Secret Loch Ness, Inverness, Culloden, Cawdor Castle from port

Make the most of a full-day adventure into the stunning Scottish Highlands with this Secret Loch Ness, Inverness, Culloden, and Cawdor Castle tour from Invergordon Cruise Port. Priced at $191.85 per person, the tour lasts approximately 6 to 8 hours, making it an ideal way to see several highlights in one day. The trip includes admission to Culloden Battlefield and Cawdor Castle, visits to Loch Ness, Inverness, and a charming farm shop with Highland cows. With a maximum group size of 33, this tour offers a personal and informative experience, led by knowledgeable guides who excel at sharing local stories and history. The tour is perfect for those who want to explore the Scottish Highlands without the stress of driving, and it’s highly recommended with a rating of 5.0 from 82 reviews.

One of the key strengths of this tour is its ability to cover diverse sights efficiently. From historic battlefields to picturesque castles and the legendary Loch Ness, travelers get a well-rounded glimpse of Highland life and legends. However, some stops are brief, typically around 15 to 30 minutes, making it suited for visitors who enjoy quick photo opportunities and guided insights rather than long, unstructured exploration.

This tour is ideal for cruise ship passengers or day-trippers seeking a comprehensive Highland experience in a manageable timeframe. The inclusion of Highland cows and the scenic drive make it both fun and scenic, though those looking for a slow pace or in-depth exploration might prefer longer or more tailored options.

Key Points

• Full-day Highland tour from Invergordon lasting approximately 6 to 8 hours
• Includes visits to Loch Ness, Culloden Battlefield, Cawdor Castle, and Inverness
• Admission included for Culloden Battlefield and Cawdor Castle
• Average booking time of 94 days in advance, showing high popularity
• Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness
• Brief stops allow for photo ops and quick sightseeing, best for those comfortable with rapid pacing

Exploring the Highland Highlights from Invergordon

This tour departs from 37 Shore Rd, Invergordon, and takes you into the heart of Scotland’s scenic landscapes and historic sites. It’s crafted for travelers who want a rundown of the region without needing to drive themselves. The comfortable minibus ensures a smooth ride, and the small group size of up to 33 travelers keeps the experience intimate and engaging.

The journey begins with a visit to Culloden Battlefield, a renowned historic site linked to the famous Jacobite uprising and featured in the Outlander series. The visitor center provides context, while the battlefield itself offers a powerful view of Scottish history. The tour also includes a brief stop at Clava Cairns, an ancient burial site that inspired the Outlander story, though this stop may sometimes be omitted.

Next, the tour takes you through Inverness, where guides point out key sites such as churches, shops, the river Ness, Inverness Castle, and historic bars like Gellions. While the exterior of Cawdor Castle is the main attraction, visitors also explore its lush gardens and maze, with admission included. Note that, until 2024, photos of the castle are limited due to ongoing renovations.

Discovering Highland Cows at Robertson’s Farm Shop

A highlight for many is the visit to Robertson’s Farm Shop in Beauly, a cozy farm shop where travelers can pet and feed Highland cows. Jamie and Katie-Morag, the farm’s caretakers, provide friendly interaction, giving a real sense of Highland farm life. The 30-minute stop is a relaxed break, perfect for snapping photos and enjoying the rural atmosphere.

The farm shop offers a chance to connect with Scotland’s iconic hairy coos, and many appreciate this authentic experience. It’s a brief but memorable visit that adds a personal touch to the day.

Loch Ness and the Legend of the Monster

The tour’s signature stop is at Loch Ness, where visitors can see the famous loch and touch the water. The 20-minute visit provides excellent photo opportunities, especially with the possibility of capturing Nessi, the legendary monster, in photos with the guide’s stuffed Nessi figure. The scenery is remarkably clear and beautiful, giving a true taste of the mystique surrounding Loch Ness.

While the stop is brief, it’s enough for most to enjoy the stunning vistas and snap memorable photos. The natural beauty of Loch Ness remains a highlight, especially for those interested in local legends and scenic landscapes.

