From Edinburgh: The Kelpies, Glencoe & Loch Lomond Day Tour

If you’re dreaming of the Scottish Highlands and want a personalized, comfortable way to see some of the most iconic sights, this tour might be just what you’re looking for. For around $441 per person, you’ll spend a full day exploring Glencoe, Loch Lomond, and the Kelpies, all in the company of a knowledgeable driver-guide in a sleek executive Mercedes V Class. The trip begins right outside your Edinburgh accommodation, making it easy to start your adventure without the hassle of large tour buses or rigid schedules.

What we love about this experience is how flexible and intimate it is. First, the private nature of the tour means you get to decide how long you linger at each stop—no rushing or squeezing into crowded groups. Second, the vehicle is top-notch, providing comfort and style, which makes longer drives much more pleasant. The guide’s commentary adds a layer of insight, making each stop more meaningful, whether it’s the haunting beauty of Glencoe or the legendary waters of Loch Lomond.

A possible consideration is the price point; it’s on the higher side compared to larger group tours, but many reviews highlight that the value and personalized experience more than justify the cost. If you prefer to travel in a small, private group with full control over your stops, this tour suits travelers who appreciate comfort and tailored experiences.

This tour is ideal for those who want to explore Scotland’s stunning landscapes in style, without sacrificing depth or flexibility. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone who values authentic stories and personalized attention from guides passionate about their homeland.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: You control your stops and timing, avoiding rushed itineraries common on large buses.
• Comfortable Transportation: Traveling in an executive Mercedes V Class makes the journey enjoyable and relaxing.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Richard, Donnie, James, Ricky, and Jordan bring stories to life with their extensive knowledge.
• Stunning Landscapes: From waterfalls and peaks in Glencoe to the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond, scenery here is breathtaking.
• Iconic Landmarks: The Kelpies and filming locations from Harry Potter and James Bond add a touch of movie magic.
• Great Reviews: All eight reviews rate this experience a perfect 5, emphasizing the value, guides, and scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Out from Edinburgh

The day begins with a pickup just outside your accommodation, which is a convenient perk for travelers staying in the city. The tour company uses a luxury Mercedes V Class, ensuring plenty of space for everyone’s comfort. Traveling privately means you won’t be stuck in a large crowd, and you can decide how long to spend at each spot—something several reviewers have praised. One traveler mentioned, “The best part was having full control of our stops and duration of them. No sense of being rushed,” which makes all the difference when you’re out amid Scotland’s vast landscapes.

Journey Through the Scottish Countryside

As you leave Edinburgh, you’ll pass iconic sights like Edinburgh Castle, giving you a quick peek at the city’s historic heart. Then, it’s a scenic drive northward into the Highlands, with a stop in Callander for refreshments and a chance to stretch your legs. We loved the way the drive itself set the tone for the day—comfortable, informative, and full of anticipation.

Visit to Callander & Highland Cows in Kilmahog

The first scenic stop is in Kilmahog, where you can see and even feed the famed Highland Cows, affectionately called “coos.” This fun, candid moment is something many travelers enjoy—getting up close to these furry icons of Scotland. One reviewer fondly recalled the experience: “You can visit Highland Cows and even feed them, which is a uniquely Scottish encounter that adds charm to the day.”

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Glencoe: Heart of Scottish History and Drama

Next, you arrive at Glencoe, arguably the highlight for many visitors. Its rugged beauty has made it a favorite filming location, including scenes from Skyfall and Harry Potter’s Prisoner of Azkaban. The atmospheric valleys and waterfalls are awe-inspiring, and your guide will share tales like the infamous 1692 massacre of the MacDonald clan, adding historical depth to the stunning vistas.

One guest wrote, “The stop in Glencoe was breathtaking,” and many praise the guide’s storytelling. You might find yourself taking countless photos of the dramatic landscape, from towering mountains to cascading waterfalls. If you’re a photography enthusiast or just love dramatic scenery, this stop is packed with opportunities.

Loch Lomond: The Iconic ‘Bonnie Banks’

From Glencoe, the journey continues along the shores of Loch Lomond, the largest expanse of fresh water in Great Britain. This area is perfect for picture-taking and listening to stories about the loch’s connection to Scottish culture and folklore. Reviewers highlight this segment as the “most beautiful part,” with plenty of chances to capture postcard-worthy views. Our guides often share stories about the loch’s place in Scottish history and song, enriching the experience.

The Kelpies: Sculptures with a Stirring Presence

Your final major stop is at the Kelpies, the 30-meter-high horse sculptures that have become a symbol of Scottish engineering and art. These striking figures are an eye-catching backdrop for photos, and many guests enjoy the chance to learn about their significance. Visitors often comment on how impressive the sculptures are, especially when lit up in the evening (depending on timing).

One reviewer mentioned, “The Kelpies are an amazing backdrop for photos,” emphasizing how these sculptures add a modern yet distinctly Scottish touch to your journey.

Final Drop-Off & Flexibility

After a full day of scenery, history, and stories, the tour concludes with a drop-off back at your accommodation, completing a seamless experience. The ability to tailor the stops in real time is a major plus, as echoed in reviews saying, “We had trouble finding lunch but Donnie made sure we got to eat,” showcasing the flexibility the guides offer.

Analyzing the Value

While the price of $441 per person might seem high compared to larger group tours, many guests feel it’s justified by the quality of the experience. The private setting, comfortable transport, and expert guides combine to create a memorable day. Several reviewers have expressed that the tour’s value lies in the personalized, unrushed approach—being able to linger at scenic spots or skip those less interesting—that’s hard to match on larger tours.

The inclusion of stops at iconic filming sites, historic landmarks, and the chance to feed Highland Cows makes this trip feel immersive and authentic. Plus, the small group or private nature enhances the sense of discovery, making it a worthwhile splurge for those wanting a more tailored experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits travelers who prefer comfort and flexibility over a rigid schedule. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone interested in Scotland’s natural beauty, history, and culture, with guides who bring stories to life. If you love scenic photography, historical tales, or just want to avoid the crowds while seeing the best of the Highlands, this tour offers excellent value. It’s particularly well-suited for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive, relaxed introduction to the region.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children under 4 years old are not recommended on this tour, likely because of the private vehicle and length of the day.

What should I bring?
Weather-appropriate clothing is essential, as Scottish weather can change quickly and often involves rain or wind.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

Is food included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or a packed lunch if desired.

How long is the actual driving time?
While the exact driving time isn’t specified, the day includes multiple scenic stops, so expect several hours on the road, all in comfort.

Will I have enough time at each stop?
Yes, the tour’s unique selling point is your ability to control your stop durations, making it more flexible than typical group tours.

In all, this private day tour from Edinburgh offers a well-balanced blend of comfort, scenery, and stories, making it a superb choice for those seeking an authentic Scottish Highlands experience without the rush. With excellent guides, stunning views, and the freedom to tailor your day, it’s a trip that can truly deepen your appreciation for Scotland’s natural and cultural riches.

You can check availability for your dates here: