Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Inverness & The Highlands – 2 Day Tour

If you’re dreaming of rolling hills, shimmering lochs, and centuries-old castles, a tour covering Loch Ness, Inverness, and the Highlands might be just what you need. We’ve gathered insights from numerous travelers who’ve experienced this trip, and it’s clear that it offers a great mix of scenery, history, and local storytelling. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply someone looking to escape city life for a couple of days, this tour packs a punch.

What we really like about this experience is the expert guidance – guides like Shug and Martin are praised for their knowledge and humor, making the journey both educational and fun. Plus, the scenery, from dramatic Glencoe to the peaceful shores of Loch Ness, really lives up to the hype.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour’s structure is quite packed, meaning your time at some stops might be brief. For those wanting a relaxed, linger-over-every-view experience, it’s good to know that this is more about hitting key highlights efficiently.

This tour suits travelers eager to see the Highlands from the comfort of a small group or coach, especially if they appreciate storytelling and scenic stops rather than deep-dive sightseeing at every location.

Key Points

• Guided Experience: Leave the driving and logistics to the guides, which helps you relax and enjoy the scenery.
• Stunning Stops: Highlights include Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle, Glencoe, and Inverness, offering a variety of landscapes and history.
• Well-Organized Itinerary: The 2-day plan covers major sights with thoughtful timing in each spot.
• Authentic Stories: Guides are known for their engaging, humorous storytelling—making history come alive.
• Comfortable Transport: The tour uses air-conditioned vehicles with small groups, making traveling more pleasant.
• Moderate Price Point: At $154.03 per person, it offers good value considering the stops and included insights.

The Nitty-Gritty of the Tour

How This Tour Works

This 2-day guided trip from Edinburgh is designed for people who want a comprehensive Highland experience without the hassle of planning or driving. Priced at just over $150, it’s a relatively affordable way to see Scotland’s famous sights, especially considering the included narration, transport, and overnight stay in Inverness.

The tour begins early at Timberbush Tours’ meeting point in Edinburgh, with the departure at 8:30 am. You’ll travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned bus with a knowledgeable driver-guide. The maximum group size is around 32 travelers, which strikes a good balance between intimacy and social energy.

What the Itinerary Looks Like

Day 1: From Edinburgh to Inverness via the Highlands

Starting from Edinburgh, the route first takes you to Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, where you can stretch your legs and enjoy the mountain-and-lake scenery. A quick stop here is perfect for photos and soaking in the landscape.

Next, the bus heads to Glencoe, often called one of Scotland’s most dramatic locations. You’ll learn about its haunting history, including the infamous 1692 massacre of the MacDonald clan. Multiple reviews highlight how stunning and evocative Glencoe is—one even compared it to a scene from James Bond’s Skyfall. Keep your camera ready; the views are postcard-worthy.

After Glencoe, the trip continues to Fort William, a picturesque town on the shores of Loch Linnhe. Here, most groups enjoy a lunch break—about 50 minutes—giving you some downtime to explore or grab a snack.

Post-lunch, the tour visits the Commando Memorial, with breathtaking views of Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain. It’s a quiet moment to appreciate both the scenery and the military history.

The afternoon leads to Fort Augustus, a charming town at the southern tip of Loch Ness. This is your first chance to spot Nessie, the legendary monster, or snap some photos of the castle ruins if time permits.

The day wraps up in Inverness, where you’ll check into your accommodation (if booked) or explore at your leisure. Reviewers praise the well-chosen lodging options, often close to restaurants and attractions.

Day 2: From Inverness into the Heart of Highland History

The second day kicks off with a visit to Culloden Battlefield, a poignant site where the Jacobite uprising was defeated. The site offers a sobering insight into Scotland’s turbulent past.

Following, you’ll explore the ancient Clava Cairns, over 4,000 years old, giving a glimpse into Bronze Age burial practices. It’s a short stop but a fascinating one.

Soon after, the tour ventures into Cairngorms National Park, the largest in the UK. You’ll stop at Carrbridge for photos, then relax at Loch Morlich with an optional lunch and a chance to spot local wildlife.

