Few places in the Scottish Highlands offer as much as Drumnadrochit for travelers eager to explore Loch Ness and its surrounds. Known for its connection to the legendary Nessie, this charming village is also a hub for unique experiences that go beyond typical sightseeing. Whether you’re drawn to romantic ceremonies like the Inverness: Celtic Handfasting Ceremony and Picnic, eager for a comprehensive Highland tour, or want a scenic cruise paired with castle ruins, there’s something here for every kind of traveler. We especially love the Celtic handfasting—a romantic way to connect with ancient traditions—and the full-day guided tour that covers multiple historic sites and stories in one go.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up the top three tours you shouldn’t miss: an intimate Celtic ceremony, an extensive Highland journey, and a Loch Ness cruise with lunch and castle exploration. Each offers a different slice of Highland life, history, and legend—helping you decide what fits your interests and schedule best.
The list below includes the best tours in Drumnadrochit, each with its own unique appeal:
- A romantic Celtic handfasting ceremony combined with a picnic on Loch Ness
- A full-day guided Highland tour covering castles, battlefields, and scenic villages
- A Loch Ness Monster cruise with lunch and a visit to Urquhart Castle
Now, let’s explore each experience in detail to help you find your perfect Highland adventure.
1. Inverness: Celtic Handfasting Ceremony and Picnic
At number 1, the Celtic Handfasting Ceremony and Picnic offers a deeply romantic and personalized experience. For around $108 per person, you get to partake in a traditional Celtic handfasting on the shores of Loch Ness—a ritual dating back thousands of years symbolizing union and commitment. The ceremony is performed in a secret, scenic spot, making it feel intimate and special. The guide, a knowledgeable Highlander, explains the significance of ancient rituals, adding cultural depth to your day. After the vows, you’ll enjoy a gourmet picnic featuring local delicacies, perfect for a relaxed, scenic lunch.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on creating meaningful memories. The personalized vows and cozy setup make it a perfect choice for couples celebrating an occasion or anyone wanting a unique Highland keepsake. Plus, the setting feels like a private Highland retreat—romantic yet accessible.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a heartfelt, one-of-a-kind experience that combines Highland tradition with stunning scenery, this tour offers excellent value and an unforgettable moment.
2. Inverness: Full-Day Guided Tour with Highland Castle
At number 2, the Full-Day Guided Tour with Highland Castle is ideal for history buffs and curious travelers eager to see the Highland highlights. For approximately $807 per group (up to 3 people), you get a comprehensive 8-hour journey that covers all the major sights, including Clava Cairns, Culloden Battlefield, Cawdor Castle, and Fort George. The tour also includes stops at Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle, offering plenty of photo opportunities and stories behind each site.
This tour’s unique appeal is its mix of ancient sites and lively villages, like Beauly, and its detailed guided commentary. The itinerary is well-paced, with a mix of walking tours and driving, ensuring you don’t feel rushed. The visit to Culloden Battlefield is especially poignant, giving insight into Scotland’s turbulent past. The stop at Loch Ness is timed for good photo ops, and the inclusion of a distillery visit adds a taste of local whisky culture.
Guests rave about the knowledgeable guides and the well-structured day. It’s a great choice for travelers who want a full, insightful Highland experience without worrying about logistics.
Bottom Line: If you’re interested in a deep dive into Highland history, castles, and battlefields, this guided tour offers outstanding value and a full picture of the region’s story.
3. Inverness: Loch Ness Monster Cruise, Lunch, Urquhart Castle
The third spot features the Loch Ness Monster Cruise with Lunch and Urquhart Castle, a fantastic choice for visitors who want a mix of nature, legend, and history. For about 6 hours, this tour offers a private cruise on Loch Ness, where you can try to spot Nessie while enjoying Scottish music and a buffet lunch. The cruise lasts about an hour, giving you time to soak in the stunning views of the loch and surrounding hills.
After the cruise, you explore the 13th-century Urquhart Castle at your own pace, wandering the ruins that have witnessed centuries of Scottish history. The guided part of the tour is focused on the castle’s stories, and the personalized itinerary ensures you see what interests you most. The highlight is the blend of a relaxing boat ride with the chance to learn about the legend of Nessie amid awe-inspiring scenery.
Guests appreciate the friendly guides and the flexible schedule, making this a popular option for families and those wanting a relaxed but engaging day.
Bottom Line: For a scenic, legend-filled experience that combines boat cruising, castle ruins, and a hearty lunch, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable outing.
How to Choose Your Highland Tour
When deciding between these options, consider what kind of experience you’re after. If romance and tradition call to you, the Celtic handfasting might be perfect. For history enthusiasts, the full-day Highland tour provides in-depth storytelling and visits to key sites. If you’re interested in a laid-back day with a touch of legend, the Loch Ness cruise and castle visit fits the bill.
Each experience offers a different way to enjoy the landscape and stories of the Highlands. Think about your schedule, budget, and interests—if you love castles and battlefield history, the full-day tour is ideal. For couples or romantics, the handfasting ceremony is hard to beat. And if you’re just looking to relax and enjoy the scenery, the Loch Ness cruise won’t disappoint.
Final Thoughts
Drumnadrochit is a perfect base for exploring Loch Ness and the surrounding Highlands. From intimate ceremonies to full-day adventures and scenic cruises, the options are rich and varied. For those with limited time, the Loch Ness Monster Cruise offers a relaxing yet engaging experience, while the full-day Highland tour is best suited for history lovers and those wanting a comprehensive look at the region. Couples seeking something meaningful should consider the Celtic handfasting for a truly memorable moment.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak summer months, as these popular tours tend to fill quickly. Whichever you choose, each promises a genuine taste of Highland culture, history, and legend that will stay with you long after you leave.
