Oban, Glen Coe, West Highland Lochs and Castles
One day tour
Travel through the picturesque Western Highlands to experience shimmering lochs, scenic mountain views and historic castles. Relax in the pretty town of Inveraray and discover the bustling seaport of Oban before ending the day in the scenic splendour of Glen Coe.
Price range: £38-£43
Inveraray - choose to visit stately Inveraray Castle (Apr-Oct) or explore this attractive town on the banks of Loch Fyne
Kilchurn Castle - see the romantic ruins of this iconic castle
Oban - enjoy free time in this bustling ferry and fishing port
Falls of Lora - see the foaming waters from our viewpoint on the Connel Bridge
Glen Coe - savour the breath-taking scenery of this famous valley
Loch Lomond - visit Luss to experience wonderful views of the “bonnie, bonnie banks”
Movie locations - Braveheart, Monty Python and the Holy Grail and Where do we go from here?
Full Tour Itinerary
Leaving Glasgow behind we head west, crossing the Firth of Clyde, where there are wonderful views of Dumbarton Castle, famed for its connections with Mary, Queen of Scots and William Wallace, the real Braveheart!
Romantic Loch Lomond is next. Look out for towering Ben Lomond and "The Cobbler”, one of the peaks of the "Arrochar Alps”. Soon we enter the Argyll Forest Park and start our ascent of the dramatic "Rest and be thankful” mountain pass.
Inveraray, a quaint small town built in the mid-18th Century. Here we can visit Inveraray Castle (April - October only), the historic home of the Duke of Argyll, chief of the Clan Campbell, which is nestled in large beautiful gardens overlooking Loch Fyne. Alternatively, explore the town's white-washed Georgian houses, wide streets and the panoramic views over the loch.
We pause to admire the spectacular ruins of Kilchurn Castle, majestically situated on Loch Awe, and beautifully framed by mountains. Then it’s on through the narrow Pass of Brander to reach lovely Loch Etive beyond. Look out for 13th Century Dunstaffnage Castle which, it is said, was the ancient home of the Stone of Scone for Centuries associated with the Crowning of Scottish Kings.
Shortly we make the descent into the fishing town of Oban, the gateway to the Hebrides. This picturesque town sits overlooking an attractive horseshoe bay which is best viewed from MacCaig's Folly, an unfinished tower that sits overlooking the town on Oban Hill.
After time for lunch and exploring Oban, we cross the Connel Bridge to continue our journey northwards through Benderloch - as we do catch a glimpse of the Falls of Lora below. We pass Castle Stalker, the ancient seat of the Stewarts of Appin, which sits on its own little islet overlooking the Isle of Lismore.
Listen carefully as we hear the sad tale of the Glen Coe Massacre which took place in 1692. This infamous event saw some 40 members of the resident MacDonald Clan murdered by troops of the Campbell Clan. As we enter the Glen we’ll pass Signal Rock where the order for the attack was given.
Today Glen Coe is a much more peaceful place which is known for its stunning scenery and varied wildlife which includes red deer, wildcat and golden eagle. We’ll make a stop here so you can capture a photo or two for yourself.
Our journey southwards takes us through the wilderness of Rannoch Moor then back to Loch Lomond where our final stop of the day will be in the picturesque village of Luss. Here we can enjoy the views over the "bonnie, bonnie banks” before making our way back to Glasgow.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I expect on this Signature Day Tour?
Travelling on a Signature one-day tour is a great way to discover the best of Scotland from your city centre base of Edinburgh, Glasgow or Inverness. During your day of discovery we’ll introduce you to many aspects of our country: spectacular scenery, history, folklore, nature and much, much more. Luxury travel is provided by air-conditioned mini or midi coaches and each tour is led by an experienced driver/guide who will provide a live commentary in English. There are stops planned at the key sights as well as for meals and comfort breaks. Please note that tours to some destinations, particularly to Loch Ness, can be faster paced so the number and duration of stops may be limited.
What options are available on this tour and what is the cost?
The tour fare includes transportation by luxury mini or midicoach and the services of a professional driver/guide. Admission to the attractions featured on this tour is optional so you can choose to visit or not depending on your interests. The tour itinerary will allow time for you to enjoy a visit to:
The link above will give you more information on this attraction as well as current prices. On some tours discounted prices are available to tour passengers - your driver/guide will provide more information if this applies. Not all attractions accept payment by credit or debit card so you should carry sufficient cash should you be planning a visit.
Tell me more about Inveraray Castle?
Romantic Inveraray Castle Gardens sits on the shores of Loch Fyne and is one of Scotland’s finest stately homes. The ruggedness of the highland scenery serves as a spectacular backdrop for the sheltered tidal Loch, beside which nestles the present Castle built between 1745 and 1790.The ancestral seat of the Dukes of Argyll, Chiefs of the Clan Campbell whose family have resided in Inveraray since the early 15th century. Visitors enter the famous Armoury Hall containing some 1300 pieces including Brown Bess muskets, Lochaber axes and 18th century Scottish broadswords. They can also view preserved swords from the Battle of Culloden. The fine State Dining Room and Tapestry Drawing Room contain magnificent French tapestries which were woven especially for the Castle, fabulous examples of Scottish, English and French furniture and countless other precious artworks. The castle’s priceless collection of china, silver and family heirlooms spans generations which are illustrated by the fascinating genealogical display in the Clan Room. Fans of Downton Abbey will recall that Inveraray had a starring role during a two-hour special where the Grantham family and staff travelled north to the home of their cousins, the Marquess and Marchioness of Flintshire in their mythical Scottish home, ‘Duneagle Castle’. Inveraray Castle is open to the public between April and October.
How many people will be in the group?
The group size is normally between 29 and 33 passengers. On the Original Loch Ness Tour and at times of peak demand (such as on public holidays) larger coaches may be used.
Is there much walking involved on your tours?
On most tours you’ll have the chance to stretch your legs. If you have someone in your party who has mobility issues then there is normally an alternative at most stops .
Inclusions
- Transport by luxury air-conditioned mini/midicoach
- Live commentary in English.
- Services of an experienced driver/guide
- Service charges and taxes
Exclusions
- Admission charges
- Meals, snacks or items of a personal nature
- Gratuity to your driver/guide
Departure information
From Parish Hall Coach Tour Stop
266 George Street
Glasgow G1 1QX
Check-in: 08:30 hrs
Tour Departs: 08:45 hrs
Tour Returns: 18:30 hrs
Child details
Concession discounts apply to adults aged 60 years and above; students and children aged 5 to 15 years inclusive.
We’re really sorry but children aged under 5 years cannot travel on this tour.
Photo-ID may be requested to confirm discount entitlement.
Price Notes
Admission Prices
In order to give you maximum flexibility admission fees are not included in the cost of this tour.
FAQ's
Please see the FAQ section for more information on this tour.
Product code
TB 01200
