Meandering Through The Highlands of Scotland (South)
Gallery image 2
Gallery image 3
Gallery image 4
Gallery image 5

Meandering Through The Highlands of Scotland (South)

Active
9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Let's Meander! North, South, East, or West. You choose. We can create a fantastically memorable road trip by exploring the myriad of back roads here in The Highlands, discovering the secret highlights they reveal. Did you know, six of the top ten highest mountains in Scotland are only half an hour's drive south of Inverness!? We don't need to climb them, but we can take a funicular railway to very near the top of one of them, Cairngorm. The views from Strathspey up to the mountains are spectacular too.... The places we list below aren’t destinations but opportunities. We can decide during the day! All of these tours are available from Inverness. The North, South & East tours are also available from Invergordon.
SOUTH; South Loch Ness, The Falls of Foyers, The Garbole, Strathdearn Community Hub, Loch an Eilien, The Cairngorms, Loch Morlich, The Strathspey Steam Railway, Nethy Bridge, the Cairn Distillery, Tomatin Distillery

Available options

Meandering Through The Highlands of Scotland (South)

Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water
Snacks

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

Enjoy the best view of Loch Ness from high up above its southern shore.... the view the tour buses don't get to

2

Phenomenal view along the length of Loch Ness from Dores beach. Dip your toes in the loch and have a chat with Steve the Monster Hunter!

3

Further along the south side of Loch Ness in the small village of Foyers we will find the Falls of Foyers. A spectacular waterfall with a 140ft drop into a gorge that winds its way through tall trees until it eventually meets Loch Ness.

The pathway winds you through stunning woodland, where you must look out for the illusive red squirrels, and then down steep steps to the first of two viewpoints. At the upper viewpoint the surrounding rocks open up to give you a spectacular full view of the falls where you can capture some fantastic photos.

Exploring further you can take the path down more steep steps to the lower viewpoint or even follow the path along the gorge and right down to the shores of Loch Ness if you are feeling energetic!

The surrounding landscape changes throughout the seasons and the snow melt, rainfall or even the sunnier summer months changes the level of flow you’ll see from the falls, it can go from a gentle trickle to a dramatic forceful surge overnight.

4

Our journey from Foyers to Tomatin will take us along some of The Highlands most narrow and winding wee roads, over The Garbole mountain pass before arriving at The Strathdearn Community hub and Three Bridges Cafe. We can grab a snack and takeaway coffee here or sit and enjoy the view along the strath from the cafe

5

Hidden in the forest of Rothiemurchus, this beautiful place is one of the most loved in Scotland.
Loch an Eilein (loch of the island) with its island castle ruin and stunning surroundings of forest and hill, has seen human use for many centuries. It has also long been a much loved favourite of countless thousands of visitors. No surprise, then, that Loch an Eilein was voted Britain’s Favourite Picnic Spot in a poll organised by Warburtons to commemorate National Bread Week.
You can explore the area at your own pace; a short stroll from the car park will reveal dramatic views of ancient pine trees, mountain and castle. A walk of 3 miles (5 kilometres) along some of the best low level walking paths in Scotland and part of a Rothiemurchus network of trails, will take you all the way around the loch.

6
Stop 6

With fun things to do for families and visitors of all ages, Cairngorm Mountain is open all year round and transforms into Scotland’s top ski resort in winter. Well known for Scotland’s only mountain railway, visitors can reach the UK’s highest restaurant and bar in just 8 minutes.

Next to the restaurant is a 270° immersive exhibition space showcasing the stunning landscape while at the Cairngorm Learning Zone, children can enjoy interactive 3D sandboxes and create their own natural environments. The extensive viewing terrace offering panoramic views at 1,097 metres above sea level.

7
Stop 7

A stunning beach in the beautiful settings of the Cairngorms and Glenmor Forest
Loch Morlich enjoys one of the finest settings of any loch in the country. It is surrounded by forests and fringed by beaches, with the stunning backdrop of the often snow-clad peaks of the northern Cairngorms.

