Loch Lomond, the Highlands & Hairy Coos (Small Group)

Discover the Beauty of Scotland with the Loch Lomond, Highlands & Hairy Coos Tour

This small-group tour offers a captivating 9-hour journey from Edinburgh, led by a knowledgeable guide, into some of Scotland’s most iconic landscapes. For £74 per person, the adventure takes you through Loch Lomond, the Scottish Highlands, and features the chance to see Hairy Coos—the beloved Highland cows. The tour includes a waterbus cruise, a traditional Scottish lunch, and stops at scenic spots like the Falls of Dochart and Luss. The guide’s friendly storytelling and the carefully curated stops make this a popular choice for those seeking a relaxed yet immersive day in Scotland’s countryside.

While the 9-hour duration means a long day, the pace remains comfortable, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the stunning views and take photos. The tour is best suited for those who appreciate scenic landscapes, local culture, and engaging guides. It is wheelchair accessible but not suitable for children under 7 years or strollers, making it ideal for adult travelers or older children.

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Key Points

• Price: Approximately £74 per person, including the scenic cruise and traditional Scottish lunch
• Duration: 9 hours, departing from Cairngorm Coffee in Edinburgh
• Highlights: Loch Lomond Waterbus, Luss, Falls of Dochart, Hairy Coos, and scenic views of the Highlands
• Guide: Expert, engaging, and full of interesting stories
• Accessibility: Wheelchair friendly but not suitable for children under 7 or strollers
• Flexibility: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before, with a “reserve now, pay later” option

Loch Lomond Waterbus Cruise and Balmaha Village

The tour begins at Cairngorm Coffee in Edinburgh, where you check in at least 15 minutes before departure. The first major activity is the waterbus cruise across Loch Lomond, available for £14 per person. This cruise is a peaceful way to see the tree-clad islands and Ben Lomond rising above the waters. The guide emphasizes this cruise as a highlight, offering tranquil scenic views and a different perspective of the loch.

Disembarking at Balmaha, travelers find themselves in a charming village. Here, there is time to enjoy lunch and soak in the lovely lake views. The calm waters and mountain backdrop set a perfect scene for a relaxing meal before heading into the Highlands.

Exploring Luss: Picture-Perfect Village

After lunch, the tour continues to Luss, a village famed for its stone cottages and colorful gardens. This stop provides an ideal moment to stroll through the streets and appreciate the picturesque scenery. Travelers have time to relax and take photos, making it a favorite spot for capturing those quintessential Scottish landscapes.

Scenic Drive through the Trossachs and Highland Views

From Luss, the journey proceeds through Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, offering scenic views and rolling hills. The guide shares insights into the landscape and local history as the group enjoys the ride. This part of the tour emphasizes the natural beauty that makes Scotland famous, with plenty of opportunities to admire the vistas from the bus.

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Visit to Killin and the Falls of Dochart

The next stop is Killin, where the Falls of Dochart tumble beneath an old stone bridge. This photo stop lasts about 20 minutes, giving travelers a chance to capture the waterfall’s beauty and breathe in the fresh Highland air. The falls are a short walk from the bus and are considered a standout feature of the trip.

Highland Cows at Kilmahog

Further along, the tour pauses at Kilmahog for a unique encounter with Highland cattle—the famous Hairy Coos. These gentle giants with long shaggy coats and curved horns are a symbol of the Highlands. The stop lasts around 30 minutes, offering ample time for photos and to marvel at these iconic animals.

Passing by The Kelpies and Returning to Edinburgh

On the return journey, the group passes by the Kelpies, impressive horse-head sculptures that celebrate Scotland’s industrial heritage. The tour concludes back at Cairngorm Coffee in Edinburgh around 5:30 pm, with final scenic views of the Forth Bridges.

Logistics and Practical Details

The tour departs from Cairngorm Coffee, located near Queensferry Street, with clear instructions to arrive 15 minutes early. The group size remains small, ensuring a more personalized experience. The tour is wheelchair accessible but does not permit baby strollers. The live guide offers commentary in English, providing engaging stories and factual insights throughout the day.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The combination of scenic stops, especially the Loch Lomond waterbus, and the chance to see Hairy Coos makes this tour distinctive. The traditional Scottish lunch adds local flavor, and the carefully paced schedule allows travelers to enjoy each location comfortably. The high review ratings—a solid 4.8 out of 5 from 37 reviews—reflect consistent praise for the guide’s enthusiasm, knowledge, and storytelling.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour

This experience suits adults and older children who enjoy nature, photography, and local culture. It’s ideal for those who prefer a relaxed pace with plenty of time at each stop. The small-group format offers a more intimate setting, and the scenic waterbus cruise adds a special touch to the day.

Final Thoughts on the Loch Lomond, Highlands & Hairy Coos Tour

This tour offers a well-rounded exploration of some of Scotland’s most scenic spots. The waterbus cruise across Loch Lomond is a highlight, providing a tranquil journey through the lake’s peaceful waters. Stops at Luss, Killin, and Kilmahog showcase Scotland’s picturesque villages and iconic Highland cattle.

Though a full 9-hour day, the itinerary is carefully planned for comfort and enjoyment. The enthusiastic guide and beautiful scenery make this a worthwhile choice for travelers looking to see the best of Scotland outside Edinburgh. With excellent reviews and a variety of memorable stops, this tour delivers good value and a genuine taste of Scottish landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 7 years are not able to join this tour. It is best suited for adult travelers or older children.

How much does the waterbus cruise cost?
The waterbus across Loch Lomond costs £14 per person.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended for the day, especially for outdoor stops and walking around scenic spots.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, though baby strollers are not allowed.

What is the cancellation policy?
Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, with a reserve now, pay later option available.

This small-group tour offers an engaging day into the heart of Scottish scenery, blending natural beauty, wildlife, and local culture into one memorable experience.

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