A full-day coach journey from Edinburgh that tackles the Highlands’ most iconic stops: Glencoe, Loch Laggan, Fort Augustus and Loch Ness. Expect dramatic roadside viewpoints, short guided walks, and a chance to join a boat on Loch Ness.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step onto the coach opposite the Apex Hotel on Waterloo Place while the city still yawns; within an hour the skyline thins, and the road climbs into hills that pull the clouds low. The route threads past volcanic ridgelines, glens carved by ice, and rivers that seem to dare you to follow them upstream.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
12 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; you should be able to board a coach and walk short distances on uneven ground.
Wildlife
History
Glencoe is known for the 1692 Massacre of Glencoe; Victorian-era roads and rail shaped later Highland tourism, visible in towns like Pitlochry.
Conservation
Peatland and upland habitats in the Highlands are sensitive—stick to paths, avoid disturbing wildlife, and use local waste facilities to reduce impact.
Reserve your spot on the Loch Ness and the Scottish Highlands Day Tour from Edinburgh today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Layer for changeable weather
Bring a warm mid-layer and a lightweight waterproof—conditions can switch between sun and drizzle within an hour in the Highlands.
Bring a refillable bottle
Stops for water are limited; carry a 1L bottle and top up during longer breaks in Fort Augustus or Pitlochry.
Comfortable shoes for short walks
Most stops involve short, uneven shore or viewpoint walks—sturdy trainers or light hiking shoes are suitable.
Reserve morning pick-up time
Arrive at least 10 minutes before the 7:30am departure opposite the Apex Hotel on Waterloo Place to avoid missing the coach.
Waterproof jacket
Protects against frequent rain and wind on exposed loch shores.
Warm mid-layer (fleece or light down)
Keeps you comfortable during breezy photo stops, even in summer.
Sturdy walking shoes
Offers traction for short shoreline or viewpoint walks.
Binoculars or camera with zoom
Useful for scanning loch surfaces and spotting wildlife at distance.