Scottish Highlands Private Tour: Castles, Lochs & Highland Cows

Summary

Edinburgh to Highlands private day trip for lochs castles and cows

You’ll feed Highland cows carrots near Edinburgh before driving north past lochs and castles with your local guide sharing stories along every winding mile. Expect misty viewpoints in Glencoe, time to wander castle grounds or grab lunch in Inveraray, plus those towering Kelpies at sunset—all with snacks, pickup, and no rush.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll never forget how quiet it was when we pulled up at Craigie’s Farm, just outside Edinburgh. You could still smell the city on your jacket, but suddenly there’s this soft countryside air and a couple of Highland cows blinking at us like we were late for something. Our guide (Alan—he’s got that dry Scottish humor) handed me a carrot and said, “Go on then.” I don’t know what I expected but their noses are softer than you’d think. The farm café smelled like fresh scones and coffee, which I grabbed for the road because apparently I can’t pass up oatcakes either.

The drive out to Luss felt longer than it was—maybe because the sky kept changing every few minutes. Sun one second, then a sudden drizzle tapping on the windows. We stopped in Luss by Loch Lomond and Alan pointed out this old Viking gravestone in the churchyard. It’s just there among the moss and wildflowers; nobody makes a big deal about it. I bought a postcard from a tiny shop run by a woman who called me “hen” (I think that’s friendly?).

Inveraray Castle looked almost too green against the grey sky, like someone painted it brighter on purpose. We didn’t go inside (the Duke still lives there—imagine that), but wandered the grounds and watched some kids feeding ducks by Loch Fyne. Lunch was chips from a takeaway in town; nothing fancy but salty enough to make you thirsty for hours after. Kilchurn Castle came next—a bit of a walk over wet grass, boots squelching with every step. You can see why they built it surrounded by water; it feels like you’re standing at the edge of something very old.

The Three Sisters viewpoint in Glencoe is where everything goes quiet again—even Alan stopped joking for a minute. The wind whipped my hair into my mouth while I tried to take a photo, but honestly you just have to stand there and let it hit you. On the way back we saw Rannoch Moor stretching out forever; not much grows except heather and stubborn little trees.

Our last stop was The Kelpies near Falkirk—these huge horse heads shining silver in the evening light. They’re weirdly beautiful, almost eerie if you stare too long. We got back to Edinburgh tired but kind of wired from all the stories and air and sheep jokes. If you want a private tour of the Scottish Highlands from Edinburgh that isn’t rushed or showy—just honest landscapes, castles, lochs, and some proper local company—I’d say this is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Scottish Highlands and landmarks

• Pick up from Edinburgh city centre
• Visit Craigie's farm and see Highland Cows
• Drive to Luss village by Loch Lomond
• Explore Luss village and Viking gravestone
• Stop at mountain viewpoint for photos
• Visit Inveraray Castle grounds and town
• Drive to Kilchurn Castle for photos
• Drive through Glencoe mountain range
• Visit Three Sisters Viewpoint
• Photo stops at Glencoe and Rannoch Moor
• Stop at beautiful Highland viewpoint
• Visit the Kelpies horse statues

Top questions

How long is the private tour of the Scottish Highlands from Edinburgh?

The tour is a full-day trip starting with pickup at 10am from your chosen point around Edinburgh.

Are Highland cows included on this day trip?

Yes, you'll visit Craigie's Farm near Edinburgh where you can feed Highland cows carrots.

Is lunch included during this Scottish Highlands tour?

No set lunch is included but there are stops in towns like Inveraray where you can buy lunch or snacks.

Which castles are visited on this private tour?

The itinerary includes stops at Inveraray Castle (grounds open year-round) and Kilchurn Castle.

Does this tour include entry fees for castles?

No entry fees are included; Inveraray Castle grounds are free but entering requires an extra charge if open.

What are The Kelpies and are they part of this tour?

The Kelpies are two 100-foot-tall horse-head sculptures near Falkirk; they're visited as the final stop on this tour.

Is hotel pickup available for this Scottish Highlands day trip?

Yes, private transportation includes pickup from your preferred location in or around central Edinburgh.

Can infants or small children join this private Highlands tour?

Yes, infants can ride in prams or strollers; specialized infant seats are available upon request.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation with an experienced local guide (and plenty of stories), bottled water and snacks along the way, plus air-conditioned comfort throughout—even when Scotland throws its weather at you. Pickup is flexible within Edinburgh city centre so you start easy; all ages welcome with infant seats available if needed.