Edinburgh Highlands Day Trip: Lochs, Glens & Castles Tour

Summary

Highland castles misty lochs and village walks from Edinburgh

You’ll follow winding Highland roads from Edinburgh to castle ruins, lochs edged by mountains, and quiet villages like Luss. Taste fresh bakery treats in Inveraray, feel ancient stones under your hands at Doune Castle, and breathe in crisp air by Loch Lomond—a day that lingers long after you’re home.

What’s the experience like?

Hands wrapped around a warm coffee as our driver-guide, Jamie, pointed out Stirling Castle through the window—he had this way of making history sound like gossip. I didn’t expect to care about Mary Queen of Scots at 8:30am, but there’s something about hearing she became queen at just six days old that sticks with you. The road wound north and suddenly Doune Castle appeared, all stone walls and echoes from Monty Python (Jamie did the “holy grail” voice, which got a real laugh out of everyone). Inside, it felt cold and thick—a kind of silence you only get in places that have seen too much.

By the time we reached Loch Lubnaig, the air was sharp and piney. Someone’s dog barked down by the water; I just stood there for a minute, watching mist hover over the surface. We stopped again at Kilchurn Castle—ruined but somehow more alive for it—and I tried to imagine living here with nothing but mountains and lochs for neighbors. Lunch in Inveraray was slower than I expected (in a good way). There’s this bakery near the jail where I grabbed a pasty—still warm inside—and wandered along Loch Fyne. A local woman told me how the Duke still lives in Inveraray Castle; I tried to pronounce “Argyll” right and she grinned politely.

The ‘Rest and Be Thankful’ viewpoint is exactly what it sounds like—windy, open, carved with old words from tired soldiers. It made me think about all the feet that passed before ours. Last stop was Luss on Loch Lomond; tiny cottages with flowers everywhere and kids skipping stones off the pier. The light over Ben Lomond looked almost painted on. I lingered behind as everyone headed back to the bus—I guess some views make you want to stay quiet for a bit longer.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Highland lochs, castles, and villages

• Pass Stirling Castle viewpoint
• Visit Doune Castle
• Stop at Loch Lubnaig for refreshments
• Photo stop at Kilchurn Castle ruins
• Lunch and explore Inveraray town
• Photo stop at Rest and Be Thankful viewpoint
• Walk around Luss village and pier

Top questions

How long is the Highland Lochs Glens & Castles tour from Edinburgh?

The tour lasts a full day with multiple scenic stops before returning to Edinburgh in the evening.

Does this day trip include visits inside any castles?

You’ll have time to visit Doune Castle (entry ticket not included) and can choose to visit Inveraray Castle during summer months.

Is lunch included on this Highlands tour?

No set lunch is included; you’ll have free time in Inveraray to buy lunch or explore local spots.

Are entry fees for castles or attractions covered?

No, entry fees for Doune Castle or Inveraray Castle/Jail are not included—you can purchase tickets on site if you wish.

Is pickup included in this Edinburgh Highlands day trip?

The tour includes services of your driver-guide; hotel pickup is not specified but departure is from central Edinburgh.

Are children allowed on this tour?

This tour cannot accommodate children under 5 years old.

Will we see Loch Lomond on this day trip?

Yes, you’ll stop at Luss village on the banks of Loch Lomond with time to walk around and enjoy views of Ben Lomond.

Can service animals join this Highlands tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

What’s included

Your day includes travel by air-conditioned vehicle with a knowledgeable driver-guide sharing stories along the way. You’ll have free time at each stop—including Doune Castle, Kilchurn Castle photo spot, Inveraray for lunch or sightseeing, Rest and Be Thankful viewpoint, and Luss village—with public transport options nearby if needed. Entry fees and meals aren’t included so bring some cash for tickets or snacks as you go.