Scottish Highlands Day Trip from Edinburgh

The Scottish Highlands contain some of the most dramatic and beautiful landscapes in Europe, and this full-day trip from Edinburgh puts you right in the middle of them. Departing early from the city, your guide drives north through the Cairngorms National Park, where mountains, lochs, and ancient Caledonian pine forests stretch in every direction. The first major stop is Glencoe, a valley of such raw, haunting beauty that it has been used as a film location for everything from James Bond to Harry Potter. Your guide tells the tragic story of the 1692 Glencoe Massacre while you stand in the shadow of the towering peaks. Continue to the shores of Loch Ness, where you can take a boat trip to search for the legendary monster (optional, at own expense) or simply enjoy the moody atmosphere of Scotland's most famous loch. Stops along the way include the Falls of Dochart, a photo opportunity at the Commando Memorial, and the charming village of Pitlochry. The drive itself is spectacular, with your guide sharing stories of Highland history, clans, and Jacobite rebellions throughout the day.