Edinburgh to Inverness: Castles, Legends & Scenic Highlands

Tour Duration

10 Hours

Pickup

Edinburgh to Inverness

Theme

Historic landmarks, natural beauty, and folklore

About this Tour

The Highlands are dotted with castles that tell tales of power, romance and rebellion. Our Highlands Castles & Legends Tour takes you on a journey through time, visiting three of Scotland’s most iconic fortresses and weaving in folklore along the way. From brooding ruins overlooking Loch Ness to a fairytale mansion with falconry displays, this tour appeals to photographers, history enthusiasts and families alike.

The Kelpies
Glencoe Valley
Glenfinnan Viaduct
Loch Ness

What's Included

✓ Transport in a comfortable mini‑coach or private vehicle.
✓ Driver‑guide with expertise in Highland history and myths. .
✓ Entry to Eilean Donan Castle.

What’s Not Included

✓ Entry to Dunrobin Castle and falconry show.
✓ Glen Ord Distillery tour and tasting. .
✓ Lunch packages featuring local produce

The Castles and Their Stories

Urquhart Castle

Once one of Scotland’s largest strongholds, Urquhart changed hands repeatedly between the Crown and rebellious clans during the Wars of Independence. Today its ruins evoke a sense of drama, standing sentinel over Loch Ness.

Eilean Donan Castle

Perched at the meeting point of three sea lochs, this castle is a symbol of Scottish heritage. Rebuilt in the early 20th century, its interior showcases period furniture, clan artefacts and dramatic views. The island setting is a photographer’s dream.

Dunrobin Castle (optional)

With fairytale turrets and manicured gardens, Dunrobin is home to the Duke of Sutherland. Visitors can tour the state rooms and watch a falconry display on the lawn. When Dunrobin isn’t available, we offer an alternative stop at Glen Ord Distillery or a Clan museum to explore genealogy and Highland traditions.

Tour Itinerary

The Kelpies

Marvel at the impressive 30-meter high horse sculptures and explore the surrounding parkland.

Glencoe

Visit the breathtaking Glencoe valley, known for its dramatic beauty and historical significance.

Fort William & Ben Nevis (Lunch Stop)

Stop for lunch in Fort William, and take in the views of Ben Nevis, the UK's tallest mountain.

Glenfinnan Viaduct (Harry Potter Bridge)

Visit the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, made iconic by the Harry Potter films.

Commando Memorial

Pay a visit to the Commando Memorial, which honors the British commandos of WWII.

Fort Augustus & Caledonian Canal

Visit Fort Augustus and take a stroll along the Caledonian Canal.

Urquhart Castle

Explore the ruins of Urquhart Castle overlooking Loch Ness.

Loch Ness Exhibition Centre

Discover the mystery of Loch Ness and its famous resident, Nessie.

Arrive in Inverness

Your scenic journey concludes as you arrive in the capital of the Highlands.

Tour Overview

Depart Inverness (08:30) – Drive along the shores of Loch Ness, listening to stories of water horses (kelpies) and ancient Pictish carvings.
Urquhart Castle – Arrive early to avoid crowds. Take in the film telling the castle’s history before exploring the ruins. Stand where Robert the Bruce once fought to reclaim the Highlands.
Scenic Drive to Eilean Donan – Head west through Glen Shiel, with photo stops at Five Sisters of Kintail mountains. Your guide recounts the legend of the five sisters, who were turned to stone while waiting for suitors.
Eilean Donan Castle tour – Cross the arched bridge to the island. Explore the banqueting hall, bedrooms and kitchen. Look for cannonballs embedded in the walls from the 1719 uprising.
Lunch in a Highland village – Enjoy local seafood or venison in the picturesque hamlet of Dornie. Options include cosy pubs and a café with views of the loch.
Dunrobin Castle or Alternative – In summer, head north along the NC500 route to Dunrobin. Stroll through French‑style gardens and watch falcons swoop inches above your head. In winter or if Dunrobin is closed, visit Glen Ord Distillery for a whisky tasting or a Clan museum to explore your ancestry.
Return via Beauly & Muir of Ord – Travel through fertile farmland and stop in the village of Beauly. Visit the 13th‑century Beauly Priory, where Mary Queen of Scots once stayed, before arriving back in Inverness (18:30).

Ready for an Adventure?

Let us whisk you away on a journey through the heart of Scotland. Book your tour today for an experience you'll never forget.

Chauffeur & Private Tour Options

Upgrade to a private chauffeur tour for maximum flexibility. Spend more time capturing photos, add a stop at the picturesque Plockton village, or include a sunset return with golden light on the lochs. Our luxury vehicles offer privacy glass, climate control and onboard refreshments.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Executive comfort and timeless style for a smooth, premium journey.

Upto 4 Passengers

Mercedes-Benz Vito Tourer

Spacious, versatile, and perfect for larger groups or families. Scotland Trip

Upto 8 Passengers

Mercedes-Benz S-Class

The pinnacle of luxury travel, offering an unparalleled ride. Scotland Highlan Trip

Upto 4 Passengers

Range
Rover Sport

Sleek design meets dynamic capability for a sophisticated Highland tour.

Upto 4 Passengers

Airport Pick‑Up & Drop‑Off

If you’re arriving via Inverness Airport or departing for Edinburgh or Glasgow after the tour, we can coordinate pickups and drop‑offs as part of our airport transfer service. Relax knowing your travel logistics are handled seamlessly.

Other Tours to Combine

The Value of Legends

Castles aren’t just stone and mortar; they are vessels of memory. By visiting them, you stand in the footsteps of kings, queens, warriors and ordinary folk whose stories shape Scottish identity. Our tour aims to share these narratives while providing comfort, local insights and flexible options.