4-Day Outlander Trail Tour from Edinburgh Including Admissions

A Journey Through Scotland’s Highlands and Outlander Filming Locations

This 4-day, small-group tour from Edinburgh offers a perfect blend of Scottish history, landscapes, and TV magic. For just over a thousand dollars, you’ll visit notable sites like Doune Castle, Glencoe, Glenfinnan Viaduct, and Culloden Battlefield, all while exploring the scenery that inspired the Outlander series. Led by knowledgeable guides (we heard glowing reviews about Willie and Simon), the experience feels personal rather than touristy. The tour includes three nights of accommodation, transport in a comfortable Mercedes mini-coach, and most entrance fees, making it a convenient way to see the Highlands without the hassle of planning every step.

What we love most is how seamlessly the tour combines TV locations with real Scottish history and natural beauty — it’s like a two-for-one package. The small-group size means more attention from guides and fewer crowds at hotspots like Urquhart Castle. The second highlight? The variety of landscapes, from rugged glens and mystical lochs to historic battlefields, promises a visual feast for anyone who loves scenery and stories.

A possible consideration is the physical pace — most days involve some walking and standing, so comfortable shoes are a must. Also, the tour is best for those with an interest in history or the show, as some sites are quite iconic and may appeal most to fans. But even if you’re not into Outlander, the scenery and history alone make this a compelling journey.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, yet relaxed exploration of Scotland’s Highland regions, particularly fans of the series looking to walk in Jamie and Claire’s footsteps. It’s perfect for those who value guided insights, picturesque stops, and a well-organized itinerary that takes the stress out of travel.

Key Points

• Comfortable Transport: Travel in a top-notch, 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach, ideal for small-group intimacy.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Three nights’ accommodation and most entrance fees included, providing great value.
• Diverse Sites: From castles and battlefields to filming locations, offering a well-rounded Scottish experience.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Willie and Simon are praised for their knowledge, storytelling, and enthusiasm.
• Balanced Itinerary: Mixes iconic TV spots with authentic Highland landscapes and history.
• Flexible for Fans and Non-Fans: Even if you’re not a dedicated Outlander fan, the scenery and history make this tour worthwhile.

A Deep Dive into the Outlander Highlands Experience

Setting the Scene: The Appeal of a Small-Group Tour

Traveling with a maximum of 16 people means you get room for questions, personalized stories, and a relaxed atmosphere. The Mercedes mini-coach is a big plus—it’s easy to get in and out, with comfortable seats and a smooth ride through some of Scotland’s most breathtaking scenery. Many reviews emphasize how much they appreciated the small-group vibe, with travelers feeling more like friends than just another face on a bus.

This size also allows the guide to take you to spots that larger buses can’t reach—like narrow country roads to whisky distilleries or hidden viewpoints overlooking lochs. Plus, the intimate setting encourages lively conversation and stories, which many reviews praised as a highlight.

The Itinerary: A Day-by-Day Breakdown

Day 1: Castles, Glens, and Loch Ness

Your Scottish adventure kicks off with Doune Castle, famous for its appearance in Monty Python and Outlander. You’ll receive an audio guide that brings to life its role in TV and film, and you can enjoy wandering along the river or snapping photos of the castle’s dramatic silhouette. Reviewers loved the quality of the included admission and said the setting is perfect for soaking in medieval atmosphere.

Next up is Glencoe, a landscape that looks like a scene from a movie — rugged, expansive, and steeped in history. While it’s free to wander here, the views alone are worth the quick stop. One reviewer mentioned spending time simply soaking in the scenery and learning about the valley’s tragic past, which adds depth to the visual beauty.

Lunch is in Fort William, a lively town at the foot of Ben Nevis. It’s a good spot to stretch your legs and enjoy some local fare before heading to Glenfinnan. The Glenfinnan Viaduct is an iconic spot — you’ll understand why fans of Harry Potter recognize it from the Hogwarts Express. The site is stunning, with the Jacobite monument and views across Loch Shiel.

The day wraps up with a drive past Loch Ness to Inverness, the Highland capital. While Nessie might be the star in legends, your guide will point out other scenic and historic sights along the way. Many travelers appreciated that the evening was free for exploring or relaxing, as one reviewer noted, “Sample some local cuisine and walk along the River Ness.”

Day 2: Clan Lands, Ancient Sites, and Highland History

The second day dives into Clan Fraser territory at the Wardlaw Mausoleum, where you pay respects to Lord Lovat. The guide’s storytelling about Jacobite figures was highlighted as engaging and insightful.

A highlight was the Glen Affric area, renowned for its pristine lochs, mountains, and pine forests. Outlander fans will love the visit to Corrimony Chambered Cairn, a 4,000-year-old burial site that looks just like a mystical Highland monument. A reviewer said it’s “a silent testament to the ingenuity and spiritual connection of the ancient people,” which adds a layer of reverence to your landscape experience.

In Drumnadrochit, you have the chance to explore Urquhart Castle or simply enjoy the village on Loch Ness. Many recommend the castle, noting that the views of Loch Ness are spectacular, and, of course, keeping an eye out for Nessie. The falls at Rogie are a quick, scenic stop where you can walk across a suspension bridge to see the rushing water below.

