From Edinburgh: Loch Ness and The Highlands Tour with Cruise

Central Scotland, Edinburgh



Visit Loch Ness, Glencoe, and Rannoch Moor on a full-day tour from Edinburgh and discover the area's history. Take a boat ride on Loch Ness and look for the legendary monster.

Loch Ness and Glencoe Day Tour from Edinburgh

This full-day tour guides visitors from Edinburgh through Scotland’s Highlands, ideal for those interested in landscapes, history, and local culture.

Highlights

  • Travel to Loch Ness and Glencoe, experiencing iconic Scottish scenery
  • Explore Glencoe's mountain landscapes and learn its historical significance
  • Enjoy informative commentary from your driver and guide
  • Relax in a comfortable 16-seat Mercedes minicoach
  • Drive under Ben Nevis, the tallest mountain in Britain

Description

The tour heads north from Edinburgh, passing landmarks including the Kelpies sculptures and Stirling Castle. Crossing Scotland’s ancient Fault Line, you enter the Highlands where plains transition into lochs, rugged peaks, and forested glens. A stop in a traditional Highland town provides a short refreshment break.

Continuing over the open Rannoch Moor, you arrive at Glencoe, known for its dramatic, rugged slopes and film locations. There will be time for photo stops here.

Next, the route follows the Great Glen valley, passing beneath Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest peak. The tour then reaches Fort Augustus on Loch Ness, allowing one and a half hours to take a boat cruise* searching for the Loch Ness Monster, explore the loch’s shoreline, or find refreshments.

Return travel includes sights of Cairngorms National Park with photo stops, a break in Pitlochry within Perthshire’s forests, then passage through the Kingdom of Fife. The tour concludes with views of the UNESCO-listed Forth Rail Bridge en route back to Edinburgh.

*The Loch Ness boat cruise is weather dependent and may be cancelled without notice.

The route may be reversed on some departures.

Includes

  • Transportation by air-conditioned minibus
  • Driver and guide commentary
  • Loch Ness boat cruise

Excludes

  • Food and drinks
  • Tips

Important Information

  • Return to Edinburgh is around 20:00
  • Luggage limit: 20 kilograms (44 lbs) per person, ideally one carry-on sized bag (approx. 55cm x 45cm x 25cm) plus a small personal item
  • No children under 5 years old; children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult
  • Group bookings limited to maximum 8 passengers for comfort; overall vehicle capacity is 16
  • The Loch Ness boat cruise may be cancelled without notice due to weather

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

For the best experience, bring warm clothing and comfortable shoes. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist months.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour visits Loch Ness, Glencoe, and passes under Ben Nevis, Scotland's tallest mountain.
It is a full-day tour departing from Edinburgh and returning the same day.
An experienced driver-guide offers informative commentary throughout the journey.
Yes, transportation is provided in a comfortable 16-seat Mercedes minicoach.
The tour visits Loch Ness but does not guarantee a sighting of the Loch Ness Monster.
The tour begins and ends in central Edinburgh; check the tour website for exact pickup locations.
Yes, the tour includes time to explore Glencoe's mountain landscapes and learn about its history.
Food and drink are not included; it's recommended to bring your own or purchase locally.
The tour uses a 16-seat minicoach for a small group experience.
It is recommended to book in advance as this popular tour often sells out.

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