Torridon, Applecross and Eilean Donan Castle Small-Group Day Tour from Inverness

This tour focuses on the most beautiful and varied landscapes of the Highlands.

You leave Inverness and head north over the Beauly Firth towards the dramatic landscapes of the northern Highlands. You may stop for views and photos before arriving at the exceptionally beautiful viewpoint for Loch Maree.

You head down towards the Loch to Beinn Eighe Nature Reserve Visitor Centre for a short break.

From here, you take the single-track road through one of Scotland’s National Nature Reserves. Your driver-guide tells you about the woodland regeneration in the area and may give you a chance to get a view over the area and enjoy a close look at the native pine trees.

You now travel through the imperious landscape and dramatic geology of the Torridon mountains. As you reach the west coast, the road ascends and gives you incredible views across the Torridon Range, down over the Loch, and out to sea.

In the scenically situated town of Sheildaig, you have a refreshment before taking on one of the most beautifully twisting roads in Scotland. This road may be the most photographed road on the famous North Coast 500 route.

In Applecross, you have space reserved at a local pub for lunch. There are simple options such as sandwiches and soup, and classics like Haddock and Chips, Fish Pie and scallops and langoustines. There’s plenty of time for a relaxing lunch and maybe a little walk along the waterfront.

You take the shorter but even more dramatic road out of Applecross, the famous Bealach na Bà (Pass of the Cattle), and if the weather allows, you stop for viewpoints at the top and bottom of this dramatic road.

At Loch Duich, you find Eilean Donan Castle, situated on a small island accessed by bridge. You can visit the castle or simply enjoy the view from the visitor centre, which has a café, shop, and toilets.

The journey back to Inverness passes the Five Sisters of Kintail Mountain range, historic Glenshiel, Loch Ness, and the Great Glen.

You arrive in Inverness in the early evening.

*Please note that Between the 1st Feb 2024 - 24th March 2024, the  Eilean Donan Castle is open from 10am until 3pm, which means this tour will only be able to stop for a photo during this period (no inside visit). We apologise for the inconvenience.

All Inverness tours depart from the bus stop next to Inverness Cathedral, Ardross Street, IV3 5NS

Stops:

Loch Maree Thousands of years ago, druids believed this beautiful Loch had the power to cure lunacy.

Torridon Hills These are arguably the most dramatic and spectacular mountains in Scotland.

Shieldaig This may be Scotland's most outrageously picturesque village.

Applecross A remote village that was only accessible by boat until the early 20th century. Stop here and visit a pub that serves delicious seafood.

Eilean Donan Castle An iconic and gorgeous 13th-century castle that once warded off Viking invasions.

Loch Ness This loch holds more fresh water than all the lakes in England and Wales combined. But does it hide the Loch Ness monster?

Finishes (approx.)
19:30 - Inverness Drop Off, Bus stop next to Inverness Cathedral, Ardross Street, Inverness, IV3 5NS