Invergordon is a fantastic port for exploring the Scottish Highlands—especially because of its convenient location and rich array of nearby attractions. Whether you’re after the legendary Loch Ness, ancient battlefields, or scenes from Outlander, the tours here deliver stories, scenery, and history in spades. We love the small-group tours for their intimate vibe and the private options for those seeking a personalized experience. For example, a full-day private tour with a dedicated guide can make your visit special, especially if you’re pressed for time or traveling with a small group. Overall, Invergordon offers a rich selection of options that combine cultural highlights with stunning scenery.
Quick Overview
Invergordon’s best tours cover a wide range of interests—from historic castles and battlefields to loch cruises and Outlander sites. Many tours focus on Scottish history, with stops at landmarks like Cawdor Castle and the Culloden Battlefield. Others emphasize natural beauty and wildlife, like Loch Ness and Highland scenery. Small-group and private tours are plentiful, providing flexibility and a more personal experience. Whether you want a quick overview or an in-depth exploration, Invergordon’s tours cater to all kinds of travelers.
1. INVERGORDON PORT Tour of Culloden, Cairns & Cawdor Castle
This half-day Highland tour offers a rich mix of Scottish history and scenic stops in just around 7 hours. In a small group of no more than 14, you’re treated to an intimate experience that’s perfect if your time is tight. The tour kicks off at Cawdor Castle—famous for Shakespeare’s Macbeth—where you can wander beautiful gardens and explore the castle grounds (admission not included). Next, you visit the Clava Cairns, ancient burial sites that date back 4,000 years, perfect for history lovers and Outlander fans alike. Then, it’s on to Culloden Battlefield, where the last pitched battle on British soil unfolded in 1746.
Finally, a quick stop at Loch Ness provides a chance to scan the water for Nessie—no guarantees, but plenty of fun. Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and well-organized stops; one happily noted, “The stops were well timed for peak enjoyment.”
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive, small-group experience with a focus on history and scenery.
2. Full-Day Tour of Scotland from Invergordon
For those with a full day to spare, this full-day tour covers the Highlands’ highlights in 6 to 8 hours. Starting with pickup from Invergordon, it includes visits to Cawdor Castle—where an included audio-guided tour reveals its medieval charm—and Culloden Battlefield, with a walking tour that vividly recounts Scotland’s last stand in 1746. You’ll also explore Inverness and soak in the landscape en route.
The tour is praised for its comfortable transportation and engaging storytelling, with reviewers like one saying, “Rob, our guide, was outstanding—making history come alive.” If you want a thorough overview with a good balance of history, scenery, and local culture, this is a solid choice.
Bottom Line: Great for first-timers wanting a detailed, all-in-one day trip with expert narration.
3. Urquhart Castle, Loch Ness Centre, Gin, Outlander sites
This excursion blends famous Highland landmarks with pop culture. Starting from Invergordon, you visit Urquhart Castle—a 1000-year-old ruins with fantastic views across Loch Ness—and the nearby Loch Ness Centre, where you can learn about the monster legend and Scottish folklore. It’s perfect for Outlander fans too, with visits to Inverness and the Culloden Battlefield thrown in.
Guides often share engaging stories and local insights; one reviewer raved, “Lorraine made Scotland and Outlander very real!” The tour includes some free time in Inverness, plus visits to Beauly and the Nessie Centre. The combination of history, scenery, and a chance to learn about Nessie makes this a memorable day out.
Bottom Line: Best for fans of Outlander and Loch Ness, combining history and fun folklore in one relaxed trip.
4. Loch Ness, Cawdor Castle, Inverness, Culloden Battlefield & more from Invergordon
This private guided tour is the ultimate way to see multiple Highland highlights with minimal fuss. It’s ideal if you want personalized attention and skip the crowds. Starting from Invergordon, you visit Loch Ness in a private vehicle, then explore Cawdor Castle, with options for guided or self-guided visits. The tour continues to Culloden Battlefield and Beauly Priory—a peaceful ruin with fascinating stories.
Reviewers loved the flexibility and the smooth, private experience. One said, “It was a great way to see the highlights without feeling rushed,” and the vehicle even features Wi-Fi for convenience. The tour is perfect for small groups or families wanting to customize their day.
Bottom Line: Top choice for privacy, comfort, and personalized Highland exploration.
