Invergordon Private Sheepdogs, Highland cows and Castle Tour

If you’re planning a trip to the Scottish Highlands and want a guided experience that combines wildlife, history, and scenery—all in a private setting—this tour might just catch your eye. We haven’t personally taken it, but based on the info and reviews, it seems like a well-curated way to see some of Scotland’s most iconic sights without the hassle of self-driving.

What really catches our eye is how this tour offers a mix of hands-on animal encounters—think Highland cows, sheep, and adorable pygmy goats—and visits to historic sites like Cawdor Castle and the Clava Cairns. Plus, the scenic drives through the Highlands promise those breathtaking views everyone raves about.

One thing to keep in mind is the price: at nearly $900 for a group of up to two, it’s more of a splurge, but considering it’s a private tour with a personalized touch, it might be worth it for those seeking comfort and exclusivity.

This experience seems best suited for travelers who love a bit of everything—wildlife, history, scenic landscapes—and value the flexibility and intimacy a private tour offers over larger group excursions. If you’re into discovering the cultural pulse of the Highlands with knowledgeable guides, this could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: This is a private tour, so it’s tailored to your group only, making for a more relaxed and customized day.
• Diverse Stops: From ancient Cairns to majestic castles and lively markets, there’s a good variety of sites that cover history, culture, and scenic beauty.
• Wildlife Encounters: The chance to see Highland cows, sheep, and pygmy goats up close is a highlight for animal lovers.
• Comfort and Convenience: Pickup and private transportation mean less stress, especially if you’re traveling with luggage or young kids.
• Long Day but Worthwhile: With 6 to 8 hours of exploring, it’s a full-day experience—so be prepared for a lot of walking and sightseeing.
• Cost reflects quality: The price is on the higher side, but it includes many entry fees and personalized touches, which adds to the value.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

Stop 1: Leanach

Your day kicks off with a visit to Leanach in the Scottish Highlands. This spot is famous for its natural beauty and traditional farms. We loved the idea of seeing a working sheepdog in action; the guide’s description suggests you’ll get a real taste of rural Scottish life. It’s an hour long, and while the entry is free, it’s a great way to start the day with fresh mountain air and the chance to see sheepdogs doing their thing.

Stop 2: Clava Cairns

Next, you’ll step back in time at Clava Cairns, a 30-minute stop to explore ancient burial sites. The fact that this site’s connection to Outlander might appeal to fans of the show, but beyond that, it’s just a fascinating glimpse into prehistoric Scotland. It’s included in the tour, so you won’t need to pay extra, which is a bonus.

Stop 3: Cawdor Castle

This is arguably the star of the day—an enchanting castle built in 1370, famously linked to Shakespeare’s Macbeth. Spending about 1 hour and 45 minutes here gives you enough time to walk around the grounds and soak in the stories. Entry is included, so while it’s not cheap, the ticket cost is part of the overall value. The castle’s private status and its ties to legend make it a must-see for fans of Scottish history and literature.

Stop 4: Inverness

A relaxed hour and a half at the Victorian Market provides a change of pace with local shopping and a chance to pick up unique Scottish gifts. The market is described as traditional, so it’s perfect for those who enjoy browsing local crafts and tasting a bit of Highland life.

Stop 5: Clootie Well

A 30-minute visit to the Clootie Well offers a peek into Celtic healing traditions. The well’s mystical significance makes it a memorable stop, especially for those interested in ancient practices or just curious about Celtic folklore. It’s a free stop, so it’s an unpressured chance to reflect and explore.

Scenic Drive through the Highlands

Finally, a 1.5-hour scenic drive takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes Scotland has to offer. We’re told the views are stunning, and this part of the tour is a great way to wind down while soaking in the scenery.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

This is a fully private tour, which means your group gets personalized attention and flexibility. Pickup is offered from a central location in Invergordon, and your vehicle is air-conditioned for comfort. The tour includes bottled water, snacks like shortbread or Scottish tablet, and a range of child-friendly seats if needed—so traveling with kids is manageable if you plan ahead.

The total duration is around 6 to 8 hours, making it a full day’s adventure. Starting at 9:00 am, it’s a good option if you want to maximize your sightseeing without feeling rushed. Keep in mind that the transfer from Invergordon to Inverness is about 45 minutes each way, so some of your time is spent in transit.

Pricing is approximately $898.84 for your group, which can seem steep, but this includes vehicle, guide, most entry fees, and a tailored experience. No lunch is included, so plan to bring snacks or eat before or after the tour, especially if you want to avoid high prices or busy eateries.

What Did Travelers Say?

The only review available is glowing, with a perfect 5-star rating. The traveler, Darian_R, described the day as “Beautiful in Scotland,” praising the promptness and friendliness of Cash, the guide. The review mentions that the guide took them to “all kinds of beautiful places,” though unfortunately, they didn’t get to see the Highland cows this time due to a scheduling conflict at the farm. This highlights that, like any outdoor adventure, some elements are dependent on local circumstances beyond the guide’s control.

This review underlines the importance of a good guide—someone knowledgeable, friendly, and flexible makes all the difference in making your day memorable.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a mix of wildlife viewing, historical exploration, and scenic drives—all wrapped in a private, comfortable package. It suits those who appreciate personalized service and are willing to pay a premium for it. It’s especially good if you’re traveling with a partner, a small family, or friends who enjoy cultural and outdoor activities without the crowds.

If you’re interested in Scotland’s castles, ancient sites, and iconic animals, and prefer a guided experience that maximizes your time without the stress of planning, this tour could be a great fit.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour offers a range of child seats from birth to age 12, including rear-facing options. It’s designed to be family-friendly, especially with personalized transportation and flexible stops.

Does the tour include entry to all sites?
Most sites like Clava Cairns, Cawdor Castle, and the Victorian Market are included in the price. However, entry to Cawdor Castle is part of the package, while some other sites might have optional costs or be free.

What is the pickup location?
Pickup is offered from 37 Shore Rd, Invergordon IV18 0EH, UK, with the option to arrange a meeting point if preferred.

How long does the entire trip last?
The tour lasts approximately 6 to 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning to the meeting point at the end.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before will forfeit the payment.

What’s included in the tour price?
Bottled water, snacks (shortbread or Scottish tablet), private transportation, and pickup service are included. Entry to some sites is also covered.

To sum it up, this Scottish Highlands tour offers a well-rounded, private experience blending wildlife, history, and scenic views. It’s ideal for those who want an intimate, flexible day with a knowledgeable guide, especially if you’re keen to see Highland cows, visit castles, and explore Celtic sites. The price might seem high, but for those valuing comfort, personalization, and a curated itinerary, it’s likely to be worth it. If you’re after a relaxed, enriching day in Scotland that hits many highlights, give this tour serious consideration.