From Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Glenoce & The Highlands Day Tour

If you’re eyeing a full-day escape into Scotland’s rugged beauty, this Loch Ness, Glen Coe & Highlands tour promises a blend of spectacular scenery, intriguing legends, and a comfortable way to see some of the country’s most iconic spots without the hassle of driving yourself. While I haven’t taken this tour personally, I’ve gone through dozens of reviews and details to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

One of the biggest draws is the quality of guides—everyone raves about how knowledgeable and engaging they are. Plus, the scenery is genuinely breathtaking, from towering mountains to shimmering lochs. That said, it’s a long day—around 12 hours—so if you’re not a fan of spending much time on a bus, it’s worth considering whether you’re comfortable with that. This tour is especially well-suited for folks who love photography, history, and legends, and want a hassle-free way to experience the Highlands.

Key Points

• Comfortable, guided experience covering over 500 km in a day
• Expert guides provide stories and history that enhance the scenery
• Multiple stops for photos, breaks, and a taste of local villages
• Optional Loch Ness cruise available for an extra fee
• Good value for money considering transport, guide, and multiple highlights
• Not ideal for very young children or those with limited mobility due to long hours on the bus

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail: What You’ll See and Experience

Starting Point and Early Morning Pickup

The tour kicks off bright and early at The Apex Waterloo Place Hotel in central Edinburgh, with pickup starting at 7:20 AM and departure at 7:30 AM. This early start is typical for full-day trips, and it’s a smart move to get ahead of any traffic and maximize your day in the Highlands. The bus is comfortable, and the journey begins with a relaxed vibe, as you settle in for a 12-hour adventure.

Callander: The First Stop

Your first major stop is Callander, a charming little village. This break lets you stretch your legs, grab a coffee, or explore a bit. The reviews highlight that this is a peaceful place to start your journey, setting a nice tone before heading into the dramatic landscapes ahead. You might find this is a great moment to take some of your first photos.

Glencoe: Dramatic Beauty and History

Next up is Glen Coe, famous for its towering mountains and haunting stories. This is where the scenery really kicks into high gear. The landscape here is jaw-dropping—think rugged, steep slopes and deep valleys. It’s a perfect place for a quick photo stop, and you’ll hear stories about the region’s tragic past, making the landscape even more meaningful. Reviewers consistently mention how stunning and emotionally moving Glen Coe is, with many saying it’s one of the highlights.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Highlands and Fort William

As the journey continues, you’ll traverse the Highlands, with vast vistas stretching in every direction. The driver-guide will share tidbits about the area’s geography, culture, and legends, making the long drive engaging. Near Fort William, there’s a chance to appreciate the mountain scenery and perhaps get a glimpse of Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest peak.

Loch Ness and the Mystique

The main event—a visit to Loch Ness—is where the tour really shines. You’ll walk along the loch’s banks, soaking in the misty, mysterious atmosphere. If you’re eager, you can opt for an additional cruise (payable on the day) to get a closer look at this legendary water body. Many reviews mention that even without the cruise, the views are worth it, and the atmosphere is quietly mesmerizing. Expect plenty of photography opportunities.

Pitlochry and Loch Lagan

On the journey back south, you’ll pass through Pitlochry, a Victorian village with a picturesque setting. This is a good spot for a quick refresh—grab a snack, browse some shops, or just enjoy the scenic surroundings. The return drive includes stops at Loch Laggan, showcasing tranquil waters and rural beauty, leaving you with a sense of Scotland’s unspoiled natural charm.

The Return and Drop-off

You’ll arrive back at The Apex Waterloo Place Hotel around 7 PM, depending on traffic and the day’s pace. The team offers options for drop-offs at various points in Edinburgh, making it convenient to plan your evening or next day.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The Quality of Guides

From numerous reviews, the guides are consistently praised for their knowledge, humor, and storytelling ability. One reviewer even called Brendan, the tour guide, “the real highlight,” emphasizing how stories and jokes made the long day enjoyable. A good guide transforms a long bus ride into a fun, informative experience, and it’s clear this tour delivers on that front.

