Inverness: Outlander Tour with Whisky Tasting

If you’re dreaming of exploring the Scottish Highlands through a lens inspired by Outlander, this guided day trip from Inverness might just check a lot of boxes. While we haven’t taken this tour ourselves, we’ve gathered enough details to paint a pretty clear picture of what to expect—plus, the pros and cons you should consider before booking.

What really catches our eye is the way this experience combines stunning historic sites with a delicious whisky tasting at a renowned distillery. The fact that it’s a small-group tour—limited to just seven people—means you’re likely to get a more personal, relaxed experience. On the flip side, it’s a full-day commitment, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy walking and sightseeing without feeling rushed.

Overall, if you’re a history lover, a fan of Outlander, or simply curious about the Highlands, this tour promises a well-rounded, engaging glimpse into Scotland’s ancient and recent past. Just keep in mind that it’s not suitable for very young children or anyone with mobility issues, and you’ll want to be prepared for some walking and changing weather.

Key Points

• Balanced mix of history and scenery: Combining historic sites like Culloden and Clava Cairns with scenic Highland views.
• Small group size: Limited to 7 participants, which allows for a more intimate experience and better interaction with guides.
• Expert-guided experience: Knowledgeable guides help bring the sites to life, often dressed in traditional Scottish attire, enhancing the atmosphere.
• Full-day commitment: Around 8 hours, so it’s best for those ready for a day of exploration.
• Includes whisky tasting: At the Tomatin Distillery, offering a taste of Scotland’s famous spirit.
• Not suitable for children under 5 or those with mobility issues: Keep this in mind when planning your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary: What You’ll Actually Do

The day kicks off at the meeting point outside Highland House of Fraser in Inverness, where you’ll meet your guide and fellow travelers. From there, the journey quickly dives into history and culture—each stop offering its own unique story.

Culloden Clootie Well and Battlefield

Your first stop is the Culloden Clootie Well, a site full of tradition and a bit of mystery. This is a place where visitors still tie rags or cloths as part of old Scottish healing rituals—an intriguing glimpse into customs that survive into the modern age. It’s a quick, atmospheric visit that sets the tone for the day.

Next up is Culloden Battlefield, where the final battle of the Jacobite uprising took place in 1746. Standing on the ground where history unfolded really makes an impact, especially considering this was the end of the Highland way of life. As one reviewer noted, the guide’s storytelling was engaging and brought the site to life, making it more than just a bunch of plaques and fields.

Clava Cairns and Standing Stones

After soaking up the battlefield’s gravity, you’ll head to the Clava Cairns, which are thousands of years old. These prehistoric burial sites and stone circles are fascinating in their silence—they evoke a sense of reverence and mystery about ancient customs. We loved the way the tour explained the significance of these structures, even though so much about their original purpose remains a mystery.

Scenic Drive and Whisky Tasting

From there, it’s a scenic drive to the Tomatin Distillery. Here, you’ll experience a whisky tasting—a highlight for many travelers. The distillery is well-known in the region, and this part of the tour offers a chance to learn about Scotland’s iconic spirit in a relaxed setting. Expect friendly staff, a variety of drams, and an opportunity to understand the whisky-making process, even if you’re not a whisky connoisseur.

More Great Tours Nearby

Ruthven Barracks and Highland Folk Museum

Later, you’ll visit Ruthven Barracks in Kingussie, which offers both historical interest and beautiful views. The ruins of these 18th-century military barracks give a sense of the military presence in the Highlands.

Finally, the tour stops at the Highland Folk Museum in Newtonmore. This outdoor museum features reconstructed buildings and exhibits covering the Highland way of life from the 1740s through to the 1960s. Several scenes from Outlander were filmed here, adding a touch of filmmaking magic to your visit. We appreciated how the museum takes you through time, helping you visualize what life was like for generations of Highlanders.

What Does the Experience Feel Like?

This tour is designed for small groups, so you’ll likely find yourself chatting comfortably with your guide and fellow travelers. One review mentioned the guide dressed in traditional Scottish attire, which added a special charm and made the experience more immersive. The guide’s storytelling skills are praised, making each site come alive with context and anecdotes.

Since the tour involves walking at various stops, comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are a must. Be prepared for some outdoor elements, especially in the Highlands where weather can change quickly. You’ll want to bring a camera—viewpoints and ancient sites lend themselves to great photos.

The tour’s pacing seems well-considered, balancing sightseeing with enough time to appreciate each spot without feeling hurried. The whisky tasting at Tomatin offers a nice break, giving you a chance to relax and soak in the local flavor.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $269 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive day out with lots of value—especially considering the inclusion of a whisky tasting and guided visits to several historic sites. Small group sizes typically mean a more personalized experience, which many travelers appreciate when exploring unfamiliar terrain.

While it’s a bit on the pricier side for a day trip, it’s understandable given the transportation, guide expertise, entrance fees (like the Highland Folk Museum), and the whisky tasting. If you’re someone who appreciates curated experiences that blend history, scenery, and culture, this tour is worth considering.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for history buffs, Outlander fans, and those who enjoy a relaxed pace combined with scenic views. It’s ideal for travelers who don’t mind some walking and are eager to learn about Scottish traditions and history firsthand. The small-group format makes it especially appealing for those who want a more intimate, personalized experience.

However, if you’re traveling with very young children, have mobility challenges, or prefer a leisurely visit with minimal walking, this might not be the best fit.

Final Thoughts

This Inverness Outlander tour offers a well-rounded look at the Highlands’ past—both ancient and recent—wrapped in a friendly, intimate setting. The blend of historical sites like Culloden and Clava Cairns with cultural experiences at the whisky distillery and Highland Folk Museum makes it a compelling option for those wanting a taste of everything.

You’ll love the knowledgeable guides who bring stories to life, the beautiful scenery, and the chance to experience some of Scotland’s most iconic spots in one day. While it’s not without a few logistical considerations—like the full-day commitment and walking involved—it’s a tour that delivers both history and scenery with a dash of Scottish charm.

If you’re a fan of Outlander or just curious about the Highland culture, this trip should definitely be on your list.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 5 years old, mainly because of the walking involved and the nature of the sites.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so plan to bring some snacks or lunch if you might get hungry during the day.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not part of this experience. You’ll need to meet at the designated starting point outside Highland House of Fraser.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, giving you a full day of exploration.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a camera, and water are recommended. Weather can be unpredictable, so dress accordingly.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

Will I get to see filming locations from Outlander?
Yes, the Highland Folk Museum is a filming location from the series, and the guide’s storytelling helps connect the dots to the show.

In the end, if you’re looking for a mix of history, scenery, and Scottish culture in a small-group setting, this Inverness Outlander tour could be just what you need. It’s a chance to step back in time, sample local whisky, and enjoy the beauty of the Highlands—all in one memorable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: