Glenfinnan Viaduct, Hairy Coos and The Highlands Tour Experience from Edinburgh
Description
Departing Edinburgh
Climb aboard as we leave Edinburgh behind and set off on a thrilling day exploring Scotland’s most celebrated and diverse landmarks. While the world-famous Glenfinnan Viaduct—immortalised in the Harry Potter films—stands as the highlight of this journey, the adventure offers so much more. Expect a day filled with cinematic scenery, fascinating history, breathtaking nature, sweeping landscapes, and of course, those beloved Highland “Hairy Coos.”
Callander – Gateway To The Highlands
Our first stop takes us to the charming village of Callander, often referred to as the “Gateway to the Highlands.” Here you’ll have time to browse local shops or enjoy a bite to eat before we continue into the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. As we ascend deeper into the park, prepare to be captivated by stunning views of sparkling lochs and towering mountains set amidst lush countryside.
Glencoe – Secrets Of The Highlands
From Callander, we journey through Argyll and Bute into the heart of the Highlands, crossing the vast wilderness of Rannoch Moor—Britain’s largest stretch of moorland—before arriving at the dramatic landscapes of Glencoe, part of the Caledonian Mountain range.
Here you’ll uncover the remarkable geology of an ancient supervolcano that erupted 420 million years ago, shaping the iconic “Three Sisters” peaks. Alongside its natural wonders, Glencoe carries a poignant past, including the infamous Massacre of Glencoe. Film fans will also recognise these mountains as the backdrop to the climactic Hogwarts battle in the Harry Potter series.
Fort William – Gateway To The Great Glen
We pause for lunch in Fort William, a town nestled at the foot of the mighty Nevis Range. Explore remnants of the old army barracks, stroll the shoreline of Loch Linnhe—a striking sea loch marking the start of the Great Glen—or simply relax in one of the town’s inviting cafés before we continue our Highland adventure.
Glenfinnan – Hogwarts Express & Jacobite History
Next, we arrive at Glenfinnan, the crown jewel of the tour. Here you’ll marvel at the Glenfinnan Viaduct, designed by Thomas Telford, and the nearby Jacobite Monument. Wander the trails for the best vantage points of the viaduct, and if timed right, witness the Jacobite Steam Train crossing—better known to Harry Potter fans as the Hogwarts Express.
Take time to walk down to Loch Shiel, where Bonnie Prince Charlie raised his standard in 1745, sparking the Jacobite Uprisings. It’s a place where cinematic magic and Scottish history intertwine.
(Please note: while our itinerary is planned to coincide with the Jacobite Steam Train crossing, this service is operated independently and runs seasonally from 7th April to 24th October 2025. Delays or cancellations may occur, but even if the train is not running, you’ll still enjoy the spectacular views of the viaduct.)
Through The Cairngorms & Meeting The Hairy Coos
As the day winds down, we travel across Scotland’s largest national park—the Cairngorms, meaning “Blue Mountains.” Relax as we pass through rugged landscapes and ancient Caledonian pine forests before reaching our final stop: meeting the iconic Highland Cows, affectionately known as “Hairy Coos.”
Round off your adventure with unforgettable close-up encounters and the perfect photo opportunity with these gentle, shaggy creatures—a fitting end to a day packed with Scotland’s most iconic sights.
Itinerary
Departing from Edinburgh
- Glen Coe: Stunning Highland scenery
- Fort William: Outdoor capital of the Highlands
- Glenfinnan Viaduct: Made famous by the Harry Potter films
- Ben Nevis: See the UK’s highest mountain
- Loch Shiel: Drive through this dramatic glen
- Hairy Coos: Meet our famous Scottish creatures
Departure Point: Caffe Nero, 1 Parliament Square, High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1RE (see map)
Departure & Map
What's included
Availability: All year
Departure Point: Caffe Nero, 1 Parliament Square, High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1RE
Departs:
09:00 – 20:30
1 April – 3 May (Sat & Sun)
26 September – 23 October (Thu & Sun)
07:15 – 19:00
4 May – 25 September (Thu & Thu)
08:00 – 19:45
All other dates
Duration: 11 hrs 45 min
Ages: 5+ years old, valid proof of age may be required
Small Group: 35 passengers max.
Prices Per Person
Click Calendar to find pricing on specific dates (Blue)
**children under 5 years of age are not accepted. See below for more price notes
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