Standing Stones, Inveraray and Kilchurn Castle & Highlands Tour starting Balloch
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
We're the only Tour Operator in Scotland who provides a tour like this! 5000 year old Standing Stones, 2 historic Castles, stunning Highland scenery and an amazing tour guide to help you explore.
Maximum of only 8 travelers per tour keeping the group size small and personable
Consistency Awarded 5 Star Reviews
Our unique 5-star tours offer the chance to explore and experience Scotland in the perfect setting.
Your knowledgeable guide will whisk you away for a day of exploration, fun and adventure in the majestic Scottish Highlands and enchant you with stories, myths and legends.
Explore Kilchurn Castle, meet Highland Cows, visit Clan Campbell Stronghold of Inveraray Castle then travel back in time to the Neolithic & Bronze Age period to explore Standing Stones, Stone Circles & Burial Cairns.
Available options
Standing Stones, Inveraray and Kilchurn Castle & Highlands Tour starting Balloch
Winter Standing Stones Balloch
Inveraray Castle is Closed: We visit the historic town of Inveraray built in the 1700's and spend more time exploring the ancient locations and Highlands
What's included
An experienced, knowledgeable fun guide
Driving and Walking Tour, we get out and experience the beautiful sights
Transport in an air conditioned 8 seater minibus
Guided short hikes throughout the day
Small group active sight-seeing tour
Detailed itinerary
1
Start your tour in the beautiful wee town of Balloch, the most southern town in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park
2
Stop 2
Pass by
Enter Loch Lomond National Park stop at the beautiful village of Luss for a some great views, history and culture.
3
Discover the beautiful town of Luss on the banks of Loch Lomond and learn the history, wildlife and culture of the area
4
Enter the Highlands of Scotland and discover the beauty of this dramatic and gorgeous land and you visit many wonderful locations throughout the day
5
Leave Loch Lomond behind you as you travel west towards Inveraray Castle
6
Travel deeper in to the western Highlands of Scotland through the village of Arrochar on the banks of Loch Long
7
See the beauty of Glen Crow as you pass by the Rest and be Thankful in the Highlands of Scotland
8
Stop 8
The first stop of the day is the Gothic style castle of Inveraray, home to the Dukes of Argyll and the seat of Clan Campbell. Here you will discover the part the Clan Campbell played in the Wars of Scottish Independence and get the chance to see rifles which were supposedly used against the Jacobite soldiers. For those who love flowers and gardens, there’s also a wonderful 16-acre Garden to explore.
9
Pass through the town of Lochgilphead as you travel towards Standing Stones
10
Visit 5000 year old Standing Stones, stone circles and burial cairns all 1000's of years older than the Egyptian pyramids.
11
Explore Standing Stones, burial Cairns and Stone Circles in one of the most historic locations in Scotland
12
Travel along the beautiful banks of one of Scotland's longest lakes and see why the Clan Campbell made this area their home on your way to the historic Kilchurn Castle
13
Stop 13
Take a walk to Kilchurn Castle, a stronghold which once belonged to member of the Clan Campbell, this one though is very different to Inveraray. This ruined castle on the banks of Loch Awe was once a fortress, a comfortable residence and then ended it’s days as a garrison stronghold before being destroyed by lightning. We’ll take the short walk in and explore this historic Castle.
14
Enter Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park through it's most northern town, Tyndrum
15
See the beauty of the mountains of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park as you travel through the town of Crianlarich
What's not included
No food or drinks included
Entry fees to Activities
Gratuities
Hotel pick up or drop off
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
3 reviews
5★
3
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
32 reviews
5★
31
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Unfortunately this tour isn't suitable for wheelchairs. For a tour designed for wheel chair access, please get in contact directly and we will be more than happy to create a suitable day out
Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not recommended for those with a mobility or physical disability
Our tours operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately. We recommend a pair of walking shoes/boots, dressing in layers, and waterproof clothing
All our Tour vehicles are "Nut Free Zones" Can you please ensure you do not bring any food products with nuts as we've had clients and Tour Guide with severe nut allergies and want to ensure our Tour Vehicles are as safe as possible for everyone. Thank you for not bringing any products containing nuts on your tour.
