How to Plan Your Loch Ness and Isle of Skye Private Day Trip in Inverness

If you’re planning a visit to Inverness and want to explore the beautiful Scottish countryside, then a private day trip to the Isle of Skye and Loch Ness is the perfect adventure for you. With a private tour guide and driver, you’ll get to explore the stunning natural landscapes and famous landmarks of Scotland’s Highlands. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know to help plan your perfect day trip.

Experience

This private day trip offers an unforgettable experience, where you’ll get to explore some of Scotland’s most stunning natural landscapes. From walking in the land of fairies and giants to seeing the waterfalls around the Isle of Skye, this tour is perfect for families and couples who want a special day out.

Highlights

Here are just a few of the highlights of this amazing private day trip: – Visit Urquhart Castle for Loch Ness and the ruins on the loch. – Stop at Redburn Cafe to visit the highland cows when they are available – Stop at Glensheil before reaching the Five Sisters of Kintail to take in the scenery. – Spend up to an hour at Eilean Donan Castle to take photos and maybe even visit inside. – Pass the famous Skye bridge. – Stop at Sligachan, where you can see the Cuillin Mountains and Sligachan Hills and River. – Visit the Fairypools, where you can walk by the cascading pools with crystal clear waters.

Full Description

Please note that while we would love to customize our tours to your preferences, this is not an option for this particular tour. We will offer the best experience based on the weather conditions on the day, but we will no longer customize our itinerary. This private tour includes all the famous landmarks, and your experience will include:

Urquhart Castle

Starting from Inverness, the tour will take you to Urquhart Castle, where you can explore the ruins of the castle and enjoy a scenic view of Loch Ness.

Redburn Cafe

After Urquhart Castle, you’ll stop at Redburn Cafe to visit the Highland cows when they are available.

Glensheil

You’ll then visit Glensheil, a stop just before the Five Sisters of Kintail, to take in the stunning scenery.

Eilean Donan Castle

Next, you’ll spend up to an hour at Eilean Donan Castle to take photos and maybe even visit inside. This castle is situated on an island at the point where three great sea lochs meet, and is one of the most iconic images of Scotland.

Skye Bridge

As you pass over Skye Bridge, you’ll be greeted by your first view of the Isle of Skye.

Sligachan

Your first stop on the Isle of Skye is the Sligachan, where you can see the Cuillin Mountains and Sligachan Hills and River from the old bridge.

Fairypools

Your last stop on this tour is at the Fairypools, where you can walk along the cascading pools with crystal clear waters.

Booking Your Tour

If you’re interested in booking this private day trip to the Isle of Skye and Loch Ness, you can book the tour through GetYourGuide. Book your tour ahead of time to avoid disappointment as this is a popular tour.

Book Your Tour Now

This private day trip to the Isle of Skye and Loch Ness has everything to offer, from stunning natural landscapes and famous landmarks to walking in the land of fairies and giants. It’s perfect for families and couples who want a special day out. We hope this guide has helped you plan your perfect day trip, and we hope you have an unforgettable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions about Inverness

Inverness is the capital city of the Scottish Highlands and has a lot to offer visitors. Here are some common questions about the city and the surrounding area.

1. What is the best time to visit Inverness?

The best time to visit Inverness is during the summer months (June to August) when the days are longer, and the weather is generally warmer. However, this is also the busiest time of year, so be prepared for crowds and higher prices. If you prefer quieter times, the shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) can offer pleasant weather and fewer visitors.

2. What should I see and do in Inverness?

Inverness has a lot to offer visitors, from historic landmarks to natural beauty. Here are some top attractions:

• Visit Inverness Castle, which dates back to the 11th century and now houses the Sheriff Court.
• Explore the Caledonian Canal, which runs from Inverness to Fort William and offers stunning scenery.
• Take a boat trip on Loch Ness and see if you can spot the legendary monster.
• Visit Culloden Battlefield, the site of the final battle of the Jacobite rising in 1746.
• Walk along the River Ness and see the Ness Islands, a group of small islands connected by footbridges.

3. How can I get to Inverness?

Inverness has its own airport, with flights from several UK cities as well as some European destinations. If you’re travelling from further afield, you can also fly into Glasgow or Edinburgh and take a train or coach to Inverness. There are also regular train and coach services from other Scottish towns and cities.

