Scotlands history is rich and diverse, spanning thousands of years with a distinctive cultural and political identity, spanning over many periods of time.
In a day touring and exploring Inverness and surrounding areas you will get snapshots of these periods that have shaped and moulded the Scotland you see and experience today.
Some bespoke day tour highlights emphasising these points, include, but are not limited to visiting – Culloden Battlefield, Clava Cairns, Cawdor Castle, Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle, Glen Affric and Beauly.
The below itinerary highlights and offers a mix of historical sites, natural beauty, and cultural experiences, providing a comprehensive taste of this part of the Scottish Highlands, in a single day and although it could make up a typical day, everything suggested might not be to everyones taste, stops can be added or taken out.
Morning:
From Inverness we will head for Culloden Battlefield – the site of the historic battle between the Jacobites and the British government forces in 1746.
Spending time here exploring the battlefield and visitor centre will give you a great insight to this truly poignant spot.
Next and a very short drive from the battlefield we will come to Clava Cairns – a prehistoric burial site consisting of passage graves, ring cairns, and standing stones.
As you take a stroll around this very ancient site you can only but soak up the mystical atmosphere.
On from Clara Cairns we make our way to Fort George – a historic military fortress which is still in use today by the British Army.
Learning about Fort George will provide you with the significance it has played in Scottish military history.
Lunchtime – is always a favourite part of the day here at Highland Yaks!
If you haven’t brought your own along, we can provide plenty of excellent choices along the way.
Afternoon
Once refuelled and recharged we can make our way along to Cawdor Castle – a picturesque medieval castle with beautiful gardens and a rich history.
Either guided, or not, you will have plenty of time touring the castles interiors, strolling the gardens, and exploring the surrounding grounds.
Loch Ness next, famous and most known for the mythical Loch Ness Monster.
Driving along the shores of the loch and stopping at viewpoints will allow you to take in the awe inspiring and breathtaking scenery, that surrounds it.
And of course an opportunity to try and spot it’s famous resident – Nessie!
This will tie in nicely with a visit to Urquhart Castle, situated on it’s shores. You will have time to explore the ruins of this historic castle, and learn about it’s significance in the role it has played in Scottish history.
The views of the Loch from here are pretty special as well.
If time allows and you’re up for more adventure, a drive into Glen Affric is well worth it, as it really is one of Scotland’s most beautiful glens. A short hike amidst this Glen really will add to the day.
Rounding the day off and on our way back to Inverness we can make time for a quick visit to Beauly, and it’s Priory.
Then we drop you back at your accommodation, in time for an evening meal at one of the many choices Inverness has to offer.
For more of a picture of what the day would like, described above, please take a look at the below map –
Alternatively, if you have particular preferences or you’d like a more bespoke day tours option for your ideal day or days out, then please get in touch and we’d be more than happy to talk through options with you and start personalising the perfect itinerary for you.
