Loch Ness, Glencoe and the Highlands Private Day Tour
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 67 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Loch Ness, Glencoe and the Highlands Private Day Tour worth booking?
Loch Ness, Glencoe and the Highlands Private Day Tour is a 12-hour experience in Edinburgh, United Kingdom, from $900 per person. It scores 67 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 5/5 rating across 67 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 67 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (67)
- Duration
- 12 hours
- From
- $900 per person
Experience the magic of Scotland on a private tour that takes you through breathtaking landscapes and historic landmarks. Marvel at the iconic Forth Bridge, discover the traditional craft of wool-making at Kilmahog Wooll
What you get
- Booster seat
- Private transportation
- Driver as a guide
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Bottled water
- Parking fees
About this experience
Experience the magic of Scotland on a private tour that takes you through breathtaking landscapes and historic landmarks. Marvel at the iconic Forth Bridge, discover the traditional craft of wool-making at Kilmahog Woollen Mill, and witness the stunning beauty of Loch Tulla and Glencoe valley viewpoint. Admire the spectacular Meeting of Three Waters and the majestic Three Sisters Mountains, before venturing to the mysterious Loch Ness and Fort Augustus. Explore the world-famous Dalwhinnie distillery and savor some of Scotland's finest whisky, before ending your journey in the charming town of Pitlochry. With personalized attention and exclusive access to some of Scotland's hidden gems, this tour offers a truly unforgettable experience. • Enjoy privileged, personalized attention from your driver/guide on this private tour • Kids friendly (5+ age) • Please note that tours stops and timings can be changed
What's included
Included
- Booster seat
- Private transportation
- Driver as a guide
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Bottled water
- Parking fees
Not included
- Gratuities
- Food and drinks, unless specified
- Admission fees
- Admission fees
- Admission fees
What you'll see and do
Forth Road Bridge
If you're looking for a breathtaking experience, consider booking a tour that includes a visit to the Forth Bridges. These three impressive bridges span the Firth of Forth, and are a sight to behold. The Forth Bridge is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Scotland's most iconic landmarks. The Forth Road Bridge, opened in 1964 by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, is a long-span suspension bridge over 2.5 kilometres in length, with towers over 150 metres high. The Queensferry Crossing, opened in 2017, is the newest of the three and spans the firth with its modern design. Don't miss out on the opportunity to see these engineering marvels up close and appreciate their beauty and significance in Scottish history.
10 minutes here
Linlithgow Palace
As you pass by Linlithgow Palace in Scotland, you'll see a magnificent medieval castle that once served as the birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots. Although much of the palace now lies in ruins, the grandeur and history of the site are still evident. Built in the 15th century by King James I, the palace was a favored residence of the Scottish monarchs for centuries, and it played a pivotal role in many important events in Scottish history. Today, visitors can still explore the palace's many chambers, courtyards, and towers, and imagine what life was like for the royals who once called this impressive castle their home.
Pass by without stopping
The Kelpies & The Helix
As you pass by The Kelpies Monument in Scotland, you'll catch a glimpse of two massive, towering horse head sculptures, standing at 30 meters tall. Designed by artist Andy Scott, these magnificent works of art pay homage to Scotland's industrial past and the working horses that helped build the country's canals and waterways. The Kelpies are an unforgettable sight, even from a distance, and a must-see for anyone visiting Scotland.
Pass by without stopping
Stirling Castle
As you pass by Stirling Castle, you'll be struck by its magnificent presence atop a rocky hill overlooking the city. This historic fortress played a crucial role in Scotland's history, serving as the residence of monarchs and the site of battles. Even a brief glance at this stunning castle is enough to transport you back in time and spark your imagination. So take a moment to appreciate the sheer grandeur and significance of this remarkable landmark as you journey through Scotland.
Pass by without stopping
National Wallace Monument
As you pass by the William Wallace Monument, you'll catch a glimpse of one of Scotland's most iconic landmarks. This towering monument commemorates the life and legacy of William Wallace, a Scottish hero who played a crucial role in the country's fight for independence. With its impressive height and stunning views of the surrounding countryside, the monument is a testament to Wallace's bravery and resilience in the face of adversity. Even a fleeting glimpse of this historic landmark is enough to inspire awe and admiration for one of Scotland's most legendary figures.
