Cawdor Castle, Inverness, Culloden, Outlander and Loch Ness Tour

Set out on a captivating journey through the heart of the Scottish Highlands, where centuries of history, stunning natural beauty, and cinematic allure converge. From the grand Cawdor Castle to the bustling city of Inverness, this comprehensive tour uncovers the rich tapestry of the region. Venture to the poignant Culloden Battlefield, where the Jacobite cause met its fateful end, then explore the mysterious waters of Loch Ness in search of the elusive Nessie. Along the way, retrace the steps of Outlander‘s beloved characters, enjoying the magical world that has captivated audiences worldwide. Get ready to uncover the hidden gems that make the Scottish Highlands a truly enchanting destination.

Key Points

• Explore the historic Cawdor Castle and its captivating gardens, offering a glimpse into Scotland’s storied past.
• Discover the vibrant city of Inverness, the cultural heart of the Scottish Highlands, and admire its iconic landmarks.
• Visit the poignant Culloden Battlefield, a site of significant historical importance in Scotland’s history.
• Experience the magic of Outlander by visiting filming locations like Beauly Priory and Brodie Castle.
• Set out on a Loch Ness adventure, searching for the elusive Loch Ness Monster and enjoying the dramatic landscapes.

Exploring Cawdor Castle and Gardens

On the Cawdor Castle and Gardens portion of the tour, visitors can explore the historic castle and its beautifully manicured grounds.

The entrance to the castle is included in the booking price, allowing guests to freely wander through its ancient halls and rooms. From the grand staircase to the medieval-inspired bedchambers, the castle offers a glimpse into Scotland’s storied past.

Outside, the castle’s gardens are a delight to discover, with carefully curated flower beds, serene ponds, and winding pathways. Whether strolling through the tranquil gardens or stepping back in time within the castle’s walls, this stop on the tour provides a truly immersive Scottish experience.

Discovering Inverness, the Highland Capital

After exploring the enchanting Cawdor Castle and its picturesque gardens, the tour moves on to the vibrant city of Inverness, the cultural heart of the Scottish Highlands.

Visitors can look forward to seeing the lively atmosphere of this historic town, which serves as the capital of the Highlands region.

As the group arrives in Inverness, they’ll have the opportunity to wander through the charming streets, admire the striking architecture, and soak up the local culture.

From the iconic Inverness Castle to the bustling riverside promenade, there’s plenty to discover and enjoy in this thriving Highland city.

The tour also includes a visit to the nearby Culloden Battlefield, a poignant reminder of Scotland’s turbulent past.

Visiting the Culloden Battlefield

The tour then takes visitors to the Culloden Battlefield, where they can explore the site of one of Scotland’s most pivotal and poignant historical events. Travelers can wander the serene, heather-covered fields and pay their respects at the memorial stones, which honor the fallen clansmen who fought and died in the 1746 battle between the Jacobite forces and the British army.

At the visitor center, guests can learn about the events leading up to the battle, the strategies employed, and the devastating aftermath.

Three key highlights of the Culloden experience include:

1. Visiting the Visitor Center to gain a deeper understanding of the battle.
2. Walking the battlefield and reflecting on the sacrifices made.
3. Paying respects at the memorial stones honoring the fallen clansmen.

Searching for the Loch Ness Monster

Next, the tour stops at the legendary Loch Ness, where visitors can try their luck at spotting the elusive Loch Ness Monster.

Whether a believer or a skeptic, the opportunity to gaze upon the mysterious, deep waters of Loch Ness is a highlight for many on this tour. The coach drops off passengers at the shore, giving them time to explore the lake and its visitor center.

While sightings of the fabled beast are rare, the dramatic landscapes and tranquil atmosphere make for a memorable experience. Some may opt to take a cruise on the loch, increasing their chances of a potential Nessie encounter.

For those keen to continue the hunt, nearby attractions like Urquhart Castle provide additional opportunities to scan the waters.

