West Highlands, Lochs and Castles Day Tour Including Admission

Edinburgh , Scotland

West Highlands, Lochs and Castles Day Tour Including Admission

Active

(1121 reviews)

10h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

When you visit a country, you often don't want modern buildings, fancy restaurants, and WiFi points. You simply want to step inside a nature documentary, relive a history show, and explore the sights that inspired the postcards. Well, if that’s you, then you’re in luck. Because this tour is exactly that.

It takes you on a journey through Scotland's classic misty castles, sparkling lochs, wee coastal villages and heather-clad mountains.

It’s an one day tour that lets you discover Scotland’s iconic sights, while also showing you some of the country’s best kept secrets. Capture the spirit of the Western Highlands and explore Scotland’s most atmospheric lochs and castles.

Groups are limited to 16 passengers to ensure a more personalised experience.

Available options

West Highlands, Lochs and Castles Day Tour Including Admission

What's included

Top range 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach

Admission Fees - Doune Castle included in tour price

The stories and services of an English-speaking driver-guide

Small Group Tour (maximum 16 passengers)

Detailed itinerary

This idyllic village on the shores of Loch Lomond will make you want to pack your bags and move in.

Let the beauty sink in at this stunning location that was a popular rest spot for soldiers.

From there, we head to the picturesque town of Inveraray on the shores of Loch Fyne. This is your lunch stop, and you can decide how to spend your free time. Sample some local specialties, explore the town, admire the 18th-century Inveraray Castle (open to visitors from April to October, please note it's closed on Tuesday and Wednesday), or visit the Old Jail.

Next, we travel north and make a photo stop to admire Kilchurn Castle, a magnificent ruin situated on the edge of Loch Awe. Some say it's cursed, so it's best to appreciate it from a distance.

Stop 5

One of the best preserved Medieval castles in Scotland. It also featured in ‘Monty Python’s Holy Grail’, ‘Outlander’, and 'The Outlaw King'.

What's not included

Gratuities

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Meals and refreshments

Admission fees (unless stated)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6

628 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.8

493 reviews

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Min. age 5 years old. We do not accept children under the age of 5 years.

Luggage Allowance: You're restricted to 14kg (31lbs) of luggage per person on our tours. This should be one piece of luggage similar to an airline carry-on bag (approximately 55cm x 45cm x 25cm / 22in x 17in x 10in) plus a small bag for onboard personal items.

Check in closes 15 minutes prior to departure

In order to retain the integrity of the tour and try to ensure that all our customers have the best possible experience, we do cap bookings from any one party to 8 passengers.

Doune Castle – We reserve tickets for you. Entrance is included in tour price

On the dates when Inveraray castle is closed, we will try to arrange a photo stop instead.

*As Inveraray Castle may be sometimes closed, please refer to their website to see their availability.

*Please note that Doune Castle will be closed from 26 September - 5 October and 5 - 7 November. During this period, we will visit Stirling Castle instead.

Meeting point

Please meet your Rabbie's guide inside the Edinburgh Bus Station, Gate J and Gate K, St Andrew Square, Edinburgh, EH1 3DQ

(Check in closes 15 minutes prior to departure)

Important notes

Entrance to Doune Castle will be included in the the tour price.

• Please note: This tour will depart from inside Edinburgh Bus Station (Pick Up, Gate J and Gate K, Edinburgh Bus Station, St Andrew Square, Edinburgh, EH1 3DQ)
• Minimum age is 5 years
• Check in closes 15 minutes prior to departure
• Inveraray Castle is open April - October

Doune Castle – We reserve tickets for you.

Inveraray Castle - You will be able to buy a ticket from your driver-guide whilst on tour. On any dates when Inveraray Castle is closed, we will try to arrange a photo stop instead.

About Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland's capital, is a city of historic and cultural significance. Known for its medieval Old Town and elegant Georgian New Town, both designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Edinburgh offers a unique blend of ancient and modern. The city is famous for its annual festivals, including the Edinburgh Fringe, and its iconic Edinburgh Castle.

Top Attractions

Edinburgh Castle

A historic fortress that dominates the city's skyline. It houses the Scottish Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny.

Historical 2-3 hours £18 (adult), £11 (child)

Royal Mile

A historic street connecting Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Lined with shops, restaurants, and historic sites.

Historical/Cultural Several hours to explore fully Free to walk, attractions vary

Arthur's Seat

An extinct volcano offering panoramic views of the city. A popular spot for hiking and outdoor activities.

Nature/Adventure 1-2 hours (hike) Free

The Royal Yacht Britannia

The former royal yacht of the British monarchy, now a museum docked in Edinburgh's port.

Historical 2 hours £19 (adult), £10 (child)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Haggis

A traditional Scottish dish made from sheep's offal, oats, and spices, typically served with neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes).

Main Course Not vegetarian or vegan.

Scotch Pie

A small, double-crust meat pie filled with minced mutton or beef.

Snack Contains meat.

Cranachan

A traditional Scottish dessert made with whipped cream, raspberries, honey, and toasted oats.

Dessert Contains dairy and gluten.

Irn-Bru

Scotland's iconic bright orange, fizzy soft drink with a unique flavor.

Drink Contains caffeine and sugar.

Popular Activities

Hiking Arthur's Seat Kayaking on the Water of Leith Cycling the National Cycle Network Afternoon tea at The Dome Visiting the Royal Botanic Garden Strolling along Princes Street Gardens Exploring the National Museum of Scotland Visiting the Scottish National Gallery

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season, with long daylight hours and numerous festivals. The weather is generally pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the city's outdoor attractions.

15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F) 59°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Scottish Gaelic
English: Widely spoken

Currency

British Pound (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Edinburgh is generally safe for tourists, but as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty crime.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious of your surroundings at night
• Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps

Getting there

By air

Edinburgh Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from city center

By train

Edinburgh Waverley, Edinburgh Haymarket

By bus

Edinburgh Bus Station (Stance 20)

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and frequent bus services cover the entire city. Key routes include the Airlink 100 to the airport.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FREE NOW

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town New Town Leith

Day trips

Lothian

10-20 km (6-12 miles) • Half day to full day

Lothian offers a mix of historic sites, scenic landscapes, and outdoor activities. Visit historic castles, explore picturesque villages, and enjoy the beautiful countryside.

Fife

30-50 km (18-31 miles) • Full day

Fife is known for its beautiful coastline, historic towns, and the famous St. Andrews, home to the University of St. Andrews and the Old Course golf course.

Stirling

60 km (37 miles) • Full day

Stirling is a historic city known for its castle and its role in Scottish history. It's a great destination for history enthusiasts and those interested in Scotland's past.

Festivals

Edinburgh Festival Fringe • August Edinburgh International Festival • August Hogmanay • December 31

Pro tips

Visit the camera obscura for a unique view of the city
Explore the underground closes for a glimpse into Edinburgh's past
Try a whisky tasting at one of the city's many whisky bars
Walk the Royal Mile at night for a quieter and more atmospheric experience
Visit the National Museum of Scotland for a comprehensive overview of the city's history and culture