Highland Lochs & Castles Tour from Edinburgh to Glencoe & the Kelpies • Alba Tours

Highland Lochs & Castles Tour from Edinburgh to Glencoe & the Kelpies

Embark on a picturesque journey from Edinburgh, weaving through Scotland’s stunning landscapes. Departing from the bustling city, your route ventures northwest towards Luss, a quaint village nestled along the shores of Loch Lomond. As you traverse the winding roads, the verdant hills of the Trossachs National Park unfurl before you, offering glimpses of serene lochs and rugged terrain. In Luss, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, soaking in panoramic views of the Loch and its surrounding peaks.

Continuing your expedition, the road leads you through the majestic scenery of the Scottish Highlands towards Rest and Be Thankful. Ascend through breathtaking mountain passes, where cascading waterfalls and craggy peaks punctuate the landscape. At Rest and Be Thankful, pause to absorb the tranquil ambiance and savor a moment of gratitude amidst nature’s grandeur.

Next, delve into Scotland’s rich history with visits to iconic landmarks such as Inveraray Castle, Kilchurn Castle, and Castle Stalker. These ancient fortresses stand as testaments to Scotland’s turbulent past, each with its own tales of conquest and valor. Immerse yourself in the architectural marvel of St Conan’s Kirk, a whimsical church nestled on the shores of Loch Awe, before encountering the majestic beauty of Glencoe’s sweeping valleys and towering peaks. Conclude your adventure with a charming encounter at Kilmahog, where you can marvel at the iconic Highland cows, and a visit to the magnificent Kelpies in Falkirk, before returning to Edinburgh, your heart brimming with memories of Scotland’s enchanting landscapes and rich heritage.

Pickup Details

We offer private tours for up to eight passengers. This means we will be picking up only you and your party. We offer complimentary bottles of still water for all passengers and our vehicles come with charging points for your devices.

Start time
7:30am - 9:00am

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

Luss / Loch Lomond

A picturesque village nestled along the tranquil shores of Loch Lomond, embodies the quintessential charm of Scotland's countryside. With its quaint cottages adorned with coloUrful blooms, winding cobblestone streets, and panoramic views of the shimmering loch, Luss captivates visitors with its idyllic ambiance. Take a leisurely stroll along the water's edge, breathe in the crisp Highland air, and immerse yourself in the serenity of this enchanting lochside retreat. Whether admiring the reflections of distant hills mirrored in the glassy waters or exploring the quaint shops and cafes that line the village streets, Luss invites you to unwind and savoUr the simple pleasures of Scottish village life amidst breathtaking natural beauty.

30 minutes

Rest and Be Thankful - Photo Stop

A renowned viewpoint nestled amidst the rugged landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, offers travellers a moment of awe-inspiring tranquility. Perched atop a mountain pass along the A83 road, this iconic stop provides sweeping vistas of majestic peaks and verdant valleys, inviting visitors to pause, reflect, and appreciate the breathtaking scenery before them. Whether bathed in the golden hues of sunrise or cloaked in the misty veil of clouds, Rest and Be Thankful never fails to captivate with its raw, untamed beauty, serving as a poignant reminder of the awe-inspiring power of nature in Scotland's rugged terrain.

10 minutes

Inveraray Castle - Photo Stop

A stately jewel nestled on the serene shores of Loch Fyne in Scotland's picturesque Argyll region, stands as a testament to grandeur and historical significance. Surrounded by manicured gardens and embraced by rolling hills, this architectural masterpiece boasts a harmonious blend of Gothic and Baroque styles, captivating visitors with its imposing turrets and elegant façade. Originally constructed in the 18th century by the powerful Clan Campbell, Inveraray Castle showcases opulent interiors adorned with exquisite furnishings, fine artworks, and intricate tapestries, offering a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of Scottish nobility. As you explore its hallowed halls and verdant grounds, you're transported back in time, enveloped in the rich tapestry of Scotland's regal heritage and aristocratic splendour.

