
Highland Lochs, Glens and Castles Small Group Tour from Edinburgh
Traveler rating
4.9/5
Based on 482 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Highland Lochs, Glens and Castles Small Group Tour from Edinburgh worth booking?
Highland Lochs, Glens and Castles Small Group Tour from Edinburgh is a 10-hour experience in Edinburgh, United Kingdom, from $87 per person. It scores 85 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 482 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 85 / 100
- Rating
- 4.9/5 (482)
- Duration
- 10 hours
- From
- $87 per person
On our Highland Lochs, Glens & Castles tour from Edinburgh we will take you to some of the best scenery Scotland has to offer. Majestic mountains tumble down to shimmering lochs and castles, while glens tell tragic tales of centuries gone by. You will have the opportunity to visit a castle or two and we’ll also have the chance to get some photos of castle ruins. We visit the picturesque highland village of Luss which sits on the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond with views to Ben Lomond, Scotland’s most southerly Munro.
What you get
About this experience
On our Highland Lochs, Glens & Castles tour from Edinburgh we will take you to some of the best scenery Scotland has to offer. Majestic mountains tumble down to shimmering lochs and castles, while glens tell tragic tales of centuries gone by. You will have the opportunity to visit a castle or two and we’ll also have the chance to get some photos of castle ruins. We visit the picturesque highland village of Luss which sits on the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond with views to Ben Lomond, Scotland’s most southerly Munro.
What's included
Included
- Services of your Driver-Guide
- In-vehicle air conditioning
Not included
- Meals and Refreshments
- Entrance to Inveraray Castle, can be paid on the day: Adult £18.50, Concession £16.00, Child £12.00
- Inveraray Jail Ticket can be paid on the day: Adult £16.50, Senior/Student £14.50, Child £10.00
- Doune Castle should be booked for a 10am arrival via the castle website if customers wish to visit.
What you'll see and do
Stirling Castle
We’ll pass Stirling Castle, great royal residence of Stuart Kings and Mary Queen of Scots who acceded to the throne in 1542 when she was only 6 days old.
Pass by without stopping
Doune Castle
Our first stop will be at Doune Castle, a magnificent late 14th century stronghold. The castle stood in for Winterfell in Game of Thrones and Castle Leoch in Outlander. It also starred as Swamp Castle, Castle Anthrax and Camelot in the cult comedy movie Monty Python and the Holy Grail. You will have time to visit the Castle.
75 minutes here · Admission not included
Loch Lubnaig
We'll visit the lovely Loch Lubnaig. This small but stunningly located stretch of freshwater nestling between two striking mountains, Ben Ledi and Ben Vane is where we’ll stop for some light refreshments.
20 minutes here
Kilchurn Castle
Kilchurn Castle stands at the head of Loch Awe, surrounded by mountains. While enjoying the views we'll stop for some photos at this mid-15th century ruined castle.
10 minutes here
Inveraray
Inveraray enjoys a picturesque setting on the shores of Loch Fyne and is therefore the perfect place to stop for lunch. With just under 2 hours here, you'll certainly have lots of time to explore. You may choose to visit the 19th century Inveraray Jail (open all year round, tickets purchased on the day), a living museum where you can experience what it was like to be incarcerated behind its bars. While others may opt to have a wander around this lovely little town. On the other hand, during the summer months (April to Oct, Thurs - Mon only) you may consider a visit Inveraray Castle (tickets can be purchased on the day) where the Duke of Argyll and his family live today. Breath in the clear Highland air while you stroll around the parkland, woodland and gardens, which are resplendent with rainbows of the azaleas and rhododendrons that certainly flourish in Argyll in summertime.
110 minutes here
Rest and be Thankful
We pause for photos at the ‘Rest and Be Thankful’. An iconic Scottish viewpoint, so named thanks to the words carved in stone by weary soldiers who built the original military road in 1753.
10 minutes here
Luss
Our last stop of the day is at the charming highland village of Luss which sits on the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond. Around 1,500 years ago, an Irish missionary, St Kessog, arrived at Loch Lomond, subsequently bringing Christianity to the area. There is time for you to walk around the village and while exploring you should take a walk down to the pier where you’ll see Ben Lomond standing proudly over Loch Lomond.
30 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Edinburgh
Our tour departs from Bus Stand ZE, Waterloo Place, Edinburgh (Opposite Howie's Restaurant). what3words:///decay.laws.likes. Check in is at 08:15 for a 08:30 departure. Please ensure you check in on time. IMPORTANT: There are 2 Howie's in Edinburgh, we depart from Waterloo Place only.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Our tour departs from Bus Stand ZE, Waterloo Place, Edinburgh (Opposite Howie's Restaurant). what3words:///decay.laws.likes. Check in is at 08:15 for a 08:30 departure. Please ensure you check in on time. IMPORTANT: There are 2 Howie's in Edinburgh, we depart from Waterloo Place only.
