Highlands
Small-group
Loch Ness, Glencoe & the Highlands
Edinburgh to the shores of Loch Ness by way of Glencoe's glacier-carved peaks, with time on the water and a whisky stop in the Trossachs.
Magical Highlands: Glencoe & The Glenfinnan Viaduct, 1 Day from Edinburgh
Glencoe’s wild peaks, Loch Shiel and the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct on a day of Highland scenery and movie-set views with Drive Me Wild Scotland.
Highlands
1 day
Small-group
Duration
1 day
Group size
16
Minimum age
4
Availability
All year round
Picture a glen, a shining loch at your feet, a monument on one side and a graceful railway viaduct on the other. If you are lucky, a steam train puffs into view and you can almost hear the Hogwarts Express. This day tour takes you deep into the Highlands to Glenfinnan, one of Scotland’s most photographed spots, and through Glencoe, where the beauty and the history are equally powerful. We keep vehicles small and the pace relaxed, so there is time to stand at the viewpoint rather than photograph it through a window. Your driver-guide tells the stories of the Jacobite Rising, the legends of the glens and the film scenes shot here.
Itinerary
Day 1
Venture through Glencoe’s wild peaks to the cinematic arches of Glenfinnan Viaduct
Morning: Edinburgh to Perthshire
We leave Edinburgh, cross the Firth of Forth with views of the Forth Bridge (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and head north through the green farmland of Fife. The landscape gradually changes to the forested glens of Perthshire, where we stop in a charming town to stretch our legs before going deeper into the Highlands.
Mid-morning: Into the Highlands and lunch
The road passes the broad peaks of the Cairngorms National Park, with several viewpoint stops along the way. Moorland, lochs and rugged mountains accompany you to a pretty Highland town where you have a relaxed lunch break.
Afternoon: Glenfinnan, then Glencoe
We continue to Glenfinnan, a glen set among mountains above Loch Shiel. It is home to the Glenfinnan Monument and the Glenfinnan Viaduct, a favourite with Harry Potter fans. You have time to reflect on the Jacobite Rising of 1745 and explore the monument. Keep an eye out for the Jacobite steam train, which crosses the viaduct on certain days. We then travel south to Glencoe, known for its steep, rugged slopes and its use in films. Your driver-guide shares one of Scotland’s most tragic stories linked to this glen.
Evening: Back to Edinburgh
We begin the journey south, pausing at a beautiful loch framed by mountains. The rugged peaks slowly give way to the gentler Lowlands, and we arrive back in Edinburgh at approximately 7:45pm.
Tour Route Map
Click to expand
Tour Highlight
Glenfinnan Viaduct
the famous curved railway bridge seen in the Harry Potter films
Glenfinnan Monument
marks where Bonnie Prince Charlie raised his standard in 1745
Loch Shiel
misty waters and mountains that appeared on screen
Glencoe
stunning scenery and a powerful, tragic history
Rannoch Moor
an epic stretch of untouched wilderness
Callander
a charming town with shops and cafes
Good to know
- Pickup point: 7.30am
- Small-group departure, maximum 16 seats
- Comfortable walking shoes and weatherproof layers recommended year-round
- This is a long day (about 12 hours), so bring snacks, water and a charged phone
- Lunch is at a local Highland town, so bring money for food
- The Jacobite steam train runs only on certain days and times, so seeing it is not guaranteed
Includes
Expert local driver-guide (licensed & DBS-checked)
Executive mini-coach (max 16 passengers)
Live commentary and storytelling along the route
Scenic photo stops at viewpoints and hidden gems
One small bag allowance
Excludes
Meals, food and drinks
Driver-guide gratuities (optional)
Personal travel insurance
Flights, transfers and accommodation
What Other Explorers Say
Our driver-guide was exceptional! Travelling in a small executive group meant we could pull in at secluded Highland viewpoints the big 50-seater coaches couldn't reach. The local folklore through Glencoe made Scotland truly come alive.
A truly five-star experience from start to finish. The pace was relaxed and unhurried with ample time for photographs, lochside walks, and an authentic village lunch. Drive Me Wild Scotland exceeded every expectation!
First time exploring Scotland, and this tour made the whole trip unforgettable. Having an authentic Scottish driver-guide sharing personal stories and deep clan history made every mile fascinating. Spotless Mercedes mini-coach!
The scenery was breathtaking, and the small group atmosphere felt so welcoming. Our driver knew exactly where to stop for panoramic photos away from the crowds and gave great recommendations for the rest of our holiday.
From the prompt city departure to the scenic evening return, everything was seamlessly managed. Warm Scottish hospitality, executive seating with massive panoramic windows, and brilliant storytelling. Outstanding tour!
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do tours depart from?
This tour departs from central Edinburgh. Your exact meeting point and time are confirmed on your booking voucher.
What should I bring with me on the tour?
Comfortable walking shoes, a waterproof jacket, warm layers, a camera, snacks and water, and money for lunch.
Will we see the Jacobite steam train?
The steam train crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct only on certain days and times, so we cannot guarantee you will see it. If it is running while we are there, your guide will make sure you are in the right spot.
What happens if the Scottish weather is bad?
The tour runs in all weather. Your guide adjusts stops to make the most of conditions, and the Highlands are often at their most atmospheric in mist and rain.
Is accommodation included in the price?
No. This is a day tour and you return to Edinburgh the same evening.
How much luggage can I bring?
One small bag or day-pack per person.
Can I cancel or change my booking?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before departure and receive a full refund. If you cancel within 24 hours of departure, unfortunately we cannot offer a refund. To cancel, please email us at hello@drivemewildscotland.co.uk as soon as possible. Your cancellation takes effect on the date we receive your written request.
More day tours
Skye
Small-group
Isle of Skye in a Day
An early start over the Skye Bridge to the Cuillin, the Fairy Pools and Portree's harbour, back to Edinburgh by nightfall.
Central Scotland
Small-group
Stirling Castle & The Kelpies
Scotland's most fought-over castle, the Wallace Monument on the skyline, and the 30-metre horse-head sculptures at Falkirk.