Inverness: Loch Ness Circuit Tour

Discover the Scottish Highlands and Loch Ness Legends for $269

The Inverness: Loch Ness Circuit Tour offers a comprehensive 8-hour exploration of the iconic Scottish Highlands. Priced at $269 per person, this guided journey promises encounters with legendary figures, historic ruins, and stunning scenery. Starting from Inverness, the tour is ideal for those eager to uncover Loch Ness’s mysteries, explore historic castles, and enjoy picturesque landscapes. The tour’s small-group size, limited to 7 participants, ensures a more personal experience and engaging storytelling from the guides.

A key highlight is the photo opportunity with the Loch Ness Monster whisperer, where a guide calls Nessie out for a £1M photograph. While the tour offers many fascinating stops, it does not include entrance fees to attractions like Urquhart Castle, so visitors should plan accordingly. This trip suits travelers seeking a well-rounded, informative day with manageable pacing and plenty of chances to capture memories.

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Key Points

• 8-hour guided tour starting from Inverness with a small group limit of 7 people.
• Visit Urquhart Castle ruins and learn about its historic military and financial significance.
• Special Loch Ness stop includes a photo session with the Loch Ness Monster whisperer calling Nessie for a fee.
• See the Falls of Foyers, known for their impressive waterfalls, and the canal locks at Fort Augustus.
• Explore sites linked to fairy folklore, including Invermoriston and Drumashie Moor, where legendary battles may have taken place.
• Tour price excludes entrance fees and meals, with optional spending for photos or attractions.

Starting Point and Small Group Experience in Inverness

The tour begins outside Highland House of Fraser, 4-9 Huntly Street, Inverness, on the north side of the bridge. This convenient location offers easy access for travelers staying in or near Inverness. The small group limit of 7 ensures a relaxed atmosphere, allowing the guides to give personalized attention and in-depth stories about each site.

Participants should wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing because the tour involves walking at several stops. The live English-speaking guide provides engaging narration, adapting the sequence of stops as needed based on weather conditions.

The Legendary Loch Ness and Its Mysteries

The journey kicks off with a photo opportunity on Loch Ness, where a guide demonstrates calling Nessie out for a £1M photograph. This fun and interactive moment is paired with explanations of the geological events that created the loch and the ongoing scientific searches for Nessie by enthusiasts and researchers.

During this stop, visitors learn about the survival of the beasties over centuries of change. The guide shares fascinating legends, including stories of the Fae, mythical creatures believed to inhabit the loch, giving a sense of the magic that surrounds Loch Ness. Expect to see the lake’s vast waters and perhaps catch a glimpse of the legendary creature’s supposedly secret habitat.

Exploring Urquhart Castle from the Viewpoint

Next, the tour visits the ruins of Urquhart Castle, perched on a rocky promontory facing Loch Ness. The guide emphasizes its military and financial importance, as the castle was constructed on a strategic site to control travel routes. Although visitors do not enter the castle, they enjoy a viewpoint visit that offers spectacular photo opportunities of the castle against Loch Ness.

The guide recounts tales of conflicts over ownership and destruction throughout history, enhancing the sense of drama surrounding this historic site. The viewpoint provides enough time to appreciate the scenic beauty and historic resonance without the need for a full walk-through, which would require additional time and entrance fees.

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Invermoriston: Fairy Folklore and Clan Heritage

Traveling south, the tour stops in Invermoriston, a village with a strong connection to fairy folklore and the Clan Grant origins. The stop offers a brief walk that reveals local stories associated with fairy legends and clan history. This site provides a quieter, more mystical atmosphere, perfect for those interested in Scottish myths and family histories.

The guide shares stories of fairies and legendary battles—possibly involving Vikings or other ancient tribes—taking place on Drumashie Moor, a site that draws visitors during the Beltane festival in early May to witness strange phenomena and misty apparitions.

Fort Augustus and the Canal Locks

A highlight of the tour is the stop at Fort Augustus, where visitors observe the impressive canal locks at the southern end of Loch Ness. This engineering marvel has historically been crucial for transportation and trade, and the guide explains its importance in connecting Loch Ness to other parts of Scotland.

Here, travelers also have the chance to grab lunch at local eateries, making it a practical break during the day. The scenic views of the canal, combined with the lively atmosphere of the lock system, make this a memorable photo stop.

The Foyers Falls and Boleskine House

Continuing on, the tour visits the Foyers Falls, renowned for their powerful, cascading waters. This site offers a short walk to view the waterfalls up close and appreciate their natural beauty. Nearby is the historic Boleskine House, once owned by occultist Aleister Crowley in the early 20th century, and later by Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin during the 1970s.

While the house itself is not accessible, the site’s history adds a layer of intrigue to the scenic stop. The waterfalls and the house’s mysterious past provide excellent photo opportunities and story material.

Drumashie Moor: Site of Legendary Battles and Mysteries

The final stop takes place on Drumashie Moor, a site linked to Pictish or Druid castles. Legend holds that a Fairy, Alien, or Viking battle occurred here, and the area is famous during the Beltane festival for sightings of strange events in the misty dawn.

This site offers a glimpse into ancient Scottish history and folklore, making it an intriguing conclusion to the day. Visitors can enjoy the landscape’s mystique and imagine the stories that have persisted through generations.

Practical Details and Booking Flexibility

The tour includes pickup and drop-off at Highland House of Fraser in Inverness, simplifying logistics for travelers. The full-day experience is flexible, with the ability to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The reserve now, pay later option allows for flexible planning, especially useful for uncertain travel schedules.

Because the tour is guided in English and operated by Storytellertours, expect informative commentary delivered with enthusiasm and local expertise. The small group size makes it easier to ask questions and enjoy a more intimate experience.

Final Thoughts on the Inverness Loch Ness Circuit Tour

This 8-hour guided tour stands out for its combination of legendary stories, historic sites, and scenic views. The call with Nessie, the view of Urquhart Castle, and the stops at Foyers Falls and Drumashie Moor** offer a well-rounded mix of myth, history, and natural beauty.

While the exclusion of entrance fees means visitors should plan for some additional costs, the tour’s comprehensive itinerary and small-group format make it a worthwhile choice for those wanting to maximize their day in the Highlands. It is especially suited for travelers who appreciate storytelling, cultural sites, and picturesque landscapes in an easy-paced, well-organized experience.

This tour provides an excellent introduction to Loch Ness and the surrounding region, leaving visitors with plenty of memorable moments and a deeper appreciation for Scotland’s legendary and historic environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include entrance fees to Urquhart Castle?
No, the tour is a viewpoint visit only; entrance fees are not included.

What is the tour duration and starting time?
The tour lasts 8 hours, with specific starting times available based on the day; check availability when booking.

Is the tour suitable for all weather conditions?
Yes, but travelers should wear weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes, as the tour involves walking at several stops.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for changing plans.

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