Loch Ness, Glencoe, the Highlands Guided Day Tour from Edinburgh
Traveler rating
4.6/5
Based on 2,670 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Loch Ness, Glencoe, the Highlands Guided Day Tour from Edinburgh worth booking?
Loch Ness, Glencoe, the Highlands Guided Day Tour from Edinburgh is a 12-hour experience in Edinburgh, United Kingdom, from $79 per person. It scores 83 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.6/5 rating across 2,670 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 83 / 100
- Rating
- 4.6/5 (2,670)
- Duration
- 12 hours
- From
- $79 per person
This 12 hour tour will fit in as much of Scotland as can possibly done in one day! You will witness the stunning scenery of Glencoe and Ben Nevis before you make your way to Loch Ness for a cruise across its deep waters looking for evidence of its renowned resident, Nessie. Enjoy traveling in comfort on one of our luxury, modern, air-conditioned coaches as you witness the stunning sights that Scotland has to offer. Please note: This tour is designed to pack into one day as much as possible of Scotland’s highlights! While much of the journey is enjoyed from the comfort of the coach due to the distance covered, you will experience breathtaking views and scenery along the way.
What you get
About this experience
This 12 hour tour will fit in as much of Scotland as can possibly done in one day! You will witness the stunning scenery of Glencoe and Ben Nevis before you make your way to Loch Ness for a cruise across its deep waters looking for evidence of its renowned resident, Nessie. Enjoy traveling in comfort on one of our luxury, modern, air-conditioned coaches as you witness the stunning sights that Scotland has to offer. Please note: This tour is designed to pack into one day as much as possible of Scotland’s highlights! While much of the journey is enjoyed from the comfort of the coach due to the distance covered, you will experience breathtaking views and scenery along the way.
What's included
Included
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Live commentary on board
- Knowledgeable driver-guide
Not included
- Food and drinks
- Gratuities
- Attraction Tickets
- On-board restrooms
- On-board WiFi
What you'll see and do
Edinburgh
Your 1-day Loch Ness, Glencoe and the Highlands tour departs from our Edinburgh City Centre departure point at Castle Terrace, outside the NCP Car Park, EH1 2EW in the morning. Departing from Edinburgh, our Loch Ness tour travels northwest, passing the imposing Stirling Castle.
5 minutes here
Callander
We make our first stop in the Callander area in the highlands for some light refreshments, with the possibility of seeing a Highland coo depending on the time of year.
20 minutes here
Glencoe
We travel on through Rob Roy Country of Clans MacGregor and Campbell then over the dramatic landscape of Rannoch Moor and the Black Mount to Glencoe, one of Scotland’s most famous glens, site of the 1692 massacre of the Clan MacDonald. Here we pause for a photo stop, and to soak up the atmosphere in this haunting glen.
10 minutes here
Fort William
Continuing via Loch Linnhe, our Loch Ness tour will stop in the Fort William area for lunch then continue into the natural beauty of the Great Glen as we pass beneath Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis.
50 minutes here
Urquhart Castle
Travelling on, we will pass though the pretty village of Fort Augustus before reaching Urquhart Castle - here, choose to take part in a cruise and castle excursion (optional extra).
30 minutes here · Admission not included
Loch Ness
If not, we will continue up to the Clansman Hotel where you will have an hour of free time before we begin our return journey to Edinburgh. Here, you can relax in the hotel with an option take part in the “Donald Fraser – Illicit Whisky Experience”. This is a 20 to 30-minute, on-site experience, where guests can enjoy a film about the history of illicit whisky distilling, paired with a dram of the Donald Fraser blend. (Optional extra £12). Alternatively, you could spend your time exploring the area - such as the Old Coffin Road Walk which begins at the hotel car park. There is also the option to take a one-hour round trip cruise along the loch, with stunning views of Urquhart Castle (optional extra). Loch Ness, 24 miles long and over 700 feet deep, is most famous for its sightings of the Loch Ness monster, affectionately known as “Nessie”. Spend time at Loch Ness, where you can choose to take a wonderful cruise on the loch.
60 minutes here · Admission not included
Pitlochry
The Loch Ness tour will start its return for home, journeying through the Cairngorms National Park and the woodland scenery of Perthshire, including the Forest of Atholl, with an evening refreshment stop at the Victorian resort town of Pitlochry, en route back to Edinburgh, where the Loch Ness tour ends. Top tip: to save time at the stops and ensure you get to make the most of every minute there, bring along a cold packed lunch!
30 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Edinburgh
Our Edinburgh tours depart from Castle Terrace, Edinburgh EH1 2EW, outside the NCP Car Park. What3Words Address: ///casino.cove.works
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Our Edinburgh tours depart from Castle Terrace, Edinburgh EH1 2EW, outside the NCP Car Park. What3Words Address: ///casino.cove.works
Options you can book
Tour with Cruise
Cruise: Guided coach tour including a 1-hour Loch Ness cruise.
Tour with Castle and Cruise
Castle & Cruise: Guided coach tour including approximately 40 minutes at Urquhart Castle and a 30-minute Loch Ness cruise.
Tour Only
Tour only: Guided coach tour.
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 30 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Timberbush Tours
Know before you go
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Minimum age is 4 years old.
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.
- Collapsible wheelchairs with removable wheels can be accommodated providing the passenger is accompanied by someone who can assist them board and disembark the bus.
- Please arrive 30 minutes before your tour's departure time.
- Digital translations in English, German, French, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, Russian & Mandarin available on request.
- Top tip - You could bring a cold packed lunch with you in order to make the most of your time at each stop - this would be particularly time-saving in the busier months!
