From Inverness: Glen Affric, Culloden, and Clava Cairns Tour

Explore the rich history and stunning landscapes of Scotland with the "From Inverness: Glen Affric, Culloden, and Clava Cairns Tour." This comprehensive excursion takes you on a journey through time, immersing you in the significant sites that have shaped the nation’s heritage. From the ancient Clava Cairns to the poignant Culloden Battlefield, and the breathtaking natural beauty of Glen Affric, this tour offers an enriching day out for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. With transportation and admission included, you’re set to uncover the secrets that lie within these captivating destinations.

Key Points

• This 9-hour excursion from Inverness visits Clava Cairns, Culloden Battlefield, Glen Affric, and Beauly Priory, with transportation and admission to Culloden Museum included.
• Highlights include exploring the 4,000-year-old Clava Cairns, learning about the 1746 Battle of Culloden, and enjoying the stunning scenery of Glen Affric.
• The tour is suitable for adults aged 16-99 and children aged 5-15, with a carry-on luggage limit of 14kg (31lbs).
• Participants will have the opportunity to spot local wildlife, such as red deer and golden eagles, during the Glen Affric portion of the tour.
• The tour has an overall rating of 4.9/5 based on 317 reviews, indicating great value and an enjoyable experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The [KNOWLEDGE] provided highlights the key details of the "Glen Affric, Culloden, and Clava Cairns Tour".

It’s a 9-hour excursion from Inverness, Scotland, priced at $76.81 per person.

The tour includes visits to Clava Cairns, Culloden Battlefield, and Glen Affric, as well as the Beauly Priory.

Transportation and admission to Culloden Museum and Battlefield are included.

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 5, and participants are limited to one carry-on sized piece of luggage.

With overwhelmingly positive reviews, this tour promises an immersive exploration of Scotland’s rich history and natural beauty.

Itinerary Highlights

Clava Cairns, an ancient Bronze-Age graveyard over 4,000 years old, welcomes visitors to explore its mysterious stone circles and burial mounds. From there, the tour traverses to the historic Culloden Battlefield, where guests learn about the pivotal 1745 battle that marked the end of a series of uprisings. Nestled in the picturesque Scottish Highlands, the tour continues to Glen Affric, allowing participants to enjoy the enchanting Caledonian pine forests and take in the stunning views of Loch Affric and the surrounding mountains. The itinerary also includes a visit to the 13th-century Beauly Priory ruins and a drive along the famous Loch Ness.

Site	Duration	Description
Clava Cairns	1 hour	Explore prehistoric stone circles and burial mounds.
Culloden Battlefield	1.5 hours	Learn about the 1745 battle that ended the Jacobite uprisings.
Glen Affric	2 hours	Discover the ancient Caledonian pines and scenic Loch Affric.
Beauly Priory	30 mins	Visit the 13th-century monastery ruins.
Loch Ness	30 mins	Pass by the iconic loch, known for the legendary Loch Ness Monster.

Clava Cairns

After exploring the historic Culloden Battlefield, the tour ventures to the ancient Clava Cairns – a captivating Bronze-Age graveyard dating back over 4,000 years.

Visitors can marvel at the three exceptionally well-preserved cairns, or circular stone tombs, that stand in solemn grandeur. The site offers a glimpse into the mystical burial practices of Scotland’s early inhabitants:

1. The central cairn stands tall, its passage tomb leading to an inner chamber.
2. Flanking the central cairn are two smaller ring cairns, each with their own unique features.
3. Surrounding the cairns are standing stones, which may have served ceremonial purposes.
4. Exploring the site, guests can feel the weight of history and the reverence for the land.

Culloden Battlefield

From Clava Cairns, the tour then ventures to the historic Culloden Battlefield, where visitors can explore the site of a pivotal moment in Scottish history.

On April 16, 1746, the Jacobite forces of Bonnie Prince Charlie were decisively defeated by the British government in this fateful battle. Guests can visit the Culloden Museum to learn about the events leading up to the clash, walk the battlefield, and pay their respects at the Clan Graves.

This somber yet captivating stop provides insights into a turning point in Scotland’s past and the lasting impact of the Jacobite rising.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Glen Affric

Leaving the somber grounds of Culloden Battlefield behind, the tour then travels to the serene beauty of Glen Affric.

Often described as one of Scotland’s most beautiful glens, this area boasts:

1. Indigenous Caledonian pine trees, a rare and protected ecosystem.
2. Breathtaking views of the shimmering Loch Affric, surrounded by towering mountains.
3. Opportunities to spot local wildlife, such as red deer and golden eagles.
4. Peaceful walking trails that wind through the ancient, unspoiled landscape.

Visitors can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and appreciate the untamed natural splendor of this iconic Highland region.

Beauly Priory

The tour next visits the medieval Beauly Priory, a 13th-century monastery whose picturesque ruins stand as a testament to Scotland’s rich religious heritage. The priory was founded in 1230 by the Valliscaulian order and served as an important center of worship and scholarship for centuries. Today, visitors can explore the remaining structures, including the ornate chapter house, the refectory, and the bell tower. The site offers a glimpse into the region’s history and provides a peaceful respite from the day’s activities.

Feature	Description
Architectural Style	Gothic
Construction Material	Stone
Founding Order	Valliscaulian
Founding Year	1230

Loch Ness

As the tour winds down, the iconic Loch Ness comes into view.

While the tour doesn’t stop at the loch, the opportunity to catch a glimpse of this famous body of water is a highlight for many.

Loch Ness is known for:

1. Its depth, reaching up to 227 meters (744 feet), making it one of the deepest freshwater lakes in the United Kingdom.

2. The legendary Loch Ness Monster, a mysterious creature that has captivated the public’s imagination for decades.

3. Its stunning scenery, with the loch surrounded by the rolling hills and forests of the Scottish Highlands.

4. Its role in Scottish history, with the loch playing a strategic role in various conflicts over the centuries.

Tour Inclusions and Participant Information

The tour includes a live English-speaking guide to provide insight and commentary throughout the day.

Transportation is covered during the activity, and entry to the Culloden Museum and Battlefield is included.

However, food, drinks, and tips aren’t part of the package.

The tour is suitable for adults aged 16-99 and children aged 5-15, but not for those under 5 years old.

Participants are limited to one piece of carry-on size luggage not exceeding 14kg (31lbs) per person.

With an overall rating of 4.9/5 based on 317 reviews, this tour offers great value and an immersive experience in the Scottish Highlands.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

According to the tour details, food and drinks are not included. Participants can bring their own snacks and beverages, but the tour operator does not provide them. The tour focuses on the sightseeing experiences.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment or Clothing?

You don’t need any special equipment, but comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. The tour covers outdoor sites, so dressing in layers and bringing rain gear is advisable.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is generally not wheelchair accessible. The itinerary includes walking on uneven terrain at historic sites, which may pose challenges for individuals using wheelchairs. Guests with mobility issues should contact the tour operator to discuss any special arrangements.

Can I Leave the Tour Group at Any Point During the Day?

Participants can leave the tour group at any point during the day. However, they’ll be responsible for their own transportation and admission fees for any sites they don’t visit with the group. It’s best to discuss this with the guide beforehand.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour does not explicitly mention senior or student discounts. However, it’s best to contact the tour operator directly to inquire about any available discounts that may apply for those age groups.

Recap

This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Scotland’s rich history and stunning natural beauty. Visitors will discover the ancient Clava Cairns, the poignant Culloden Battlefield, and the breathtaking landscapes of Glen Affric. With transportation and admission included, this excursion provides an enriching day for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers, showcasing the best of Scotland’s heritage and scenery.

You can check if your dates are available here: