Edinburgh: Eilean Donan, Loch Ness & Glenfinnan 2-Day Tour

Two-Day West Highlands and Loch Ness Tour from Edinburgh

This two-day guided tour from Edinburgh visits iconic Highland sights, including Loch Ness, Eilean Donan Castle, and Fort William. It suits travellers interested in Scottish history and landscapes.

Highlights

• See Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland's most photographed castles
• Try to spot Nessie on mysterious Loch Ness
• Spend a night in Fort William, a seaside town at the foot of Ben Nevis
• Visit the Glenfinnan Viaduct, famous for the Hogwarts Express bridge
• Relax on the banks of Loch Lomond

Tour Description

Day One: Depart Edinburgh at 8:30am, then collect passengers in Glasgow before heading north. Pass Loch Lomond, stopping in the village of Luss for a comfort break. Continue through the Rest and Be Thankful pass to Inveraray, home to Inveraray Castle, featured in Downton Abbey. Enjoy loch-side views, explore the town, and have lunch.

Travel north to Glencoe, site of the 1692 MacDonald Clan massacre and notable James Bond Skyfall location. After a break, visit the Glenfinnan Viaduct, famous from the Harry Potter films. In summer, watch the Jacobite Steam Train cross the viaduct. The day ends in Fort William with overnight accommodation.

Day Two: After breakfast, check out and visit Glengarry Viewpoint, where Loch Garry resembles a bird’s eye view of mainland Scotland. Continue east to Eilean Donan Castle with time for exploration and history.

Next, travel to Fort Augustus on Loch Ness for lunch and views, keeping an eye out for Nessie. Head south to the Commando Memorial, learning about the memorial and viewing Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest peak.

Return to Edinburgh with a comfort break in Dunkeld or Pitlochry, before crossing the Queensferry Crossing over the Firth of Forth. Arrive back in Edinburgh in the evening.

Includes

• Transportation by modern air-conditioned bus
• Live commentary from driver/guide
• Digital written translations
• Accommodation in Fort William (if option selected)

Excludes

• Entry to Inveraray Castle & Gardens (optional extra)
• Entry to Eilean Donan Castle (optional extra)
• Food and drinks
• Restrooms on board
• Tips

Important Information

• The tour starts at 8:30am in Edinburgh and picks up passengers in Glasgow at 9:50am
• The Jacobite Steam Train is operated by a third-party provider; schedules and availability vary. Check the official Jacobite Steam Train website for updates
• One medium-sized suitcase (63–67 cm / 25–26 in) per passenger is allowed; slightly larger luggage may be accepted depending on space
• Collapsible lightweight wheelchairs with removable wheels may be accommodated; passengers must be assisted boarding and disembarking
• Inveraray Castle is open April to October, closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays; when closed, additional time is provided to explore Inveraray
• Children under 4 years old are not permitted on this tour

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 7 days in advance for a full refund.

Book early to secure your place. Bring comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera. Summer offers the best chance to see the Jacobite Steam Train crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct.