Step into the heart of the Highlands on this unforgettable two-day journey from Edinburgh. Travel through dramatic mountain passes, visit ancient burial sites and the haunting battlefield of Culloden. Cruise Loch Ness, explore the ruins of Urquhart Castle, and stay overnight in the tranquil village of Fort Augustus. Day two brings a ride on the iconic Jacobite Steam Train, spectacular west coast scenery, and a return through the legendary Glen Coe. Packed with history, culture and stunning landscapes, this is Scotland at its most captivating.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Edinburgh to Loch Ness
Edinburgh - Pitlochry - Culloden - Loch Ness - Fort Augustus. We leave Edinburgh behind as we embark on a magical and historic two-day journey into the heart of the Highlands. Our first stop is Pitlochry, a charming town on the banks of the River Tummel, where you'll have time for a quick refreshment break.
From here, we continue north through the dramatic Drumochter Pass. As we skirt the edges of the Cairngorms National Park, you'll pass the towering peaks that include five of the UK's highest mountains.
Travelling past Aviemore, we make a stop at Clava Cairns, a Bronze Age burial site over 4,000 years old. These atmospheric standing stones inspired scenes in the 'Outlander' series, where Claire famously slips through time.
Next, we visit Culloden Battlefield, site of the final, tragic confrontation of the 1745 Jacobite rising. Walk the battlefield where hundreds of clansmen lost their lives and delve into the interactive exhibitions at the visitor centre.
Later, you have the option to take a cruise on Loch Ness and explore the dramatic ruins of Urquhart Castle - a truly iconic Highland experience.
We then continue to Fort Augustus, a tranquil village on the southern tip of Loch Ness, where we spend the night.
Meeting Point:Caffe Nero, Adam Smith Statue, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, Scotland EH1 1RB, United Kingdom
Check in at 08:45 and Departs at 09:00
Overnight: Fort Augustus
Steam Train and Scenic Highlands
Fort Augustus - Fort William - Glen Coe - Edinburgh. After breakfast, we head to Fort William where you’ll board the Jacobite Steam Train - one of the world's most scenic rail journeys. This route passes Britain’s highest mountain, deepest loch, shortest river and most westerly station. It’s also known as the Hogwarts Express, and you'll recognise the Glenfinnan Viaduct from the 'Harry Potter' films. The train also passes the Glenfinnan Monument, where Bonnie Prince Charlie raised his standard in 1745.
Our lunch stop is Mallaig, a vibrant west coast fishing port. Known as 'Mel Vik' in Old Norse, meaning 'sand dune bay', it's the end of the famous Road to the Isles. You can explore the town’s maritime past at the Mallaig Heritage Centre or enjoy some of Scotland’s freshest seafood (own expense).
After lunch, we rejoin our driver-guide and follow a similar route back by road, passing the Silver Sands of Morar and stopping for a photo at the Prince’s Cairn - marking the departure of Bonnie Prince Charlie in 1746.
Our return journey takes us through Glen Coe, renowned for its haunting beauty and tragic history - the site of the infamous betrayal of the MacDonalds. Carved by glaciers and volcanic activity, the glen also featured in the 'Harry Potter' films.
We continue across the remote and scenic Rannoch Moor, a vast 50-square-mile stretch of wilderness also featured in 'Skyfall'. Our final leg takes us through Stirlingshire, passing Stirling Castle and the striking Kelpies before we return to Edinburgh.
Drop Off Point:Deacon Brodies Tavern, 435 Lawnmarket, Edinburgh, EH1 2NT, United Kingdom 20:00
Breakfast
Prices & Dates
Departure dates are guaranteed with 2 travellers. 'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to solo travellers and anyone wanting the privacy of their own room.
At a Glance
