Inverness, Loch Ness & Culloden: Touch the Loch, Castle Entry

Summary

Touch Loch Ness walk Culloden see Inverness Castle up close

You’ll paddle in cold Loch Ness waters at Dores village, wander Culloden Battlefield with stories from locals, explore Inverness Castle with entry included, and meet Highland cows near Beauly. Expect laughter, history you can touch, and small moments that stick with you after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

The first time I actually touched Loch Ness, it was colder than I’d guessed — like dipping your hand in a glass of ice water that’s been sitting out too long. We’d just driven down to Dores, this little village that’s nothing like the touristy side you always see in photos. Our guide, Fiona, grinned and dared us to wade in. My shoes got soaked but honestly, I didn’t care. You could hear the wind skimming across the water and some distant sheep complaining about something. Steve, who claims he’s the local Nessie hunter (and has the binoculars to prove it), waved at us from his camper van and asked if we’d seen anything weird yet. Not unless you count my attempt at skipping stones.

Culloden Battlefield felt heavier than I expected — not just because of Outlander (though yeah, our group had a few fans quoting lines), but there’s this hush over the place. The grass is rough underfoot and there’s a smell of peat and wildflowers if you get close enough to the ground. Fiona told us stories about families split by that fight; she even pointed out where her own ancestors might’ve stood. At Clava Cairns later, someone tried to squeeze between two ancient stones for luck — apparently it’s a thing? — but mostly we just wandered quietly, touching lichen and reading names faded by rain.

Inverness itself surprised me with its mix of old pubs (The Gellions smells like malt and history) and this shiny new castle experience right above the river. They’ve spent millions on it — you can tell when you step inside; everything feels polished but still Scottish somehow. Flora MacDonald’s statue stands guard outside, looking braver than I’ll ever be. We split up for a while: some went shopping for tartan scarves, others climbed towers for those wild Highland views over the Great Glen. I ended up chatting with Jamie at a farm shop near Beauly — he let me feed a Highland cow named Katie-Morag who slobbered all over my jacket sleeve. Worth it though.

I keep thinking about that moment at Loch Ness when everything was quiet except for our laughter echoing off the water. It wasn’t perfect weather or anything — bit drizzly at times — but maybe that made it feel more real? Anyway, if you’re looking for a day trip from Invergordon that isn’t just ticking boxes but actually lets you feel these places (literally), this was it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Loch Ness, Inverness, Culloden, Clava Cairns

• Visit Culloden Battlefield and visitor centre
• Visit Clava Cairns
• Explore Inverness city and local bars
• Tour Inverness Castle with entry included
• Stop at Dores village and paddle Loch Ness
• Visit farm shop near Beauly and feed cows

Top questions

Is entry to Inverness Castle included in this tour?

Yes, entry to Inverness Castle is included in your booking price.

Do we actually get to touch or walk into Loch Ness?

Yes, you'll visit Dores village on the edge of Loch Ness where you can touch or even wade into the water.

Does this day trip visit Culloden Battlefield?

Yes, you'll spend time at Culloden Battlefield and its visitor centre as part of the tour.

Are Clava Cairns always included on this tour?

The tour may include Clava Cairns depending on timing and conditions.

Where does this tour start from?

The tour departs from Invergordon after cruise ship arrival.

Will we have free time in Inverness city?

Yes, there's time to explore Inverness city centre including shops and historic pubs.

Can I feed Highland cows during this tour?

You’ll stop at a farm shop near Beauly where feeding Highland cows is possible.

Is pickup provided for cruise passengers?

Pickup from Invergordon port is included for cruise guests.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from Invergordon port after your ship arrives, entry into Inverness Castle (no extra fee), stops at Culloden Battlefield and Clava Cairns if possible, time to paddle in Loch Ness at Dores village, plus a visit to a local farm shop near Beauly where you can meet and feed Highland cows before heading back in time for your ship's departure.