Uncovering Outlander Filming Locations

Fans of the hit TV series Outlander are in for a treat, as the tour stops at several filming locations featured in the show. Beauly Priory, a 13th-century ecclesiastical site, is one such site where key Outlander scenes were shot, providing visitors a chance to step into the world of the series.

Culloden Battlefield, the site of the famous 1746 battle that shaped Scottish history and played a pivotal role in the Outlander storyline.

Clava Cairns, a group of prehistoric burial cairns that served as inspiration for the standing stones in the show.

Brodie Castle, whose grand exterior and lush gardens were used to depict Castle Leoch, the seat of Clan MacKenzie.

Tour Logistics and Considerations

Designed for Invergordon cruise ship passengers, this tour provides an efficient way to explore the Scottish Highlands, transporting travelers between sites by bus. With a maximum of 53 participants, the tour offers a personalized experience, though it’s not wheelchair accessible.

Parents with infants, however, will appreciate the availability of infant seats.

The well-planned itinerary ensures visitors can enjoy the rich history and natural beauty of the region, from the grandeur of Cawdor Castle and its gardens to the haunting site of the Culloden battle.

Whether you’re a fan of the Outlander series or simply seeking to discover the enchanting Loch Ness, this comprehensive tour delivers an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.

Sights and Attractions Along the Way

The tour embarks on a captivating journey through the Scottish Highlands, beginning with a visit to the stately Cawdor Castle and its enchanting gardens.

Next, the tour explores the charming town of Inverness, before venturing to the historic site of Culloden, the site of a famous battle.

The highlight of the tour is undoubtedly the stop at Loch Ness, where visitors can try to catch a glimpse of the elusive Loch Ness Monster.

Plus, the tour includes visits to several locations featured in the popular Outlander TV series, such as the Beauly Priory, providing a unique perspective for fans of the show.

Cruise Ship Passengers’ Itinerary

Cruise ship passengers embarking on this captivating tour can look forward to a seamless and efficient itinerary that maximizes their time in the Scottish Highlands. Designed specifically for cruise ship passengers, the tour departs from Invergordon, allowing participants to make the most of their time on land.

Traveling by comfortable bus, the group will visit the highlights of the region, including Cawdor Castle, Inverness, Culloden, and iconic Loch Ness. With a maximum of 53 travelers, the tour ensures a personalized experience.

Though not wheelchair accessible, infant seats are available, making it suitable for families. Whether you’re seeking historical sites, natural wonders, or Outlander filming locations, this comprehensive tour has it all.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Available for Non-Cruise Ship Passengers?

Yes, the tour is available for non-cruise ship passengers. It’s designed for Invergordon cruise ship passengers, but it can also accommodate those not arriving by cruise ship.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Individual Preferences?

The tour can be customized to individual preferences, but options may be limited. Travelers should discuss their specific interests with the tour operator to see what adjustments can be made within the existing itinerary and logistics.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tour?

The cancellation policy allows full refunds up to 24 hours before the tour. Within 24 hours, there’s a 50% refund. No-shows and same-day cancellations receive no refund. Customers should review the policy carefully when booking this tour.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Children?

The tour doesn’t offer specific discounts for seniors or children. However, infants can be accommodated with car seats. Pricing is based on the standard adult rate, though group rates may be available for larger parties.

Can the Tour Be Extended to Include Additional Locations?

The tour can likely be extended to include additional locations, but this would need to be discussed with the tour operator. Any changes would impact the duration and cost of the tour.

Recap

This captivating tour through the Scottish Highlands offers a rich tapestry of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and cinematic allure.

Visitors will explore grand Cawdor Castle, the charming city of Inverness, the poignant Culloden Battlefield, Outlander filming locations, and embark on a Loch Ness adventure in search of the elusive Nessie.

This immersive itinerary provides an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Highlands, leaving travelers with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for Scotland’s captivating landscapes and storied past.