Highland Lochs, Glens & Whisky Day Tour Including Admission

Planning a day trip from Edinburgh that takes you through Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, and introduces you to its famous whisky? This Highland Lochs, Glens & Whisky tour from Rabbies Trail Burners is highly praised, boasting a perfect 5.0 rating from over 600 reviews. It’s an experience that promises scenic beauty, local stories, and a taste of Scotland’s national drink — all in about 10 hours.

What really makes this trip stand out are two main things: the small, intimate group size with just 16 people and the knowledgeable guides who share stories that bring the scenery and history alive. Plus, the included whisky tasting at Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery adds a fun and authentic touch to the day. That said, if you’re not a fan of structured coach tours or prefer more flexibility, this may not be your best fit. It’s best suited for those who want a well-organized overview of the Highlands with a mix of nature, history, and whisky.

Keep in mind, this tour is popular and books out about 45 days in advance, so planning ahead is wise. It’s a long day, but for those eager to see Scotland’s lush landscapes without the hassle of driving, it offers a lot of value and comfort. Whether you love photography, whisky, or just want a guided introduction to the Highlands, this tour could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Small group size (max 16 people) ensures a relaxed and personalized experience.
• Expert guides share personal stories and insights, making the scenery and history come alive.
• The scenic stops — Glencoe, Queen’s View, Dunkeld Cathedral, Hermitage — are beautifully curated for memorable photo moments.
• The included whisky tasting at Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery adds authentic flavor and education.
• The comfortable Mercedes mini-coach makes the long day easy on the back and legs.
• Book early — this tour is highly recommended and fills up quickly.

Setting Off from Edinburgh

The journey begins early in the morning, with a departure from Edinburgh’s bus station at 9:00 am. The meeting point is conveniently located inside the Edinburgh Bus Station, St Andrew Square, so public transport makes it easy to reach. Since parking can be tricky downtown, most travelers opt for buses or trams — which makes the whole start smoother.

Once aboard the 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach, the day kicks off with a scenic crossing of the Forth Road Bridge. It’s a good way to start soaking up the views and getting into a relaxed mindset. The guide, often highly praised, is there’s to entertain, inform, and keep the group on schedule — and from reviews, guides like Shea, Penny, Lizzie, and others really shine, blending humor and knowledge effortlessly.

Journey Through the Highlands

As you head north, the landscape shifts from Edinburgh’s cityscape into the lush greens and rugged beauty of the Highlands. The drive itself is part of the charm, with many stops along the way to appreciate the scenery and snap photos.

The Hermitage & River Braan

First stop is The Hermitage, a scenic woodland walk along the River Braan. The paths are fir-lined, and the gushing waterfall makes for spectacular photos. Travelers who love nature are often drawn here, with reviews praising the beauty and tranquility. It’s a brief stop, about 20 minutes, but enough to stretch your legs and breathe in the fresh air.

Glencoe and Queen’s View

Next, the famous Glencoe valley — known for its stunning mountain views and eerie history — offers dramatic landscapes that are impossible not to be impressed by. Then, at the Queen’s View, you’ll get a classic scenic overlook, credited as a favorite of Scottish queens. Reviews repeatedly mention how breathtaking these vistas are, with many capturing stunning images.

Dunkeld Cathedral and The Hermitage

Further on, the tour visits Dunkeld, a charming village with a historic ruined cathedral. It’s a peaceful place surrounded by forest, perfect for a quick exploration. The cathedral’s ruins evoke a sense of history, and many travelers mention how much they enjoyed this quiet, reflective stop. The Hermitage, with its woodland trails and waterfalls, is another highlight appreciated for its natural magnificence.

Pitlochry and Lunch Break

By midday, you arrive in Pitlochry, a lively town with small shops and cafes. This is your opportunity to grab lunch (not included) and soak up the local atmosphere. Many reviews mention enjoying recommendations from the guides for eateries or popping into a local whisky distillery for a quick look around. It’s a balanced break — enough time to refresh without losing momentum.