- We recommend taking cash for the optional extras including the Loch Ness cruise. You can arrange payment with your driver-guide on the day and there is no need to pre-book optional extras.
- Our coaches do not have restrooms, however, there are frequent comfort breaks during the journey at stops with restrooms.
- We cannot guarantee on any tour that we will see specific wildlife like Highland Cows but keep your eyes on the scenery and you might be able to spot some!
- Please note: This tour is designed to pack into one day as much as possible of Scotland’s highlights! While much of the journey is enjoyed from the comfort of the coach due to the distance covered, you will experience breathtaking views and scenery along the way.
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 2,666 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
7 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
4 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Food and drink
2 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Pace and timing
2 mentionsSeveral reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
Traveler reviews
2,666 verified traveler reviews for Loch Ness, Glencoe, the Highlands Guided Day Tour from Edinburgh. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Great tour !
Had a great experience with our tour! Our tour guide, David, was very friendly and knowledgeable. For how long the tour is and what you get to see, I think the admission fee is well worth the money. The overall atmosphere of the tour was very calm and charming. The bus was quite full but did not feel crowded. I would recommend this tour to anyone who has interest in seeking the Highlands and Loch Ness. The drive has incredible views as well.
via Tripadvisor
Highlands and Loch Ness tour
David our Tour guide/driver/storyteller/Historian was absolutely fabulous and helped make it a special day
via Tripadvisor
What a fun day! It was me...
What a fun day! It was me and my friend’s first time in Scotland, and we truly felt that we got to experience so much of the gorgeous country in just 12 hours. Our guide, Sarah, was so knowledgeable on all we saw, and her jokes and fun facts kept the day from ever being boring. Our driver, Neil, also was a delight and did a wonderful job getting us through the windy roads! During the tour, we viewed Glencoe and the Three Sisters, visited Loch Ness and Uqurhart Castle, saw some highland cows and did some shopping! Overall, we had a blast and will be recommending Sarah, Neil, and the tour group to all our friends. I look forward to coming again with my family for another tour!
via Viator
An Unforgettable Day in the Scottish Highlands – Thank You, Sarah & Neil!
What an amazing experience! Our journey through the Scottish Highlands, Glencoe and Loch Ness was truly one of the highlights of our trip to Scotland. The landscapes were breathtaking, but what made this day even more special were the wonderful people who accompanied us. Sarah was an exceptional guide! Full of positive energy, warmth and kindness, she made the entire journey engaging and enjoyable. Her fascinating stories, historical insights, interesting facts and great choice of music brought the Highlands to life. She was always patient, friendly and genuinely enthusiastic. Her beautiful energy was contagious! Neil was a fantastic driver! He drove with great skill and care throughout the journey, making us feel completely safe and comfortable. He was also incredibly kind and welcoming. Together, Sarah and Neil made the perfect team. Thanks to them, this wasn’t just a sightseeing tour, but a wonderful experience filled with discovery, beauty and great memories. We returned to Edinburgh with full hearts, beautiful photographs and an even deeper appreciation for Scotland. Thank you, Sarah and Neil, for your professionalism, kindness and wonderful energy. You made our day truly unforgettable! We couldn’t recommend this experience more highly!
via Tripadvisor
The guide mede the experience
The guide was really amazing, he made the tour fun and interesting, also he knows a lot about the part that we went thru and he shared stories and mith about everything. 10/10
via Tripadvisor
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
- Price range
- $79 to $125
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 934
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Who runs this experience
Operated by Timberbush Tours, who run 32 experiences we rank across 3 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 74.1 and 1 in the 90+ Club.
See everything Timberbush Tours runsWhy this scores 83
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Loch Ness, Glencoe, the Highlands Guided Day Tour from Edinburgh: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Edinburgh.
How much does Loch Ness, Glencoe, the Highlands Guided Day Tour from Edinburgh cost?
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Prices start at $79 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, the Highlands Guided Day Tour from Edinburgh 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, the Highlands Guided Day Tour from Edinburgh worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 83 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.6/5 across 2,670 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in Edinburgh, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Loch Ness, Glencoe, the Highlands Guided Day 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 Loch Ness, Glencoe, the Highlands Guided Day Tour from Edinburgh 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, the Highlands Guided Day Tour from Edinburgh?
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Around 934 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, the Highlands Guided Day 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 Loch Ness, Glencoe, the Highlands Guided Day Tour from Edinburgh?
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Included: In-vehicle air conditioning; Live commentary on board; and Knowledgeable driver-guide. Not included: Food and drinks; Gratuities; Attraction Tickets; and On-board restrooms. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Loch Ness, Glencoe, the Highlands Guided Day Tour from Edinburgh?
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Our Edinburgh tours depart from Castle Terrace, Edinburgh EH1 2EW, outside the NCP Car Park. What3Words Address: ///casino.cove.works Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Loch Ness, Glencoe, the Highlands Guided Day 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 Loch Ness, Glencoe, the Highlands Guided Day 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.
Is Loch Ness, Glencoe, the Highlands Guided Day Tour from Edinburgh wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Collapsible wheelchairs with removable wheels can be accommodated providing the passenger. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Loch Ness, Glencoe, the Highlands Guided Day Tour from Edinburgh if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Edinburgh. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about Loch Ness, Glencoe, the Highlands Guided Day Tour from Edinburgh?
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Across 2,670 reviews averaging 4.6 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Several reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
What booking options are available for Loch Ness, Glencoe, the Highlands Guided Day Tour from Edinburgh?
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There are 3 options to choose from, including Tour with Cruise, Tour with Castle and Cruise, Tour Only. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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