Description

Private tour from Edinburgh or Glasgow, fully customisable
If you only have a short time in Scotland, this 2 day private tour to Loch Ness and the Highlands is the perfect way to experience some of the country’s most iconic landscapes, castles and legends. Travelling through the Central Highlands, Glencoe, Fort William, Loch Ness and Inverness, you will enjoy a relaxed journey with plenty of time to explore, take photos and even go monster hunting. The itinerary below is an example and can be tailored to your interests.

Tour Highlights

- Private 2 day tour to Loch Ness and the Highlands
- Depart from Edinburgh or Glasgow
- Glencoe, Rannoch Moor and dramatic Highland scenery
- Fort William and Glenfinnan (Harry Potter bridge)
- Overnight stay in Fort Augustus, with the option of an Inverness overnight
- Options for Loch Ness cruises, Urquhart Castle and Nessie experiences
- Visit Inverness, the Cairngorms and Pitlochry
- Finish with views of the Forth Bridges

Itinerary

Day 1 - Edinburgh to Fort Augustus
Stirling Castle and Doune Castle
Departing Edinburgh, we travel through the central belt, passing the mighty Stirling Castle, one of Scotland’s most important historic strongholds. Crossing the Spittal Bridge, we enjoy great views of Doune Castle, famous from Monty Python, Outlander and other films.
Entering the Highlands – Rannoch Moor and Glencoe
We officially enter the Highlands, travelling through some of Scotland’s most iconic scenery. The desolate beauty of Rannoch Moor leads us into Glencoe, a region steeped in history and known for the 1692 massacre of Clan MacDonald. Glencoe has also featured in films including Skyfall and Bollywood’s Kuch Kuch Hota Hai.
Lunch will be in Fort William, Scotland’s outdoor adventure capital.
Glenfinnan (Harry Potter bridge)
After lunch, we continue to Glenfinnan, one of the most photographed locations in the Highlands. Here you will have time to enjoy views of the Glenfinnan Viaduct, made world famous by the Harry Potter films. This is the iconic railway bridge crossed by the Hogwarts Express. Depending on the timetable, you may also see the steam train passing over the viaduct. Please note that this tour does not include riding the Jacobite Steam Train.
Overnight in Fort Augustus
Our final stop is Fort Augustus, a charming village at the southern tip of Loch Ness. You will have time to wander the village, enjoy the views and perhaps join an evening Loch Ness cruise during the summer months.

Day 2 - Exploring Loch Ness and the Great Glen
Loch Ness sits within the Great Glen, a natural fault line that connects five lochs from Fort William to Inverness. These are linked by the Caledonian Canal, an impressive feat of nineteenth century engineering. Loch Ness is famous not only for its depth and volume, but also for the legendary Nessie.

Morning Options at Loch Ness
- One hour Loch Ness cruise from Fort Augustus, with onboard sonar
- Visit Urquhart Castle, with the option of adding a short cruise
- Loch Ness Exhibition Centre, exploring decades of research
- Scenic drive along Loch Ness with more time in Inverness or a visit to Culloden Battlefield

Inverness - Capital of the Highlands
We continue to Inverness, a compact city full of history and character. The current castle dates from 1836, but fortifications have stood here for around 1,500 years, linked to figures such as Macbeth and Mary Queen of Scots.
Cairngorms, Pitlochry and the Forth Bridges
Our return journey takes us through the Cairngorm Mountains before stopping in Pitlochry, a pretty Victorian town on the River Tummel. The final stop is South Queensferry, offering superb views of the iconic Forth Bridges, before arriving back in Edinburgh around 6.30 to 7pm.

Why Choose This Private Tour

This private tour is led by a qualified Blue Badge guide, giving you a personal and flexible experience of the Scottish Highlands with expert local knowledge throughout. You will travel in comfort at your own pace, with time for photos, short walks and optional experiences such as Loch Ness cruises or castle visits. The itinerary is designed to show you the best of the Highlands without feeling rushed, making it an ideal introduction for first time visitors and a rewarding journey for returning travellers who want a deeper, more relaxed look at the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a private tour?
Yes. This is a fully private tour for your group only. No other passengers will join, and the experience is tailored to your interests.
Who will be our guide?
Your guide will be a qualified Blue Badge guide, trained to a high standard in Scottish history, culture and visitor care.
Do we ride the Jacobite Steam Train?
No. This tour visits the Glenfinnan Viaduct for views of the famous Harry Potter bridge and, when possible, the steam train passing over it. We do not ride the Jacobite Steam Train on this tour. We offer another tour that includes the train journey, so please enquire for more details.
Where do we stay overnight?
The overnight stop is normally in Fort Augustus at the southern end of Loch Ness. Accommodation is not included, but we can recommend local hotels and guesthouses. If you prefer to stay in Inverness instead, we can adjust the itinerary to suit an overnight there.
Are Loch Ness cruises included?
Cruises are optional and can be added on the day, depending on availability and weather conditions.
How long are the touring days?
Each day is usually eight to ten hours, depending on stops, traffic and your chosen options. The pace is relaxed and flexible.
Can the tour start or end in Glasgow?
Yes. The tour can begin or finish in Glasgow instead of Edinburgh. The itinerary will be slightly adjusted to suit the route.