8
Stop 8

Enjoy a trip on The Strathspey Steam Railway from Aviemore to Broomhill (Nethy Bridge). I'll meet you at Broomhill from where, depending upon time of day, we can head for a wee wander around Nethy Bridge (the forest village), take a tour of the brand new Cairn Distillery or head back towards Inverness via The Tomatin Distillery

9
Stop 9

Tomatin is are more than just another whisky distillery. Since 1897, they have worked hard to build the Tomatin community that exists today and lies at the heart of everything they do.
We can pop into their sampling room to enjoy a dram, or perhaps a flight, of their fabulous whisky.

What's not included

Cairngorm Mountain Railway; Adult £22.00, Child £12.50 (under 6 free), Family £38.00 - £55.00
Strathspey Steam Railway; Prices tbc

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Travel and transportation through our beautiful scenery is included in the total time duration of this tour
This tour IS available as a Shore Excursion for Cruise Ship Passengers at Invergordon Cruise Ship Port
NB. The following two features are not mandatory and can be bypassed. Falls of Foyers walk is short, but steep and may be unsuitable for some. Loch an Eilien is a three mile flat walk on uneven surface and may also be unsuitable for some

About Inverness

Inverness is a historic city in the Scottish Highlands, known as the capital of the region. It offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, with the iconic Loch Ness and the Culloden Battlefield nearby. The city is a gateway to some of Scotland's most stunning landscapes and ancient sites.

Top Attractions

Inverness Castle

A historic castle overlooking the River Ness, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape.

Historical 1-2 hours £5

Loch Ness

A famous freshwater loch known for its deep, dark waters and the legendary Loch Ness Monster.

Nature Half day to full day Free to visit the loch, attractions vary in price

Culloden Battlefield

The site of the 1746 Battle of Culloden, the last pitched battle fought on British soil.

Historical 2-3 hours £14.50

Inverness Museum and Art Gallery

A museum showcasing the history, art, and culture of the Highlands.

Museum 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Haggis, Neeps and Tatties

A traditional Scottish dish made with haggis (a spiced sheep's offal pudding), mashed turnips (neeps), and mashed potatoes (tatties).

Dinner Contains meat and offal, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Cullen Skink

A creamy smoked haddock soup, traditionally made with potatoes, onions, and milk.

Lunch Contains fish, not suitable for those with fish allergies.

Cranachan

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

Dessert Vegetarian-friendly, but contains dairy.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Highlands Boat tours on Loch Ness Visiting spas and wellness centers Strolling along the River Ness Exploring Inverness Museum and Art Gallery Attending local festivals and events Fishing in the River Ness Skiing and snowboarding in the Cairngorms

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest and driest time of the year, with long daylight hours. It's ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the surrounding Highlands.

12°C to 18°C 54°F to 64°F

Practical Information

Language

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

Currency

Pound Sterling (GBP)

Time Zone

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

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Inverness is generally a safe city, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic safety precautions.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure and out of sight, especially in crowded areas.
  • • Be cautious when using ATMs, and avoid using them in isolated areas.
  • • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services, and agree on a fare before starting your journey.

Getting there

By air
  • Inverness Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from city center
By train

Inverness Railway Station

By bus

Inverness Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus network covers the city and surrounding areas, with frequent services to major attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

City Center Ness Islands Leakey

Day trips

Culloden Battlefield
5 km (3 miles) • Half day

The site of the 1746 Battle of Culloden, the last pitched battle fought on British soil. The visitors center offers interactive exhibits and a museum.

Loch Ness
24 km (15 miles) • Full day

A famous freshwater loch known for its deep, dark waters and the legendary Loch Ness Monster. The Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition offers insights into the loch's history and geology.

Cairngorms National Park
60 km (37 miles) • Full day

The largest national park in the UK, offering a diverse range of landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor activities.

Festivals

Inverness Highland Games • May Inverness Christmas Market • December

Pro tips

  • Visit the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery to learn about the history and culture of the Highlands.
  • Take a boat tour on Loch Ness to search for the legendary Loch Ness Monster and explore the loch's stunning scenery.
  • Explore the Culloden Battlefield and visitors center to learn about the history of the 1746 Battle of Culloden.
  • Stroll along the River Ness and visit the Ness Islands for a peaceful and scenic escape from the city.
  • Sample local whisky and cuisine at one of Inverness's many pubs, restaurants, or whisky bars.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 7
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

Similar Experiences

Similar on Klook