Tour Overview
Experience the Scottish Highlands on our Highland Lochs, Glens & Castles Tour from Edinburgh.
Travelling west from Edinburgh, this small-group adventure takes you into the heart of the Scottish Highlands, where tranquil lochs, historic castles and charming Highland towns await.
Your journey begins with views of Stirling Castle, one of Scotland’s most historic fortresses, before we reach our first stop at Doune Castle, a magnificent 14th-century stronghold famous for its appearances in Outlander, Game of Thrones and Monty Python and the Holy Grail.
Continuing into the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, we pause beside the peaceful waters of Loch Lubnaig, surrounded by Highland mountains and forest scenery.
From here the journey continues deeper into the western Highlands to Inveraray, a charming Georgian town on the shores of Loch Fyne. You’ll have time to explore the town and, if you wish, visit Inveraray Castle or discover the fascinating history of Inveraray Jail.
On the return journey we stop at the famous Rest and Be Thankful viewpoint before visiting the picturesque village of Luss, set along the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond.
From Doune Castle and Loch Lubnaig to Inveraray, Rest and Be Thankful and Loch Lomond, this tour combines Highland scenery, historic castles and lochside villages in one memorable day from Edinburgh.
Why Choose This Tour
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✔ Small Group Experience
Travel in a comfortable 16-seat mini coach for a more personal small-group journey through the Scottish Highlands.
✔ Historic Castles & Highland Towns
Visit Doune Castle, Inveraray and the charming village of Luss on Loch Lomond.
✔ Beautiful Lochs & Mountain Scenery
Experience the landscapes of the Trossachs, Loch Awe, Loch Fyne and Loch Lomond.
✔ Expert Driver-Guides
Our knowledgeable Scottish guides bring Scotland’s landscapes, stories and history to life.
Tour Highlights Video
Tour Route
Tour Itinerary
Stirling Castle & Doune Castle
Leaving Edinburgh, we travel west towards the Highlands, passing Stirling Castle, one of Scotland’s most historically significant fortresses and the backdrop to many of the nation’s greatest battles.
Our first stop is Doune Castle, an impressive 14th-century stronghold famous for its appearances in film and television. It has featured as Castle Leoch in Outlander, Winterfell in Game of Thrones, and several scenes in Monty Python and the Holy Grail. You’ll have time to explore the castle and discover its fascinating past. Entry tickets can be added during the booking process and are recommended, as availability on the day can be limited.
Loch Lubnaig
Continuing into Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, we travel through rugged hills, woodland and shimmering lochs as the scenery becomes increasingly Highland in character.
We stop beside the peaceful waters of Loch Lubnaig, a beautiful loch nestled between the mountains of Ben Ledi and Ben Vane. This is the perfect place for a short break, where you can enjoy refreshments while taking in the surrounding Highland scenery.
Kilchurn Castle
Our journey continues west to the shores of Loch Awe, where we stop to admire the dramatic ruins of Kilchurn Castle.
Standing proudly at the head of the loch and surrounded by mountains, this atmospheric 15th-century fortress is one of Scotland’s most photographed castles and a perfect place to capture memorable Highland photos.
Inveraray
We then arrive in the picturesque town of Inveraray, set on the shores of Loch Fyne and once home to the powerful Clan Campbell.
With time to explore, this charming Highland town is the perfect place to enjoy lunch, wander its elegant streets or browse local shops.
You may choose to visit Inveraray Castle (optional entry), the historic seat of the Duke of Argyll, or explore Inveraray Jail, an award-winning museum offering a fascinating glimpse into Scotland’s prison history.
Please note: Inveraray Castle is open seasonally and is usually closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. When the castle is closed, you will still have time to explore the town and enjoy views of the castle exterior.
Rest and Be Thankful
As we begin our return journey, we stop at the famous Rest and Be Thankful viewpoint, a historic mountain pass built by soldiers in the 18th century.
From here you can admire breathtaking views across the surrounding Highland glens, one of the most scenic viewpoints in western Scotland.
Luss & Loch Lomond
Our final stop of the day is the picturesque village of Luss, set on the famous bonnie banks of Loch Lomond.
Stroll through its charming streets, admire the traditional cottages and enjoy beautiful views across the loch before we begin our journey back to Edinburgh, arriving early evening.
