Glasgow: Loch Ness, Inverness & The Highlands – 2 Day Tour

Experience the Scottish Highlands in Comfort and Style

If you’re eager to explore Scotland’s breathtaking scenery without the hassle of driving, the Glasgow: Loch Ness, Inverness & The Highlands – 2 Day Tour offers a balanced mix of guided sightseeing and flexible adventure. For $152.99 per person, this roughly 2-day trip from Glasgow provides a deep dive into the wild beauty of the Highlands, loch vistas, and historic sites like Culloden.

What really draws us in is the all-inclusive nature—a driver guides you safely between dispersed sites, freeing you from navigation worries. Plus, the on-board commentary helps you understand what you’re seeing, making the trip not just beautiful but informative. Two standout features: the chance to see Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis, and the ability to choose your attractions on the second day, which makes it adaptable to different interests.

A potential consideration is the tight schedule—with so many stops packed into just two days, some may find it rushed, especially at popular sites like Urquhart Castle or Culloden Battlefield. Still, for first-time visitors or those short on time, this tour offers incredible value.

This experience suits travelers who love stunning landscapes, engaging stories, and the comfort of a guided trip. If you’re looking for a comprehensive introduction to the Highlands, this tour balances sightseeing, history, and natural beauty nicely.

Key Points

• All-inclusive convenience: A driver handles navigation, letting you focus on the scenery and stories.
• Flexible second day: You can pick which attractions to visit, tailoring the experience.
• Highlights are varied: From Glencoe’s haunting cliffs to Loch Ness’s legendary waters, there’s plenty of photo-worthy moments.
• Expert storytelling: The guides are praised for their knowledge and engaging commentary.
• Comfortable transportation: An air-conditioned vehicle makes the long drives more pleasant.
• Well-received reviews: Many travelers appreciate the scenic stops and the personable guides.

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

Day 1: From Glasgow to Loch Ness and Beyond

The tour departs early from Glasgow’s city center, giving you a head start on the day’s adventure. The first stop is Luss Pier, a charming village on Loch Lomond, perfect for a quick stretch and photo. We love how this sets the tone—immediately immersed in Scotland’s scenic beauty. The views across Loch Lomond are spectacular, and it’s a peaceful spot to take in the landscape.

Next, the journey takes us to Glencoe, which might be the most evocative landscape you’ll see on this trip. Its dramatic cliffs and moody skies have earned it fame from films like James Bond’s Skyfall. Here, your guide will share the chilling history of the 1692 massacre of the MacDonald clan, adding depth to the visual drama. Many reviews mention that this stop is a highlight—“a hauntingly beautiful place” that sticks with you long after you leave.

From there, we drive to Fort William, a lively town beside Loch Linnhe. This is your chance for a lunch break—a moment to relax and fuel up before the afternoon’s sightseeing. Many reviews note that the scenic drive and free time here make the experience feel authentic and less rushed.

Post-lunch, the tour heads to the Commando Memorial, a striking statue with views of Ben Nevis, Britain’s tallest mountain. The memorial and surrounding scenery are postcard perfect, and your guide will explain the significance of the commando training base nearby. Many travelers appreciate this stop for combining history with stunning vistas.

The day wraps up in Fort Augustus, a picturesque town at the foot of Loch Ness. Here, we recommend keeping an eye out for Nessie, the legendary monster, and if timing allows, a quick visit to Urquhart Castle ruins—a site that many reviews describe as “iconic” and worth the brief stop.

Finally, we arrive in Inverness, the Highland capital, where you’ll stay overnight. The journey itself, plus the scenic stops, makes this a full, satisfying day.

Day 2: From Inverness into History and Highland Wilderness

The next morning begins with a visit to Culloden Battlefield, the site of the 1746 Jacobite uprising. Many reviews praise this stop as “immensely moving” and “a must for history buffs”. Your guide will bring the stories to life, explaining the significance of the battle in Scottish history.

Next, Clava Cairns offers a peek into Bronze Age rituals, with prehistoric burial chambers that are surprisingly well-preserved. This stop is especially interesting for those wanting to connect with ancient Scotland.

From here, the tour enters Cairngorms National Park, the largest in the UK. The scenic drive is complemented by a lunch stop by Loch Morlich, where wildlife and mountain views create a peaceful pause. Many travelers remark on the beautiful setting and the opportunity to spot local animals.

