Invergordon is a fantastic port for exploring the Scottish Highlands—especially if you enjoy intimate, well-organized tours that focus on history, castles, and legendary landscapes. Its proximity to iconic sites like Loch Ness and Culloden Battlefield makes it an ideal starting point for immersive day trips. Many travelers rave about tours that combine scenic beauty with fascinating stories, like the Port Tour of Culloden, Cairns & Cawdor Castle; with a small-group setting, this tour offers a personal experience that big buses simply can’t match. It’s perfect for those who want detailed storytelling and a flexible schedule, especially since it includes hassle-free port pickup and drop-off.
What makes Invergordon especially appealing for guided tours is the diversity of options—ranging from full-day excursions and private tours to thematic trips focusing on Outlander filming sites or whisky tastings. You can explore remote castles, walk battlefields, or even combine scenic drives with local food stops. Below, we’ve compiled the best options, highlighting what each offers so you can find the perfect fit for your interests and travel style.
1. INVERGORDON PORT Tour of Culloden, Cairns & Cawdor Castle
For about $124, this 7-hour tour offers a comprehensive introduction to the Highlands, with plenty of history and scenery. It’s a small-group experience (maximum 14 people), which means more personalized attention from your guide. The tour includes port pickup and drop-off, making it highly convenient for cruise passengers.
Highlights include a visit to Cawdor Castle, where you’ll stroll through its famed gardens and learn about its Shakespearean connection—unless it’s early April when it might be substituted with Urquhart Castle. You’ll explore Clava Cairns, touching stones that date back 4,000 years, and then walk the Culloden Battlefield, the site of the last pitched battle fought on British soil in 1746. Afterward, you’ll have time at Loch Ness for Nessie spotting and a friendly visit to Robertson’s Farm Shop to see Highland cows and alpacas.
Reviews praise the tour for its well-organized stops and a guide who is both knowledgeable and humorous. Many mention how the small-group setting enhances the experience, making it feel more like a day with friends than a crowded bus trip. The added value of personalized service and local insight makes it a great choice for those pressed for time but eager to see key Highland sights.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking an engaging, intimate Highland adventure with historical depth and scenic beauty.
2. Full-Day Tour of Scotland from Invergordon
For around $218, this full-day tour covers a broad swath of Scottish highlights in 6 to 8 hours. It’s perfect for those who want a rundown without feeling rushed, including audio-guided visits to Cawdor Castle and stops at Culloden Battlefield and Inverness.
The itinerary features a scenic drive through the Highlands, with stops at Cawdor Castle, where you’ll enjoy an informative audio tour, and Culloden Battlefield, where a 30-minute walk brings the historic site alive. The tour also manages to include a visit to Inverness, giving you a taste of city life along with the countryside.
Many reviewers highlight the professionalism of the guides and the comfortable transportation. The tour is especially suited for those with limited time who still want to see many of Scotland’s iconic sights. It balances history, scenery, and culture, providing a solid introduction to the Highlands.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a full but manageable day in the Highlands with in-depth historical stories and scenic stops.
3. Urquhart Castle, Loch Ness Centre, Gin, Outlander sites
At approximately $206, this 6-8 hour tour combines famous Highland landmarks with Outlander filming sites and a gin shop visit. It’s perfect for Outlander fans or those interested in Scottish gin, blending scenery, history, and pop culture.
The tour includes a visit to Urquhart Castle ruins, where you can wander the water’s edge and watch a short film about Loch Ness. You’ll explore Inverness, visit the Culloden Battlefield with a guide, then pass through Drumnadrochit with time at the Nessie Centre and a gin shop. If you’re into Outlander, the tour’s stops at Inverness and Culloden will resonate.
Guests commend the knowledgeable guides and the overall variety of experiences. The opportunity to combine the monster legends with whisky or gin tasting makes it a fun, multi-layered day.
Bottom Line: Great for Outlander fans, gin lovers, or anyone who appreciates a mix of history, scenery, and local spirits.
4. Loch Ness, Cawdor Castle, Inverness, Culloden Battlefield & more from Invergordon
Priced at $800 for the group, this private guided tour offers the ultimate flexibility. It’s ideal if you want a customized experience with the comfort of a private vehicle, including personalized commentary and the ability to tailor your stops.