5. Secret Loch Ness, Inverness, Culloden, Cawdor Castle from port
This full-day shore excursion is designed specifically for cruise passengers wanting a seamless experience. Traveling in a group of around 14, you visit Loch Ness, Inverness, Culloden, and Cawdor Castle, with a flexible itinerary and plenty of photo opportunities. You’ll also stop at the Nessie Centre and visit local landmarks like Flora MacDonald’s statue.
Traveling with a guide ensures you get expert commentary, and reviews highlight how well-organized and informative the trips are. One reviewer mentioned, “Lorraine made Scotland and Outlander very real,” emphasizing the engaging storytelling.
Bottom Line: Perfect for cruise travelers wanting a well-paced, all-in-one Highlands tour without hassle.
6. INVERGORDON PORT Tour Dunrobin, Dornoch & Distillery
At number 6, this small-group tour offers a relaxed pace to enjoy Dunrobin Castle, famous for its fairy-tale appearance and falconry display. It also visits Dornoch, a charming town with a historic cathedral and golf course. Along the way, you’ll stop at Falls of Shin and Loch Fleet, with opportunities to see seals and wildlife. The tour wraps up at the Glenmorangie Distillery, where you can sample or buy whisky (own expense).
Reviewers praise the guide’s storytelling and flexibility. One noted, “Avril was very organized and shared her history with us,” while another loved the mix of castles, wildlife, and distillery visit.
Bottom Line: Best for those wanting a mix of castles, wildlife, and whisky, in a laid-back, small-group setting.
7. Full-Day Private Tour to Urquhart Castle Loch Ness and Inverness
For maximum flexibility, this private tour offers tailored itineraries. It’s perfect if you want to choose what to see and avoid the rush. The tour covers Beauly Priory, Urquhart Castle, Loch Ness, and Inverness Castle, with good photo stops along the way. Guides can accommodate special interests and provide a relaxed, personalized experience.
Reviewers like one who said, “It was like a road trip with family,” appreciating the flexibility and local insights. The vehicle even has Wi-Fi, making it a great choice for those wanting comfort and customization.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a bespoke Highland experience with a personal guide.
8. Cawdor Castle, Inverness, Culloden, Outlander and Loch Ness Tour
This comprehensive bus tour is perfect for those pressed for time but eager to see many Highland highlights. It covers Cawdor Castle, Culloden, Loch Ness, and Inverness in a 6-8 hour day. The stops are well-paced, with guided tours included at key sites and optional visits to Outlander locations.
Reviewers appreciate the smooth organization and how much ground the tour covers. One said, “We saw all the highlights in a day, and the guide made it fun,” making it suitable for first-time visitors.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a quick, efficient overview of Scotland’s key sites.
9. Invergordon Cruise Excursion to Dunrobin Castle, Dornoch and more
This half-day tour offers a charming mix of Dunrobin Castle, Dornoch, and local whisky tasting. It’s a favorite for travelers wanting to see castles and quaint villages without missing out on whisky culture. Visiting Dornoch Cathedral and exploring Dunrobin Castle with its falconry display makes for a memorable trip.
Reviewers praise the guide’s knowledge and the relaxed pace, with one noting, “We saw a lot and really enjoyed the castle and village.” It’s especially suited for those with limited time but high expectations.
Bottom Line: Great for castle lovers and whisky enthusiasts looking for a relaxed half-day adventure.
10. Invergordon: Highlands Guided Tour with Cawdor Castle Ticket
This 7-hour guided tour combines the must-see Highland sights like Cawdor Castle, Culloden Battlefield, and Clava Cairns with guided walks and scenic drives. It includes a walking tour of Culloden and time in Inverness. Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guide and beautiful views. One said, “We got great pictures and learned a lot about Scotland,” emphasizing the tour’s educational value.
It’s perfect for travelers who want a well-rounded experience with some walking and plenty of history and scenery.
Bottom Line: Good for those seeking a balanced, guided Highland experience.
11. INVERGORDON Highland Shore Excursion for up to 14 pax (Private)
This private tour is designed for smaller groups wanting exclusivity. It visits Loch Ness, Clava Cairns, and Highland cows—all with a flexible itinerary tailored to your interests. Many reviewers mention the “stress-free round-trip pickup” and “local guide who grew up in Inverness,” making it a personal, comfortable choice.
