Invergordon Cruise Excursion to Loch Ness and Outlander Sites

Thinking about exploring the Scottish Highlands through a lens that captures both history and the beloved Outlander series? This small-group tour from Invergordon offers a balanced mix of film locations, stunning landscapes, and Scottish cultural stops. It’s a popular choice for cruise passengers and land travelers alike, giving you a taste of the Highlands’ wild beauty along with some fun Outlander trivia.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how focused it is on the key spots that fans and history buffs will love. The chance to walk through Clava Cairns, stand on the historic Culloden Battlefield, and snap photos of Urquhart Castle by Loch Ness makes it feel like a well-rounded day out. Plus, the small group size (max 7 travelers) usually means a more personal, flexible experience.

That said, there are some considerations. The admission fees for Culloden and Urquhart Castle aren’t included, which can add up if you decide to explore those sites more thoroughly. Also, Scotland’s weather can be unpredictable, so don’t expect guaranteed sunshine—be prepared for rain or clouds.

This tour is best suited for Outlander fans, history lovers, and those wanting a scenic day with expert guides. If you’re looking for a cozy, intimate experience that hits the main highlights of the Highlands, it’s a solid pick.

Key Points

• Small group size offers a more personalized and flexible experience
• Comprehensive itinerary includes iconic filming locations and historic sites
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with stories and behind-the-scenes facts
• Price point offers good value considering the stops and guided commentary
• Admission costs are not included for some attractions, so budget accordingly
• Weather can vary, so pack layers and rain gear

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This Invergordon cruise excursion is designed to cater to those eager to experience Scotland’s natural beauty, its fascinating history, and Outlander magic in one go. The tour’s duration of roughly 7 hours strikes a balance—enough time to see quite a bit without feeling rushed, especially since it’s tailored for smaller groups.

Exploring the Highlands and Filming Locations

One of the main draws here is the chance to walk through famous Outlander sites. Fans will love the visit to Clava Cairns, prehistoric stone burial sites dating back around 4000 years—older than the pyramids, in fact. Touching the stones, as Claire did in the show, gives that extra thrill. Several reviews highlight how touching and exploring these ancient stones makes the experience memorable, with one reviewer noting, “That’s what Claire did! I dare you :)”

Next, the Culloden Battlefield offers a chance to stand on the land where one of Scotland’s most pivotal battles took place. The site can feel somber but powerful, especially knowing the series ties its dramatic finale to this location. Visitors can also see the wee hoose used in the series as a hospital, adding a cinematic touch to the historical site. While the admission fee isn’t included, many find the visit worthwhile. “This is where series one ends,” as one reviewer said, and it’s a poignant reminder of Scotland’s turbulent past.

Loch Ness and the Water Horse

No trip to the Highlands would be complete without a stop at Loch Ness. Here, the views are breathtaking—vast, mysterious, and full of story. You’ll have around 30 minutes to soak in the scenery and stroll along the banks, hoping for a glimpse of Nessie. It’s a quick stop, but enough to take photos of the loch’s sweeping vistas. Quite a few reviews mention how much bigger Loch Ness was than expected, which makes the experience even more impressive.

Distillery and Castle: Taste and View

The Great Glen Distillery offers a lovely tasting opportunity with their award-winning gin. It’s a chance to sample a product made from local ingredients while learning about the distillation process. Reviewers describe the gin as “smooth, earthy, and a love letter to nature,” capturing the essence of the Highlands.

The visit to Urquhart Castle provides not only history but also one of the most iconic views of Loch Ness. The castle, dating from the 13th century, is a favorite among photographers. While the admission fee isn’t included, many feel it’s worth paying to walk through the ruins and enjoy the stunning scenery. The castle’s position makes for some memorable photos, with the loch stretching behind it as a dramatic backdrop.

Beauly Priory and the High Country

Finally, the tour takes you to Beauly Priory, a peaceful monastic ruin that’s connected to the series’ journey. It’s a brief stop, yet one that offers a quiet moment amid the more active sites. Visitors have appreciated the history and the picturesque village of Beauly, which feels like stepping back in time.

