Inverness offers more than just stunning landscapes and historic sites—it’s also a fantastic place to enjoy memorable lunch experiences that showcase Scotland’s natural beauty and local flavors. While many visitors focus on sightseeing, a well-chosen meal can turn a simple outing into a genuine taste of Highland life. Among our favorites are a full-day guided hike through Glen Affric, which combines outdoor adventure with a hearty local lunch, and a fishing trip on Loch Ness, where catching your own dinner is part of the fun. We also appreciate a day exploring Reelig Glen with a scenic woodland walk, topped off with a delicious lunch of soup, oatcakes, and local cheeses. These experiences aren’t just about food—they’re about enjoying the landscape and culture of the Highlands.
Below, we’ve rounded up three top lunch experiences that stand out for their uniqueness, value, and authentic Highland flavor. Whether you prefer a full-day hike, a fishing adventure, or a woodland walk combined with great food, these tours will enrich your visit to Inverness.
1. Glen Affric, Stunning Full-Day Private Guided Hike & Lunch
This full-day adventure offers a guided hike through the remote and breathtaking Glen Affric, one of Scotland’s most beautiful glens. Starting from Inverness, you’ll be picked up from your accommodation and taken on a 1.5-hour coach ride into the Highlands. The highlight: a 2-hour walk through ancient Caledonian pine forest and rugged landscapes, led by a qualified mountain walk leader. Afterward, a well-earned lunch of hot freshly made soup, oatcakes, and local cheeses provides the fuel for your next adventure—a walk to Plodda Falls, one of the most impressive waterfalls in the area.
What makes this tour stand out is its small group setting (max 8 people), ensuring personalized attention and an intimate experience. The scenery is superb, and the walk is suitable for most fitness levels. The inclusion of a hearty Highland lunch really sets this apart, giving you a taste of local flavors amid some of Scotland’s wildest scenery. The balance of physical activity and relaxation makes this perfect for outdoor lovers and foodies alike.
Bottom line: If you want a comprehensive day with hiking, stunning views, and a genuine Highland lunch, this tour delivers. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy moderate walks and authentic outdoor experiences.
2. Inverness: Loch Ness Fishing Trip and Food Safari with Lunch
For a different kind of lunch experience, this Loch Ness fishing trip combines the thrill of catching your own fish with a delicious meal cooked over an open fire. Led by a local fishing expert, you’ll head out onto Loch Ness, famous for its mysterious monster and stunning vistas. If the fish aren’t biting, no worries—there’s a side dish of fresh vegetables and other foods to enjoy, ensuring no one leaves hungry.
What makes this experience memorable is the chance to try your hand at fishing with guidance from an experienced local. Afterwards, the freshly caught fish is cooked right there, making for a fresh and flavorful meal that feels truly connected to the landscape. Relaxing by the water with a glass of wine or a cold beer, you’ll enjoy the sense of accomplishment and the serenity of Loch Ness.
Though shorter in duration (about four hours), this trip packs a punch for those who love outdoor activities and a bit of culinary adventure. It’s especially well-suited for fishing enthusiasts or those curious about Highland life.
Bottom line: If you’re after a hands-on outdoor experience with a tasty, self-caught lunch, this trip offers a fun and authentic Highland adventure. It’s ideal for active travelers who want to combine sport with good food.
3. Inverness, Stunning Full-Day Private Guided Hike & Lunch
This tour explores the lush landscapes of Reelig Glen, known for its “Tall Tree Trail” and diverse beech forest. Like the Glen Affric hike, it’s a full-day outing led by a qualified mountain walk leader, with pickup from central Inverness. The walk takes you through iron-age fort sites and offers panoramic views from woodland hilltops—perfect for those who want a mix of history and nature.
The included lunch mirrors that of the Glen Affric tour—hot soup, oatcakes, and local cheeses—giving you a hearty Highland meal amid the peaceful forest setting. The tour’s small group size ensures a relaxed atmosphere and personalized experience. What makes this hike distinctive is the combination of ancient sites, tall trees, and scenic hilltop views, providing a broader cultural and natural perspective of the Highlands.
Ideal for travelers interested in history, botany, and moderate walking, this experience offers a peaceful day immersed in Highland landscapes, topped off with a satisfying meal.
Bottom line: For those who love woodland walks combined with cultural sites and a hearty lunch, this tour is a top choice.
How to Choose Your Perfect Highland Lunch Experience
When deciding between these options, consider your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to devote. If outdoor adventure and stunning scenery are your priorities, the Glen Affric hike offers a full day of activity plus a Highland meal. For a more relaxed, activity-packed half-day, the Loch Ness fishing trip combines outdoor fishing with a delicious, freshly cooked meal. If you prefer a mix of nature, history, and woodland walking, the Reelig Glen hike provides a quieter experience with a hearty lunch.
Budget-wise, the full-day hikes are likely more expensive but include full-day guidance and transport, while the Loch Ness fishing trip offers a shorter, more casual experience. Consider your fitness level and whether you want to spend most of your day active or relaxed.
Booking early is wise, especially in summer when tours fill quickly. Both outdoor and culinary experiences offer authentic Highland flavors and scenery—making your trip to Inverness truly memorable.
Inverness’s lunch experiences span from hearty hikes to relaxing waterside fishing, each offering a taste of Scotland that goes beyond typical restaurant fare. Whether you choose a full-day adventure or a half-day fishing trip, these tours promise a satisfying blend of activity, scenery, and local flavor to help you make the most of your Highland visit.