Explore the captivating Scottish Highlands with a comprehensive tour that promises an unforgettable experience. Set out on a journey to the legendary Loch Ness, where you’ll cruise across the mysterious waters and uncover the region’s rich history. Along the way, discover Outlander filming locations and the charming village of Beauly, enjoying the cultural heritage of this remarkable landscape. With knowledgeable local guidance, air-conditioned transportation, and included castle access, this tour offers a seamless and immersive exploration of the Highlands. Prepare to be captivated by the striking natural beauty and captivating stories that await.
Key Points
- This guided tour from Inverness includes a cruise on Loch Ness, a visit to Urquhart Castle, and stops at Outlander filming locations.
- The tour provides an immersive experience in the Scottish Highlands, highlighting the region’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty.
- The tour is led by a local English-speaking guide and includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.
- The tour offers the opportunity to purchase Highland whisky and explore the picturesque village of Beauly.
- The tour has received excellent reviews, with a Badge of Excellence, and has a maximum group size of 30 travelers.
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Tour Overview
The Loch Ness Cruise, Outlander & Urquhart Castle Tour from Inverness offers a guided exploration of the Scottish Highlands, with 361 reviews and a Badge of Excellence.
This tour takes visitors from Inverness to discover the region’s highlights, including a cruise on Loch Ness and a visit to the iconic Urquhart Castle.
Along the way, the tour also stops at Beauly, Outlander filming locations, and provides an opportunity to purchase Highland whisky.
It’s a convenient way for travelers to see the best of the Highlands, with an air-conditioned vehicle and local Scottish guide leading the way.
Inclusions
The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle and a local Scottish English-speaking guide to escort visitors. It also provides a 1-hour cruise on Loch Ness and entrance to Urquhart Castle.
However, the tour excludes food, drink, the Culloden Battlefield exhibition, gratuities, and the Highland whisky experience.
Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the highlights of the Scottish Highlands, including Loch Ness and its iconic castle, without the hassle of organizing transportation and admissions.
While not everything is included, the tour provides a convenient way to see the region’s top sights with a knowledgeable guide. Travelers should plan accordingly for additional expenses not covered by the tour.
Meeting and Pickup
Travelers meet at 19 Union St, Inverness IV1 1QA, across from the entrance to the Victorian Market, with the tour departing promptly at 08:15 AM.
The tour returns to the same meeting point at the end of the experience.
It’s recommended that participants arrive at least 15 minutes early to ensure they don’t miss the departure.
The pickup location is conveniently located near public transportation, making it easy for travelers to get to the starting point.
The tour has a maximum capacity of 30 travelers, providing an intimate and personalized experience.
Guests should plan their transportation to the departure point in advance to avoid any delays or issues on the day of the tour.
Policies
Confirmation is received at the time of booking, unless the reservation is made within 1 day of the travel date.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s located near public transportation, making it easy for most travelers to participate.
Cancellations made at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time are eligible for a full refund.
This tour requires good weather and a minimum number of travelers. If the tour is canceled due to poor weather or low enrollment, a different date or a full refund will be offered.
The maximum group size is 30 travelers per tour, ensuring a personalized experience.
Guests are advised to book their transportation to the departure point in advance and arrive at least 15 minutes before the tour’s scheduled start time.
Additional Information
This experience hinges on favorable weather conditions and a minimum number of participants.
If the tour gets canceled due to inclement weather or insufficient demand, customers will be offered an alternative date or a full refund.
The tour operator closely monitors the forecast and reservation numbers to ensure the tour can run smoothly.
Participants are advised to dress appropriately for the highland climate, which can be unpredictable.
While the highlights of the tour are virtually guaranteed, the specific details may vary depending on conditions on the day.
Travelers are encouraged to keep an open mind and enjoy the flexibility of this well-curated experience showcasing the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Scottish Highlands.
Exploring the Highlands
Exploring the Highlands on this tour allows visitors to enjoy the region’s legendary landscapes, rich history, and cultural heritage.
Departing from Inverness, the tour takes guests on a captivating journey through the rugged terrain, offering breathtaking vistas and a glimpse into the lives of the local Highlanders.
Along the way, the tour visits the picturesque village of Beauly, where travelers can explore historic sites and sample local whisky.
The highlight of the tour is the cruise on the iconic Loch Ness, followed by a visit to the impressive Urquhart Castle, which provides a window into Scotland’s tumultuous past.
Through these experiences, travelers gain a deeper appreciation for the Highlands’ timeless allure and the resilience of its people.
Loch Ness Cruise
The centerpiece of this Highlands tour is the hour-long cruise across the mysterious waters of Loch Ness, where visitors can keep an eye out for the elusive Loch Ness Monster.
This scenic voyage offers a unique perspective of the iconic loch and its surrounding rugged landscapes. Some key highlights of the cruise include:
- Stunning views of the 23-mile-long Loch Ness, known for its dark, deep waters
- An up-close look at the impressive ruins of Urquhart Castle, perched on the loch’s northern shore
- Informative commentary from the crew about the loch’s history, geology, and famous sightings
- A chance to snap photos and videos to share with friends and family back home.
Visiting Urquhart Castle
After the cruise on Loch Ness, the tour then takes visitors to explore the historic Urquhart Castle, situated along the northern shore of the iconic loch.
Perched atop a rocky promontory, the castle’s dramatic ruins provide a glimpse into Scotland’s tumultuous past. Visitors can wander through the castle’s grounds, taking in the stunning views across Loch Ness, and learn about its long and storied history.
The tour allows ample time to explore the site, giving travelers the opportunity to discover the Great Hall, the Grant Tower, and other remnants of this once-mighty fortress.
With its strategic location and impressive architecture, Urquhart Castle is a must-see for anyone visiting the Scottish Highlands.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Free Time Is Provided During the Tour?
The tour provides some free time, though the amount is not specified in the overview. Travelers will have the opportunity to purchase Highland whisky and explore on their own during the cruise on Loch Ness and visit to Urquhart Castle.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, but they are not included in the tour price. The tour provides an air-conditioned vehicle and a local guide, but meals and refreshments are the responsibility of the participants.
Is There an Option to Skip the Loch Ness Cruise?
Yes, there is an option to skip the Loch Ness cruise. The tour includes the cruise, but travelers can opt out and explore other activities during that time if they prefer. This allows for a more customized experience.
Can I Purchase Whisky at the Distillery Visited?
Yes, the tour includes an opportunity to purchase Highland whisky. Visitors can buy whisky at a distillery or shop during the tour. However, the cost of the whisky experience is not included in the tour price.
Is There a Discount for Seniors or Children?
This tour does not offer discounted tickets for seniors or children. The standard adult rate applies to all participants, regardless of age. The tour caters to a general audience without any special pricing options.
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Recap
This Loch Ness, Outlander, and Urquhart Castle tour from Inverness offers a comprehensive exploration of the Scottish Highlands.
Visitors will embark on a Loch Ness cruise, visit the iconic Urquhart Castle, and discover Outlander filming locations, seeing the region’s captivating history and natural beauty.
With a knowledgeable local guide, air-conditioned transportation, and included castle entrance, this tour promises a memorable experience for anyone interested in the rich tapestry of Scottish landscapes and traditions.