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Loch Lomond, The Kelpies and Whisky - 1 day tour
Loch Lomond, The Kelpies and Whisky
One Day Tour
This unforgettable journey from Edinburgh starts with a drive across Scotland to the tranquil shores of Loch Lomond, the gateway to the Highlands. Next, explore more of the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, stopping in Aberfoyle for lunch. Enjoy tales of local hero, Rob Roy MacGregor, before stopping to admire The Kelpies, two colossal equine sculptures celebrating Scotland’s working horses. Visit Blackness Bay Distillery to sample their small-batch spirits, then explore Blackness Castle, the “ship that never sailed,” before returning to Edinburgh.
Loch Lomond - admire the views as you stroll along the "bonnie bonnie banks"
Rob Roy - hear tales of the exploits of this loveable rogue and folklore hero
Aberfoyle - enjoy time to potter around this delightful village
The Kelpies - marvel at the towering 30-metre steel horse-head sculptures
Whisky Distillery - visit this distillery that blends innovation and tradition
Blackness Castle - explore the "ship that never sailed"
Movie locations - The Eagle, Outlander & Rob Roy
Full Tour Itinerary
Leaving the cobbled streets of Edinburgh behind, the journey ventures westwards through the heart of Scotland to Loch Lomond, our first stop.
We take a break at Loch Lomond Shores, a lively visitor destination with a waterfront location, which offers panoramic views of the loch and the surrounding mountains. It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll along the “bonnie” banks or having time to browse the cafes and boutiques.
Next, we travel deeper into the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, an area often referred to as the “Highlands in Miniature”. The delightful village of Aberfoyle is our destination. Situated on the banks of the River Forth, it’s the perfect location to enjoy time for lunch, explore the traditional shops, and discover the history of the area, including the story of folklore legend, Rob Roy MacGregor.
The afternoon brings a visit to The Kelpies, two colossal 30-metre steel horse heads that honour Scotland’s working horses while recalling darker myths of shape-shifting water spirits called “Kelpies” Cameras at the ready - these iconic sculptures are unforgettable.
Next is a stop at Blackness Bay Distillery, where you can learn about the distillation process, from selecting ingredients to bottling, while discovering the stories that inspire their distinctive creations. The visit ends with a tutored tasting of their small-batch spirits.
Our tour concludes at nearby Blackness Castle, where there is time to explore the dramatic “ship that never sailed.” Built in the 15th Century for the powerful Crichton family, over the centuries, it has served as a royal residence, garrison fortress, state prison, and even a film location, famously appearing in Outlander. With panoramic views over the Firth of Forth, it provides a fitting finale before returning to Edinburgh.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I expect on this Small Group Tour?
With a maximum of just 16 passengers, a Small Group Tour provides a more personal and flexible travelling experience. You’ll enjoy more time off the bus, with freedom to explore free from the crowds.
While you will see all the highlights, these tours are carefully planned to travel off the highways, so you’ll discover quaint villages and picturesque vistas that other tours cannot reach.
Small group tours are operated by purpose-built mini-coaches with air-conditioning, panoramic windows and comfortable seating.
Each group is led by an experienced driver/guide who will entertain and inform you with stories of our history, nature and folklore.
Many travellers prefer small group touring as it’s considered more authentic and there is a better chance to connect with locals as well as their fellow explorers.
What options are available on this tour and what is the cost?
To give you complete choice admission fees are not included in the cost of this tour. The tour itinerary has been carefully designed to provide sufficient time for you to visit these attractions:
Blackness Bay Distillery
Blackness Castle
If you click on the links above, they will provide more information on each attraction, including current admission prices. Sometimes a special discount is offered to tour passengers; your driver/guide will provide details if this applies.
Please note that credit/debit cards are not always accepted, so it is recommended that you carry sufficient cash with you should you want to make a visit.
Tell me what the visit to a whisky distillery will be like?
A visit to a traditional whisky distillery is a feast for all the senses. After a warm welcome you’ll normally have a short audio/visual presentation on the the history of the distillery and the traditional methods used in the distilling process.
Next is a tour of the distillery where you you will experience all stages of the whisky making process from mashing and fermenting to distilling and maturation.
Your tour will end with a tutored tasting of a malt whisky and the opportunity to buy a souvenir of your visit in the distillery shop.
I am travelling on a budget. Can I do the same trip by public transport?
Almost certainly not!
Our tours are designed to maximise your sightseeing opportunities so we frequently head off the main road and take routes where there is little or no public transport available.
Please also bear in mind that the tour commentary that you will enjoy is designed to bring Scotland’s history, nature and scenic beauty to life as you travel around.
Reading about your surroundings from a guide book will just not be the same!
Will there be stops for meals and are they included in the price of the tour?
Meals are not included in the tour price, but we will make stops where you can get refreshments and something to eat.
If you wish, you can bring a packed lunch or pick up lunch items at a previous stop.
Vegetarian food is widely available in Scotland.
Inclusions
- Transport by air-conditioned vehicle
- 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 1 Parliament Square
Royal Mile/High Street
Edinburgh EH1 1RF
Check-in: 08:45 hrs
Tour Departs: 09:00 hrs
Tour Returns: 18:45 hrs
Child details
Concession discount applies to adults aged 60 years and above; students and children aged 3 to 15 years inclusive.
We’re really sorry but children aged under 3 years cannot travel on this tour.
Photo-ID may be requested to confirm discount entitlement.
Price Notes
Book Assured
Book by paying a 20% deposit. Make date changes or get a full refund with 48 hours notice before travel. Click here for more information.
Small Group Tour
Enjoy a more personal travelling experience with a maximum of just 16 passengers.
Admission Prices
In order 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
HEX 04137