Tour Highlights
Doune Castle
Step inside Doune Castle, a magnificent 14th-century fortress featured in Outlander, Game of Thrones and Monty Python.
Loch Lubnaig
Pause beside the tranquil waters of Loch Lubnaig, a beautiful Highland loch surrounded by mountains and peaceful woodland scenery.
Kilchurn Castle & Loch Awe
Photograph the dramatic ruins of Kilchurn Castle, standing at the head of Loch Awe and one of Scotland’s most iconic castle views.
Inveraray & Inveraray Castle
Explore the charming town of Inveraray with time to visit its historic castle or discover the stories of Inveraray Jail.
Rest and Be Thankful
Stop at this famous Highland viewpoint and admire sweeping scenery across one of Scotland’s most spectacular mountain passes.
Luss & Loch Lomond
Visit the picturesque village of Luss and enjoy peaceful views across the famous bonnie banks of Loch Lomond.
With stops at castles, lochs and Highland viewpoints throughout the day, this tour offers a rewarding mix of scenery, history and time to explore.
Ready to explore the Scottish Highlands?
Reserve your seat on our Highland Lochs, Glens & Castles Tour from Edinburgh today.
Before You Go
Your tour departs from Waterloo Place, Edinburgh, opposite Howies Restaurant.
Waterloo Place
Edinburgh
EH1 3BQ
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Please arrive in good time before departure.
Check-in closes 15 minutes before departure to allow your driver-guide to complete the safety briefing.
Final Check-in closes at 08:15.
If you arrive after this time we may not be able to accommodate you on the tour.
Your Highland Lochs, Glens & Castles Tour from Edinburgh departs at 08:30.
The tour returns to Edinburgh at approximately 18:30.
Please note that return times may vary slightly depending on traffic or weather conditions.
Passengers may bring one piece of luggage similar to an airline cabin bag, with a maximum weight of 15kg.
Suggested maximum size:
65cm × 45cm × 30cm
(25in × 18in × 12in)
You may also bring a small personal bag for items needed during the journey.
Due to vehicle weight limits this policy cannot be adjusted.
We regret that we cannot carry children under the age of 5 years on our scheduled tours.
- Travel in a comfortable 16-seat mini coach
- Air-conditioned vehicle with onboard air purification system
- Experienced local driver-guide sharing stories and local knowledge throughout the tour
- Entry to Doune Castle (optional)
- Entry to Inveraray Castle (optional)
- Entry to Inveraray Jail (optional)
- Meals and refreshments
Scotland’s weather can change quickly, so we recommend bringing:
- Waterproof jacket
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Layers of clothing
- Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat
- A camera to capture the scenery
Most places we visit accept card payments, but we recommend bringing some cash for smaller purchases.
Frequently Asked Questions
This full-day tour lasts approximately 10 hours, departing Edinburgh in the morning and returning in the early evening.
Yes. This Highland Lochs, Glens & Castles Tour from Edinburgh stops at Doune Castle, where you can explore the historic 14th-century fortress featured in Outlander, Game of Thrones and Monty Python and the Holy Grail.
No. Entry to Doune Castle is optional and not included in the tour price. Guests who wish to visit should book tickets directly on the Doune Castle website in advance for the 10:00 entry slot, as this is the only suitable time for the tour schedule.
Yes. This tour visits the town of Inveraray, where you will have time to explore the town and optionally visit Inveraray Castle or Inveraray Jail.
No. Inveraray Castle operates seasonally and is usually closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays during the open season. When the castle is closed, you will still have time to explore Inveraray and admire the castle from the outside.
Yes. This tour includes scenic stops at both Loch Lubnaig and Kilchurn Castle, giving you time to enjoy the views and take photographs.
Yes. This tour operates with a maximum of 16 passengers, allowing for a more personal experience and more opportunities to enjoy Scotland’s landscapes and viewpoints.
Yes. There are several comfort stops throughout the day, including time for lunch and refreshments in the town of Inveraray.
Scottish weather can change quickly, but the tour runs in most conditions. In fact, changing weather often makes the landscapes even more dramatic.
This Highland Lochs, Glens & Castles Tour from Edinburgh includes a number of scenic drives through the Scottish Highlands. Throughout the day there are several stops, including Doune Castle, Loch Lubnaig, Inveraray and Loch Lomond, giving you plenty of opportunities to stretch your legs and enjoy the scenery.
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