Our most recommended things to do in Scottish Highlands

Inverness: Rewilding the Scottish Highlands Full-Day Trip

1. Inverness: Rewilding the Scottish Highlands Full-Day Trip

Journey into the vast expanse of the Scottish Highlands to discover two of Scotland's most prominent rewilding centers, Bunloit and Dundreggan. Learn about rewilding firsthand as you observe wildlife, take part in daily duties, and follow winding trails on this exclusive day trip from Inverness. Set off in the morning and take in the sweeping views of the Highlands on your way to your first stop, Bunloit Estate. On arrival, you'll be greeted by the rangers before embarking on a guided tour of the grounds. Visit a peat bog, a forest garden, and keep an eye out for native wildlife. Join the rangers in completing their usual duties on the estate, such as checking footage of traps or mending fences. As you take part, hear more about the rewilding process on the estate and surrounding areas from the passionate rangers. Continue to your next stop, Trees for Life, Dundreggan Rewilding Centre. After lunch (not included), explore the Centre on your own and try out the interactive installations. Listen to local myths and folklore at the audio corner and watch an informative animation from a local artist. Then, join the ranger at reception to begin your tour of the grounds. Visit the tree nursery and marvel at the thousands of saplings ready to be planted or getting ready to start the rooting process. Learn more about the nursery and the biodiversity on the estate from your guide. Hike past the fairy hills, ancient oaks, and regenerating woodlands, and pick up a few Gaelic words along the way. See the language used throughout the estate, from the information points in the center to the signposts marking the route. After leaving the second estate, make one more stop to see the Falls of Foyers, which includes a short but steep walk downhill for the most spectacular views and pictures of the falls. Finally, relax on your way back to Inverness, passing the east side of Loch Ness. Experience the spectacular Scottish Highlands in a hands-on and meaningful way with an exclusive tour curated by GetYourGuide. Explore dense trails with spectacular views, meet the passionate people who make it all possible, and discover how you can incorporate conservationist values at home.

Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Glencoe & the Scottish Highlands Tour

2. Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Glencoe & the Scottish Highlands Tour

Head for the Highlands, whether in search of the Loch Ness Monster or just a scenic day trip from Edinburgh. After pickup, relax on the bus and listen to the guide’s entertaining commentary. Visit Kilmahog for an introduction to the famous Highland Cows (depending on the time of year) and a cup of coffee. Next, travel up the road to Glencoe and enjoy a 10-minute photo stop in front of the unforgettable Highland views. Have lunch in the Fort William area, where your guide can advise you on where to eat. If you're interested in the mysteries of the kilt, you can even get a ‘wee’ kilt introduction here. Then be whisked to Loch Ness itself. Customize your experience at Loch Ness. Choose to visit the majestic Urquhart Castle, and hop on a boat in search of ‘Nessie’, as the locals call it. Or simply hang out on the pier and grab a coffee with gorgeous views. On the way home, make a short snack stop in Pitlochry, a beautiful village in the heart of the country, before returning to Edinburgh.

Edinburgh: Glenfinnan, Fort William, and Glencoe Day Tour

3. Edinburgh: Glenfinnan, Fort William, and Glencoe Day Tour

Try a Glenfinnan, Glencoe, and Fort William adventure, beginning in the heart of Edinburgh city center from Royal Mile. Take in the scenery of classic modern Hollywood films. Depart Edinburgh's bustling streets, pass some of its most iconic sights like Edinburgh Castle on your way out, and begin your journey north into the rugged Scottish Highlands. Stop for refreshments at the gateway to the Highlands in Callander before continuing to Glencoe. Drive through the land where James Bonds' Skyfall was filmed. See the backdrop to some scenes from Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. Pause here for photos and to learn all about the history of Glencoe, including the massacre of the MacDonald clan in 1692. From the atmospheric Glencoe, travel further along the banks of Loch Linnhe to the Highland town of Fort William, which sits at the foot of Britain's tallest mountain - Ben Nevis. Stop here to stretch your legs and have an early lunch break. Next, continue on to Glenfinnan Viaduct, the location of many Harry Potter scenes, encased by the shores of Loch Shiel. See the location of the Jacobite Steam Train, and of “Black Lake”. Take in the setting for the Triwizard Tournament, and the loch on which Hogwarts sits. Continue on to Glenfinnan Monument, which symbolizes one of the most important events in Scottish history; the 1745 Jacobite uprising. Next, departing Glenfinnan, you’ll begin your return journey to Edinburgh, stopping for refreshments at the small village of Pitlochry.

