A brisk two-day circuit from Edinburgh that pairs easy woodland walks and canal-side lunches with the dramatic sweep of Loch Ness and Glencoe. Perfect for travelers seeking Highlands scenery, history, and a taste of Nessie lore without heavy hiking.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The coach eases away from Edinburgh’s Waterloo Place before dawn, the city’s Georgian facades shrinking as the road climbs toward raw country. By midmorning you’re under a canopy of Douglas firs at The Hermitage, the air damp and green; water thunders at Black Linn and dares you to stand too close. On day one the Highlands feel deliberate — each turn of the road reveals a different form of patience: ancient cairns, sandy loch beaches, and reindeer grazing at the edge of Caledonian pines.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 days
Fitness Level
Suitable for walkers of average fitness; walking segments are short and mostly on maintained paths.
Wildlife
History
Urquhart Castle dates back to the 13th century and was a strategic site during medieval clan conflicts; nearby Clava Cairns are Bronze Age burial monuments.
Conservation
The Cairngorms and Great Glen areas prioritize habitat protection and responsible tourism—stick to paths and pack out litter to reduce impact.
Reserve your spot on the Loch Ness Inverness and the Highlands 2 Day Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive Early to Check In
Check-in at Bus Stand ZE, Waterloo Place by 08:15 for the 08:30 departure—space on the mini-coach is limited.
Dress in Layers and Bring Waterproofs
Weather changes fast in the Highlands; a breathable rain shell and mid-layer keep you comfortable during coastal wind or woodland drizzle.
Comfortable, Grippy Footwear
Walks include wet roots, pebbled shores and short stair sections—shoes with good traction are important.
Carry a Power Bank and Small Daypack
Phone signal fades in glens; bring a charged power bank for maps and photos and a daypack for layers and snacks.
Waterproof Jacket
Protects against frequent showers and wind when walking forest trails and loch shores.
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Sturdy Walking Shoes
Provides traction on wet roots, shorelines, and the uneven surfaces around ruins.
Daypack with Water Bottle
Carry layers, snacks, and water for picnic stops at Loch Morlich or canal banks.
Power Bank and Camera
Keeps phones charged for navigation and captures changing light over lochs and glens.