Inverness: Loch Ness, Culloden & Outlander Tour with Tastings

Summary

Highland legends, ancient stones and a taste of real Scotland

You’ll walk among ancient cairns near Inverness, stand on Culloden’s haunting battlefield, gaze across misty Loch Ness for a glimpse of Nessie, sip craft gin at a Highland distillery shop, and catch wild views of Urquhart Castle—all with a local guide who brings every stop alive. It’s more than just sights—it’s stories you’ll carry home.

What’s the experience like?

We were already winding through the trees near Inverness when our guide, Morag, pulled over and pointed out a circle of mossy stones—Clava Cairns. I’d read about them but standing there, boots sinking into soft earth, it felt different. The air was damp and smelled faintly of peat. Someone in our group tried to touch one of the standing stones (gently scolded—“best not tempt any time travel,” Morag grinned). I half expected to feel something buzz under my hand. Didn’t happen, but still.

Culloden Battlefield came next. The wind picked up as we walked the path where the Jacobites fell. There’s a strange hush here—even with other visitors nearby you sort of fall quiet without meaning to. Inside the visitor center I got stuck reading letters from soldiers; it’s heavy stuff. Morag explained how families still leave flowers at clan markers. I didn’t expect to get so caught up in it all—I had goosebumps most of the time.

The drive along Loch Ness is classic postcard Scotland—grey water, low clouds, sheep ignoring us completely. We stopped for photos and someone joked about Nessie; I swear I saw something ripple out there but maybe that was just wishful thinking (or too much coffee). At Drumnadrochit we popped into a tiny distillery shop for a gin tasting—earthy and sharp, not what I expected but it warmed me up fast.

Urquhart Castle sits right on the loch’s edge—ruined walls against wild hills. We didn’t go inside but honestly the best view is from outside anyway; you can see how it must’ve looked centuries ago, lonely and fierce. On the way back Morag told us what “Sassenach” means (I tried to say it in Gaelic and everyone cracked up). Still thinking about that day—the mix of old stories and muddy boots sticks with you longer than you’d think.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Highland history and Loch Ness

• Visit Clava Cairns Bronze Age site
• Explore Culloden Battlefield visitor centre
• Travel along Loch Ness shore
• Taste gin at Great Glen Distillery shop
• View and photograph Urquhart Castle

Top questions

How long does the Loch Ness & Outlander tour from Inverness last?

The tour is a full-day experience departing from Inverness and includes several stops throughout the Highlands.

Are entrance fees included for Culloden Battlefield or Urquhart Castle?

Entry fees are not specified in the inclusions; check directly if you want to enter specific sites like Urquhart Castle.

Is pickup included for this Inverness tour?

Yes, private transportation with pickup is included in your day trip from Inverness.

Can infants or young children join this tour?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; specialized infant seats are available.

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels; public transportation options are also nearby if needed.

What attractions will we visit during this day trip?

You’ll visit Clava Cairns, Culloden Battlefield, Loch Ness (with photo stops), Drumnadrochit distillery shop for gin tasting, and view Urquhart Castle.

Is lunch included on this Loch Ness & Outlander tour?

No lunch is provided; however, there may be opportunities to purchase food during stops along the route.

Will there be an opportunity to taste local whisky or gin?

A wee dram of whisky is offered if desired; gin tastings are available at the distillery shop near Drumnadrochit.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation from Inverness with air conditioning, guidance from a knowledgeable local guide who shares Highland stories at each stop, opportunities for gin tastings at a craft distillery shop (or nearby if closed), plus an optional wee dram of whisky along the way before returning comfortably in the evening.