Highlights include Loch Ness, Cawdor Castle, and Culloden Battlefield, along with a scenic drive that covers Beauly Priory and other local sights. The private nature means you can spend more time at each location and enjoy a more relaxed pace.
Reviews are overwhelmingly positive, citing the expert guidance and flexible itinerary as standout features. It’s best suited for those traveling with a small group who want to avoid the crowds and have their own Scottish adventure.
Bottom Line: Perfect for private tours with customized plans, especially if your group values flexibility and personalized attention.
5. Secret Loch Ness, Inverness, Culloden, Cawdor Castle from port
For about $192, this 6-8 hour small-group tour offers a relaxed way to see several Highland highlights, including Loch Ness, Culloden, and Cawdor Castle. Its secret is the focus on photo opportunities and petting Highland cows.
The tour begins with a battlefield visit, then a quick stop at Clava Cairns, exploring Inverness, and touring Cawdor Castle’s grounds. The guide shares stories and local lore, making this a more personal experience. Reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the fun of feeding Highland cows.
A good choice for travelers who want a balanced itinerary with plenty of photo ops and some animal interactions.
Bottom Line: Best for those seeking a relaxed, photo-rich day that covers key Highland sites.
6. INVERGORDON PORT Tour Dunrobin, Dornoch & Distillery
At roughly $124, this 7-hour tour offers a blend of castle visits, scenic views, and a distillery tasting. It’s suited for those craving a mix of history, architecture, and local spirits.
Highlights include the Dunrobin Castle with its gardens and falconry display, a visit to Dornoch, and a stop at the Glenmorangie Distillery for tastings. The tour also takes in Falls of Shin and Millionaires Viewpoint, providing a taste of the Highlands’ natural beauty.
Guests appreciate the small-group intimacy and informative guides. It’s an excellent choice for travelers wanting a well-rounded day with plenty of photo opportunities and a taste of Scotland’s whisky culture.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a diverse day of castles, scenery, and whisky.
7. Full-Day Private Tour to Urquhart Castle Loch Ness and Inverness
This private tour costs around $812 for up to four people and is perfect if you want to customize your Highland experience. It offers flexible stops at Beauly Priory, Urquhart Castle, Loch Ness, and Inverness Castle, with plenty of photo stops.
Guides tailor the day based on your interests, and the vehicle is equipped with Wi-Fi for convenience. Guests love the personalized touch and the opportunity to take their time exploring the sites.
Reviewers note the expert guidance and the ability to skip the crowds with a private setup. It’s suited for travelers who value comfort and bespoke adventures.
Bottom Line: Best for small groups wanting a personalized, flexible Highland day with professional guidance.
8. Cawdor Castle, Inverness, Culloden, Outlander and Loch Ness Tour
Costing about $178, this 6-8 hour bus tour hits many Highland highlights with a focus on Outlander locations. It’s designed for time-pressed travelers who want to see several sites in one day.
It includes Culloden Battlefield, Cawdor Castle, Loch Ness, and Beauly Priory, along with a scenic drive and some Outlander-themed storytelling. Reviewers mention the entertaining guides and the efficient itinerary.
If you’re a fan of the series or just love Scottish scenery, this tour offers a rich package of history, TV magic, and landscapes.
Bottom Line: Suitable for Outlander fans and travelers looking for a well-organized, multi-site day.
9. Invergordon Cruise Excursion to Dunrobin Castle, Dornoch and more
At just under $188, this 6-7 hour tour combines castle visits, historic villages, and distillery tours with a focus on local stories and scenery.
It features stops at Dunrobin Castle, Dornoch Cathedral, and a whisky distillery, giving you a taste of Highlands history and culture. Travelers praise the personalized guidance and the rich storytelling.
It’s perfect if you prefer a more relaxed pace with options to browse and explore.
Bottom Line: Great for those who want a mix of castles, villages, and whisky in a manageable day.
10. Invergordon: Highlands Guided Tour with Cawdor Castle Ticket
For about $213, this 7-hour guided tour is a straightforward way to see Cawdor Castle, Culloden Battlefield, Clava Cairns, and Inverness.
The tour features guided walks at Culloden and self-guided visits at Cawdor, with scenic drives and local commentary. Reviewers note the excellent views and informative guides that bring the sites to life.
