Adventure Collective Journal

Adventure Collective Journal

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Exploring Scotland's Highlands: Loch Ness Cruise, Glencoe Walk & Whisky Tasting from Edinburgh

Exploring Scotland's Highlands: Loch Ness Cruise, Glencoe Walk & Whisky Tasting from Edinburgh

Experience the Scottish Highlands in a single day with an 8-person guided tour from Edinburgh. Explore cascading waterfalls, taste authentic Scotch whisky, and cruise the legendary Loch Ness while delving into clan history and rugged landscapes.

Edinburgh, Scotland
7–8 hours
By Adventure CollectiveOctober 2025

The Experience

Before You Go

Wear Layers for Variable Highland Weather

Scottish Highlands weather changes quickly; dress in moisture-wicking layers with a waterproof shell to stay dry and comfortable.

Bring Cash for Loch Ness Cruise

The optional Loch Ness cruise costs £18 cash payable on the day; an ATM is available at the tour start if needed.

Wear Comfortable Walking Shoes

You’ll encounter woodland trails and uneven ground—sturdy walking shoes or boots provide better traction and support.

Arrive Early for Check-In

Check in 15 minutes before the 8am departure outside the Jolly Botanist in Edinburgh to ensure a prompt, smooth start.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

  • The Hermitage woodland and its waterfalls offer a peaceful alternative to busier spots.
  • Kilmahog provides close-up encounters with Highland cows outside peak tourist areas.

Wildlife

  • Red deer commonly roam in the Highlands, often spotted near Loch Ness.
  • Highland cows wandering the moors create a signature local wildlife sight.

Conservation Note

The tour operates in sensitive environments with strict guidelines to minimize impact, including limited group size and no-nut vehicle policies to protect health and ecosystems.

Glencoe’s dramatic mountain landscape holds stories of the MacDonald Clan massacre in 1692, a defining moment in Scottish history.

Photographer's Notes

Best times:Morning light departure, Golden hour near Glencoe, Evening dusk at Loch Ness
Key viewpoints:
  • Hermitage Waterfalls trail
  • Banks of Loch Ness
  • Glencoe mountain overlooks
Subjects to capture:Highland landscapes, Waterfalls, Wildlife like Highland cows and deer

What to Bring

Waterproof JacketEssential

Comfortable Hiking ShoesEssential

Necessary for woodland and uneven trail sections to reduce fatigue and risk of slipping.

DaypackEssential

Use it to carry snacks, water, and extra clothing layers during the day.

Camera or Smartphone

Capture the dramatic Highland landscapes and wildlife along the route.

Common Questions

Is the Loch Ness cruise included in the tour price?

No, the Loch Ness cruise is an optional extra costing £18, payable in cash on the day.

How much walking is involved during the tour?

Walking is light, mostly short nature walks up to 35 minutes on uneven woodland trails.

Are meals included in the tour?

No meals are included, but there are opportunities to purchase lunch and dinner at local spots.

Is this tour suitable for children?

The tour is suitable for travelers aged 12 and older; younger children are not recommended.

What should I wear?

We recommend dressing in layers with waterproof clothing and sturdy walking shoes or boots.

Are the tour vehicles wheelchair accessible?

Unfortunately, the tour is not suitable for wheelchairs due to vehicle and terrain limitations.

Book This Experience

Check Availability

Duration

7–8 hours

Location

Edinburgh, Scotland

Difficulty

moderate

Fitness Level

Moderate fitness required to comfortably handle up to 35 minutes of walking and all-day touring

Free cancellation available

Ready to Explore Edinburgh?

Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.

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