Tom was an amazing guide!! Awesome comentary, charismatic and a real gentleman! Plus, his driving skills are unmatched. Not to mention his narration abilities. He managed to be informative, whilst not overwhelming. Communicative whilst not talkative. All while being kind, patient and charming.
The Experience
Enjoy a fantastic full day adventure in the Highlands, visiting mysterious Loch Ness, where you can go monster spotting on the shores of the loch or on a boat cruise. Learn about our turbulent history while you soak in all the classic scenery for which Scotland is famed: Glen Coe, the Great Glen, Highland Perthshire and maybe even catching a glimpse of the mighty Ben Nevis along the way!
Itinerary
Loch Ness
Starting our Loch Ness tour from Edinburgh, we pass the imposing ramparts of Stirling Castle and drive through the Trossachs National Park, Rob Roy country. We cross the wilds of Rannoch Moor before stopping at dramatic Glen Coe, the scene of the infamous massacre in 1692. We drive through Fort William, passing Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain, before entering the Great Glen.
Next, your tour continues to Fort Augustus on the banks of Loch Ness. Here, you have the chance to take a boat cruise on the loch, go for a scenic walk or simply relax by the Caledonian Canal in this charming Highland village.
We journey past shimmering Loch Laggan before climbing over the wild and lonely Drumochter Pass in the Cairngorms National Park. Heading south, we enter Perthshire, a land of forests, rivers and mountains. We continue south over the Firth of Forth with views of the spectacular Forth Bridges, arriving back in Edinburgh in the evening.
Edinburgh → Edinburgh
Tour Highlights
Fort Augustus
The village of Fort Augustus sits at the southern tip of Loch Ness. Wander along one of the most picturesque sections of the Caledonian Canal and look down the length of the loch from the Loch Ness Viewpoint.
Glen Coe
This jaw-dropping landscape is the most atmospheric and evocative place in Scotland. Glen Coe translates as the ‘weeping glen’, and the name reflects the sad history of the area, as well as the many waterfalls which cascade from misty peaks.
Loch Ness Boat Cruise
Look out for ‘Nessie’ as you explore the southern tip of Loch Ness by boat. Soak up the scenic surroundings and learn about the history of the area, as well as the famous legends of the Loch Ness Monster.
Views of Ben Nevis
Ben Nevis is the UK’s highest peak. This majestic mountain rises up from the landscape at 1345 meters above sea level. On a clear day the summit can be seen from the area around Fort William.
The Caledonian Canal
The Caledonian Canal is a super-scenic waterway which stretches 60-miles through four lochs in the Great Glen, from Fort William to Inverness. Marvel at this epic feat of engineering, as boats pass through the impressive lock system.
What's Included
✓ Passionate Local Guide
✓ Live Commentary & Storytelling in English
✓ Foreign Language Audio Guide Available
✓ Audio guide links will be provided after booking. Please download over WiFi and bring your own headphones
Upgrade Your Tour
These experiences can be added at checkout and are operated by independent local providers.
Loch Ness Cruise
Reserve at the time of booking
Get the chance to explore the depths of the mysterious Loch Ness and search for the legendary monster that is Nessie. The boat uses the very latest high-tech colour sonar and underwater imaging systems to enhance the search for the monster. Sit back and marvel at the bonnie banks of the loch while enjoying a hot drink or a dram of whisky in the onboard bar. Reserve your cruise at the time of booking to guarantee your seat. Cruise duration is approximately 1 hour.
In the Moment
What Other Explorers Say
Frequently Asked Questions
Your Loch Ness tour departs from Edinburgh city centre. For departure details and pick-up location, visit our Departure Info page.
With plenty of comfort breaks and photo stops along the way, our Loch Ness tour from Edinburgh is approximately 12 and a half hours long*.
*Length of tour may vary depending on traffic and weather conditions.
The Loch Ness boat cruise is an optional add-on and is not included in the tour price.
You can add a ticket for the Loch Ness boat tour at the time of booking, at an additional fee. The journey on the Loch Ness boat cruise is approximately 50 minutes long and offers spectacular views of the loch and the chance to learn about the mysterious Loch Ness Monster.
If you don’t do the boat cruise then you have free time for a relaxed walk along the shores of Loch Ness, the Caledonian Canal, or around the Highland village of Fort Augustus.
Since Nessie has been a bit camera-shy lately, we can't make any promises. Your Loch Ness tour offers stunning views and intriguing stories about this legendary creature. However, capturing a selfie with Nessie might require a touch of Loch Ness magic!
If you are still determined to see Nessie, consider adding the Loch Ness boat tour as an optional add-on (reserve at the time of booking). The boat comes equipped with a sonar system, giving you a peek beneath the waves for any monster-related activity!