The Scenery and Stops

If you’re someone who loves to see spectacular landscapes and capture stunning photos, this tour ticks those boxes. Stops at Glen Coe and Loch Ness are carefully chosen for their visual and emotional impact. The sheer size of the Highland scenery—mountains, lochs, and wilderness—comes across even through a bus window, but the stops allow you to get out, breathe it in, and take pictures.

Value for Money

At around $67 per person, this tour offers a lot of value, considering transportation, guide, and multiple iconic sights. Visitors note that the price is quite reasonable, especially given how much ground you cover and the quality of the experience.

The Practical Details

Duration and Comfort

The tour lasts about 12 hours, from early morning pickup to evening return. While that’s a long time on a bus, the modern vehicle and engaging guide make it manageable. The stops are well timed—long enough to enjoy the scenery and take photos, but not so long that you feel restless.

Group Size and Atmosphere

The reviews suggest a small group setting, typically around 10-15 participants, which fosters a friendly, personal atmosphere. Many travelers mention that the guides are personable, sharing stories and answering questions throughout the trip.

What’s Included and What’s Not

You’re covered for transportation, the guide, and scenic stops. There’s no included lunch or refreshments, but there are plenty of places to buy food along the way or bring your own snacks. The Loch Ness cruise is optional and payable on the day, so if you want to get closer to Nessie, budget extra.

Accessibility and Considerations

The tour isn’t suited for children under 6 years old. Also, since a good part of the day is spent on the bus, it’s best for those comfortable with long rides. If you’re looking for a quick visit or have mobility concerns, this might not be the best fit.

Authentic Traveler Experiences

Multiple reviews echo the sentiment that guides like Brendan and Douglas make the trip memorable, not just for the scenery but because of their storytelling, humor, and local knowledge. Many mention how stops were perfectly timed, and the scenery looked even better in person. One review called the guide “the best,” highlighting the importance of a friendly, informative guide in making the day special.

One traveler pointed out that the value for money is excellent, especially compared to other tours, with a group size that felt intimate and manageable. The overall impression is that this tour isn’t just about ticking boxes but about really experiencing the magic of Scotland’s Highlands.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re after a comprehensive, scenic, and well-guided day in Scotland, this tour hits many of the right notes. It’s perfect for those who appreciate stunning landscapes, storytelling, and a relaxed pace—and don’t mind spending much of the day on a bus. The excellent reviews suggest it’s especially well-suited for travelers looking for value and a trustworthy guide to bring the Highlands alive.

While not tailored for very young children or those with mobility issues, it’s a solid choice for adventurers, history buffs, and photography lovers wanting to see the iconic Scottish scenery without the stress of planning or driving. If you’re curious about Loch Ness and want a taste of the Highlands’ wild beauty, this tour could very well be the highlight of your trip to Edinburgh.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, your transport is covered in the tour price, with a comfortable coach taking you through the Highlands and to all the key stops.

Can I cancel the tour?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Are snacks provided?
No, there are no included snacks or meals, but you might want to bring some on your own or buy something at stops like Callander and Pitlochry.

Can I join with a mobile or paper voucher?
Yes, both mobile and printed vouchers are accepted, making it easy to book and join.

Is there a Loch Ness cruise option?
Yes, you can buy cruise tickets from the guide on the day if you wish to explore Loch Ness more closely.

What is the group size?
The tour typically runs with small groups of about 10-15 people, which helps keep the experience personal and relaxed.

Is this suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 6, mainly because of the long hours on the bus.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera, snacks, cash for optional extras, and dress appropriately for the weather, especially if you plan to get out and walk.

This Loch Ness, Glen Coe & Highlands tour from Edinburgh offers a well-rounded, scenic, and engaging way to explore Scotland’s most legendary spots. With friendly guides, breathtaking views, and multiple stops for photos and stories, it really captures the spirit of the Highlands while keeping things practical and enjoyable. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, it’s a trip that’s likely to leave lasting memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: