From Invergordon to Loch Ness , Inverness , Cawdor Castle + More

Set out on a captivating journey through the heart of the Scottish Highlands. This full-day tour whisks travelers away to some of the region’s most iconic destinations, from the serene Beauly Priory to the mighty Urquhart Castle on the banks of Loch Ness. Explore the historic Cawdor Castle, where Shakespeare’s Macbeth once reigned, and stand in awe at the Culloden Battlefield, the site of a pivotal Jacobite uprising. With transportation, entrance fees, and a delightful lunch included, this immersive experience promises to leave a lasting impression. Discover the captivating blend of natural beauty and rich history that defines the Scottish Highlands.

Key Points

• This immersive tour explores historic sites and scenic landscapes in Invergordon, Scotland, including Loch Ness, Inverness, Cawdor Castle, and more.
• The tour features highlights such as Beauly Priory, Urquhart Castle, Cawdor Castle, and Culloden Battlefield, with transportation, entrance fees, and lunch included.
• Visitors can experience the medieval grandeur of Cawdor Castle, including its richly decorated interiors and stunning gardens.
• The tour provides an in-depth understanding of Scottish history, with the Culloden Battlefield visitor center offering an immersive experience of the pivotal 1746 conflict.
• While the tour is not wheelchair accessible, it is conveniently located near public transportation and suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness.

Tour Overview

This tour offers an immersive exploration of the historic sites and scenic landscapes around Invergordon, Scotland.

It’s named "From Invergordon to Loch Ness, Inverness, Cawdor Castle & More" and is located in Invergordon.

With 15 reviews and a 100% recommendation, it’s earned a Badge of Excellence.

The tour is priced from $789.15 per group (up to 4) and allows free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.

Highlights include visits to Beauly Priory, Urquhart Castle, Cawdor Castle, and Culloden Battlefield, with transportation, entrance fees, and lunch included.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour kicks off with a visit to the historic Beauly Priory, founded in the 13th century for Valliscaulian monks from Dijon, France.

Once a grand structure, it was later destroyed by Cromwell’s forces in the 16th century. Today, the priory serves as the burial site for Clan Fraser and Mackenzie chiefs, although it’s currently closed due to high winds and can only be viewed from the gate.

The next stop is Urquhart Castle, perched on a promontory overlooking the breathtaking Loch Ness.

This historical site has witnessed battles for centuries, and visitors can explore the impressive ruins and enjoy the stunning views. Admission to the castle is $14.

The tour then takes guests to Cawdor Castle, where a lunch stop is included.

Admission to the castle costs $14.

The final highlight is Culloden Battlefield, the site of the famous 1746 battle, with an admission fee of $16 to the Culloden Visitor Centre.

Beauly Priory

Founded in the 13th century, Beauly Priory was established for Valliscaulian monks from Dijon, France. This religious site was later destroyed by Cromwell’s forces in the 16th century. Despite its ruined state, Beauly Priory remains an important historical landmark, serving as the burial site for Clan Fraser and Mackenzie chiefs. Visitors can view the priory from the gate, though the site is currently closed due to high winds.

Founded	Destroyed	Significance
13th century	16th century	Burial site for Clan Fraser and Mackenzie chiefs
For Valliscaulian monks from Dijon, France	By Cromwell’s forces	Closed due to high winds; viewable from gate

Urquhart Castle

Located on a promontory overlooking Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle holds historical significance as a site where battles were fought over it for centuries.

Visitors can explore the castle ruins and enjoy fantastic views of the famous loch.

The key features of Urquhart Castle include:

1. Dramatic location on a rocky outcrop.
2. Centuries-long history of control by various clans.
3. Impressive views of Loch Ness and the surrounding countryside.
4. Admission fee of $14 to access the castle grounds.

Despite its ruined state, Urquhart Castle remains a popular tourist destination, allowing visitors to enjoy Scotland’s rich history.

Cawdor Castle

As a lunch stop on the tour, Cawdor Castle captivates visitors with its medieval grandeur.

Built in the 14th century, the castle boasts a stunning mix of architectural styles, from the ancient tower house to the elegant Renaissance additions.

Guests can explore the richly decorated interiors, including the impressive Great Hall and the Dowager’s Room, which features intricate wood carvings.

The castle’s stunning gardens, with their manicured lawns and vibrant flower beds, provide a peaceful respite from the tour.

With an admission fee of $14, Cawdor Castle offers a glimpse into Scotland’s storied past and a chance to savor a delightful lunch in a truly remarkable setting.

Culloden Battlefield

The Culloden Battlefield stands as a poignant reminder of the 1746 conflict that marked a pivotal moment in Scottish history.

Visitors can explore this hallowed ground, where:

1. The Jacobite forces led by Bonnie Prince Charlie were decisively defeated by the Duke of Cumberland’s army.
2. Over 1,000 Jacobites were killed in the brutal 45-minute battle, ending their rebellion against the British crown.
3. A visitor center provides an immersive experience, tracing the events leading up to the fateful clash.
4. Admission to the center costs $16, offering a deeper understanding of this seminal chapter in Scotland’s past.

Transportation and Logistics

Travelers are picked up from the Cromarty Firth Port Authority gate in Invergordon, where a guide awaits with a name board.

The tour includes free pick-up and drop-off, as well as bottled water, private transportation, entrance fees, and a lunch stop.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions are advised against joining.

The location is near public transportation, making it easily accessible for those who prefer not to drive.

Traveler Information

Moderate physical fitness is recommended for this tour, as it involves some walking.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and it isn’t advised for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions.

However, the tour is conveniently located near public transportation.

Travelers should be aware of the following:

1. The tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness.
2. The tour isn’t suitable for those with back problems or serious medical conditions.
3. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
4. The tour is located near public transportation options.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Happens if My Travel Plans Change?

If your travel plans change, you can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour starts. This provides flexibility to adjust your plans without any penalties.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Yes, you can customize the tour itinerary. The operator offers flexibility to adjust the tour based on your interests and schedule. Simply discuss your preferences with the guide to personalize the experience.

Is There an Option to Visit the Loch Ness Monster?

The tour does not include a visit to see the Loch Ness monster. The itinerary focuses on historical sites like Urquhart Castle and Cawdor Castle, but there’s no specific activity to search for the elusive creature.

Do I Need a Visa to Participate in This Tour?

No, a visa is not required for this tour. As this is a tour within Scotland, travelers from most countries can participate without needing a visa, provided they have valid identification documents.

How Many People Typically Join This Tour?

This tour is priced for groups of up to 4 people, though the group size can vary. The tour description indicates it’s a private tour with pickup and transportation included, so group sizes are typically small.

Recap

This comprehensive tour through the Scottish Highlands offers an immersive experience, showcasing the region’s rich history and breathtaking landscapes. From the ancient Beauly Priory to the iconic Urquhart Castle and the majestic Cawdor Castle, travelers will be captivated by the deep historical insights and stunning vistas. With all logistics taken care of, it’s an unforgettable journey through the heart of Scotland.