Castles, Culloden and Nessie: A Day of Highland Legends – Private
Active
8h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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About this experience
Enjoy a private, exclusive tour with your own local guide. Embark on “Castles, Culloden, and Nessie: A Day of Highland Legends” a comprehensive day tour from Invergordon that captures the essence of the Scottish Highlands. Start with the historic backdrop of Inverness Castle, followed by a stroll through Inverness. Visit the enchanting Cawdor Castle to delve into tales of Shakespearean lore, then pause at the serene ruins of Beauly Priory. Reflect on Scotland’s turbulent history at Culloden Battlefield and admire the Culloden Viaduct. Enjoy a unique encounter with Highland cows at Robertsons The Larder. Conclude your journey with a mythical quest at Loch Ness, possibly spotting Nessie. This tour offers a deep dive into the history, culture, and natural beauty of the Highlands, ideal for anyone seeking to explore this storied region.
Available options
Castles, Culloden and Nessie: A Day of Highland Legends – Private
Pickup included
What's included
Professional local tour guide
Transportation
Chocolate Paired Whisky Tastings
Detailed itinerary
1
Start with hotel pick-up for a hassle-free experience.
2
Stop 2
Visit Inverness Castle, set on a cliff overlooking the River Ness. Although the interior is not accessible to the public, the castle grounds and the view over Inverness are worth the stop. (Outside Visit)
3
Explore Inverness, the cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands, known for its rich history and scenic beauty. Wander through its streets and along the river to soak up the local atmosphere.
4
Travel to Cawdor Castle and Gardens, a picturesque castle famous for its literary connection to Shakespeare’s "Macbeth." Explore the beautiful gardens and the historic castle interior.
5
Make a stop at Beauly Priory, the ruins of a Valliscaulian order monastery founded in the 13th century. It’s a peaceful place with a rich history. (Outside Visit)
6
Visit Culloden Battlefield, a site of profound historical significance where the 1746 Battle of Culloden took place, marking the end of the Jacobite rising.
7
Stop by Culloden Viaduct, a striking railway viaduct and an example of Victorian engineering. It’s a scenic spot for photography and appreciating the vastness of the Highlands. (Outside Visit)
8
Enjoy a visit to Robertsons The Larder, where you can see Highland cows up close and shop for local produce and goods.
9
No visit to the Highlands would be complete without a stop at Loch Ness. Search for Nessie or simply take in the serene beauty of the loch.
10
End with a drop-off at your hotel, completing the journey.
What's not included
Cawdor Castle and Gardens Entrance Fee - £15.50
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Invergordon
Invergordon is a charming town in the Scottish Highlands, known for its historic castle ruins, picturesque coastline, and as a gateway to the stunning landscapes of the north. It offers a blend of maritime heritage, scenic beauty, and outdoor activities.
Top Attractions
Invergordon Castle
The ruins of Invergordon Castle offer a glimpse into the town's medieval past. The castle was once a stronghold of the Bishops of Ross.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Invergordon Museum
This small but informative museum showcases the town's maritime and industrial history, including exhibits on the local shipbuilding industry.
Museum
1 hour
Free (donations welcome)
Cromarty Firth
The Cromarty Firth is a stunning estuary offering beautiful coastal views, wildlife spotting, and various water activities.
Nature
2-3 hours
Free (boat tours may have a fee)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Haggis
A traditional Scottish dish made from sheep's heart, liver, and lungs, mixed with onions, oatmeal, suet, and spices, traditionally cooked in a sheep's stomach.
Main Dish
Not vegetarian or vegan, contains gluten
Cullen Skink
A creamy smoked haddock soup with potatoes and onions, originating from the nearby town of Cullen.
Soup
Contains fish, gluten-free if made without oats
Shortbread
A traditional Scottish biscuit made from butter, sugar, and flour, often served with tea or coffee.
Dessert
Vegetarian, contains gluten and dairy
Popular Activities
Hiking
Boat tours
Wildlife spotting
Scenic walks
Dining at local restaurants
Visiting cafes
Visiting museums
Exploring historical sites
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the best time to visit Invergordon for pleasant weather and longer daylight hours, ideal for exploring the outdoors and attending local festivals.
12°C to 18°C
54°F to 64°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Scottish Gaelic
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
British Pound (GBP)
Time Zone
GMT+0 (Greenwich Mean Time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Invergordon is generally safe, with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure, especially in crowded areas
- • Be cautious of pickpockets, especially in tourist spots
- • Use reputable taxi services and agree on fares in advance
Getting there
By air
- Inverness Airport • 30 miles (48 km)
By train
Invergordon Station
By bus
Invergordon Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the primary mode of public transport, connecting Invergordon to surrounding towns and attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi apps
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Town Center
Seafront
Day trips
Inverness
20 miles (32 km) • Half day
Inverness is the capital of the Highlands and offers a wealth of historical sites, museums, and shopping.
Cromarty
10 miles (16 km) • Half day
Cromarty is a charming coastal town known for its historic buildings, scenic views, and dolphin-spotting opportunities.
Festivals
Invergordon Highland Games • July
Invergordon Christmas Market • December
Pro tips
- Visit Invergordon Castle at different times of the day for the best photo opportunities
- Try local seafood dishes, especially those featuring haddock from the Cromarty Firth
- Explore the town's museums and historical sites to gain a deeper understanding of its maritime heritage
- Take a boat tour to spot dolphins and other wildlife in the Cromarty Firth
- Visit during the Highland Games for a lively and festive atmosphere
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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