Adventure Collective
Explore Scotland’s Highlands: Half-Day Guided Tour of Inverness, Culloden, Clava, and Historic Castles - Inverness

Explore Scotland’s Highlands: Half-Day Guided Tour of Inverness, Culloden, Clava, and Historic Castles

Invernesseasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

4 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; requires moderate walking on uneven terrain.

Overview

Discover Scotland’s dramatic Highland history and landscapes on a half-day guided tour from Inverness, visiting the evocative Culloden Battlefield, ancient Clava Cairns, and your choice of two iconic castles. Join local guide Cath for a small-group journey back in time.

Inverness, Scotland

Half Day Guided Tour -Inverness, Culloden, Clava and Historic Castle

Highland Adventure • 4 Hours • Great for short visits!

Select participants and date

About This Adventure

Embark on a captivating half-day driving tour of the Scottish Highlands with local guide Cath. Explore the haunting Culloden Battlefield, the ancient Clava Cairns, and choose between the enchanting Cawdor Castle or the imposing Fort George. Experience rich history, stunning landscapes, and personal stories that bring Scotland's past to life.

About

Meet Cath, a friendly local and a highly experienced, qualified guide for your half-day driving tour. Discover the rich history of the Scottish Highlands as you explore iconic castles and ancient landmarks.

Before your tour, choose from one of three unforgettable destinations:

  • Cawdor Castle, an enchanting 18th-century Highland castle surrounded by beautiful gardens
  • Fort George, one of Europe's most impressive military fortifications
  • Urquhart Castle, a majestic ruin on the shores of Loch Ness If you have specific preferences or other requests, feel free to contact me directly. (Please note: venue opening times may vary based on the season.)

You'll visit a 4,000-year-old chambered burial ground, famously featured in Diana Gabaldon’s Outlander series, both in the books and the TV show.

The tour also includes a poignant visit to Culloden Battlefield, the site of the last pitched battle on mainland Britain. Cath, with personal family ties to the 1746 Battle of Culloden, will lead you on a walking tour of the battlefield, shedding light on why this conflict marked such a tragic end to the Jacobite rising. You’ll also have time to explore the visitor center, café, and shop at your own pace.

Highlights

  • Driving tour of Inverness
  • Visit Cawdor Castle or Fort George - or Urquhart Castle 75 minutes
  • Guided tour of Clava Cairn - 20 minutes
  • Culloden Battlefield including walking tour - 75 minutes

Included

  • Qualified local guide
  • Full live commentary
  • Complimentary drinks and snacks
  • Vehicle and petrol
  • Guide has free access to sites (no additional charge to the guest)
  • The price quoted is per tour not per person (Tour up to 3 people)

Not Included

  • Entrance fees for guests to Cawdor Castle £16 per adult /Fort George £11 per adult/ Urquhart Castle £16
  • Other entrance fees
  • Additional hours or expenses

Adventure Tips

Wear Comfortable Footwear

The battlefield and Clava Cairns involve walking on uneven ground; sturdy shoes with good traction are recommended.

Bring a Waterproof Jacket

Scottish weather is famously changeable—be prepared for rain to stay comfortable throughout your tour.

Carry a Camera with Extra Batteries

The scenic landscapes and ancient sites provide excellent photo opportunities, so ensure your gear is ready for the day.

Arrive on Time for Pickup

Tours start promptly from Inverness accommodation pickups, so be ready to maximize your experience without delays.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Bottlenose dolphins in Moray Firth
  • Red deer roaming nearby Highland glens

History

Culloden Battlefield marks the final and decisive clash in the Jacobite Rising of 1746, a turning point in British history.

Conservation

The sites visited are managed to protect their archaeological integrity and natural environment, with visitors encouraged to respect the fragile landscapes.

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Adventure Hotspots in Inverness

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Sturdy Hiking Shoes

Essential

Supports comfortable walking on uneven and sometimes slippery ground at historical sites.

Waterproof Jacket

Essential

Protects against unpredictable Highland weather, keeping you dry during outdoor portions.

Layered Clothing

Essential

Allows adapting to fluctuating temperatures common in the Highlands during spring.

spring specific

Camera or Smartphone

Captures the dramatic landscapes and ancient stone monuments en route.