The Whisky Tasting Experience

The highlight for many is the visit to Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery, included in the tour. Here, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at whisky making, plus a tasting of the “water of life.” If Dewar’s is closed, the tour switches to Glenturret Distillery, so you still get the whisky experience.

Reviewers rave about how informative and fun the tasting is, with some noting the guides at the distillery are engaging and knowledgeable. It’s a chance to learn about Scotland’s most famous export, and many appreciate that they didn’t have to worry about driving afterward. Some reviews mention how the whisky tour is both educational and entertaining — a perfect capstone to the Highlands’ scenery.

Scenic Stops and Final Destinations

The tour doesn’t stop there. You’ll pass through Dunkeld, Perth, and Kinross on the way back, with plenty of photo opportunities and scenic views. The ride home is relaxed, often accompanied by lively stories from guides, music, and camaraderie among travelers. The entire experience wraps up back at the Edinburgh meeting point in the evening, around 7 to 8 pm.

How the Experience Feels

Most reviews highlight the comfortable transportation and the intimate group size as major pluses. The Mercedes mini-coach, with its easy access and cozy seating, makes the long day feel less tiring. The small group allows for more personal interaction and flexibility, which guides like Shea and Penny seem to excel at.

The guides’ storytelling is often mentioned as a highlight, blending local insights with wit and warmth. The scenic stops are well-chosen, offering a variety of landscapes, from waterfalls to mountains to historic sites.

The Real Value: Who Should Book This?

If you’re someone who loves scenic beauty and storytelling—and you’re happy to spend a full day in a small group—this tour offers excellent value. It’s a balanced mix of natural wonders, cultural sites, and whisky, all delivered in a relaxed way. The included whisky tasting is a real bonus, especially for those curious about Scotland’s national drink.

The price, around $132 per person, is reasonable given the inclusions and the small-group experience. Reviews repeatedly describe the tour as “well worth it,” especially when considering the quality of the guide, the beautiful stops, and the comfy transportation.

However, if you prefer more flexibility or want a self-guided adventure, this might not be your ideal choice. It’s also a long day, so if you’re travel-weary or have mobility issues, keep that in mind. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but storage for folding wheelchairs is available.

Final Thoughts

This Highland Lochs, Glens & Whisky Tour from Rabbies Trail Burners delivers a solid, enjoyable experience that’s highly rated for good reason. It’s a fantastic way to cover some of Scotland’s most iconic vistas without the hassle of driving or planning multiple stops. The combination of natural beauty, historic sites, and whisky tasting makes it a well-rounded day out.

If you’re traveling to Edinburgh and want to get a taste of the Highlands with an engaging guide and fellow travelers, this tour could be a highlight of your trip. It’s especially suited to those who appreciate scenic photography, Scottish culture, and a relaxed, informative journey.

FAQ

What is the departure point for the Highland Lochs, Glens and Whisky Day Tour?
The tour departs from inside the Edinburgh Bus Station at St Andrew Square, making it easy to access via public transportation or taxis.

Is parking available near the departure point?
Parking can be difficult in the city center, so most travelers prefer public transport. The meeting point is inside a busy bus station, which simplifies logistics.

How early should I arrive?
Check-in closes 15 minutes before the 9:00 am departure, so arriving a little earlier helps you settle in without stress.

Can I bring luggage?
Yes, you can bring up to 14kg (31lbs) of luggage per person — a carry-on size bag and a small personal bag. The bus has storage for these items.

Are admission fees included?
Most of the main attractions, like the distillery tour, are included. You’ll pay for other entrance fees if you choose to explore additional sites on your own.

Is the bus wheelchair accessible?
The bus isn’t wheelchair accessible, but storage for a folding wheelchair or walking frame is available. Guests need to be able to get on/off on their own or with assistance.

This tour strikes a good balance between scenic sightseeing, culture, and a touch of Scottish whisky flair. For those interested in a guided, small-group experience that covers the highlights with expert storytelling, it’s definitely worth considering.