Drumnadrochit is a wonderful base for exploring the Scottish Highlands, especially if you’re keen on immersive experiences around Loch Ness and its surroundings. This small village offers more than just scenic views; it’s a hub for unique tours that blend history, myth, and Highland tradition. We love how each of these experiences offers a different way to connect with the region—whether through romantic ceremonies, historical explorations, or scenic cruises. For example, the Celtic Handfasting Ceremony on Loch Ness promises a magical moment in a secret spot, while the full-day Highland tour covers the region’s most iconic sites with a knowledgeable guide. And if you’re curious about Nessie, the Loch Ness Monster Cruise combines sightseeing, a delicious lunch, and a visit to Urquhart Castle for a well-rounded day.
Quick Overview
Our list highlights three of the best tours around Drumnadrochit, each with its own appeal. First, there’s the Inverness: Celtic Handfasting Ceremony and Picnic, perfect for couples seeking a romantic Highland experience. Next, the Inverness: Full-Day Guided Tour with Highland Castle offers a comprehensive look at the area’s history, castles, and battlegrounds. Lastly, the Inverness: Loch Ness Monster Cruise, Lunch, Urquhart Castle combines a boat cruise, castle exploration, and local cuisine. All three tours provide a mix of cultural insight and scenic beauty, making them ideal for different interests and travel styles.
1. Inverness: Celtic Handfasting Ceremony and Picnic
At number one, the Inverness: Celtic Handfasting Ceremony and Picnic offers a truly memorable Highland experience. For around $108 per person, you’ll participate in a traditional Celtic handfasting on the shores of Loch Ness—an ancient ritual symbolizing union and commitment. The ceremony is personalized with vows and set in a cozy, secret location that provides privacy and intimacy. Afterward, you’ll enjoy a gourmet picnic filled with local Scottish delicacies, creating a relaxed, romantic atmosphere.
What makes this experience stand out is the combination of a meaningful ritual and the chance to learn about Highland traditions from a knowledgeable host. The ceremony itself is designed to feel authentic, with personalized vows adding a special touch. The picnic includes charming details like local cheeses, bread, and perhaps a dram of whisky, all set against the stunning backdrop of Loch Ness. It’s an excellent choice for couples looking for a meaningful, private Highland memory or even a unique pre-wedding activity.
Bottom Line: Perfect for romantics and history enthusiasts, this tour combines cultural tradition with picturesque scenery in a very personal way.
2. Inverness: Full-Day Guided Tour with Highland Castle
On the second spot, the Inverness: Full-Day Guided Tour with Highland Castle delivers an in-depth exploration of the region’s most iconic sights. Priced at about $807 for groups up to three, this extensive 8-hour adventure includes stops at Clava Cairns, a site dating back 4,000 years, and the Battle of Culloden battlefield, where you can walk the grounds of this pivotal Scottish conflict. The tour also offers visits to Cawdor Castle or Fort George, depending on your interests, with guided tours inside the castles.
Throughout the day, you’ll take in stunning landscapes, stopping at Loch Ness for photos and walking around the village of Beauly. The itinerary also includes a stop at the Singleton of Glen Ord Distillery, where you can sample Scotch whisky and learn about its production. The tour is operated in a Jeep/SUV, making it easy to access remote spots and enjoy flexibility during your sightseeing.
Guests praise the tour for its comprehensive coverage and knowledgeable guides, who bring history and lore alive. While the full-day nature might be tiring for some, it’s an excellent way to see the Highlands with a local expert.
Bottom Line: Ideal for history buffs and those wanting a full Highland immersion, this tour balances castles, battlefields, and scenic landscapes with expert storytelling.
$807 per group up to 3
3. Inverness: Loch Ness Monster Cruise, Lunch, Urquhart Castle
Number three on our list, the Inverness: Loch Ness Monster Cruise, Lunch, Urquhart Castle, combines boat travel, castle exploration, and hearty Scottish fare in a half-day experience. For about 6 hours, you’ll cruise on Loch Ness for approximately one hour, enjoying views of Urquhart Castle’s ruins at the water’s edge. The cruise offers a chance to see if you can spot Nessie, with the scenic vistas providing the perfect backdrop.
Following the cruise, a buffet lunch featuring local Scottish dishes and drinks keeps you energized. Then, you’ll explore Urquhart Castle at your leisure, wandering through the ruins and imagining what life was like centuries ago. The guide-led component ensures you’ll learn about the castle’s turbulent history while soaking in the scenery.
Many visitors note that the combination of a boat cruise, castle visit, and lunch offers great value for a memorable day. The private aspect means a friendly, personalized experience, making this perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a balanced taste of history and nature.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, scenic experience with a mix of cruise, castle, and Scottish cuisine — perfect for those wanting a classic Loch Ness day trip.
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your interests and travel style. If a romantic Highland ceremony sounds appealing, the Celtic Handfasting is unmatched for its intimacy and meaning. For those wanting a comprehensive Highland adventure, the full-day guided tour covers castles, battlefields, and scenic villages—ideal for history lovers or first-time visitors. If your priority is enjoying Loch Ness by boat with some castle exploring and a good meal, the monster cruise and castle tour offers a relaxed, scenic experience.
Budget and time also matter. The handfasting tour is shorter and more intimate, while the full-day tour offers depth at a higher price point. The Loch Ness cruise balances sightseeing with leisure, making it suitable for a half-day outing. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, to secure preferred times and availability.
Final Thoughts
Drumnadrochit offers a range of memorable tours that highlight the best of the Scottish Highlands and Loch Ness. Whether you’re seeking a romantic ritual, an immersive historical day, or a scenic boat trip, these experiences deliver authentic Highland magic. For couples, the Celtic Handfasting provides a one-of-a-kind connection to ancient traditions. History enthusiasts will appreciate the full-day Highland tour, while those looking for a leisurely Loch Ness experience should consider the monster cruise and castle visit.
No matter what you choose, these tours are worth booking early. The region’s popularity means spots fill quickly, especially in summer. Pick what suits your interests, and prepare for a memorable Highland adventure filled with history, myth, and breathtaking scenery.