Nestled in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, Inverness beckons visitors to embark on a captivating journey through its rich history and natural beauty. The Loch Ness Cruise and Outlander Trip offers a unique opportunity to explore the mysterious Loch Ness, search for the elusive Nessie, and take in the captivating world of the Outlander series. From the majestic ruins of Urquhart Castle to the poignant Culloden Battlefield, this tour promises a seamless blend of adventure, culture, and Scottish heritage. And for those seeking a true taste of the Highlands, an optional whisky tasting at a local distillery awaits, adding another layer of depth to this unforgettable experience.
Key Points
Key points:
- The tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Loch Ness and Outlander connections, including a cruise on Loch Ness in search of Nessie.
- Participants can visit the ruins of Urquhart Castle, enjoy the history of Culloden Battlefield, and stop at a local whisky distillery.
- The tour includes transportation, guided services, free time in Beauly, and access to historical sites, with an optional whisky tasting for an additional cost.
- The tour is suitable for adults aged 17 to 99 and students with valid ID, but may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments.
- The tour has received positive reviews, with praise for knowledgeable guides and engaging experiences, although some reviews mention time constraints at the whisky distillery.
Tour Overview and Highlights
This day trip from Inverness offers a comprehensive exploration of the Loch Ness region and its connections to the Outlander series.
Highlights include a cruise on the legendary Loch Ness in search of the elusive Nessie, a visit to the ruins of Urquhart Castle, and an immersion in the history of the Culloden Battlefield, the inspiration for Outlander.
The tour also features a stop at a local whisky distillery and the ancient Clava Cairns.
With an expert guide providing live commentary in English, as well as audio guides in multiple languages, this 9-hour adventure is designed to captivate both Outlander fans and those seeking to discover the natural and cultural wonders of the Scottish Highlands.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Culloden Moor.
Itinerary Details
The tour kicks off with a cruise on Loch Ness, allowing guests to scan the iconic waters for a glimpse of the legendary Loch Ness Monster.
Next, the group will explore the ruins of Urquhart Castle, which overlooks the loch.
After a lunch stop in Beauly, the tour visits a local whisky distillery, where visitors can sample the region’s renowned spirits.
The experience then takes guests to the historic Culloden Battlefield, the site of a pivotal Jacobite uprising, and the ancient Clava Cairns, a Bronze Age burial site that inspired the Outlander series.
- Cruise Loch Ness
- Visit Urquhart Castle
- Whisky tasting at a distillery
- Tour Culloden Battlefield and Clava Cairns
Inclusions and Costs
Included in the tour price is transportation by bus, guided services, and the Loch Ness cruise.
Visitors will also enjoy free time in the picturesque town of Beauly and explore historical sites like Urquhart Castle, Culloden Battlefield, and Clava Cairns.
Lunch is provided, while an optional whisky tasting at a Highland distillery can be added for an additional £8. Entry to the Culloden Visitor Centre is £12 per person.
With a range of inclusions, the tour offers a comprehensive experience exploring the legendary Loch Ness and the history that inspired Outlander, all for $108.38 per person.
Participant Information
Typically, this tour is suitable for adults aged 17 to 99 and students with a valid ID between 18 and 99 years old. It isn’t recommended for children aged 4 and younger.
Plus, the tour may not be suitable for those with mobility impairments, as participants must be able to board and disembark the bus independently or with assistance.
-
The tour is suitable for couples, groups, solo travelers, and families.
-
Participants should be prepared for walking and standing during the tour.
-
The tour may involve uneven terrain and steps, so a good level of mobility is required.
-
Participants should also be prepared for varying weather conditions and dress appropriately.
Meeting Point and Feedback
The meeting point for this tour is 19 Union Street, across from the Victorian Market in Inverness. Participants will gather here before embarking on their journey to explore Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle, and the historic Culloden Battlefield.
Based on 18 reviews, the tour has an impressive overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and engaging experiences, though some note time constraints at the whisky distillery.
This tour is recommended for couples, groups, solo travelers, and families seeking a comprehensive introduction to the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Exploring Loch Ness
At the heart of this captivating day trip lies the legendary Loch Ness, where participants embark on a serene cruise in search of the elusive Loch Ness Monster, affectionately known as "Nessie".
The cruise offers a unique opportunity to take in the breathtaking scenery surrounding the deep, mysterious lake:
- Towering Highland peaks frame the lush, rolling shores.
- Historic Urquhart Castle stands as a testament to Scotland’s storied past.
- The peaceful waters reflect the ever-changing skies above, creating a serene ambiance.
- Guides share fascinating tales and insights, immersing guests in the legend of Nessie.
Visiting Urquhart Castle
Urquhart Castle’s imposing ruins stand as a testament to Scotland’s tumultuous history, overlooking the serene waters of Loch Ness.
Visitors can explore the castle’s ancient walls and towers, which date back to the 13th century. Once a powerful stronghold, the castle was the site of numerous battles and sieges throughout the centuries.
Today, it offers breathtaking views of the loch and the surrounding Highlands. The castle’s well-preserved remains provide a glimpse into Scotland’s storied past, making it a must-see destination for anyone exploring the Loch Ness region.
Experiencing Culloden Battlefield
Visitors to the historic Culloden Battlefield can enjoy the harrowing events of the 1746 clash between the Jacobite forces and the British army. The battlefield offers a poignant glimpse into this pivotal moment in Scottish history:
-
Visitors can explore the Culloden Visitor Centre, which provides interactive exhibits and multimedia displays detailing the battle.
-
Walking the battlefield, visitors can stand on the very ground where the fighting took place and imagine the chaos of that fateful day.
-
Commemorative monuments and clan stones mark the positions of the clans, allowing visitors to honor the memory of those who fell.
-
The atmospheric and somber setting encourages reflection on the consequences of war and the resilience of the Scottish spirit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
The tour does not explicitly prohibit bringing your own food and drinks. However, lunch is included, and a whisky tasting is offered. It’s best to check with the tour provider for any specific policies regarding outside food and beverages.
Is the Loch Ness Cruise Wheelchair Accessible?
The tour details indicate the Loch Ness cruise is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, as passengers must be able to board and disembark the boat independently or with assistance. The tour may not be wheelchair accessible.
Do I Need to Bring My Own Whisky Tasting Glass?
You don’t need to bring your own whisky tasting glass. The tour includes a whisky tasting at a Highland distillery, and the necessary glassware will be provided as part of the experience.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, according to the provided knowledge. Customers can easily cancel their booking if their plans change, without incurring any penalties.
Can I Book This Tour in Another Language Besides English?
Yes, the tour offers audio guides in Portuguese, Italian, Chinese, German, French, and Spanish in addition to the live English tour guide. Customers can choose their preferred language when booking the tour.
Recap
This captivating tour offers a unique blend of adventure, culture, and Scottish heritage. Visitors will embark on a Loch Ness cruise in search of the elusive Nessie, explore the historic ruins of Urquhart Castle, and enjoy the poignant history of Culloden Battlefield. With an optional whisky tasting and a delightful lunch in Beauly, this Inverness experience is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who take part.
You can check if your dates are available here: