7–8 Hours
Inverness
Loch Ness legends, natural beauty, castles, waterfalls
The name “Loch Ness” stirs the imagination like few other places on earth. Stretching for 23 miles through Scotland’s Great Glen, the inky depths of this lake have inspired centuries of stories and speculation. On our Loch Ness Castles & Waterfalls Tour, you’ll spend an unforgettable day exploring the scenery, history and folklore that surround this legendary body of water. Departing from Inverness in the comfort of a luxury mini‑coach or private vehicle, you’ll travel along the dramatic Caledonian Canal, stop at ancient ruins and thundering waterfalls, and even have the chance to scan the dark waves for the elusive Nessie herself.
Urquhart Castle
Falls of Foyers
Loch Ness
Departs Inverness
What's Included
✓ Transport in a comfortable mini‑coach or private Mercedes vehicle with air‑conditioning, reclining seats and Wi‑Fi.
✓ Passionate local driver‑guide who shares legends, history and personal anecdotes.
✓ Bottled water for each passenger.
✓ Optional: upgrade to include a Loch Ness cruise or private castle guide (additional cost).
What’s Not Included
✓ Entry fees to Urquhart Castle and the Loch Ness Centre (packages available on request).
✓ Meals and refreshments.
✓ Personal travel insurance.
Enduring legends
Loch Ness is not only Scotland’s most famous lake but also one of its deepest, with depths exceeding 200 metres. It was carved by glaciers during the last Ice Age, forming part of the Great Glen fault line.
Living history
The first recorded sighting of the Loch Ness Monster dates back to the 6th century. Modern expeditions continue to probe its waters, mixing science with mysterybontraveler.com.
Historic castles
The ruins of Urquhart Castle, perched on the loch’s western shore, have witnessed centuries of clan battles and royal power struggles.
Natural beauty
Mist‑cloaked hills, pine forests and hidden waterfalls frame the loch, creating endless photo opportunities.
Whether you dream of following Nessie’s trail, sipping whisky at a historic distillery or simply basking in wide open spaces, our Scotland Highlands trip brings each dream within reach.
Tour Overview
This tour blends guided commentary with free exploration. You will:
End your day at Dores Beach, a peaceful pebble shore. Enjoy a final look across Loch Ness, have a coffee or dram at the Dores Inn, and perhaps skip stones on the water.
Your guide introduces the day’s themes: geology, history and legend. You’ll learn how the Caledonian Canal connects Scotland’s east and west coasts and how the Great Glen fault line shaped the landscape.
Take photos against a backdrop of the loch and rolling hills. On clear mornings the water can appear mirror‑smooth; on misty days, it evokes Gothic romance. Your guide points out the tree‑covered slopes where deer often graze.
Discover sonar explorations, submarines and the latest scientific research trying to solve the monster mystery. Interactive displays separate myth from fact and highlight the history of Nessie sightings over the centuriesbontraveler.com.
Stroll through the ruins that once guarded the Great Glen. Hear stories of clan MacDonald, MacLean and Grant. Inside the visitor centre, exhibits show weapons recovered from the loch and tapestries depicting medieval life. Climb Grant Tower’s spiral staircase for panoramic views—an iconic photo spot.
A short forest path leads to this picturesque bridge built by Thomas Telford. With rushing water below and lush moss‑covered trees above, it’s like stepping into a fairy tale.
Known as the “gateway to Loch Ness,” this village sits at the southern end of the lake. Watch boats rising and falling through the Caledonian Canal’s lock system while enjoying lunch at a pub or bakery. The village’s heritage centre and craft shops make for interesting browsing.
After a scenic drive along the eastern shore, take a 20‑minute walk through birch and pine forest to reach this spectacular waterfall. Robert Burns wrote a poem about Foyers in the 18th century; standing at the viewpoint, you’ll understand why it inspired him.
Your final stop offers tranquility and wide views across the loch. Locals often come here to watch sunsets or spot wildlife. Visit the Nessie Hunter caravan, where researcher Steve Feltham has been studying the loch for decades, and chat about his search for the monster.
As you head back, your guide recaps the day’s highlights and answers any remaining questions. You’ll arrive with new knowledge, wonderful photos and perhaps your own theories about what lurks beneath Loch Ness.
Want the flexibility to linger longer at certain stops or detour to hidden viewpoints? Book this itinerary as a private chauffeur tour. Your dedicated driver‑guide will collect you from your accommodation or airport and tailor the schedule to your interests. Luxury vehicles—from Mercedes E‑Class saloons to 8‑seat Vito Tourers—provide ultimate comfort and privacy. Ask about adding a whisky tasting or sunset picnic at Dores Beach.
Flying into Inverness or Glasgow? We can seamlessly link this tour with your arrival or departure. Our airport transfer service includes meet‑and‑greet, flight monitoring and assistance with luggage. If you land in the morning, your tour begins directly from the airport; if you depart in the evening, we can drop you off in time for your flight.
Other Tours to Combine
Combine legends and natural wonders by exploring Loch Ness before or after your Cairngorms day.
Experience island magic and return for wildlife and whisky on another day.
Add more historic splendour with visits to castles like Eilean Donan and Dunrobin.
A day on Loch Ness offers more than just monster hunting. You’ll delve into geology and legend, stand in ancient ruins, enjoy local hospitality and witness waterfalls that have inspired poets. Whether you join a scheduled group or opt for a private chauffeur experience, this tour will leave you enchanted by Scotland’s Highlands and eager to return.
Ready to explore the Scottish Highlands? Get in touch and let us create your perfect
Highland adventure.
+44 7741 836244
+44 7849 742124
info@scotlandhighlandtrip.com
Experience the magic of the Scottish Highlands with our expertly guided tours. Discover ancient castles, pristine lochs, and breathtaking landscapes.
12 Larch Pl, Culloden, Inverness IV2 7LD, United Kingdom
© 2025 Scotlandhighlandtrip. All rights reserved.
© 2025 Scotlandhighlandtrip. All rights reserved.