphere, as this site offers a powerful glimpse into a pivotal moment in Scottish history. The guide’s storytelling makes the battlefield come alive with vivid details, enriching the experience beyond just viewing the terrain.

Discovering the Ancient Clava Cairns

The tour’s final stop, Clava Cairns, transports visitors back 4,000 years. The Bronze Age burial site features impressive standing stones and cairns, which the guide explains in detail about their purpose and construction.

Guests are invited to touch the stones and imagine life in 2000 BC. The Victorian influences on the site are also discussed, adding context to how the landscape has been romanticized over time. This ancient site provides a peaceful, reflective end to the day.

Returning to Invergordon: A Relaxed End to the Day

After visiting Clava Cairns, the vehicle returns to Stop 7: Invergordon, giving ample time to return to the cruise ship or accommodations. The final 5-minute transfer ensures a smooth and timely end to the tour, allowing guests to reflect on their day of sightseeing and storytelling.

Why This Tour Offers Excellent Value

The private setup for up to 14 guests means more personalized attention and flexibility. The included snacks and bottled water add comfort, especially on a long day of sightseeing. The expert local guides provide engaging stories, especially at Culloden and Clava Cairns, which are often praised in reviews for their knowledge and friendly demeanor.

While the tour does not include restroom facilities or WiFi, the convenient pickup and drop-off, combined with the well-paced itinerary, make this a convenient choice for those wanting an in-depth Scottish Highlands experience.

Who Will Appreciate This Highland Tour

This tour is ideal for cruise passengers or visitors seeking an all-in-one day trip that combines natural beauty, history, and local culture. Its small-group nature suits those who prefer a personalized experience with ample storytelling. It’s particularly well-suited for those interested in Scottish legends, historic battles, and ancient sites.

The moderate physical demand means most travelers will find the pace comfortable, though some walking at Inverness and Clava Cairns might be required.

Final Thoughts on the Invergordon Highland Shore Excursion

This private tour offers a well-rounded exploration of Scotland’s Highlands, combining stunning scenery, historic sites, and engaging storytelling. The small group size and expert guides make for a memorable and comfortable day, ideal for travelers wanting a deeper understanding of Scotland’s past and present.

While not including amenities like restrooms on the vehicle or WiFi, the convenient logistics and inclusive snacks make this an accessible option for most guests. Its high ratings and positive reviews confirm it as a reliable choice for those seeking a personalized, insightful Highland adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, providing enough time to see all the major sights comfortably.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at Invergordon Cruise Port (Stop 1 at 31 Shore Rd) and ends back at the same location.

What is included in the price?
Included are bottled water and snacks. The tour also features round-trip pickup from Invergordon.

Are guides experienced and local?
Yes, the guides are local and knowledgeable, often sharing personal stories and historical insights.

Can I bring my own food?
While snacks are provided, guests are welcome to bring extra food or drinks if desired.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate; the moderate walking and historical focus suit families and individuals alike.

What are the main highlights of the tour?
Key stops include Loch Ness at Dores Beach, the city of Inverness, Highland coos at Dochgarroch, Culloden Battlefield, and Clava Cairns.

How far in advance should I book?
It is recommended to book about 107 days in advance, as it is a popular, highly-rated tour.

Are there any restrictions or special considerations?
The tour is accessible to most travelers; service animals are allowed. No specific mention of physical limitations, but some walking is involved.

How do I cancel if needed?
Cancellation is free if made more than 24 hours in advance. Less notice results in no refund, so plan accordingly.