Invergordon: Inverness, Cawdor Castle & Highland Whisky Tour

Discover the Charm of Inverness, Cawdor Castle & Highland Whisky in a Full-Day Excursion

This 8-hour Inverness shore tour from Invergordon offers a fantastic chance to experience some of the most iconic sights in the Scottish Highlands. Priced at $86 per person, the tour takes you through Cawdor Castle, along the shores of Loch Ness, into the scenic town of Beauly, and finally to the Glen Ord Distillery for a whisky tasting. The tour boasts a 5 out of 5 rating based on 5 reviews, with visitors praising the smooth organization, beautiful scenery, and especially the knowledgeable guide.

While the tour offers a well-rounded taste of Highland history, scenery, and whisky, it is important to keep in mind that entry to Glen Ord Distillery is not included in the price and is payable on the day in cash. Also, the tour does not include meals, making it a good option for those who prefer to explore local dining options in Inverness. This tour suits travelers looking for an engaging, comprehensive day out that balances sightseeing with cultural experiences.

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Key Points

• Price and Duration: Fully packed 8-hour tour costing $86 per person
• Main stops: Cawdor Castle, Loch Ness, Beauly, and Glen Ord Distillery
• Highlights: Search for Nessie, sample Singleton Whisky, explore a 15th-century castle, enjoy a scenic Highland town
• Guide quality: Praised driver-guide praised for knowledge and friendliness
• Physical demands: Suitable for most, but comfortable shoes recommended; no specific accessibility info provided
• Booking flexibility: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

Starting Point and Tour Logistics at Invergordon Port

The tour departs directly from Invergordon Port, making it an accessible option for cruise ship passengers or those arriving by other means. The modern tour bus provides a comfortable ride for the entire 8 hours, with live commentary delivered in English by a knowledgeable driver-guide. The focus is on making each stop informative and enjoyable, with plenty of opportunities for photos and brief walks.

The meeting point is conveniently located at the port, and the tour concludes back there as well, ensuring easy logistics for travelers. The tour’s timing is flexible, with starting times available upon booking, and options to reserve now and pay later to keep plans adaptable.

Exploring Cawdor Castle: A 15th Century Treasure

The first stop on this journey is Cawdor Castle, a historic site dating back to the 15th century. Located within beautiful gardens in Nairnshire, the castle is well known as the ancestral home of the Campbells. Visitors are given ample time to explore the castle interiors and admire the surrounding landscapes, which are especially scenic in good weather.

The castle’s storied past and picturesque setting make it a favorite for those interested in history and architecture. The gardens provide a peaceful environment for strolling and taking photos. Since the visit is timed to allow for exploration, guests should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for occasional outdoor walking.

Enjoying Inverness and the River Ness Lunch Break

After visiting Cawdor Castle, the tour moves to Inverness, the capital of the Highlands. Here, a little over an hour is set aside for lunch and a walk along the River Ness. The town offers a variety of dining options, and the views of Inverness Castle from the riverbanks are particularly charming.

This break allows travelers to stretch their legs, indulge in a meal, and enjoy the scenic river scenery. The time is designed to be flexible, giving everyone a chance to experience the town at their own pace before heading on to the next stop.

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Loch Ness: Photo Opportunity and Nessie Search

Next, the tour makes a quick stop at Loch Ness, famous for its legend of the Loch Ness Monster. Here, visitors can take photos of the iconic lake views and enjoy a refreshment break. Although the stop is brief, it’s enough for some memorable shots and to try your luck at spotting Nessie.

This viewing point captures the essence of the Highland mystery and provides a snapshot of one of Scotland’s most famous and scenic spots. No extended boat cruise or deep exploration is included, but the stop offers a nice photo opportunity and a brief moment of Highland tranquility.

Beauly: A Picturesque Highland Town

The journey continues to Beauly, a small town famous for its French-derived name meaning “beautiful place”. Named during a visit by Mary Queen of Scots in 1564, Beauly presents a charming example of Highland life.

Guests have time here for photos and a quick stroll through the town’s historic streets. The River Beauly adds to the town’s scenic appeal, and the peaceful atmosphere makes it a perfect stop for a short break before heading to the whisky distillery.

Glen Ord Distillery and Whisk(e)y Tasting

The final stop is the Glen Ord Distillery, the only remaining single malt whisky distillery on the Black Isle. Known for producing Singleton Whisky, the distillery offers a guided tour that explains the whisky-making process and showcases the facilities.

Guests enjoy a tasting of the Singleton of Glen Ord 12-year-old whisky at the end of the tour. Since entry is not included in the tour price, visitors should plan to pay for entry in cash on the day. The whisky tasting provides a satisfying conclusion to the day, especially for those interested in Scotland’s distilling heritage.

The Guide and Overall Experience

Throughout the trip, the driver-guide is praised for being knowledgeable and friendly. Reviews highlight the smooth organization, timely pickups, and informative commentary that enhances the experience. One reviewer mentions that the guide made the day special, emphasizing the value of a great guide in creating a memorable tour.

The tour is well-paced, with enough time at each stop to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed. The modern bus provides comfortable transportation, and the live commentary keeps everyone engaged throughout the journey.

Practical Tips for Participants

Travelers should bring comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the sites. Rain gear and cash are recommended, especially since weather in the Highlands can be unpredictable and entry to attractions like Glen Ord Distillery is paid separately. Since meals are not included, packing a snack or planning to dine in Inverness is advisable.

This tour is suitable for most travelers, but children under 5 years are not recommended. It provides a balanced day of history, nature, and whisky, perfect for those who want a comprehensive Highland experience in a single day.

Why Choose This Highland Tour?

This Invergordon to Inverness tour stands out for its carefully curated stops that cover castle history, Highland scenery, and whisky culture. The high praise for the guide confirms the quality of the experience, and the affordable price makes it accessible for many travelers.

If you want to see Cawdor Castle, learn about Loch Ness legends, stroll through Beauly, and taste Glen Ord whisky in one day, this tour offers a practical and enjoyable option. The flexible booking policies and full refund option add peace of mind for planning your Highland adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes travel in a modern tour bus from Invergordon Port and back.

What is the price and duration?
The tour costs $86 per person and lasts about 8 hours, with available starting times.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included in the tour price, so plan to dine in Inverness or bring a snack.

Do I need to pay for entry to Glen Ord Distillery?
Yes, entry is payable in cash on the day, as it is not included in the tour.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is not suitable for children under 5 years.

What are the highlights of this tour?
Expect to visit Cawdor Castle, enjoy photos at Loch Ness, walk through Beauly, and taste Singleton Whisky at Glen Ord.

How do I book and cancel?
You can reserve now and pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What makes this tour stand out?
The positive reviews about the guide, the well-paced itinerary, and the combination of historic sites and whisky tasting make this a popular Highland excursion.

This Invergordon: Inverness, Cawdor Castle & Highland Whisky Tour offers a well-organized, informative, and scenic way to enjoy the best of the Scottish Highlands in a single day.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby