2-Day Loch Ness and Inverness Small-Group Tour from Edinburgh

Visit Inverness, Loch Ness and more during this scenic 2-day journey to the Scottish Highlands, departing from Edinburgh in a top-of-the-range, 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach. Disembark along the way to explore historical villages and atmospheric castles tucked away in the woods, with an optional boat ride on Loch Ness in search of the mysterious Loch Ness Monster. 

Spend the night in Inverness, the capital of the Scottish Highlands, with your choice of a single, twin or double room at a 3-star hotel or bed & breakfast (guesthouse) upon booking.

Day 1: Edinburgh – Inverness

Depart Edinburgh and make photo stops at Loch Lubnaig and Callander. Then journey to Glencoe Mountain, a haunting glen that was the scene of a terrible massacre in 1692, where many of the Macdonald Clan died.

On arrival at Loch Ness, you have the option to take a boat trip out on the loch (April to October; price not included) to look for Nessie the Loch Ness Monster, and take in views of Urquhart Castle, or you may stay on dry land to explore the castle's mighty ruins. More scenic views and a quick photo stop are offered at the inspirational memorial of Commando Monument (Spean Bridge).

Continue your journey, arriving at Inverness. Enjoy free time to soak up the lively atmosphere and beautiful Victorian architecture before you’re dropped off at your accommodation. The evening is free for you to explore the capital of the Highlands.

Overnight: 3-star hotel or B&B in Inverness

Day 2: Inverness – Culloden - Pitlochry – Edinburgh

After a leisurely breakfast, you are picked up from your Inverness accommodation and travel toward the Culloden Battlefield at Culloden Moor. Experience the Battle of Culloden, admire Jacobite artifacts, and visit the powerfully moving site of the final Jacobite rising. Travel through winding back roads and discover a 4,000-year-old cemetery at Clava Cairns.

After a possible stop at eight the House of Bruar at Blair Atholl with free time to stroll around or Dalwhinnie Distillery for whisky tasting (own expense).

From here, continue on to Cairngorm National Park. This unique area is one of the last remaining pockets of native Caledonian pine forest left standing. Gaze in awe at Scotland’s most beautifully rounded peaks en route back to Edinburgh.

Please note: tour may run in reverse order for operational reasons.

• Tick off multiple highlights of The Highlands, including Inverness
• No need to plan where to stay—accommodation is included
• Enjoy a small-group tour for a more personalized experience
• Option to upgrade and add on a boat trip at Loch Ness (extra charge)

Explore the beauty of The Highlands by going on a 2-day adventure from Edinburgh. Save time organizing car rental, and go on a stress-free small-group tour in a top-of-the-range Mercedes vehicle instead. The tour includes accommodation and breakfast for extra convenience, and stops at two of Scotland’s most popular locations—Inverness and Loch Ness. Enjoy scenic drives through quaint villages, explore towering pine forests, and visit historic castles too.

Tour may run in reverse for operational reasons.
Minimum age for travel on this tour is 5 years
Family rooms are limited and may be available on request. Maximum of 2 Adults and 1 child in one room. Family rooms for 2 adults and 2 children are not available
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.
Please note tour stops and timings are for reference only and depend on the itinerary of the day as well as on group's interests, therefore cannot be guaranteed.
There are many options along the route and our itinerary is intentionally flexible so that the guide is able to decide what is best on any given day.
Not wheelchair accessible
Near public transportation
Stops at Culloden, Clava Cairns, House of Bruar, Dalwhinnie are optional, but not guaranteed.
Most travelers can participate
Loch Ness by Jacobite cruise – no need to pre-book, you can choose whether you want to join the cruise whilst on your tour.
This tour/activity will have a maximum of 16 travelers