Meeting point
This is a pickup location - the Tour Guide will be arriving with other clients from Glasgow, so may not be there at exactly 8:30 depending on traffic
• Meet - Visit Scotland I Centre, Balloch
• Look for Van with Experience Scotland's Wild Logo
• Contact details found on ticket for help
Important notes
• Check-in, 15 minutes before Tour Start Time
• Meet at Visit Scotland Information Centre, Balloch Road, G83 8SS
• Guide will need to leave at the tour start time
• Please look out for a Van with the Experience Scotland's Wild Logo on the front
• If you think you may be late, please call us as soon as possible on +441312418292
About Central Scotland
Central Scotland is the most populous and urbanized region of Scotland, known for its vibrant cities, rich history, and stunning landscapes. This area is the cultural and economic heart of the country, offering a mix of historic sites, modern attractions, and natural beauty.
Top Attractions
Edinburgh Castle
A historic fortress that dominates the skyline of Edinburgh. It houses the Scottish Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny.
Historical
2-3 hours
£18 (adult ticket)
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
A popular free museum in Glasgow with a diverse collection of art, artifacts, and natural history exhibits.
Museum
2-3 hours
Free
Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park
A stunning national park offering beautiful landscapes, outdoor activities, and scenic drives.
Nature
Full day or more
Free to explore, activities may have fees
The Kelpies
Two massive horse-head sculptures that are iconic symbols of Scotland's horse history and the Falkirk area.
Architecture
1-2 hours
Free to view, visitor center has a fee
Stirling Castle
A historic castle that played a significant role in Scottish history, offering stunning views and rich exhibits.
Historical
2-3 hours
£16 (adult ticket)
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 Course
Not vegetarian or vegan, contains allergens like gluten and dairy in some recipes.
Cranachan
A traditional Scottish dessert made with whipped cream, honey, fresh raspberries, and toasted oats.
Dessert
Vegetarian, can be made vegan with plant-based cream.
Scotch Pie
A small, double-crust meat pie filled with minced mutton or beef, typically served with baked beans or gravy.
Snack
Not vegetarian or vegan, contains allergens like gluten and dairy.
Irn-Bru
A bright orange, sweet, and fizzy soft drink that is Scotland's national soft drink.
Drink
Vegetarian and vegan, contains caffeine.
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Highlands
Cycling in Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park
White-water rafting in the River Tummel
Whisky tasting tours
Spa days in luxury hotels
Picnics in Kelvingrove Park
Visiting historic castles and museums
Attending festivals and events
Best Time to Visit
June to August
The summer months offer the warmest weather, longer daylight hours, and a variety of festivals and outdoor activities. However, this is also the busiest tourist season.
15°C to 20°C
59°F to 68°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Scots, 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
Central Scotland is generally safe for travelers, with low violent crime rates. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in tourist areas and crowded places.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially at night
- • Use licensed taxis and agree on the fare before starting your journey
Getting there
By air
- Edinburgh Airport • 12 km (7.5 miles) from city center
- Glasgow Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from city center
By train
Edinburgh Waverley, Glasgow Central
By bus
Edinburgh Bus Station, Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport in Central Scotland. They are frequent, affordable, and cover most areas.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, FREE NOW
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Edinburgh Old Town
Glasgow West End
Falkirk
Day trips
Stirling
40 minutes from Edinburgh, 50 minutes from Glasgow • Full day
Stirling is a historic city with a rich past, offering stunning views, historic sites, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park
30-60 minutes from Glasgow • Full day or more
A stunning national park offering beautiful landscapes, outdoor activities, and scenic drives.
Falkirk
40 minutes from Edinburgh, 30 minutes from Glasgow • Half day or full day
Falkirk is a historic town with a mix of industrial heritage and natural beauty, offering unique attractions and scenic views.
Festivals
Edinburgh Festival Fringe • August
Hogmanay • 31 December
Glasgow International Comedy Festival • March
Pro tips
- Visit historic sites early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience
- Use public transport to get around, as it is efficient, affordable, and reduces your carbon footprint
- Try local specialties, such as haggis, cranachan, and Scotch pies, at traditional pubs and restaurants
- Explore beyond the cities to discover the stunning natural landscapes of Central Scotland, such as Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park
- Attend local festivals and events to experience the unique culture and traditions of Central Scotland
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