Pass by without stopping
At Trossachs Woollen Mill souvenir shop and cafe, you will have the opportunity to explore a charming souvenir shop filled with traditional woolen goods, souvenirs, and gifts. The shop is located in the picturesque Trossachs region, known for its scenic beauty and historic significance. In addition travellers will also have the opportunity to grab a quick snack or beverage at the cafe. The stop is about 15-20 minutes. From April to the end of October, tourists can also potentially see and feed Highland cows at this location. These majestic creatures are a beloved symbol of Scotland and are known for their shaggy coats and impressive horns.
15 minutes here
Loch Tulla Viewpoint
Loch Tulla Viewpoint offers stunning panoramic views of the picturesque Scottish Highlands landscape, including the serene Loch Tulla, towering mountains, and rolling hills dotted with heather and lush greenery.
5 minutes here
Glencoe
The Glencoe Valley Viewpoint in Scotland is a must-see for anyone traveling through the Scottish Highlands. Located on the A82 road between Glasgow and Fort William, this viewpoint offers stunning panoramic views of one of Scotland's most iconic and beautiful valleys. Surrounded by towering mountains and rugged hills, the Glencoe Valley Viewpoint offers visitors a breathtaking glimpse into Scotland's stunning natural beauty. Whether you're a nature lover, a photographer, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, this viewpoint is sure to leave you in awe of Scotland's rugged landscape. Visitors can take a short walk from the parking area to reach the viewpoint, where they can enjoy uninterrupted views of the valley and surrounding mountains. The viewpoint is also a popular spot for watching the sunset, which bathes the landscape in a warm glow and offers a truly magical experience.
5 minutes here
The Meeting of the Three Waters
The Meeting of the Three Waters in Scotland is a stunning natural wonder where three rivers converge to create a mesmerizing display of rushing water and swirling currents.
5 minutes here
The Three Sisters are a trio of majestic peaks located in Glencoe, one of Scotland's most beautiful and scenic areas. The mountains are part of the Bidean nam Bian mountain range and are named after the three steep ridges that form their distinctive shape. The Three Sisters are a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of hiking and climbing opportunities for all levels of experience. From gentle walks to challenging climbs, the area has something for everyone.
5 minutes here
Loch Achtriochtan
Loch Achtriochtan is a picturesque freshwater loch located in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, near the village of Glencoe. The loch is surrounded by steep mountain peaks, providing a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching.
5 minutes here
Fort Augustus
Fort Augustus is a charming Scottish village situated at the southern end of Loch Ness, one of Scotland's most famous bodies of water. Loch Ness is famous for its mysterious and elusive inhabitant, the legendary Loch Ness Monster. Visitors can enjoy exploring the stunning scenery of the Scottish Highlands by taking a cruise on Loch Ness. Visitors can explore the Caledonian Canal, which runs through the heart of Fort Augustus and features a series of impressive locks. At Fort Augustus you will various shops selling traditional Scottish goods. Fort Augustus and Loch Ness are a must-see destination for anyone seeking a peaceful retreat amidst stunning natural scenery, with a touch of mystery and magic thrown in. (Boat tour price starts from £19.00. Not included in the tour price)
120 minutes here
Laggan
The Laggan Dam in Scotland is a marvel of modern engineering, located in the heart of the Scottish Highlands. Constructed in the 1930s, the dam spans the River Spean and is a vital part of Scotland's hydroelectric power industry. In addition to its practical uses, the Laggan Dam is also a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The area around the dam offers a range of hiking and biking trails, as well as opportunities for fishing and boating on the nearby Loch Laggan. The Laggan Dam is also located in a stunningly beautiful area of the Scottish Highlands, surrounded by rolling hills and breathtaking mountain scenery. Visitors can take in the views from the top of the dam, or take a leisurely stroll along the riverbank to appreciate the natural beauty of the area.
5 minutes here
Dalwhinnie Distillery
If you're a whisky lover, a visit to Dalwhinnie distillery in Scotland is a must. Located in the Cairngorms National Park, this picturesque distillery is one of the highest in Scotland, and produces a smooth, mellow single malt whisky that's beloved by connoisseurs around the world. The distillery has been in operation since 1897, and visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the traditional whisky-making process, from malting and mashing to fermentation and distillation. Whether you're a seasoned whisky aficionado or just curious to learn more about this famous Scottish spirit, a visit to Dalwhinnie distillery is sure to be a highlight of your trip. (Guided distillery tour not included - price from £17.00)
60 minutes here · Admission not included
Pitlochry
If there is enough time on the way back to Edinburgh you will have last stop in Pitlochry. Pitlochry is a charming Scottish town that serves as the perfect pit stop on your journey through the beautiful Scottish Highlands. With a stop of around 30 minutes, visitors can take advantage of the town's many amenities, including a variety of cafes and restaurants, as well as quaint shops and boutiques, offering a range of souvenirs and gifts to bring home.
