Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Kelpies: Private Tour

Explore Scotland’s Most Iconic Sights on a Private Full-Day Tour

This private tour of Scotland offers a carefully curated 8-hour experience for up to 4 guests, exploring some of the country’s most celebrated landmarks. For $672 per group, travelers enjoy personalized attention while visiting Loch Lomond, Stirling, the Kelpies, and Doune Castle. The tour includes a boat cruise on Loch Lomond, Highland cow feeding, and visits to films and history-famous sites, making it ideal for those wanting an intimate taste of Scottish culture and scenery.

With flexible pickup from hotels, accommodations, or the cruise ship terminal, this tour suits visitors seeking a comprehensive yet relaxed day of sightseeing. It’s important to note that optional visits to Stirling Castle or the Wallace Monument involve additional costs, and boat cruises are optional but highly recommended for scenic views. This tour balances structured stops with flexible options, perfect for those who appreciate customized experiences.

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Key Points

• Private group experience for up to 4 people at $672 total
• 8-hour itinerary covering Loch Lomond, Stirling, the Kelpies, and Doune Castle
• Includes a boat cruise on Loch Lomond, with an alternative visit to Luss village
• Highlights Highland cows feeding and visiting film-famous sites
• Guided in multiple languages including English, Punjabi, Urdu, Spanish, and French
• Optional visits to Stirling Castle and Wallace Monument at extra cost

Pickup and Drop-off at Convenient Locations

The tour starts with pickup options from Greenock or Glasgow, ensuring easy access for travelers arriving by various means. After a personalized pickup, the driver-guide takes you on a scenic drive towards your first stop. The drop-off locations mirror the pickups, allowing flexibility for your onward plans.

The door-to-door service eliminates transportation worries, and the air-conditioned vehicle provides comfort throughout the day. The guide makes contact in advance to confirm pickup details, making the process smooth and straightforward.

Visiting Pollok Park and Highland Cows

The day begins with a stop at Pollok Park, located on the outskirts of Glasgow. Here, visitors can hand-feed Highland cows, a fun and close-up encounter that sets the tone for the Scottish experience ahead. The farm atmosphere and gentle Highland cattle make a memorable start, especially for animal lovers.

This stop helps travelers get familiar with Scottish livestock and enjoy some calm countryside views before heading into more scenic attractions. It’s a relaxed way to start the day and get into the spirit of rural Scotland.

The Kelpies: Scotland’s Largest Equine Sculptures

Next, the tour features a visit to the Kelpies, two enormous horse-head sculptures standing nearly 100 feet tall. As the largest equine statues in the world, these sculptures are a must-see for visitors interested in modern Scottish landmarks.

Guests have the chance to take photographs of these striking art pieces, which symbolize strength and endurance. The Kelpies are a popular stop for their impressive size and artistic detail, making them ideal for memorable photos. The site is easily accessible and provides an iconic backdrop for your Scottish adventure.

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Exploring Stirling and Its Panoramic Views

The drive continues to Stirling, known as the “Gateway to the Highlands”. Here, visitors have the choice to explore Stirling Castle or the Wallace Monument, both steeped in Scottish history. The tour includes time to walk through the bustling streets filled with independent shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Stirling Castle is a historic site with admission charges not included, and pre-booking is essential. Alternatively, some may prefer to visit the Wallace Monument, which offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. The guide leads you through the historic streets, sharing stories of Scotland’s past.

Doune Castle: Filming Location and Historic Site

A highlight for film fans, Doune Castle features prominently in TV series like Outlander and Game of Thrones. This medieval fortress offers a chance to step into cinematic history. The castle’s appearance as Winterfell in the Game of Thrones pilot and its connection to Monty Python and the Holy Grail make it a unique stop.

Visitors can explore the castle’s grounds and learn about its role in Scottish and film history. The site is a favorite for its authentic medieval architecture and its fame from popular TV shows.

Loch Lomond: Scenic Cruise or Visit Luss Village

The final major stop is Loch Lomond, renowned for its stunning freshwater scenery. The tour offers a boat cruise around the loch, providing panoramic views of the surrounding hills and islands. The cruise is optional, with tickets starting at £15.50 per adult.

If the cruise isn’t preferred, an alternative visit is to Luss, a picturesque village famous for its historic cottages, colorful gardens, and a Viking gravestone—a rare Viking artifact found only in the British Isles. Both options showcase the loch’s beauty and cultural significance, giving travelers a delightful end to their day.

Practicalities and Additional Costs

Included in the tour are bottled water and Scottish snacks, offering light refreshments during the day. While lunch and dinner are not included**, ample opportunities exist at each stop for visitors to enjoy local cuisine.

Optional activities such as Stirling Castle or the Wallace Monument cost around £17.50 and £11.30 respectively. The Loch Lomond cruise is available at an extra charge. The flexible booking allows cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind for planning.

The Experience Provider: E2G Tours Ltd

This tour is operated by E2G Tours Ltd, known for providing personalized and well-organized Scottish day trips. The live guides communicate in multiple languages, including English, Punjabi, Urdu, Spanish, and French, accommodating diverse travelers. The private group format ensures a tailored experience with a driver-guide dedicated to your party’s interests.

Final Thoughts on the Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle, and Kelpies Tour

With a mix of historic sites, film locations, spectacular scenery, and interactive experiences like Highland cows feeding, this tour offers an authentic taste of Scotland in just one day. Its private setting makes it especially appealing for those seeking a personalized and flexible itinerary.

However, travelers should be aware of additional costs for certain attractions and activities, and that boat cruises are optional. The tour’s 8-hour duration balances sightseeing with comfort, but pacing might be tight for those wanting to linger longer at each stop.

This private Scottish Highlands tour presents a comprehensive and engaging way to explore some of the country’s most loved landmarks, ideal for small groups eager to discover Scotland with a knowledgeable guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Loch Lomond cruise included in the tour price?
No, the cruise is optional and costs from £15.50 per adult. The tour price covers the main sightseeing stops.

Can I visit Stirling Castle or the Wallace Monument?
Yes, you can choose to visit either site, but admission fees are not included and pre-booking is necessary.

What languages are available for the guide?
Guides are available in English, Punjabi, Urdu, Spanish, and French, ensuring clear communication for diverse groups.

How flexible is the pickup and drop-off?
Pickup and drop-off are included from Greenock or Glasgow, with arrangements made in advance to suit your schedule.

What else is included in the tour?
The tour provides bottled water and Scottish snacks. Transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle, and the experience is private for your group.

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