Hairy Coos and Highland Views: A Short-Day Escape from Edinburgh
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September 2026
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Adults
Age 13 and over
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Age 12 and under
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Free cancellation up to 24 hours before. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.
Traveler rating
4.9/5
Based on 315 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Hairy Coos and Highland Views: A Short-Day Escape from Edinburgh worth booking?
Hairy Coos and Highland Views: A Short-Day Escape from Edinburgh is a 6.5-hour experience in Edinburgh, United Kingdom, from $42 per person. It scores 82 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 315 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 82 / 100
- Rating
- 4.9/5 (315)
- Duration
- 6.5 hours
- From
- $42 per person
Embark on a delightful day tour from Edinburgh, where Scotland’s rich history and breathtaking landscapes await. There are two versions of this tour available, which you choose when booking: Visit a traditional whisky d
What you get
- All taxes, fees and handling charges
- Experienced Driver-Guide providing live commentary and story telling throughout
- Regular Comfort Breaks
- In-vehicle air conditioning
About this experience
Embark on a delightful day tour from Edinburgh, where Scotland’s rich history and breathtaking landscapes await. There are two versions of this tour available, which you choose when booking: Visit a traditional whisky distillery for a tour and tasting, or exploring the imposing Blackness Castle, known for its dramatic riverside setting and historic role. Continue your adventure with the tranquil beauty of Loch Katrine and the wild splendour of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, where nature and heritage blend in perfect harmony. It’s the ideal mix of history, culture, and stunning scenery—all before returning to Edinburgh in time for dinner and evening plans!
What's included
Included
- All taxes, fees and handling charges
- Experienced Driver-Guide providing live commentary and story telling throughout
- Regular Comfort Breaks
- In-vehicle air conditioning
Not included
- No Toilet/Restroom on board
- No Food or Drinks
- Entrance fees
- Entrance fees
What you'll see and do
The Kelpies & The Helix
Departing Edinburgh’s New Town, we leave the bustle of the city behind us as we make embark on our scenic day trip takes you on a journey through Scotland’s stunning landscapes, rich history, and finest whisky. Early on we’ll pass by the Kelpies, the towering 30-meter-high sculptures of mythical horses and Stirling, a symbol of Scottish royalty and history.
Pass by without stopping
Stirling
We make our way past Stirling, which was once the capital of Scotland. Look out for the iconic views of the Wallace Monument and Stirling Castle, one of Scotland’s most important and grand castles.
Pass by without stopping
Deanston Distillery & Visitor Centre
Our first stop will be either Blackness Castle or Deanston Distillery, depending on the option you choose when booking. If you chose the distillery option, we'll head to Deanston Distillery - once a bustling cotton mill, this historic site now crafts exceptional single malt whiskies. Take a guided tour through the distillery to uncover the time-honored whisky-making process and the fascinating story behind this unique location. Conclude your visit with a tasting of Deanston’s finest expressions, introducing you to the rich flavors and distinctive character of their whiskies. Alternatively, enjoy a stroll by the banks of the River Teith or relax in the distillery’s Coffee Bothy.
60 minutes here · Admission not included
Blackness Castle
Our first stop will depend on the option you choose, if you chose the Castle option, we'll head for Blackness Castle*. Explore Blackness Castle, a mighty 15th-century fortress, dramatically perched on the Firth of Forth. Known as “the ship that never sailed” because of its distinctive shape, Blackness Castle has served as a royal residence, garrison fortress, and prison, and offers striking views across the water. You may also recognise it from the tv show “Outlander” where it featured as Fort William.
45 minutes here · Admission not included
Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park
Not far away and still within the Trossachs National park, we’ll make a short stop at Loch Achray, a smaller but equally picturesque loch nestled between the towering Ben A’an and Ben Venue mountains. The area around the loch is serene and peaceful, offering another chance to enjoy the beauty of the Scottish Highlands. No Scottish adventure is complete without a visit to the iconic Hairy Coos—the legendary Highland cattle. Stop for photos and enjoy the charm of these furry giants that are synonymous with Scotland’s countryside.
15 minutes here
Forth Bridge
As we make our way back to Edinburgh, you will be met with views of Scotland’s greatest piece of engineering, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Forth Bridge. This 19th century engineering marvel was at one point the World’s longest cantilever bridge. Today it neighbours the 20th century Forth Road Bridge and the 21st century Queensferry Crossing which opened in 2017. Three spectacular bridges, from three different centuries, span the Firth of Forth connecting our Capital city and the Kingdom of Fife.