The tour also includes a visit to Ruthven Barracks, a historic military site built after the Jacobite Rising. Here, the ruins evoke a sense of Scotland’s turbulent past.

On the way back south, there’s an optional stop at Blair Athol Distillery for a scotch whisky tour and tasting—a favorite among those who appreciate Scotland’s famous tipple. If this isn’t available, the guide will suggest exploring the town of Pitlochry, which travelers also enjoy for its charm and Victorian architecture.

The journey concludes as you cross the Queensferry Crossing, an impressive feat of engineering, before heading back to Edinburgh via train. Many reviews point out how smooth and convenient this transfer is, especially after a long day of sightseeing.

Authentic Experiences and Real Traveler Insights

Our favorite aspect of this tour is the expert guidance. As one reviewer put it, “Adam was the perfect blend of funny and informative”, which makes the long drives more engaging. The guides’ stories about sites like Glencoe and Culloden help you connect emotionally with the landscape and history.

Another highlight is the scenery itself. Many reviewers comment on how stunning the views of Loch Lomond, Glencoe, and Loch Ness are—“picturesque” and “hauntingly beautiful” being words that come up repeatedly. We loved the way the stops are spaced out, allowing enough time for photos and reflection without feeling overly rushed.

The small-group feel (up to 53 travelers, but often less) facilitates a more personal experience, with opportunities to ask questions and interact with your guide. The comfortable air-conditioned vehicle adds to the overall ease, especially during the long drives between sites.

Pricing-wise, the value is fair considering the scope of sights, guided commentary, and included transport. The one-night accommodation adds comfort, and the train ticket from Edinburgh to Glasgow at the end makes the whole experience very seamless.

A notable benefit from travelers is the flexibility on Day 2, where you can choose which sites to visit, tailoring the day to your interests—whether history, nature, or whisky.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves scenic drives but prefers not to drive yourself, this guided trip offers peace of mind and expert commentary. It’s ideal for first-time visitors wanting a rundown or those with limited time who want to see as much as possible in a short period.

Families with children aged 4 and up will find it accessible, and the small-group atmosphere encourages camaraderie. If you’re a history buff or a landscape lover, many stops are curated to satisfy both interests.

However, if you prefer more time at fewer sites or want an in-depth exploration of any specific area, you might find the schedule a bit full. For those with mobility issues, check the duration and walking involved at certain stops.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Highland excursion from Glasgow combines scenic beauty, historical storytelling, and comfortable transport into one package that offers an excellent overview of Scotland’s wild and historic side. It’s a wonderful way to get a taste of the massive landscapes, legendary lochs, and ancient sites, all with a knowledgeable guide to bring the story alive.

For travelers seeking a well-organized, engaging, and scenic introduction to the Highlands, this tour offers great value and a balanced itinerary. Whether you’re viewing Ben Nevis, exploring Culloden, or gazing across Loch Ness, you’ll come away with memorable images—and maybe even a story or two to share.

FAQs

What is included in the price?
The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a knowledgeable driver-guide, live commentary, 1 night’s accommodation (unless you select ‘no accommodation’), and a train ticket from Edinburgh to Glasgow in the evening.

Are attraction tickets included?
No, the price does not include additional attraction tickets. You may want to budget for optional visits, such as Urquhart Castle or Blair Athol Distillery.

What is the meeting point?
The tour departs from 19 Killermont St, Glasgow G2 3NX. Travelers should arrive at least 15 minutes early.

How long is the tour?
The first day runs approximately 14 hours, starting at 8:30 am, with the second day wrapping up after the return to Edinburgh.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the minimum age is 4 years old, and children should be accompanied by an adult.

What should I wear?
Since it operates in all weather conditions, dress appropriately for the weather and bring layers, including waterproofs if rain is forecast.

Can I customize the second day?
Yes, the itinerary on Day 2 is flexible, allowing you to choose which attractions you’d like to visit.

What’s the group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 53 travelers, but reviews suggest it often feels quite intimate and personal.

Is food included?
No, meals and drinks are not included unless specified. You’ll have opportunities for lunch at designated stops.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 6 days before are non-refundable, unless in special circumstances like illness (not covered if you fall ill within 7 days of travel).

In all, this tour offers a well-rounded, scenic, and informative journey through one of the most beautiful parts of Britain. It’s perfect for those who want a guided, hassle-free experience with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos and stories to bring home.