Shore Tour from Invergordon Highland Highlights

Our first stop is at Culloden Battlefield, one of the most important battlefields in the UK. Here, your guide will bring the landscape to life on a 30-minute walking tour, as he enthralls you with the story of the last pitched battle on British soil; the Jacobite uprising of 1746. As you stand upon the windswept moor, it’s easy to imagine the bravery, sacrifice, and heartbreak that unfolded here, with echoes of the past lingering in the stillness. The haunting beauty of the landscape, combined with its tragic history, creates a deeply moving experience that will stay with you long after you leave.

Clava Cairns is a remarkably well-preserved Bronze Age cemetery, built around 4,000 years ago. Scattered across the site you’ll find an array of fascinating structures – passage graves, ring cairns, a kerb cairn, and atmospheric standing stones. While the history alone makes this a captivating stop, it’s also a must-see for Outlander fans. Diana Gabaldon has described Clava Cairns as the “spiritual home of Craigh na Dun”, and many visitors say it feels like stepping straight into the world of Claire and Jamie.

With its fascinating history, scenic setting on the River Ness, and abundance of cosy pubs and quirky shops, Inverness has a charm all of its own. Known as the capital of the Highlands, it offers a wonderful mix of heritage and vibrancy. In just a short stroll you can admire the red sandstone Inverness Castle, take in the beauty of St Andrew’s Cathedral, and wander through the characterful Victorian Market — all while soaking up the lively atmosphere of this welcoming Highland city.

You’ll have around one hour to explore here, with a little less time on tours lasting under eight hours.

Our next stop is the beautiful Dores Beach, on the tranquil south shores of Loch Ness — home to one of the most breathtaking views in the whole of the UK! Take a stroll along the pebbled shore and soak up the stunning panorama or, if he’s not off on a Nessie-hunting mission, you might even meet resident monster hunter Steve Feltham, who has been searching for the Loch Ness Monster here for over 30 years and sells some very memorable souvenirs. There’s also a traditional Scottish pub right on the loch’s edge, where you may wish to enjoy a local beer or a wee dram of whisky (subject to opening hours).

We will do our best to stop and say hi to these hairy Highland beasts on our tour - always a hit!! The location will vary, depending on where the cows are (they tend to be moved around) and how much time we have on the specific day, as some ships have shorter docking durations than others.