30 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Edinburgh
The default pick-up location is in front of the West Register Office. Please look for a vehicle, the details of which you will receive the day before.
Hotel pickup
Pickup is available for selected locations. Pickup begins about 5 minutes before departure.
Ends at
The default pick-up location is in front of the West Register Office. Please look for a vehicle, the details of which you will receive the day before.
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 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Ed Private Tours
Know before you go
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- If you're considering a trip to Edinburgh Castle or any other castles, obtaining the Explorer Pass from Historic Scotland could be worthwhile. The price for a Historic Scotland 7 Day Explorer Pass ranges from £35.00 to £44.00 for adults, depending on the season. This pass grants access to various sites including Blackness Castle, Doune Castle, Stirling Castle, Edinburgh Castle, Urquhart Castle, Linlithgow Palace, and more. For further details, please refer to the Historic Scotland Website
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 67 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
7 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
The guide
6 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Photo opportunities
6 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Good for families
2 mentionsReviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.
Pace and timing
2 mentionsSeveral reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
Small groups
2 mentionsThe group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.
Traveler reviews
67 verified traveler reviews for Loch Ness, Glencoe and the Highlands Private Day Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
We had the most wonderful...
We had the most wonderful experience with Ed! He was polite, kind, respectful, and prepared. He met us at our hotel and provided waters for our group. He had the BEST sense of humor and a vast knowledge of Scotland. We were so appreciative of his flexibility and willingness to accommodate the needs of our group! We would definitely recommend him! Be prepared for a long day but it was spectacular. Use the bathroom whenever you can.
via Viator
Well worth it
Ed was very knowledgeable and customized the trip for my family. Plenty of stops and photo ops. Highly recommended.
via Viator
Edmont’s tour of the Highlands
Edmont was a terrific guide for our day trip to the Highlands. A very comfortable Mercedes van and excellent driver made the trip very enjoyable. Edmont answered all the questions thrown at him with facts and humor, and gave us very good recommendations, we found, for our remaining time in Edinburgh. The itinerary gave us the vast overview that we had wanted.
via Viator
Great tour from Edinburgh with a wonderful Tour Guide
We had a truly wonderful day. We had originally booked a long 10-12 hour tour from Edinburgh to Loch Ness. Since we had already seen Loch Ness on a previous trip, we decided to modify our itinerary. Ed was exceptionally helpful and flexible throughout this process. He suggested a fantastic 8-hour alternative that included visits to three beautiful castles, which he personally guided us through. Ed is incredibly knowledgeable. I strongly recommend this modified 8-hour castle tour!
via Viator
Take the tour and never look back!
Oh definitely take this journey with Edmonton! He is full of knowledge and a joy to be in a car with all day. He's quick to make sure you get to see the things that are important to you and he's always there to offer to take a photo. He had some great suggestions and surprised us with some treats for the Highland Coos (aka Cows) which drew them near us and able to get some awesome photos and videos. Of course the landscape is amazing to see but the Coos were the highlight for me.
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 12 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Hotel pickup
- Available for selected locations
- Booked in 30 days
- 23
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Who runs this experience
Operated by Ed Private Tours, who run 3 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 61.3.
See everything Ed Private Tours runsWhy this scores 67
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Loch Ness, Glencoe and the Highlands Private Day Tour: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Edinburgh.
How much does Loch Ness, Glencoe and the Highlands Private Day Tour cost?
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Prices start at $900 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 Loch Ness, Glencoe and the Highlands Private Day Tour take?
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Plan for about 12 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 Loch Ness, Glencoe and the Highlands Private Day Tour worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 67 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 67 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 Loch Ness, Glencoe and the Highlands Private Day Tour?
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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 Loch Ness, Glencoe and the Highlands Private Day Tour suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 12-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Loch Ness, Glencoe and the Highlands Private Day Tour?
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Around 23 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 12-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Loch Ness, Glencoe and the Highlands Private Day Tour 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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