Journey through four thousand years of Highland history. Led by a local historian, this immersive discovery spans the ancient Bronze Age and mysterious Pictish kingdoms to grand medieval castles and the era of the Highland Clans.
Departing from Inverness, we visit the nearby Culloden Battlefield to explore the dramatic history of the Highland clans and the Jacobite uprisings. After walking the battlefield where the 1745-6 Rising met its tragic end, we journey a short distance to the Bronze Age Clava Cairns. Dating back over 4000 years, these standing stones offer a fascinating glimpse into the ancient past of the Highlands. The afternoon takes us further east to explore the majestic ruins of Elgin Cathedral, known as the ‘Lantern of the North’. Even in its ruined state, it stands as one of Scotland’s most beautiful and historically significant medieval buildings. Our return to Inverness includes a stop at the Rodney Pictish Stone, a carved monument crafted over twelve hundred years ago by the Picts.
We follow the legendary banks of Loch Ness to explore the medieval ruins of Urquhart Castle, once one of the most formidable strongholds in the Highlands. Here you discover its ancient past from the Wars of Independence and English invaders to raiding Highland clans (the Macdonald Lords of the Isles) and its eventual demise after the first Jacobite uprising. We then journey through the spectacular mountain scenery of the West Highlands, wth a break at the stunning Loch Cluanie before we tour through Glen Shiel on the way to the iconic Eilean Donan Castle. We spend time uncovering its historic past and the restoration that saved it from ruin, while savouring the panoramic coastal views. Before returning to Inverness, we pause above Carrbrae for a final, breathtaking vista of the castle set against its dramatic Highland backdrop.
March to October: £1300
Depart Inverness
Return Inverness
(2 Days)
Tours are exclusively for your private group only (up to 3 persons) and prices are per tour. I only offer private tours and do not combine individuals or separate groups – if your private group size is less than 3 the advertised tour price still applies. Your private tour price includes:
The tour price does not include your accommodation costs, entrance fees, meals and refreshments.
This tour departs and returns to Inverness each day of the two day tour. I recommend that you book overnight accommodation within 5 miles of Inverness City Centre. Whilst I do not book accommodation directly, I am always happy to offer advice on where to stay and eat. Your tour quote will include a list of recommended accommodation options for our overnight locations along with suggestions for evening meals.
Enjoy the ease of a private pickup — I will meet you directly at your Inverness accommodation on the morning of Day 1 to begin the tour. At the end of the tour I will drop you off at your preferred Inverness location.
Most locations involve short walks from the vehicle to viewpoints, castles or historic sites. The pace is relaxed and there is plenty of time to enjoy each stop. If you would prefer to skip a particular walk or explore at your own pace, that is absolutely fine on a private tour.
The Tour Vehicle (Honda CR-V) comfortably accommodates up to three passengers with the rear boot (trunk) for luggage allowing for one medium bag/suitcase per person and one small day bag/backpack per person. For private groups of three, if you are unsure about luggage capacity, please let me know the size of your suitcases and I can check against available space.
The tour itinerary is based on many years of guiding experience, previous client feedback, and practical travel timings. However, there is some flexibility and the itinerary can often be adapted in advance to suit particular interests or requests where possible. Please mention any requests in the 'Extra Information' section when completing a Tour Enquiry Form.
Yes! I can add in a tour and tasting at Benromach Speyside Whisky Distillery on Day 1 in the afternoon instead of visiting Elgin Cathedral. Advance booking and payment of the whisky tour is required (£25 per person for a tour and tasting). Please request this option through the 'Extra Information' section when completing a Tour Enquiry Form.
The Scottish Highlands are renowned for changeable weather, and even in the summer months we may experience some rain or wind. I always recommend a light waterproof jacket and comfortable footwear suitable for short walks in wet or uneven terrain. Please note that for tours in March, April and October, the weather can be more inclement with rain and wind more common. I may adapt the daily itineraries with earlier or later starts and finishes to suit weather and travel conditions and attraction opening and closing times. Most of the itinerary is still accessible during these months, though Eilean Donan Castle can occasionally be closed on certain days for private events outwith the summer months. On tours where an itinerary attraction is unavailable to explore we visit alternative locations.
The first step is simply to complete the Tour Enquiry Form with your preferred travel dates. I will then reply with availability and a detailed tour quotation (with absolutely no obligation to proceed at this stage). I usually reply to enquiries within 24 hours.
Of course! I’m always happy to answer any questions and help you feel confident about your trip. You can reach me in whichever way is easiest for you:
There’s absolutely no obligation — this is just a chance to discuss your ideas and make sure the tour is the right fit for you.