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 6 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Discover Scotland Tours
Know before you go
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- We cannot accommodate children under the age of 5
- Our tour departs from Bus Stand ZE, Waterloo Place, Edinburgh (Opposite Howie's Restaurant). what3words:///decay.laws.likes. Check in is at 08:15 for a 08:30 departure. Please ensure you check in on time. IMPORTANT: There are 2 Howie's in Edinburgh, we depart from Waterloo Place only.
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 479 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
8 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
5 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
2 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Traveler reviews
479 verified traveler reviews for Highland Lochs, Glens and Castles Small Group Tour from Edinburgh. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
So many stops! Great experience.
We stopped so many places! I can’t believe how much we fit in! Our tour guide Steve was amazing. So knowledgeable and also entertaining. He did a great job of making sure we had fun during the drive. Can’t rave enough about him. What a great personality! Made the tour even better!
via Viator
Fun, knowledgeable guide!
Kyle was so much fun. He had a ton of knowledge without being boring. This tour topped off our visit to Scotland and already planning our next trip. Would book another trip!!
Response from the operator: Thank you for your 5 star review! We are so happy to hear you had a fun time on tour with Kyle, his knowledge always makes for a remarkable time on tour. - Discover Scotland Tours
via Viator
Excellent! Highly recommend
Excellent tour, fit many interesting sites into the day! Our guide, Kyle, was informative, funny and accommodating! Played great music and was full of “fun facts”. My husband was fond of the “Gypsy “ camp in the village of Luss 😉
Response from the operator: Thank you for your 5 star review! We are thrilled you had an excellent tour and enjoyed the knowledge and humour provided by Kyle! We will be sure to pass along your kind words. - Discover Scotland Tours
via Viator
A great snapshot of...
A great snapshot of Scotland’s highlands, lochs, and castles if you’re short on time. A perfect mix of sitting in the van enjoying views while driving, and getting out to wander around the sights.
Response from the operator: Thank you for your 5 star review! We are so happy to hear you enjoyed the snapshot of Scotland this tour has to offer! - Discover Scotland Tours
via Viator
What an amazing 10-hour...
What an amazing 10-hour day! The highlights were definitely Doune Castle and Inveraray Castle, both absolutely worth visiting. This was a small-group tour with just 16 people, which made for a much more comfortable experience. There were a few stops along the way for restroom breaks and snacks, but keep in mind that stops can be few and far between, so plan accordingly! There was plenty of time to explore both castles without feeling rushed. Our tour guide and driver, Ron, was fantastic—very friendly, funny, and made the day even more enjoyable. I would definitely recommend this tour to anyone visiting Scotland!
Response from the operator: Thank you for your 5 star review! We are so happy to hear you had an amazing time on tour with Ron. We are happy to hear you felt you had plenty time at each stop and that Ron was fantastic and made the day even more enjoyable! - Discover Scotland Tours
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 10 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 169
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Who runs this experience
Operated by Discover Scotland Tours, who run 11 experiences we rank across 2 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 81.2 and 2 in the 90+ Club.
See everything Discover Scotland Tours runsWhy this scores 85
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Highland Lochs, Glens and Castles Small Group Tour from Edinburgh: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Edinburgh.
How much does Highland Lochs, Glens and Castles Small Group Tour from Edinburgh cost?
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Prices start at $87 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 Highland Lochs, Glens and Castles Small Group Tour from Edinburgh take?
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Plan for about 10 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 Highland Lochs, Glens and Castles Small Group Tour from Edinburgh worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 85 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 482 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Edinburgh, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Highland Lochs, Glens and Castles Small Group Tour 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 Highland Lochs, Glens and Castles Small Group Tour from Edinburgh suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 10-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Highland Lochs, Glens and Castles Small Group Tour from Edinburgh?
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Around 169 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 10-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Highland Lochs, Glens and Castles Small Group Tour 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 The Chocolatarium Chocolate Tour Experience in Edinburgh, The Mountebank Comedy Walk of Edinburgh, Edinburgh Old Town: Historical Guided Walking Tour. 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.
What is included in Highland Lochs, Glens and Castles Small Group Tour from Edinburgh?
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Included: Services of your Driver-Guide; and In-vehicle air conditioning. Not included: Meals and Refreshments; Entrance to Inveraray Castle, can be paid on the day: Adult £18.50, Concession £16.00, Chi; Inveraray Jail Ticket can be paid on the day: Adult £16.50, Senior/Student £14.50, Child £; and Doune Castle should be booked for a 10am arrival via the castle website if customers wish. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Highland Lochs, Glens and Castles Small Group Tour from Edinburgh?
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Our tour departs from Bus Stand ZE, Waterloo Place, Edinburgh (Opposite Howie's Restaurant). what3words:///decay.laws.likes. Check in is at 08:15 for a 08:30 departure. Please ensure you check in on time. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Highland Lochs, Glens and Castles Small Group Tour from Edinburgh offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Highland Lochs, Glens and Castles Small Group Tour from Edinburgh?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
What happens to Highland Lochs, Glens and Castles Small Group Tour from Edinburgh if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Highland Lochs, Glens and Castles Small Group Tour from Edinburgh?
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Across 482 reviews averaging 4.9 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
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