From Glasgow: Highlands Small Group Day Trip with Loch Ness Cruise

Sail past legendary waters and rugged glens aboard a comfortable mini-coach with a local guide

Travel Flexibly 12h Max 16 guests Max 16 Glasgow, Scotland

What You Get With This Tour

  • Hunt for Nessie in the deep
  • Expert English-speaking guide
  • Round-trip mini-coach transport
  • Iconic 50-minute Loch Ness cruise
  • Guided tour of Glencoe and Great Glen
  • Scenic Highland photo stops
  • Small group experience
  • Guide tips
  • Lunch

Tour Itinerary

  • 1

    Your tour begins at Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station

    Meet your driver-guide at Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station on Killermont Street, then board a comfortable 16-seat mini-coach. Settle in as the city fades and the rugged Scottish Highlands slowly rise up ahead.
  • 2

    Skirt the shores of Loch Lomond

    Leaving Glasgow behind, follow the banks of Loch Lomond inside Scotland's first national park. Framed by mountains and dotted with over 30 islands, this famous loch has inspired songs for centuries.
  • 3

    Cross the wilds of Rannoch Moor and Glencoe

    Heading north, traverse the vast peat bogs of Rannoch Moor, unique wetlands formed by layers of spongy, partially decayed plant matter, before reaching Glencoe. Your guide shares the tragic tale of the MacDonald clan, whose story has haunted this dramatic valley for over 300 years.
  • 4

    Pass beneath Ben Nevis and the Great Glen

    Next, the road winds into the Great Glen, a vast fault line slicing across the Highlands. You'll pass beneath Ben Nevis, Britain's tallest mountain, as glacial valleys and rushing rivers frame the route.
  • 5

    Cruise Loch Ness from Fort Augustus

    Arriving in Fort Augustus on the banks of Loch Ness, you'll have around 90 minutes of free time. During this time, grab lunch then hop aboard an included 50-minute cruise to scan the dark, deep waters for a glimpse of the legendary Nessie.
  • 6

    Stroll the Victorian streets of Pitlochry

    Traveling south past the Cairngorms National Park, you'll pause in Pitlochry, a pretty Victorian resort town. Wander the High Street and picture the visitors who once came here seeking Highland tranquillity.
  • 7

    Your tour ends at Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station

    By early evening, you'll arrive back at Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station where the day began. Step off with camera rolls full of lochs and glens, and ask your guide for local dinner recommendations.

Additional Information

Discover what to expect, what's included, and everything you need to know before booking.

Good to know:

  • Lunch: Lunch is not included on this tour. You'll have around 90 minutes of free time in Fort Augustus, where you can enjoy a meal at a local cafe or restaurant beside Loch Ness.

  • Accessibility: Unfortunately, this tour is not wheelchair accessible. The day involves walking on uneven ground and some steep paths. If you have any questions about accessibility, please contact us in advance so we can prepare the proper accommodations.

  • Weather Advisory: The Loch Ness cruise is weather dependent and may be cancelled without notice. Scotland's weather changes quickly, so bring layers and a waterproof jacket in any season.

  • Children Policy: Children under 1.35 m (4 ft 5 in) will be provided with a booster seat.

  • Age Restriction: Children under 5 years old cannot be accommodated on this tour. Travelers under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

  • Luggage: Space is limited, so each guest may bring one cabin-style bag no larger than 22 x 17 x 10 in (56 x 43 x 25 cm) and up to 44 lbs (20 kg), plus one small personal bag for the coach.

  • Check-in: Please arrive 15 minutes early at the meeting point so the group can depart on time.

Your tour includes:

  • Expert English-speaking local driver-guide

  • Round-trip transport in a luxury mini-coach

  • 50-minute Loch Ness cruise

  • Free time to explore Fort Augustus

  • Scenic photo stops across the Highlands

  • Small group experience

What to bring:

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Waterproof jacket

  • Layers for changeable weather

  • Valid ID

  • Water bottle

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Customer Reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour family friendly?

Yes, though children must be at least 5 years old to join, and travelers under 18 need an adult with them. Children under 1.35 m (4 ft 5 in) will be given a booster seat. Please keep in mind this tour does include extended travel time on the coach.

What if I have concerns about my mobility on this tour?

Unfortunately, this tour is not wheelchair accessible. The day involves walking on uneven ground and some steep paths. Most travelers can take part, but if you have any concerns, please contact us in advance so we can prepare the proper accommodations.

How much walking is involved?

This is a scenic day trip with coach travel, so walking is moderate. You'll be on your feet exploring Fort Augustus, Glencoe viewpoints, and Pitlochry, mostly on uneven ground. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Does this tour run if it rains?

Yes, the tour runs rain or shine, and the Highlands are often at their moodiest in the mist. Scotland's weather changes fast, so bring layers and a waterproof jacket. Note the Loch Ness cruise is weather dependent and may be cancelled without notice.

Is lunch included?

Lunch isn't included, but you'll have around 90 minutes of free time in Fort Augustus. You can grab a meal at a local cafe or restaurant beside Loch Ness, or pack your own.

Is the Loch Ness boat cruise included?

Yes. The Loch Ness boat cruise is included in the price of the tour, but it is weather dependent and may be cancelled without prior notice.

Start From: $166.98

Available days Discounted days

Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance!