Greenock Shore Excursion: Highlands, Lochs & Castles Private Day Tour
Difficulty
easy
Duration
7–8 hours
Fitness Level
Light activity; suitable for most fitness levels with short, mostly flat walks and standing at viewpoints.
Overview
Board a private Mercedes minivan from Greenock and spend a day chasing lochs, ruined castles and small Highland towns. This flexible shore excursion blends short walks, historic context, and scenic photo stops across Loch Lomond, Inveraray and Kilchurn.
Greenock Shore Excursion: Highlands, Lochs & Castles Private Day Tour
Select participants and date
You step off a cruise ship into salted air, suitcase wheels clicking across the pier, and a kilted guide lifts a hand in greeting. The Mercedes V-Class hums, doors slide open, and the day begins: a seven- to eight-hour ribbon of lochside roads, ruined towers, and small towns where time keeps its own pace.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Book castle access in advance
Inveraray Castle is closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays and sometimes restricts interior visits—reserve tickets or confirm opening days before your cruise arrives.
Layer and waterproof up
Weather changes quickly by the lochs; pack a waterproof shell and mid-layers to stay comfortable during photo stops and short walks.
Reserve lunch ahead
Village restaurants are small—booking lunch in Inveraray or packing snacks keeps the itinerary running smoothly.
Bring ship documents and ID
Have your cruise ID and passport readily available for boarding and any scheduled checkpoints.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- red deer
- golden eagles (occasional sightings)
History
The route follows 18th-century military roads built after the Jacobite risings and visits Inveraray, a planned Georgian town and the Campbell clan seat dating to the 18th century.
Conservation
Visitor numbers are managed at sensitive sites; stick to paths, avoid disturbing wildlife, and support local businesses to keep small communities sustainable.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Greenock
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof jacket
Protects against frequent rain and wind on exposed lochside viewpoints.
Sturdy walking shoes
Required for uneven village streets, short trails and castle grounds.
Camera or phone with extra battery
Low light and dramatic vistas reward photography—spare power ensures you don’t miss shots.
Layered clothing (fleece or merino)
Easy to add or remove as temperatures swing between coastal damp and inland chill.