The Experience in Detail

The tour kicks off bright and early at 9:00 a.m. from Invergordon Cruise Port. With just 7 travelers maximum, the group size usually allows for a cozy, more tailored experience. Your guide—praised for their depth of knowledge and storytelling skills—will accompany you to each stop, sharing behind-the-scenes facts, local legends, and historical context. Several reviews highlight guides like George, Sarah, and Allistar for making the day special with their engaging narratives.

Transportation is comfortable, and the itinerary is designed with a leisurely pace. You’ll have about an hour at Clava Cairns, enough time to explore and take photos. At Culloden, the 1.5-hour visit allows for wandering the battlefield, visiting the visitor center (fee not included), and soaking in the history. The Loch Ness stop is brief but scenic, perfect for stretching your legs and snapping photos.

A notable feature is the distillery visit, where you can taste the local gin and learn about its connection to the Highland environment. Many reviewers appreciated this stop as a highlight—an authentic taste of Scottish craftsmanship.

Urquhart Castle provides a longer 1.5-hour visit, giving you time to walk around the ruins, enjoy panoramic views, and capture that quintessential Highland castle shot.

The final stop at Beauly Priory acts as a gentle wind-down, letting you soak in the quaint village atmosphere and reflect on the day’s adventures.

Pros and Cons

Pros:
– The small-group size enhances interaction, flexibility, and comfort.
– The guided commentary enriches your understanding of each location.
– The stops are well-chosen, with a mix of film sites, history, nature, and local culture.
– The price includes bottled water and the guide’s services, adding value.

Cons:
– Some attractions, like Culloden and Urquhart Castle, require additional admission fees.
– The weather in Scotland can be unpredictable, so don’t expect perfect sunshine every day.
– The duration is about 7 hours, which might be long for those with limited mobility or children.

What the Reviews Say

Feedback from travelers is overwhelmingly positive. Many mention how knowledgeable and engaging their guides were—several highlight guides like George and Sarah for making the experience memorable. One reviewer remarked, “George was very thorough and entertaining,” while another called their guide “amazing” and “full of stories.”

The scenery and historical sites earn praise, with visitors loving the touching stones at Clava Cairns or the views of Loch Ness. The small group setup is often cited as allowing for better interaction and flexibility.

A couple of reviews pointed out that the Outlander connection was somewhat limited, with one noting the main series references being a short visit to Culloden. However, most seem satisfied with the overall experience, especially if they’re fans of Scottish history or scenery.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re a fan of Outlander, this tour is a must-do. It’s a chance to see the iconic filming locations and learn about the Scottish scenery that made the series so popular. The guides’ stories and local knowledge bring each site to life, making the experience more meaningful.

For history enthusiasts, the stops at Culloden and Urquhart Castle provide visual and emotional links to Scotland’s past. The Loch Ness visit offers stunning views and that legendary bit of mystery. The distillery adds a flavorful touch, giving you a taste of local craftsmanship.

The tour works best if you enjoy small-group experiences and appreciate a slower, more personal pace. The flexibility and insights from guides tend to be highly valued. Just remember, some attractions require additional fees, so it’s wise to budget accordingly.

While the weather can be unpredictable, the scenery and storytelling more than compensate. This trip isn’t ideal for travelers with mobility issues or those who prefer a more rigid schedule, but overall, it’s a well-rounded day that offers a good look at the Highlands without feeling rushed.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for cruise passengers? Yes, it departs from Invergordon Cruise Port and is designed for cruise travelers. It’s an easy and convenient way to explore the Highlands during a port stop.

How long is the tour? The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, giving you ample time to visit all the key sites.

Are admission fees included? No, not for Culloden Battlefield and Urquhart Castle. You’ll need to budget extra for these if you plan to enter the sites.

What is the group size? The tour is limited to 7 travelers maximum, which allows for a more intimate and flexible experience.

What should I bring? Pack layers, rain gear, and a camera. Scotland’s weather can change quickly, and there are plenty of photo opportunities.

Is the tour family-friendly? While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the stops are generally suitable for most ages. It’s best suited for those comfortable with walking and standing for periods.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

This Invergordon tour offers a balanced day of scenic beauty, historic sites, and Outlander charm, all in a small-group setting. It’s a great choice for those wanting a more personal experience while uncovering some of Scotland’s most captivating sights.