Venture into the rugged, mythical landscapes of the Scottish Highlands on this captivating day trip from Edinburgh. You’ll traverse through Rannoch Moor‘s brooding expanse, marvel at the dramatic peaks of Glen Coe, and explore the legendary Loch Ness in search of its fabled monster. With stops in the charming village of Fort Augustus and a scenic drive through picturesque Perthshire, this tour promises an immersive experience that’ll leave you longing to uncover more of Scotland’s natural wonders. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your camera and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey.
Just The Basics
- Scenic drive from Edinburgh through the dramatic landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, including Rannoch Moor and Glen Coe.
- Visit the picturesque Highland village of Fort Augustus on the banks of Loch Ness.
- Opportunity to join a boat cruise on Loch Ness to search for the legendary Loch Ness Monster.
- Explore the charming town of Pitlochry and marvel at the UNESCO-listed Forth Bridge.
- Includes a lunch stop to savor the local cuisine and culture.
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Scenic Drive to Loch Ness
The scenic drive from Edinburgh to Loch Ness whisks travelers through a tapestry of rugged landscapes, weaving past the brooding expanse of Rannoch Moor and the dramatic peaks of Glen Coe before reaching the Great Glen, where the legendary Loch Ness lies in wait.
Along the way, the coach winds through the rolling hills of Perthshire, offering glimpses of the majestic UNESCO-listed Forth Bridge.
It’s a journey that immerses you in the wild beauty of the Scottish Highlands, building anticipation for the famous Loch Ness and the possibility of spotting its elusive monster.
With a locally produced sandwich picnic lunch to fuel the adventure, this scenic drive sets the stage for an unforgettable day.
Highland Village of Fort Augustus
Upon reaching the shores of Loch Ness, the tour whisks visitors to the charming Highland village of Fort Augustus, where the tranquil waters and quaint architecture captivate the senses.
Nestled along the banks of the legendary lake, this picturesque settlement offers a glimpse into the serene pace of life in the Scottish Highlands, inviting travelers to stroll its peaceful streets and soak in the surrounding natural beauty.
Visitors can wander through the village’s historic canal system, which features a series of locks that once facilitated the passage of boats. Local shops and cafes beckon for a leisurely break, while the scenic vistas of the Loch provide the perfect backdrop for soaking up the area’s enchanting ambiance.
Loch Ness Monster Hunt
After exploring the quaint village, the tour then offers the highlight many visitors have been eagerly anticipating – the chance to search for the fabled Loch Ness Monster.
Travelers can opt to join a boat cruise that takes them across the deep, mysterious waters of the loch, scouring the surface for any sign of the elusive creature.
With cameras at the ready, they’ll keep a keen eye out for Nessie, hoping to catch a glimpse of the legendary beast that has captured the imagination of people around the world.
Who knows, maybe today will be the day the Loch Ness Monster finally reveals itself to the lucky participants on this thrilling excursion.
Return Trip Through Perthshire
As the boat cruise comes to an end, the tour group departs Loch Ness and heads back towards Edinburgh, traveling through the picturesque region of Perthshire.
They’ll catch glimpses of the rolling hills, lush forests, and charming villages that make this area of Scotland so captivating.
Along the way, the guide points out the UNESCO-listed Forth Bridge, an iconic engineering marvel spanning the Firth of Forth that’s a fitting final highlight of the day’s adventure.
Everyone’s tired but satisfied, having seen the legendary Loch Ness monster’s home and explored the dramatic landscapes of the Scottish Highlands.
Now it’s time to head back to Edinburgh, with memories and photos to share from this unforgettable tour.
Tour Highlights and Details
The tour is packed with highlights, kicking off with a scenic drive from Edinburgh through the rugged Scottish Highlands.
Along the way, travelers take in the dramatic landscapes of Rannoch Moor, Glen Coe, and the Great Glen before arriving at the Highland village of Fort Augustus on the banks of the legendary Loch Ness.
Here, visitors can opt for an exciting boat cruise to search for the fabled Loch Ness Monster.
The tour also includes a stop in the charming town of Pitlochry and a glimpse of the UNESCO-listed Forth Bridge on the return trip.
With a locally-sourced sandwich picnic lunch included, this full-day excursion is a fantastic way to explore the stunning natural beauty of the Scottish Highlands.
Inclusions and Policies
This tour includes a knowledgeable local guide who’ll lead the way, as well as a tasty picnic lunch featuring locally-sourced ingredients. Travelers also get convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, though drinks aren’t covered in the lunch. As for the policies, there’s a generous 24-hour cancellation window for a full refund, and the tour’s open to adventurers aged 5 and up in groups capped at 57 people.
| Inclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Local Guide | Knowledgeable and experienced |
| Picnic Lunch | Made with local ingredients |
| Hotel Transfers | Pickup and drop-off provided |
| Drinks | Not included in the lunch |
| Group Size | Maximum of 57 travelers |
The flexible cancellation policy and child-friendly nature of this tour make it an appealing option for exploring the breathtaking Scottish Highlands.
Tour Stops Overview
A scenic drive from Edinburgh through the rugged Scottish countryside sets the stage for this fascinating tour of the Highlands.
Along the way, you’ll catch glimpses of historic Stirling Castle and the dramatically beautiful Glen Coe.
Further north, you’ll gaze up at the towering Ben Nevis before reaching the shores of iconic Loch Ness.
Spend 1.5 hours exploring the charming village of Fort Augustus and perhaps join an optional cruise to hunt for the legendary Loch Ness Monster.
The journey continues through the scenic Perthshire region, with a stop in the quaint town of Pitlochry before catching a final glimpse of the UNESCO-listed Forth Bridge on your return to Edinburgh.
Getting to the Highlands
Departing from the historic city of Edinburgh, the tour sweeps you through the rugged countryside, offering a captivating glimpse into the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
The scenic drive takes you past some of Scotland’s most breathtaking landscapes, including:
Rannoch Moor, a vast expanse of unspoiled wilderness punctuated by shimmering lochs and towering peaks.
Glen Coe, a dramatic glacial valley renowned for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
The Great Glen, a series of lochs and rivers that carve a diagonal path through the Scottish Highlands.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can Children Under 5 Join the Tour?
No, children under 5 can’t join the tour. The tour has a minimum age requirement of 5 years old, so little ones aren’t allowed. Families with young kids will need to look for a tour that’s more kid-friendly.
Is It Possible to Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
You’re welcome to bring your own snacks and drinks on the tour, but the lunch provided is part of the package deal. The tour operator suggests enjoying the locally-sourced sandwich lunch they’ve arranged to get the full experience.
How Long Is the Total Travel Time of the Tour?
The total travel time of this full-day tour is around 10-11 hours. Travelers can expect to spend a good chunk of the day on the road, enjoying the scenic drive through the Scottish Highlands.
Are There Any COVID-19 Safety Protocols in Place?
The tour company has safety protocols in place due to COVID-19. They’ll provide hand sanitizer, require masks, and limit group sizes to allow for social distancing. Travelers can expect a safe, enjoyable experience.
Can I Purchase Additional Food or Drinks During the Tour?
Absolutely! You can buy extra snacks and drinks at various stops along the tour. The picnic lunch is included, but you’re free to purchase additional items to fuel your adventure through the scenic Scottish Highlands.
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Final Words
Explore the mystical Loch Ness and the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands on this captivating day trip from Edinburgh.
Discover the charming village of Fort Augustus, search for the elusive Nessie, and soak in the picturesque landscapes of Perthshire.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or a fan of the supernatural, this tour offers an unforgettable experience in the heart of Scotland’s stunning countryside.