It’s perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of structured touring and free time.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those who want guided insights combined with some independence.
11. INVERGORDON Highland Shore Excursion for up to 14 pax (Private)
Costing about $154 per person, this private group tour offers a personalized Highland experience. It covers Loch Ness, Clava Cairns, Inverness, and more, with snacks included and flexible stops.
It’s ideal if you prefer customized itineraries for your group, with the benefit of stress-free port pickup. Many reviews mention the friendly, knowledgeable guides and the relaxed pace.
Best suited for small groups wanting a tailored Highland tour at a reasonable cost.
Bottom Line: Perfect for families or friends seeking a private, flexible Highland adventure.
12. Cawdor Castle, Culloden Battlefield and Clava Cairns
With a price of about $186, this 7-hour tour provides a personalized experience of some of the most iconic sites. It includes guided visits and storytelling at Culloden, Clava Cairns, and Cawdor Castle.
Reviews emphasize the knowledgeable guides and how the small group size enhances the experience. It is especially good for travelers who want to learn more about Scottish history without rushing.
Bottom Line: Great for history enthusiasts seeking a focused, educational day.
13. Invergordon Cruise Excursion – Castle, Whisky and History Tour
This 7-hour private tour costs around $199 and combines castle visits, whisky tasting, and historical sites. The guide customizes the day based on your interests, making it ideal for personalized Highland adventures.
Highlights include Dunrobin Castle, Dornoch, and the Balblair Distillery. Travelers appreciate the flexibility and local stories that make the trip engaging.
Best suited for those wanting a tailored experience with a blend of history, scenery, and whisky.
Bottom Line: Excellent for small groups looking for a customized Scottish Highlands day.
14. Invergordon Shore Excursion Highland Bucket List Tour
At about $165, this 7-hour tour offers a curated Highland experience, guided by your driver, who plans the stops based on your interests. It includes Clava Cairns, Battle of Culloden, and Loch Ness.
Reviewers appreciate the flexibility and personalized approach, with many noting how the driver shares engaging stories and makes the day feel like a personal adventure.
Ideal for travelers who want to maximize their Highland highlights with a custom touch.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who value tailored itineraries and informative guides.
15. LOCH NESS, INVERNESS, CLAVA CAIRNS & MORE FROM INVERGORDON
This 7.5-hour tour combines Loch Ness, Culloden, Clava Cairns, and Cawdor Castle, plus a visit to Singleton Distillery for tastings. It’s designed for travelers wanting a full Highland experience with a focus on scenic beauty and history.
Coverage of Beauly Priory, Inverness, and local legends makes it a solid choice for those who want variety and depth in their day.
Reviews highlight the informative guides and the careful pacing that allows for exploration without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers seeking a comprehensive, well-rounded Highland tour.
How to Choose the Right Highland Tour in Invergordon
When selecting your ideal Highland tour, consider your budget, interests, and time constraints. For a personalized experience, the private options like Full-Day Private Tour to Urquhart Castle Loch Ness and Inverness or the INVERGORDON Highland Shore Excursion for up to 14 pax give you maximum flexibility. If you’re a history buff, tours that include Culloden and Clava Cairns are especially rich in storytelling.
For those on a tighter schedule, the half-day options like the Secret Loch Ness, Inverness, Culloden, Cawdor Castle from port give a solid overview. If you love TV shows like Outlander or whisky, choose a tour that emphasizes those themes.
Remember, booking early is wise, especially during peak cruise season. Also, check if the tour includes port pickup and drop-off—it saves stress and makes your day smoother.
Final Thoughts
Invergordon offers a rich selection of tours that cater to all kinds of travelers—whether you want a private, customizable adventure or a well-organized bus tour covering the highlights. For history lovers, the Culloden and Clava Cairns tour provides deep insights, while Outlander fans will enjoy the Urquhart Castle and Outlander sites. If a private, tailored experience is your preference, the private tours offer a perfect mix of flexibility and personal attention.
No matter your choice, early booking pays off—these popular tours fill up quickly. With options spanning from historical battlefields to scenic castles and distillery visits, Invergordon truly offers a snapshot of Scotland’s rich heritage and stunning landscapes.
