Nestled amid the wild beauty of the Scottish Highlands, Inverness is more than a scenic stop, it’s a vibrant city rich in history, myth, and unforgettable landscapes. Perfectly positioned on the banks of the River Ness, Inverness is the ideal launching pad for our adventure-filled 2-day Inverness, Loch Ness & Highlands Tour from Edinburgh and the immersive 5-day Inverness, Northwest Highlands & Isle of Skye Tour from Edinburgh or from Glasgow.
Where Nature Meets History
Inverness Castle & River Ness
Dominating the city skyline, the 19th-century Inverness Castle offers panoramic views from its red sandstone tower. While our tours don’t include a guided visit inside, guests can enjoy free time in the evening to view the castle and take a riverside stroll.
A walk along the River Ness to the Ness Islands — connected by Victorian suspension bridges and shaded by leafy woodland, makes for a peaceful end to your day.
Clava Cairns
On the 2-day itinerary only, we visit Clava Cairns, a set of Bronze Age burial chambers thought to have inspired Outlander’s Craigh na Dun. This atmospheric site offers a fascinating glimpse into prehistoric life in the Highlands.
Loch Ness & Urquhart Castle
On day two of the 2-day tour, enjoy the option of a Loch Ness cruise, keeping an eye out for the legendary “Nessie.” You’ll then visit the dramatic ruins of Urquhart Castle, perched on the loch’s edge, the perfect blend of medieval history and sweeping Highland scenery.
The Itineraries in Brief
2-Day Inverness, Loch Ness & Highlands Tour (from Edinburgh):
Day 1: Dunkeld for a riverside walk at The Hermitage, visit the Highland Folk Museum (summer) or Ruthven Barracks (winter), explore Rothiemurchus Estate, then on to Clava Cairns before arriving in Inverness for an evening at leisure.
Day 2: Loch Ness cruise, Urquhart Castle, journey along the Great Glen to Banavie for a stroll beside the Caledonian Canal and Neptune’s Staircase, then via Glencoe and Callander back to Edinburgh.
View 2 Day Tour from Edinburgh
5-Day Inverness, Northwest Highlands & Isle of Skye Tour (from Edinburgh or Glasgow):
Day 1: Dunkeld, Ruthven Barracks, Rothiemurchus Estate, and the village of Dores on Loch Ness before arriving in Inverness.
Day 2: Ullapool, Ardvreck Castle, Lochinver, and the Falls of Shin to see salmon leaping, before returning to Inverness for a free evening. Includes travel along parts of the NC500.
Day 3–5: Travel towards Skye, explore the island’s rugged beauty, then return via some of Scotland’s most scenic west coast and Highland routes.
View 5 Day Tour from Edinburgh | View 5 Day Tour from Glasgow
Why Choose Discover Scotland Tours?
- Expert local guides who bring Highland stories, legends, and history vividly to life.
- Effortless travel with all transport, entry tickets, and logistics taken care of.
- Curated experiences chosen for atmosphere, authenticity, and inspiration.