It’s especially suited for travelers who want to customize their day or avoid large groups. The guide’s enthusiasm and local knowledge shine through, making it both informative and fun.
Bottom Line: Excellent for small groups or families wanting a personalized Highland adventure.
12. Cawdor Castle, Culloden Battlefield and Clava Cairns
This small-group tour offers a focused look at three key sites in about 7 hours. It includes Clava Cairns, Culloden Battlefield, and Cawdor Castle—perfect for those interested in Scottish history and archaeology. The guide shares stories about each location’s significance, with a focus on immersive experiences like touching the stones at Clava.
Reviewers love the personal touch, with one saying, “It was like a private tour—very informative and relaxed.” The small-group size ensures everyone can ask questions and enjoy the sites at a comfortable pace.
Bottom Line: Ideal for history buffs and curious travelers who want an intimate experience.
13. Invergordon Cruise Excursion – Castle, Whisky and History Tour
This full-day private excursion combines Dunrobin Castle, whisky tasting at a distillery, and Dornoch village in a personalized tour. It’s perfect for those wanting a relaxed, immersive day with flexible stops. The guide customizes the day based on your interests, sharing stories about Scottish castles and whisky lore.
Reviewers highlight the “entertaining guide” and the “many interesting stops,” making it a top choice for small groups or couples seeking a tailored Highland experience.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a relaxed, customizable day with a focus on castles and whisky.
14. Invergordon Shore Excursion Highland Bucket List Tour
This 7-hour tour is perfect for ticking off highlights like Clava Cairns, Culloden, and Loch Ness. Led by a local guide, it emphasizes storytelling and photo opportunities, and includes snacks. Many reviews praise the tour’s flexibility, with one saying, “Richie modified the trip to my interests,” highlighting its tailored approach.
Ideal for travelers wanting to see the most in one day with minimal hassle and maximum local insights.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those wanting a personalized, efficient Highland experience.
15. LOCH NESS, INVERNESS, CLAVA CAIRNS & MORE FROM INVERGORDON
This comprehensive tour covers major sites like Loch Ness, Culloden, Clava Cairns, and Cawdor Castle in about 7.5 hours. It includes stops at Beauly Priory and Saint Andrew’s Cathedral, with enough time for photos and exploring. Reviewers appreciate the smooth schedule and insightful commentary, with one noting, “Stuart was an excellent guide and really brought Scotland to life.”
Perfect for travelers who want a full, well-organized day without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: Great option for a thorough, value-packed Highland experience.
16. Loch Ness with Castles, Beaches, Mountains and MONSTERS
This private full-day tour allows you to customize your visit to Loch Ness and surrounding sites like Fort Augustus, Falls of Foyers, and Caledonian Canal. It features options like Loch Ness cruises, visiting Loch Ness alpacas, and exploring Urquhart Castle—all tailored to your interests. Many reviews highlight the flexibility and personal touches, such as “the guide customized the day perfectly.” It’s suited for families or groups who want to include specific experiences like the alpaca trek or castle visits.
Bottom Line: Perfect for private groups wanting a flexible, all-encompassing Loch Ness adventure.
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour in Invergordon
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. If you’re short on time but want a rundown, the small-group tour of Culloden, Cairns & Cawdor Castle offers excellent value. For a more personalized experience, the private tours or private Highland trips are ideal, especially if you’re traveling with a small group or family.
If your main goal is Loch Ness, then options like the Secret Loch Ness or Loch Ness with castles and monsters tours include scenic cruises and plenty of photo ops. Budget travelers may prefer the Guided Highland Tours with Cawdor Castle Ticket, which combines history and scenery at a reasonable price.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak cruise season, to ensure availability for your preferred dates. Think about what stories you want to bring home—whether it’s the tales of Culloden, the legend of Nessie, or the magic of Dunrobin Castle—and pick the tour that best matches your travel style.
Invergordon offers a rich variety of tours that can satisfy history lovers, wildlife watchers, and Outlander fans alike. Whether you opt for an intimate private experience or a guided bus tour packed with highlights, you’ll leave with a true sense of Scotland’s heritage and landscapes. Pick your adventure early, and enjoy your journey through the Scottish Highlands.