Loch Ness: Urquhart Castle Round-Trip Cruise

4. Loch Ness: Urquhart Castle Round-Trip Cruise

Climb aboard a small cruise boat for a truly inspiring tour of Loch Ness, departing from Clansman Harbour, just south of Inverness, and sailing as far as Urquhart Castle and back. Once on board, you will sail to the heart of Loch Ness, famous around the world for its mysterious - and elusive - monster. A selection of Scottish produce, as well as hot and cold snacks are available to purchase from the bar, if you fancy a wee dram as you cruise. Boats also have free WiFi for your convenience. Soak up the stunning mountain views as you cruise to the remains of Urquhart Castle, the envy of Scotland’s romantic ruins. Once you reach the blunt peninsula of Urquhart Bay, the boat will turn around and sail at back to Clansman Harbour.

Inverness: Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle Day Trip

5. Inverness: Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle Day Trip

Take in some of the most dramatic and stunning landscapes Scotland has to offer on an eco-certified tour from Inverness. Discover the Isle of Skye, including its capital Portree, Lealt Falls, and the Old Man of Storr. See Loch Ness from Invermoriston, Loch Carron, and Eilean Donan Castle. Meet your guide at Inverness Bus Station, where your group will board an air-conditioned coach. Head south out of the city. Then, follow the shores of Loch Ness to Invermoriston, where you will stop for a short break. Grab a coffee, take scenic photos, and try and spot Nessie, the Loch Ness Monster. Then, continue to Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland's most photographed castles, set on its own island at the head of Loch Duich. You will have time to visit the castle and learn about its history if you like (admission fees apply) or just admire the picturesque castle and its scenic surroundings. Next, journey to the Isle of Skye. Stop at Portree, a small colorful town fringed by cliffs and rolling hills. Take in these beautiful surroundings while enjoying lunch and the views of the boats in the harbor. Once your appetite has been sated, move on to tour the rest of the island. Head to the Old Man of Storr, an iconic rock formation. Next, take a walk at Lealt Falls to admire the beautiful waterfall and gorge. Finally, head back to Inverness via the panoramic Strome Viewpoint over Loch Carron.

From Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Glencoe, Highlands & Ben Nevis

6. From Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Glencoe, Highlands & Ben Nevis

Depart Edinburgh on an air-conditioned luxury coach (max 57 seats). Pass Stirling Castle and hear your tour guide tell tales of William Wallace and Robert the Bruce and the bloody battles fought out on these lands. First, arrive at Callander town, nestled at the foot of the Trossachs. Next, drive through Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. Your Scottish guide will tell you about Rob Roy MacGregor, the infamous Highlander. Follow in the footsteps of James Bond ("Skyfall") and Harry Potter ("Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban") as you travel to the stunning Highland valley of Glencoe. Hear the eerie story of the Clan MacDonald massacre of 1692. Travel through Fort William, home to Ben Nevis, which at 4,409 feet is the highest mountain of the British Isles. Arrive on the south bank of Loch Ness in the charming village of Fort Augustus, where lots of cafes, shops, and restaurants offer a relaxing lunch. Stroll along the banks of the Caledonian Canal, then experience Loch Ness on an optional 1-hour boat cruise. Try to catch a glimpse of "Nessie," the legendary Loch Ness Monster. Admire the impressive Commando Memorial at Spean Bridge with views of the Nevis Range. Enter the Cairngorms National Park and discover "Monarch of the Glen" country. Drive along Loch Laggan before the roads climb above the Grampian Mountains. Travel over the Pass of Drumochter, linking the northern and southern Central Highlands. Experience the majesty of a mountain pass created by glacial activity during successive Ice Ages. Finally, stop briefly in the beautiful Victorian town of Pitlochry before heading back to Edinburgh city center, arriving at approximately 8:30 PM.

Glasgow: Loch Ness, Glencoe and Highlands Tour

7. Glasgow: Loch Ness, Glencoe and Highlands Tour

Embark on a guided tour to Loch Lomond National Park, Rannoch Moor, Glencoe, the Great Glen, Loch Ness, and Pitlochry from Glasgow. Learn the history behind each turn from your guide. Depart Glasgow and travel north towards the Highlands along the “bonnie, bonnie” banks of Loch Lomond. Crossing the ancient natural fault line that runs across Scotland you travel into the majestic Highlands where the scenery changes quickly and dramatically – the flat fertile plains of the Lowlands give way to shimmering lochs, rugged mountain tops and forest-filled glens. Traveling north through Breadalbane, meaning the 'High Country of Scotland,' you climb towards the wild desolation of Rannoch Moor and down into Scotland's most famous valley, Glencoe. Glencoe is infamous as the site of the Glencoe massacre in 1692. Beyond Glencoe you will enter the Great Glen, a deep glacial valley that follows a geological fault line. Passing through the town of Fort William you drive under Britain's highest mountain, Ben Nevis, before arriving at Fort Augustus on the southern shore of Loch Ness. Keep an eye out for legendary sightings of the Loch Ness Monster, Nessie. Take in views of the charming town of Fort Augustus and the Caledonian Canal which links the lochs of the Great Glen. After your lunch, have the opportunity to take a five-star Loch Ness boat cruise from Fort Augustus*. Taking to the waters for the best chance you'll get to spot the monster and admire the beauty of this mysterious loch. Continue north through Inverness before traveling south thorugh the stunning the mountains of Cairngorms National Park. Drive over Drumochter Pass reaching at 1500 feet above sea level and pass the 13th century Blair Castle, the ancestral home of the Duke of Atholl. Proceed south through the Perthshire forests, stopping for a quick refreshment stop on the way back to Glasgow. *This route will change from 1st April 2023 and the tour won't travel along the whole length of Loch Ness.