30 minutes

Kilchurn Castle - Photo Stop

A hauntingly beautiful ruin nestled on the shores of Loch Awe in the Scottish Highlands, stands as a poignant reminder of Scotland's turbulent past. Dating back to the 15th century and originally built by the Clan Campbell, this majestic fortress served as a strategic stronghold amid the power struggles of Scotland's clans. Despite its weathered stone walls and dilapidated state, Kilchurn Castle exudes an aura of mystery and resilience, inviting visitors to explore its crumbling chambers and towering battlements. Set against the backdrop of mist-shrouded mountains and mirrored in the tranquil waters of the loch, the castle's stark silhouette captivates the imagination, echoing with tales of bygone battles and centuries-old intrigue amidst the serene Highland landscape.

10 minutes

St Conan's Kirk - Photo Stop

Nestled amidst the serene landscapes of Loch Awe in Scotland, stands as a testament to architectural ingenuity and artistic vision. Designed by the renowned architect Walter Douglas Campbell in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, this enchanting church is a harmonious blend of various architectural styles, including Gothic, Romanesque, and Byzantine influences. Its intricately carved stonework, soaring spires, and vibrant stained glass windows create a captivating visual tapestry, drawing visitors into a realm of transcendent beauty and spiritual reverence. Perched on a picturesque hillside overlooking the tranquil waters of Loch Awe, St. Conan's Kirk offers a tranquil sanctuary amidst the breathtaking Highland scenery, inviting contemplation, reflection, and a sense of awe-inspiring wonder.

20 minutes • Admission By Donation

Castle Stalker - Photo Stop

A captivating medieval fortress perched dramatically on a small tidal island in Loch Laich near Port Appin, Scotland, embodies a timeless sense of intrigue and romance. With its striking silhouette against the backdrop of misty waters and rugged Highland landscapes, this iconic landmark exudes an air of mystery and allure. Dating back to the 14th century, Castle Stalker has witnessed centuries of history and legend, serving as a strategic stronghold and noble residence amidst Scotland's tumultuous past. Its rugged stone walls and picturesque setting make it a favourite subject for photographers and a must-visit destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in Scotland's rich heritage and natural beauty.

10 minutes

Glencoe - Photo Stop

A breathtaking glen nestled amidst the majestic Scottish Highlands, captivates with its rugged beauty and dramatic landscapes. Carved by ancient glaciers and framed by towering peaks, this iconic valley showcases nature's raw grandeur at its finest. Whether shrouded in mist or bathed in sunlight, Glencoe's sweeping vistas, cascading waterfalls, and steep-sided mountains create a mesmerising backdrop that enchants adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. Steeped in history and folklore, this timeless landscape invites exploration, offering glimpses into Scotland's rich heritage and untamed wilderness with every step.

3x 10 minute stops

Kilmahog - Photo Stop

At Kilmahog, a delightful stop along the route, seize the chance for a close encounter with Scotland's iconic Highland cows. These majestic creatures, with their shaggy coats and impressive horns, peacefully graze in the picturesque Highland backdrop, providing the perfect setting for capturing memorable photographs amidst the rolling hills and serene countryside of the Scottish Highlands.

10 minutes

The Kelpies - Photo Stop

Marvel at the towering equine sculptures that rise majestically from the landscape, their metallic forms gleaming in the sunlight. Standing at an impressive 30 meters tall, these mythical water spirits captivate visitors with their intricate design and imposing presence. Against the backdrop of the Forth and Clyde Canal, the Kelpies offer a striking photo opportunity, their reflective surfaces mirroring the surrounding scenery, capturing the essence of Scotland's cultural and artistic heritage in a single frame.

10 minutes

What's Included

  •   Bottled water
  •   Air-conditioned vehicle
  •   Private transportation

What's Not Included

  •   Gratuities
  •   Restroom on board
  •   WiFi on board

Additional Information

  •   Not wheelchair accessible
  •   Service animals allowed
  •   Most travellers can participate
  •   Tour duration includes travel time
  •   If your group is larger than eight passengers, please contact us
  •   This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate.

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund (minus 5% administration fee).

If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.

Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.

Cut-off times are based on the experience’s local time.

This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund (minus 5% administration fee).