The West Highland Experience

Duration

11 Hours and 30 minutes approximately

Prices vary by season

About

This tour gives you the opportunity to see some of Scotland's most stunning lochs as you cross the country to have lunch at the seaside town of Oban. By the end of the day you will have experienced some of Scotland's finest history, scenery and seafood.

Tour Itinerary

This tour takes you to the stunning West Coast of Scotland, the perfect way to see Scotlands stunning countryside, hear about some of Scotlands most prominent history and sample some of Scotlands freshest seafood.

Loch Lomond and the Highlands...

Leaving our departure city we head towards Loch Lomond, the largest expanse of fresh water in the country, where we’ll stop off at the stunning conservation village of Luss. Luss is 10 miles south of Tarbet and has been a settlement since medieval times, with the village you see today dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. The quaint little rows of cottages come alive with the spring flower growth and elaborate flower displays. Whilst here, grab yourself a quick coffee, or why not do a spot of sightseeing over the Loch.

Highland Scenery and History...

We then head deep into the Highlands, passing through enchanting forestry via Loch Awe, the longest loch in Scotland and jewel in Argyll’s crown. As we continue through the stunning highlands, you are graced with rich history as we catch a glimpse of Kilchurn Castle, best known historically as a stronghold of the Campbell Clan. Perched on the shore of Loch Awe, this castle is possibly one of Scotland’s most scenic fortifications. Leaving this piece of history behind we continue through the Pass of Brander, the location where Robert the Bruce had a notable victory. From here, we’ll head to our next stop of Oban, the star of this tour and lunch stop for the day.

Lunch at the sea-side town of Oban...

By lunchtime, we'll have reached Oban, a quaint seaside town. Oban, ‘Little Bay’ in Gaelic, is surrounded by miles of dramatic shores and beautiful countryside. Here you'll have ample time to grab a bite to eat, as well as explore the seaside town. Why not climb up to McCaig’s Tower, a prominent landmark, to take in the views over to the Isles of Mull and Kerrera, take a look at the tantalising Falls of Lora or treat yourself by trying some of the freshest seafood you’ll have ever tasted. Why not take yourself along to the Oban distillery, one of the smallest distilleries in Scotland, for a wee dram at their bar.

Coffee and Cakes at Inveraray by Loch Fyne…

On the way back to Edinburgh, we'll visit the seat of the Campbell Clan at Inveraray, where we'll stop so you can drink in the beauty of Loch Fyne. Established in 1745, the set is a beautiful display of Scottish Georgian architecture. You'll have the opportunity to tour Inveraray Castle *, an iconic Scottish visitor attraction, if you wish. It is a fine example of gothic revival architecture which makes you feel as if you've stepped into a fairytale. It also has an extensive collection of weaponry within. From here, we’ll begin our journey home.

*Please note that visiting the interior of Inveraray Castle will not be possible from October to March

Rest and Be Thankful...

Our journey south begins by travelling along and over the Rest and Be Thankful Pass, what a view, the greatest way to end to your day. The pass is famous due to its stunning location, at 245m above sea level, it creates a divide between Glen Kinglas and Glen Croe as well as between Loch Long and Loch Fyne. This stunning pass follows some of the old military road which was built in 1753, the soldiers gave it the name it has today. At the top viewpoint, travellers used to literally stop to rest and be thankful that they had reached the top of their steep climb. As a permanent marking of the road’s completion, a monument was erected. A perfect place to reflect and take it all in and get your final stunning picture before returning to Edinburgh.

What to bring

It is always advisable to be prepared for any weather in Scotland so a jacket is always a good idea! A bottle of water for hydration and a camera to capture the spectacular views and you are set to go! It is not necessary for you to bring your own meals, as we will stop throughout the day in small towns or villages where you can purchase food, however you are more than welcome to bring along snacks or a packed lunch.