Loch Lomond: Island Discovery 2-Hour Cruise

8. Loch Lomond: Island Discovery 2-Hour Cruise

Discover the legends and secrets of the islands of Loch Lomond on this cruise from Alexandria. Learn the history and the legends of Loch Lomond and the surrounding areas, while enjoying some of Scotland's most spectacular scenery. Hop aboard the spacious and comfortable boat that Balloch Village Ferry Landing. Have plenty of space for indoor and outdoor viewing with opened and closed deck space, and full bar facilities where you can purchase a drink. Begin you circular cruise which passes the world-famous Loch Lomond Golf Club. Explore the middle island of Loch Lomond, sail through an area known to locals as "The Narrows", and continue onwards to the village of Luss. Listen to cruise commentary by famed historian and archaeologist Neil Oliver, best known from BBC's "Coast" and "A History of Scotland." Return to your starting point at the end of your journey.

Dochgarroch: Loch Ness and Caledonian Canal 2-Hour Cruise

9. Dochgarroch: Loch Ness and Caledonian Canal 2-Hour Cruise

Join this cruise for a round-trip sail to Urquhart Castle from Dochgarroch Lock. Your cruise sails from Dochgarroch Loch on the Caledonian Canal and heads to the heart of the mystery, where you’ll learn the fascinating story of Loch Ness. You will sail through parts of the Caledonian Canal, see Aldourie Castle, and more while enjoying the selection of hot and cold Scottish snacks on board. There is also a bar if you fancy a wee dram, and for those of you who like to stay connected, there is free Wi-fi onboard.

From Inverness: Isle of Skye Full-Day Trip

10. From Inverness: Isle of Skye Full-Day Trip

Depart Inverness and travel via Loch Ness to the Isle of Skye. Loch Ness is the largest Loch by volume in the British Isles, and one of the deepest ones too. Famous worldwide for its elusive monster, it hosts one of the most iconic castles of Scotland: Urquhart Castle. Visit the Fairy Pools. Walk the trail that takes you to the pools and enjoy a swim with the fairies. Next, stop at Talisker Single Malt Scotch Distillery based in Carbost. You'll go through the Visitor Centre (not on the tour) and, if available, sample one of the fine whiskeys produced here. Continue your journey to the Isle of Skye, and see the small village of Portree for an afternoon break. Portree is a small harbor village, and the capital of Skye.  Before you travel back to Inverness, enjoy sights of the mighty Eilean Donan Castle, which is situated on its own island, and is one of Scotland’s most photographed castles. Continue homeward bound to Inverness, where your tour ends.

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Scottish Highlands
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What people are saying about Scottish Highlands

Overall rating

4.6 / 5

based on 31,543 reviews

Amazing trip from Edinburgh to the highlands of Scotland. Our guide / driver Nestor was awesome and made it a great “Scottish” experience. He played great Scottish music and gave the history behind it along side with the epic scenery which really created a unique and enjoyable experience. What I loved the most was that Nestor set the ground rules/expect and at the beginning so there were no surprises and everything went to plan. We had extra photo ops which I was very valuable for me and my wife. He dodged the busy areas so we all can have more time and privacy to take better photos. Overall a great trip, thank you Nestor for sharing your culture with us!

What can I say apart from it was fantastic, Fraser our guide was informative and knowledgeable he was brilliant, John our drive was very good. The sights we saw and experience were amazing. It’s a long day but worth it. You have lots of stop off’s for photo opportunities and toilet breaks. Definitely worth the money will definitely do one of these again.

This experience was amazing!! Kev was incredible, during the ride he was really cheerful and entertaining, but also let us some silent time to take in the breathtaking nature (or nap hahah). He definitely knew the spots to take awesome pictures and gave us time to do some walking and exploring in the mountains. 10/10 recommended

The tour itself was beautiful. The guide, Paul, was amazing. He was always available in case anything happened and was really good at explaining the history of each site.

Simply amazing tour, our tour guide Anthony was exceptional.