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.
One-Way Highlands Tour: Edinburgh to Inverness via Glencoe & Glenfinnan
The Kelpies, Glencoe, the Glenfinnan Viaduct and the Commando Memorial, a scenic day across the Highlands that ends in Inverness with Drive Me Wild Scotland.
Highlands
1 day
Small-group
Duration
1 day
Group size
16
Minimum age
4
Availability
All year round
Turn your journey north into an adventure. Instead of a simple transfer, this day tour takes you from Edinburgh to Inverness the scenic way, through some of Scotland’s most famous landscapes. You pass the giant Kelpies, cross the Trossachs, drive through the dramatic valley of Glencoe, and stop at the Glenfinnan Viaduct, made famous by the Harry Potter films. Your driver-guide shares the history, legends and humour of the Highlands along the way. The tour finishes in Inverness, the Highland capital, so it is a perfect way to start a Highlands trip or continue onward to Skye or the north.
Itinerary
Day 1
1-DAY HIGHLANDS TOUR FROM EDINBURGH
Morning: Edinburgh to the Kelpies and Callander
We leave Edinburgh and head north-west. Our first stop is the Kelpies, two enormous horse heads that celebrate Scotland’s myths and industrial history. Along the way you pass Stirling Castle and the Wallace Monument. We then stop for refreshments in Callander, a charming town at the edge of the Trossachs.
Late morning: Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park
We cross Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, a landscape of calm lochs and wooded hills that marks the gateway to the Highlands. Expect scenic driving and a photo stop or two.
Midday: Glencoe
The road runs through Glencoe, a valley of dramatic mountains and sad history, the site of the 1692 massacre of Clan MacDonald. Your guide tells the story as the peaks rise on either side.
Afternoon: Glenfinnan Viaduct and the Commando Memorial
At Glenfinnan, see the famous viaduct, with views over Loch Shiel. We pass Fort William, then stop at the Commando Memorial near Spean Bridge, which honours the WWII commandos who trained in these mountains. From here there are views towards the Nevis Range and Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest peak.
Evening: Loch Ness to Inverness
We drive alongside Loch Ness and arrive in Inverness at approximately [your time].
Note: in winter the route may change depending on weather and road conditions, and arrival times can be affected by traffic.
Tour Highlight
The Kelpies
the world’s largest equine sculptures
Glencoe
towering peaks and a powerful history
Glenfinnan Viaduct
the curved railway bridge from the Harry Potter films
Commando Memorial
a tribute with views over the Nevis Range
Loch Ness
a scenic drive past Scotland’s most famous loch
Inverness
the Highland capital, your end point
Good to know
- This is a one-way tour. It does not return to Edinburgh.
- Pickup point: [your pickup point and time]
- Small-group departure, maximum [your number] seats
- Comfortable walking shoes and weatherproof layers recommended year-round
- It is a long day, so bring water, snacks and a charged phone
- Bring money for lunch and refreshments
Includes
Expert local driver-guide with live commentary and storytelling
Comfortable air-conditioned coach
Scenic photo stops at viewpoints and landmarks
Luggage storage for your journey
Excludes
Meals, food and drinks
Driver-guide gratuities (optional)
Personal travel insurance
Accommodation in Inverness
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
What should I bring with me?
Pack warm and waterproof clothing whatever the forecast says, because Highland weather can change within minutes. Bring a camera or phone for the scenery and wildlife, plus water and snacks for the long day. There are no planned hikes or long walks, but flat, comfortable shoes are best for the photo stops.
Can I bring a bag with me?
Yes. You are welcome to bring one small bag to keep with you on the coach, plus one medium-sized suitcase or backpack, which we store in the luggage hold during the journey. This can weigh up to 15kgs (33lbs) per passenger. If you are travelling with others, we are often happy to be flexible with larger bags when the weight is shared between you. Space in the hold is limited, so please bring only what you need. If you have a lot of luggage, we recommend storing the extra at your hotel or a luggage-storage service before the tour.
Do I need cash with me?
We recommend carrying some cash as well as a card. Many cafés and shops in the smaller Highland towns we visit still prefer cash, and some may not accept cards at all.
Is there food available on the tour?
Yes. There are food and drink options at many of our stops, so you can buy something hot or have a proper lunch. You are also welcome to bring your own drinks, snacks and a cold packed lunch to eat on board. Hot drinks are allowed on the coach as long as the cup has a secure lid.
Are any stops on the itinerary “weather dependent”?
In winter, some roads can be harder to travel because Scotland’s weather may bring heavy rain, cold and occasional snow. We follow the planned route whenever we can, but your driver-guide may choose a different road or change a stop if that is safer and gives you a better day.
Cancellation and refund policy
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. The coach cannot wait for late arrivals, and no refund can be given if you miss the departure. 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
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Small-group
Isle of Skye in a Day
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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.