Day 3: Battlefields, Ancient Sites, and Highland Life

The sobering Culloden Battlefield is a main focus — you’ll get a sense of the intense fighting that changed Scottish history forever. Many reviewers mentioned the emotional impact of walking the battlefield and exploring the visitor center, feeling the weight of the past. The tour’s inclusion of this site was praised as “a must-see for history buffs.”

Next, the Clava Cairns offers a mysterious glimpse into ancient ritual sites that inspired Outlander. The weathered stones and circular mounds resonate with the series’ mystical feel.

Traveling through Cairngorms National Park, you’ll visit the Highland Folk Museum for a look at traditional Highland life, with replicas of turf-roofed cottages. Reviewers appreciated the chance to step back in time and see how Highlanders lived.

The day ends at Killiecrankie, known for its historic Jacobite battle and scenic river gorge. The peaceful setting contrasts with its fierce past, making it a compelling stop. Afterward, you settle in Perth, a city with historical significance and a lovely riverside walk.

Day 4: Charming Villages and Historic Castles

Your final day begins with a quick visit to Falkland, which doubles as Inverness in the series’ opening scenes. The quaint streets and historic buildings give it a filmic quality, and many guests recalled feeling like they’d stepped onto the set.

Next is Culross, a well-preserved village that served as Cranesmuir in Outlander. Its cobbled streets and historic houses create a perfect period setting, with some guests noting the possibility of spotting Claire’s herb garden behind the palace.

A stop at Linlithgow offers a chance for lunch and a quick visit to Blackness Castle, used as Fort William in the show. Walking its ramparts, many felt transported into the series’ world, and the steps of Lallybroch are a favorite photo spot.

Finally, your tour wraps up at Hopetoun House, an 18th-century estate that appeared in several Outlander scenes. It’s a fitting end to your Scottish adventure, with the option to explore its beautiful gardens before heading back to Edinburgh.

The Value for Your Money

While the tour costs around $1,014.60 per person, the inclusive package—accommodation, transport, and most entrance fees—delivers a lot of value. Many reviews emphasized how well-organized everything was, with guides adding personal touches and historical insight. Guests loved not having to worry about tickets or driving, freeing them to focus on the scenery and stories.

The small-group size and luxury vehicle make the experience more personal, and the diverse stops mean you get a well-rounded view of Highland life, history, and film locations. Plus, staying in comfortable accommodations means you start each day rested and ready.

Some reviewers mentioned that the hotels were a mix — some found the Inverness B&B delightful, while others noted the Ben Nevis hotel was a bit less comfortable. But overall, the comfort levels and organization made the trip smooth and enjoyable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for Outlander fans eager to see filming locations in person, but it also appeals to anyone interested in Scottish landscapes and history. The small-group format suits travelers who prefer a more intimate, educational, and flexible tour. If you enjoy guided storytelling combined with spectacular scenery, this tour will check most boxes.

It’s also suited for those who want to avoid the stress of planning complex self-drive trips. The inclusion of accommodation and entrance fees ensures a seamless experience. Keep in mind, if you have mobility issues or prefer a very relaxed pace, discuss your needs beforehand, especially since some properties are on the outskirts of towns.

The Sum Up

This 4-day Outlander-themed tour from Edinburgh offers a wonderful way to combine Scotland’s stunning scenery with a dash of TV magic. The well-organized itinerary, expert guides, and small-group intimacy make it a memorable journey. You’ll experience iconic castles, historic battlefields, ancient sites, and breathtaking landscapes—many of which you might recognize from the series or Scottish legend.

It’s best suited for travelers who love stories, history, and beautiful scenery, and who appreciate guided insights over self-driving. The value is high considering the accommodations, transport, and entrance fees included, making it an excellent choice for those wanting a comprehensive Highland experience without the hassle.

If your heart beats for Scottish drama or you simply enjoy exploring on a comfortable, thoughtfully guided tour, this 4-day adventure could be the highlight of your trip.

FAQ

What is the departure point for the tour?
The tour departs from the Edinburgh Bus Station at St Andrew Square, making it easy to find and accessible by public transportation.

Is parking available near the meeting point?
Parking in town center can be challenging, so using public transit is recommended to avoid stress on the morning of your tour.

How early should I arrive?
It’s best to arrive at least 15 minutes before the 8:45 am departure to ensure a smooth start.

Can I bring luggage?
Yes, you can bring up to 14kg (31lbs) of luggage, ideally one carry-on size bag plus a small personal item.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are advised, as most days involve some walking and outdoor stops.

Are admission fees included?
Most entrance fees to castles and battlefields are included, but some sites like Falkland Palace and Highland Folk Museum require you to purchase tickets on-site if you wish to visit.

Is the vehicle accessible for people with mobility issues?
The mini-coach is not wheelchair accessible, but storage for a folding wheelchair is available. Guests need to be able to get on and off independently or with assistance.

This detailed review should help you decide whether this tour fits your Scottish adventure dreams. With its combination of scenery, history, and TV locations, it offers an authentic and enjoyable way to explore the Highlands.