John O'Groats, Dunrobin Castle and the Far North Private Tour - 1 day tour
John O’Groats, Dunrobin Castle and the Far North Private Tour
One day private tour
Enjoy a day discovering the dramatic scenery of the far north. Travel to Loch Fleet, where seals and seabirds are often spotted, before pausing in the seaside village of Golspie. Visit striking Dunrobin Castle, with time to visit its château-style interiors and gardens (optional). Continue through Helmsdale to Wick for lunch, then on to John O’Groats, where there is time for a coastal walk and wildlife spotting. Return to Inverness by way of Dunbeath Harbour and scenic Brora.
North Coast 500 - enjoy the wild coastal scenery of the northern Highlands
Loch Fleet - discover the sweeping estuary home to seals and seabirds
Dunrobin Castle - explore this fairytale Highland palace overlooking the sea
Wick - uncover the maritime history of this charming coastal town
John O’Groats - visit this end-of-the-road landmark
Brora - see this seaside town, famed for its beautiful beaches
Movie Locations - Barry Lyndon, Winter Solstice and Silver Darlings
Full Tour Itinerary
Experience the dramatic splendour of Scotland’s far north on this full-day John O’Groats tour from Inverness. Travelling north from the Highland capital, the journey follows the shores of Loch Fleet, where seals and seabirds are often spotted along the tidal flats.
The route continues to the coastal village of Golspie, set beneath Ben Bhraggie and known for its sweeping sandy beaches. After a short refreshment stop, you’ll have the chance to visit the magnificent Dunrobin Castle, ancestral seat of the Dukes and Earls of Sutherland. With its fairytale spires and French château-style design overlooking the Moray Firth, the visit offers time to explore the grand interiors, formal gardens and museum.
Heading deeper into the North Highlands, the tour passes through Helmsdale before reaching Wick, once a Viking settlement and now the principal town of Caithness. Here, you can enjoy lunch and views across Wick Bay.
The highlight of the day is John O’Groats, one of Britain’s most iconic landmarks. Walk along the cliff tops, photograph the famous signpost and take in sweeping coastal views. Wildlife sightings may include puffins, grey seals and even orcas.
The return journey to Inverness includes photo stops at Dunbeath Harbour and the scenic town of Brora, rounding off a memorable day exploring the far north.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I expect on a private one-day tour?
Departing from Edinburgh, Glasgow, or Inverness, a private tour is ideal for a group of family or friends.
Our most popular itineraries are available on a private basis, offering you and your party exclusivity, flexibility and comfort. This is a personal experience, so each itinerary can be tailored to your interests.
After booking, you’ll be contacted by your tour co-ordinator, who will discuss your trip and offer options that you may wish to consider to make your tour even more special. Attractions and meals can be pre-booked for a small administration fee. Alternatively, you can pay as you go, depending on how the mood takes you.
On the day of the tour, your experienced driver/guide will pick you up from your accommodation at the pre-agreed time. You’ll travel in a Mercedes-Benz V-Class (or similar) seating up to 7 passengers. These executive-class vehicles are equipped with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and USB-C charging ports. All you need to do is sit back and relax as your driver handles the driving.
Along the way, you’ll hear the stories behind the landscapes - clan rivalries, Jacobite uprisings, folklore and local legends - bringing the places you visit to life. It’s a relaxed, personal way to experience Scotland, with the reassurance that everything is taken care of.
What options are available on this tour and what is the cost?
To give you maximum flexibility, admission fees and other optional extras are not included in the tour price. This gives you complete freedom to choose as the mood takes you. On this tour, the optional visits are:
Following the links above will give you more information on each attraction, including current admission prices. At some locations, a special discount is offered to tour participants; your driver/guide will give you more information if this applies.
Credit/debit cards are not always accepted, so you should plan to have sufficient cash on hand if you wish to make any visits.
Are children allowed on a Private Tour?
Yes, unlike a scheduled group tour with a minimum age requirement, children of all ages can enjoy travelling on a private tour. It’s the perfect way for families to travel together and experience Scotland.
Your tour co-ordinator will discuss any specific requirements your young travellers may have, including what age-specific child seats might be required.
Will there be a stop for meals, and are they included?
Meals are not included in the tour price, but your driver/guide will make stops where you can get refreshments and something to eat. If you have any special dietary requirements, please let your tour co-ordinator know.
Vegetarian food is widely available in Scotland.
Can you arrange a Private Tour for a larger group?
Yes, we can.
Please contact us to discuss your requirements and to receive a no-obligation quote.
Inclusions
- Transport by air-conditioned vehicle
- Live commentary in English
- Customised pick-up/drop-off
- 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
Check-in: 08:00 hrs
Tour Departs: 08:15 hrs
Tour Returns: 19:30 hrs
The tour will commence from your accommodation in Inverness.
Your tour co-ordinator will confirm the pick-up arrangements
Child details
There is no minimum age on this private tour.
Baby/child seats are available on request.
Price Notes
Group Size
The price shown is for a Mercedes-Benz V-Class or a similar vehicle, seating up to 7 passengers. Please note the price is for the vehicle hire, not the number of passengers travelling.
This tour is available for larger groups. Please contact us for details.
Cancellation Terms
A full refund, less 20% administration fee, if at least 72 hours notice is provided
No refund will be provided if less than 72 hours notice is given
The above cancellation terms refer to transport only. Services booked on your behalf may be subject to different terms.
Admission Prices
To give you maximum flexibility, admission fees are not included in the cost of this tour.
FAQs
Please see the FAQ section for more information on this tour.
Product code
TB 04150