Next, the historic Ruthven Barracks provide a look into military life after the Jacobite Rising, adding a pinch of military history to your trip.

On the way back to Edinburgh, there’s an optional visit to Blair Athol Distillery for a tour and whisky tasting—though this isn’t always guaranteed due to availability. If unavailable, you might explore the charming town of Pitlochry instead.

The tour concludes as you cross the impressive Queensferry Crossing over the Firth of Forth, a marvel of modern engineering, before returning to Edinburgh.

What Travelers Say

The reviews consistently praise the guides’ storytelling skills and their ability to blend humor with historical facts. One reviewer called Shug “amazing,” while others appreciated guides like Gillian, Martin, and Neil for their enthusiasm and knowledge.

Travelers also loved the scenic variety, from the haunting beauty of Glencoe to the lively atmosphere in Inverness. About the value, many say it’s worth the price considering the comprehensive itinerary and the included insights.

Some reviewers mention that the stops are sometimes brief, which can be a downside if you prefer more time at each location. The pace is definitely on the quicker side, but most see it as a fair trade for hitting multiple highlights in just two days.

Potential Drawbacks

While the tour is well-organized, it is quite packed. Some travelers felt the stops could have been longer, especially at sites like Urquhart Castle. Also, given the early start and long days, the experience isn’t ideal if you prefer a slow, relaxed pace.

Another point to consider is that attraction tickets aren’t included, so if you want to explore places like Urquhart Castle more deeply, you’ll need to budget for that separately.

Overall Value and Who It’s For

Considering the price and what’s offered, this tour provides a solid value for those who want to see the highlights of the Highlands without the stress of planning or driving. The guided aspect, vibrant stories, and scenic stops make it particularly appealing to first-time visitors or those with limited time in Scotland.

If you’re someone who enjoys learning about history through engaging storytelling and appreciates scenic views along the way, this tour hits the mark. It’s also suitable for travelers of most ages given the moderate physical activity involved, but keep in mind the pace can be brisk.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This 2-day Loch Ness and Highlands adventure is perfect for travelers eager to experience Scotland’s iconic landscapes and historical sites in a short time. It’s especially suited for those who value expert guides with a sense of humor and enjoy a well-organized, scenic journey rather than a slow-paced sightseeing trip.

If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to see multiple highlights, from Glencoe to Loch Ness, without the hassle of driving or booking individual tickets, this tour delivers. It’s also ideal for travelers who enjoy storytelling and learning about the country’s past as they go.

However, if you prefer more time at each location or a more leisurely pace, you might find the itinerary a little rushed. For those seeking a relaxed experience, consider extending your stay in Inverness or visiting some sites independently.

All in all, this tour is a solid choice for first-timers and those wanting to get a broad sense of the Highlands’ beauty and history in just two days.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour generally operates in all weather conditions and most travelers can participate. Children aged 4 and up are welcome, but always check if your kids are comfortable with long days on a coach.

Does the tour include accommodation?
You can choose an option that includes one night in Inverness, or opt for no accommodation if you prefer to arrange your own stay. The reviews mention that the accommodation is conveniently located.

Are attraction tickets included?
No, tickets for attractions like Urquhart Castle are not included, so you’ll need to purchase them separately if you want to explore more at these sites.

What’s the group size?
The maximum group size is around 32 travelers, making it a manageable size for interaction and comfort.

How early do I need to arrive?
Please arrive at least 15 minutes before the 8:30 am departure to check in and settle in.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 6 days before the trip may not be refunded.

What’s the transportation like?
The tour uses air-conditioned vehicles, generally comfortable and suitable for a full day of travel.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but there are stops for lunch and snacks along the way.

Is there a restroom on board?
No, there is no restroom on the coach, so plan accordingly.

Would I enjoy this if I love long, relaxing visits?
Probably not; the itinerary is quite packed, with brief stops designed to hit major highlights rather than linger. If you prefer slow-paced sightseeing, consider adjusting your plans accordingly.

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of Scotland’s Highlands, perfect for those eager to see major sights while enjoying the company of a knowledgeable guide. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or revisiting Scotland, this trip packs enough beauty and stories to make it memorable.