Edinburgh to Inverness tour: Glencoe, Glenfinnan & Highlands
Travel Scotland's most storied landscapes in a single day, from the Kelpies to Loch Ness.
A one-way coach tour from Edinburgh to Inverness through the Scottish Highlands, with stops at The Kelpies, Glencoe, Glenfinnan Viaduct and Loch Ness. A local "Hairy Coo" driver-guide shares stories of the region's history and legends as the coach moves through dramatic valleys, past iconic landmarks and along the shores of Scotland's most famous loch, arriving in Inverness around 7 PM.
Step-by-step itinerary
Scottish Highlands tour from Edinburgh to Inverness
- See the Kelpies sculptures
- Stop in Callander for refreshments
- Travel through Glencoe valley
- Visit Glenfinnan Viaduct
- Stop at Commando Memorial
- Drive along Loch Ness shore
- Arrive in Inverness
- The Kelpies 20m
- Callander 30m
- Glencoe 15m
- Jacobite Steam Train 1h
- Commando Monument 15m
- Loch Ness passing by
- Inverness 10m
What’s included
- All taxes, fees and handling charges.
- air-conditioned coach with flexible seating.
- experienced local driver-guide providing live commentary and storytelling throughout the journey.
- Every day except Saturday 08:30
Information
One-way coach tour from Edinburgh to Inverness through Glencoe and Glenfinnan, with a local guide sharing Highland history and legends.
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The experience
The tour starts at The Kelpies (30-foot metal horse sculptures at the entrance to the Forth and Clyde Canals), then heads north through Callander before entering Glencoe. The valley itself is the draw: towering peaks and sweeping vistas frame the site of the 1692 massacre of Clan MacDonald, a story your guide will tell as the coach winds through. From there, the route continues to the Glenfinnan Viaduct, the railway bridge that appeared in the Harry Potter films, set among mountains on the shores of Loch Shiel.
A stop at the Commando Memorial near Spean Bridge offers views of the Nevis Range and Ben Nevis, the UK's highest peak, before the coach follows the north shore of Loch Ness. The route is built around the guide's commentary: a local driver who knows the region's legends and history and shares them throughout the day. The coach is air-conditioned with flexible seating, and there are regular stops for comfort breaks and refreshments. You'll arrive in Inverness around 7 PM, having covered some of Scotland's most recognizable landscapes without driving yourself.
Top questions
Can children come?
Yes. Ticket types: Child (7 to 17 years). Children under 7 can't be included in the booking.
What are The Kelpies and why do we stop there?
The Kelpies are 30-foot-high metal equine sculptures built at the entrance to the Forth and Clyde Canals as a tribute to Central Scotland's industrial heritage. The stop is a photo opportunity and a chance to see one of Scotland's most iconic landmarks.
Will we see Loch Ness on this tour?
Yes. The route follows the north shore of Loch Ness, famous for its history and lore, on the final stretch before arriving in Inverness.
What is the Glenfinnan Viaduct and how long do we spend there?
The Glenfinnan Viaduct is an iconic railway bridge set among mountains on the shores of Loch Shiel, made famous by the Harry Potter films. The itinerary allocates time to soak in the views before the coach continues deeper into the Highlands. The exact duration depends on the day's pace and traffic.
Can I bring my own food on the tour?
Yes. The operator encourages bringing a packed lunch and snacks to avoid spending time queuing at stops. There are regular stops where you can also purchase food and refreshments that cater to most dietary requirements.
How many stops are there and how long is the whole journey?
The tour covers five main stops (The Kelpies, Callander, Glencoe, Glenfinnan Viaduct and the Commando Memorial) plus a run along Loch Ness before arriving in Inverness. The full journey is 11 hours from start to finish, with the remaining time spent traveling between stops.
Is there a toilet on the coach?
No. There are regular stops throughout the day for comfort breaks, so plan accordingly. The coach does not have onboard restroom facilities.
Operated by The Hairy Coo. Explorevia does not run this tour: we compare it with similar options, and you book it with our booking partner.
Prices and times updated today
Edinburgh to Inverness tour: Glencoe, Glenfinnan & Highlands
11h · EN
from £ 59 per person
≈ US$ 79 in your currency
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