Inverness: City Landmarks and Local Flavor

The tour includes a drive around Inverness, giving a glimpse of its historic churches, shops, and the river Ness. Travelers have the option to visit Inverness Castle, where they can walk up 95 steps to the viewing gallery for panoramic views. The city is also home to historic pubs and cafes, like Gellions, the oldest bar in the Highlands, dating back to 1841. It’s a chance to enjoy a local beer or whisky.

Although direct sightseeing time in Inverness is limited, guides highlight key features, and visitors can choose to explore further on their own. This provides a taste of Highland city life and history within the tour’s schedule.

Visiting Culloden Battlefield and Clava Cairns

The Culloden Battlefield is a profound stop that lasts around 30 minutes. It offers visitors a chance to reflect on one of Scotland’s most pivotal moments, with its visitor center providing historical insights. The nearby Clava Cairns—sometimes included—are ancient burial sites that serve as a beautiful and mysterious backdrop, inspiring storytellers and historians alike.

Some stops, like Clava Cairns, may be omitted depending on the day, but the battlefield itself remains a core part of the tour, providing both historical context and scenic beauty.

Cawdor Castle: The Macbeth Connection

Cawdor Castle is a highlight with a 1 hour 30 minutes visit, giving ample time to explore its fully furnished interiors, lush flower gardens, and a maze. The castle is still inhabited, adding to its charm. As part of the experience, visitors can walk through its historic rooms and enjoy the well-maintained gardens.

Please note that photos of the castle are limited until 2024 due to renovations. The exterior and gardens offer plenty of photo opportunities and a glimpse into Highland aristocratic life.

Highland Cows and the Scenic Drive

The stop at Robertson’s Farm Shop offers a special chance to pet Highland cows, known for their distinctive hairy appearance. The friendly staff Jamie and Katie-Morag help visitors connect with these iconic animals, making it a favorite for many.

The scenic drive through the Highlands showcases impressive landscapes, with guides sharing stories and insights along the way. The tour’s pacing allows for enough time to enjoy the views without feeling rushed.

Pacing, Group Size, and Accessibility

This tour’s small group size of 33 ensures a comfortable experience and personal interaction with guides. The minibus transport makes navigating narrow Highland roads easier, and the premium guides are praised for their knowledgeable and friendly approach.

Travelers should be prepared for walking at stops like Inverness Castle and clava cairns, and the tour recommends a strong physical fitness level for participants. Service animals are allowed, and the tour is accessible for those who can handle the physical demands.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

With an average booking 94 days in advance, this tour remains popular among cruise passengers and day-trippers. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, offering flexibility in case of weather changes or scheduling conflicts. The tour operates rain or shine, but poor weather may lead to rescheduling or full refunds.

Final Thoughts on the Highland Adventure

This full-day tour from Invergordon provides a well-rounded introduction to the Scottish Highlands, combining historic sites, scenic landscapes, and local farm life. The admission-covered attractions like Culloden Battlefield and Cawdor Castle add depth to the experience, while stops at Highland farm and Loch Ness inject fun and folklore.

The guides’ expertise and personalized service stand out, with many reviews highlighting their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling skills. While the stops are brief, the overall pace suits travelers who enjoy a packed, sightseeing-focused day.

This tour offers great value, especially considering the inclusions and the chance to see multiple iconic Highland locations in one manageable journey. It’s best suited for those who appreciate guided commentary, quick photo opportunities, and authentic Highland scenery. For visitors seeking a relaxed, in-depth exploration, a longer or more tailored option might be preferable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs $191.85 per person.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 6 to 8 hours.

What stops are included?
Stops include Culloden Battlefield, Clava Cairns, Cawdor Castle, Highland cows at Robertson’s Farm Shop, Loch Ness, and a drive around Inverness.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, admission to Culloden Battlefield and Cawdor Castle is included.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 33 travelers.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Travelers should have a strong physical fitness level to handle walking and steps at some stops.

Can I cancel the tour if needed?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour start.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, possibly rain gear depending on weather, and a camera for photos.

How do I book this tour?
Bookings can be made well in advance, with high demand noted for 94 days in advance on average.