Invergordon Shore Excursion

Planning a stop in Invergordon and eager to explore Scotland’s rugged beauty and storied past? This private shore excursion offers a tailored day out that covers some of the most intriguing sights near the port. While we haven’t personally been on this exact tour, based on the detailed info and reviews, it seems like a solid choice for those wanting a flexible, intimate experience with knowledgeable guides.

What we particularly like about this tour is its focus on customization—you can tweak the stops to match your interests, and it’s designed to be a more personal, less rushed way to see the area. Plus, the stops at iconic sites like Urquhart Castle and Culloden Battlefield promise a mixture of natural beauty and historical significance. One thing to keep in mind is that entrance fees aren’t included, so budget accordingly if you plan to visit some of the paid attractions.

This tour might not be perfect for travelers looking for a more structured, group-paced experience, or those on a tight budget—since it’s a private tour and includes some paid entries. It’s best suited for visitors who want a relaxed, flexible day with a focus on scenic views and historical sites, possibly with an interest in whisky tasting if time allows.

Key Points

• Flexibility: The private tour allows you to customize the itinerary within reason, making the day personalized.
• Historic Sites: Key stops include Culloden Battlefield and Beauly Priory, offering rich insights into Scotland’s past.
• Stunning Views: The drive to Loch Ness and the visit to Urquhart Castle promise memorable vistas.
• Additional Options: Tasting opportunities at distilleries like Glen Ord can be arranged if time permits.
• Cost Considerations: Entrance fees for attractions like Urquhart Castle (£14.50) and Culloden (£14) are extra.
• Duration & Comfort: The trip is designed to last about 6 to 8 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point and Pickup

Your adventure begins at the Invergordon cruise port, conveniently located at Oilfield Support Base, Shore Rd. The tour offers pickup and drop-off from this port, making your day hassle-free. The flexibility of a private tour means your start time can be adjusted according to your cruise schedule, a big plus for those with tight or unpredictable ship timings.

First Stop: Clava Cairns

Just about a 50-minute drive from the port, your first stop is the Clava Cairns, a collection of Bronze Age burial chambers thought to be around 4,000 years old. It’s a site that feels like stepping back in time—mysterious and sacred. Admission is free, so you get to soak in these ancient stones without any extra cost. The site is perfect for stretching your legs and taking some atmospheric photos, especially with the wild Scottish landscape as a backdrop.

Second Stop: Culloden Battlefield

Next, you’ll head approximately 15 minutes from Clava Cairns to Culloden Battlefield, the site of the infamous 1746 Jacobite uprising defeat. This spot is a powerful reminder of Scottish history. The battlefield itself is open for walking, or you can choose to visit the visitor centre for a more in-depth experience (£14 per person). The reviews highlight that the guide was very knowledgeable, which can make a big difference when exploring such a historically charged site.

Third Stop: Urquhart Castle

Driving about an hour from Culloden takes you to Urquhart Castle, perched on the shores of Loch Ness. The castle ruins date from the 13th to 16th centuries and are among Scotland’s most photographed sights. Walking around the ruins offers stunning views of Loch Ness, and you’ll probably get a sense of the castle’s strategic importance. Admission is £14.50, so consider whether you want to include it in your plans—your guide can help with that. The scenery here is truly picture-perfect, especially if you’re lucky with weather.

Final Stop: Beauly Priory

The last stop is Beauly Priory, founded around 1230 for Valliscaulian monks. It’s a quieter, more contemplative site, and admission is free. It’s about a 40-minute drive from Urquhart Castle, after which you’ll head back to Invergordon, roughly a 45-minute drive. This gives you a peaceful ending to a day filled with history and landscape.

Tasting and Additional Experiences

If your schedule and the guides’ flexibility allow, you might squeeze in a whisky tasting at The Singleton or Glen Ord Distillery. This optional addition can round off the day with a splash of Scotland’s famous whisky culture, giving you a taste of local craftsmanship. It’s a small perk, but for whisky enthusiasts or those curious about Scotland’s national drink, it’s a welcome feature.

Value for Money and Practical Considerations

At $1,768.50 for a group of up to six, the cost breaks down to around $295 per person, which might seem steep initially. However, considering this includes a private guide, customized itinerary, bottled water, shortbread, and a wee dram of whisky, it can be a good deal if you value privacy and flexibility. The entrance fees for attractions aren’t included, so budget around an additional £28 for two paid sites, plus lunch and any extras.

The tour lasts roughly 6 to 8 hours, giving plenty of time to explore without feeling hurried. The small group setting (up to six people) means you’ll get more personalized attention and the chance to ask questions about each site—something larger tours often lack.

Authentic Perspectives from Past Travelers

One reviewer summed up their experience as a “Great Outlander themed shore excursion,” praising the small group size and knowledgeable guide. They appreciated how smoothly the day went, highlighting the guide’s timeliness and friendliness. Another mentioned that the guide was there waiting right after disembarkation, making for a smooth start.

While the tour is highly praised for its scenic views and historical insights, some note that entrance fees add to the overall expense. Still, most agree that the flexibility and intimate setting make this a worthwhile option.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re after a relaxed, customizable day with a knowledgeable guide, this private Invergordon tour might be just what you need. It’s perfect for history buffs, scenery lovers, or those who appreciate the comfort of a private vehicle and the freedom to tailor the day. It suits travelers who don’t mind paying a bit extra for personalized service and the chance to avoid crowded group tours.

However, if you’re on a strict budget or prefer a highly structured schedule, you might want to consider other options. Also, if visiting specific attractions like Urquhart Castle or Culloden is a must for you, be prepared for the additional entrance fees.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes pickup and drop-off at Invergordon cruise port, bottled water, shortbread, and a wee dram of whisky. It is a private experience tailored to your group.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the entrance fees for attractions like Urquhart Castle (£14.50) and Culloden Battlefield (£14) are extra and payable on the day.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, as a private tour, you can request changes or additions within reason, provided they are arranged in advance.

How long is the tour?
The planned duration is about 6 to 8 hours, allowing plenty of time at each stop without rush.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, some cash or card for entrance fees, and an umbrella or raincoat, just in case the Scottish weather surprises you.

Is the tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the stops are mostly outdoor and historic sites, which can be interesting for older children, especially those interested in history.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather, as bad weather might lead to cancellations or rescheduling, with a full refund offered if it’s canceled due to weather.

This Invergordon shore excursion combines history, scenic beauty, and the flexibility to craft a day that suits your interests. Whether you’re captivated by ancient stones, rugged battlefields, or the allure of Loch Ness, this tour offers an intimate look at Scotland’s captivating landscape. It’s best for those who want a personalized experience and are happy to pay a little extra for comfort and customization.