10 minutes here
Edinburgh
We begin our journey back to Edinburgh, carrying with us memories of Scotland’s historic landmarks, serene lochs, and breathtaking natural scenery. We aim to be back in the Scottish capital in the late afternoon, around 5 PM. Any time not specified in the itinerary is allotted to travel between stops, exploring Scotland while on the coach.
5 minutes here
Loch Katrine
We’ll journey deeper into the heart of the Trossachs to Loch Katrine, a stunning freshwater loch. Known for its peaceful beauty, Loch Katrine was immortalised in Sir Walter Scott’s famous poem The Lady of the Lake. Admire the beauty of the Scottish landscape and relax by the tranquil waters, surrounded by forests and mountains.
30 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Edinburgh
We meet in front of Burns Monument, at 1759 Regent Road, Edinburgh. What3Words: ///allow.topped.joined CHECK-IN STARTS AT 10:15 AM, BUS DEPARTS 10:30 AM.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
We meet in front of Burns Monument, at 1759 Regent Road, Edinburgh. What3Words: ///allow.topped.joined CHECK-IN STARTS AT 10:15 AM, BUS DEPARTS 10:30 AM.
Options you can book
With optional Distillery tour
Stop at Deanston Distillery: We will not stop at a castle on this version of the tour. Distillery tour tickets not included. Min age 8+.
With optional Castle Visit
Stop at Blackness Castle: We will not stop at a distillery on this version of the tour. Tickets to the castle not included. Min age 7+.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 8 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- The Hairy Coo
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Please note that the tour route will vary depending on your chosen option. The Distillery option will stop at Deanston, the Castle option will stop at Blackness Castle. These cannot be combined.
- Minimum age to travel is 8 years old. Photo ID, such as a passport, may be required. Children (8-17) must be accompanied by an adult.
- There are regular stops on tour for comfort breaks, as we do not have toilets onboard the coaches
- This tour in an air-conditioned coach, hosted by a local Scottish guide, rated 5-stars by the official Scottish Tourist Board
- There are opportunities to take short nature walks, it is recommended to bring suitable clothing and footwear.
- No animals allowed on tour
- When using public transport or a taxi to the departure point, please allow extra time for possible delays.
- Any time not specified in the itinerary is allotted to travel between stops, exploring Scotland while on the coach.
- There are regular stops on tour to purchase food and refreshments that cater for most dietary requirements
- Ouch coaches are not wheelchair accessible, but we can accommodate folding wheelchairs. Please notify us ahead of time to confirm available space. Bus has 3x approximate 30 cm steps at entrance.
Photos
Good to know
- Duration
- 6.5 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- 8+
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $42 to $64
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 110
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Why this scores 82
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Hairy Coos and Highland Views: A Short-Day Escape from Edinburgh: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Edinburgh.
How much does Hairy Coos and Highland Views: A Short-Day Escape from Edinburgh cost?
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Prices start at $42 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Edinburgh usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Hairy Coos and Highland Views: A Short-Day Escape from Edinburgh take?
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Plan for about 6.5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Edinburgh is not rushed.
Is Hairy Coos and Highland Views: A Short-Day Escape from Edinburgh worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 82 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 315 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most highly reviewed in Edinburgh, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Hairy Coos and Highland Views: A Short-Day Escape from Edinburgh?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Hairy Coos and Highland Views: A Short-Day Escape from Edinburgh suitable for kids and families?
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The operator sets a minimum age of 8. Older children generally do well here, and families should factor in the 6.5-hour running time when deciding.
How far in advance should I book Hairy Coos and Highland Views: A Short-Day Escape from Edinburgh?
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Around 110 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Edinburgh can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Edinburgh and add a light layer if any part of the 6.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Hairy Coos and Highland Views: A Short-Day Escape from Edinburgh start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Edinburgh within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Edinburgh?
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On Outty we rank every Edinburgh experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Glencoe and The Highlands, Edinburgh: Glenfinnan Viaduct, Glencoe & Fort William, Edinburgh Ghost Tour: Mysteries, Legends and Murders. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Edinburgh?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Edinburgh?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
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