4. What is the weather like in Inverness?

Inverness has a maritime climate, which means it can be changeable and unpredictable. The summer months are generally mild and pleasant, with average temperatures of around 15°C. Winter can be cold and wet, with temperatures dropping to around 4°C on average. Be prepared for rain at any time of year, and bring warm clothes if you’re visiting in the colder months.

5. What is the best way to get around Inverness?

Inverness is a compact city, and most of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other. There is also a reliable bus service, which connects the city centre with surrounding areas. If you plan to visit the wider Highlands area, you may want to hire a car to give you more flexibility.

6. What is the currency used in Scotland?

Scotland uses the British pound, just like the rest of the UK. There are plenty of ATMs and currency exchange offices in Inverness, so you should be able to get cash easily. Most shops and restaurants also accept credit and debit cards.

7. What is the best place to stay in Inverness?

There are plenty of accommodation options in Inverness, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. The city centre is a popular place to stay, as it offers easy access to local attractions and amenities. If you prefer quieter surroundings, you might want to look for accommodation outside of the city centre, such as in the nearby rural areas.

8. What is the food like in Inverness?

Inverness has a thriving foodie scene, with plenty of local produce and traditional dishes on offer. You can try haggis, neeps and tatties (a traditional Scottish dish made with sheep’s heart, liver and lungs), as well as fresh seafood from the nearby coast. There are also plenty of international restaurants and cafes in the city, serving everything from Italian to Thai cuisine.

9. Is Inverness a safe city to visit?

Inverness is generally a safe city to visit, with low levels of crime. However, like any city, it’s important to take normal precautions, such as keeping your valuables safe and being aware of your surroundings. The city centre can get busy at night, so it’s a good idea to stick to well-lit areas and to travel with others if possible.

10. What is the nightlife like in Inverness?

Inverness has a varied nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, pubs and clubs to choose from. You can enjoy live music, comedy, or just a quiet drink in a traditional Scottish pub. The city centre can get busy at weekends, particularly during the summer months, so be prepared for crowds and queues.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Inverness

If you’re planning to visit Scotland, you must put Inverness on your list. As the capital of the Scottish Highlands, Inverness offers a unique experience to tourists who want to immerse themselves in Scottish culture and history. From mesmerizing landscapes to stunning castles and ancient ruins, Inverness has it all. In this guide, we’ll take you through the essentials of how to spend your time in Inverness.

1. Visit the Inverness Castle

Visiting the Inverness Castle should be on the top of your list when you’re in Inverness. Originally built in the 11th century by Malcolm III of Scotland, the castle has undergone many changes throughout the years. Today, it houses the Sheriff Court and is open to the public as well. The castle’s grandeur and striking architecture make it a must-visit attraction in Inverness.

2. Explore Loch Ness

Loch Ness is one of the most famous lakes in Scotland and is known for its history and legend of the Loch Ness Monster. You can explore the lake by boat and enjoy the stunning views of Scottish scenery from the water. Visitors can also visit the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition to learn about the lake’s history and the legend of the monster.

3. Discover Culloden Battlefield

Culloden Battlefield is located just a few miles east of Inverness and is where the final battle of the Jacobite rising took place in 1745. You can visit the battlefield and learn about the history of the battle that changed the course of Scotland’s history. The battlefield also has a visitor centre that offers an immersive experience of the battle’s history through interactive exhibits.

4. Visit Urquhart Castle

Urquhart Castle is situated on the banks of Loch Ness and was once one of Scotland’s largest castles. The castle offers a breathtaking view of Loch Ness, and visitors can explore its ruins and learn about its history. The castle has a visitor centre that tells the story of the castle and offers a unique experience of Scottish history and culture.

5. Enjoy the Scottish cuisine

No trip to Scotland is complete without trying some authentic Scottish cuisine. Inverness has many restaurants that offer traditional Scottish dishes such as haggis, neeps, and tatties, fish and chips, and cullen skink. You can also enjoy a traditional Scottish breakfast consisting of black pudding, bacon, sausage, and eggs.

6. Visit St. Andrew’s Cathedral

St. Andrew’s Cathedral is a stunning gothic revival-style structure located in the heart of Inverness. The cathedral is open to the public and is a great spot to relax and take in the serene atmosphere. Visitors can also learn about the cathedral’s history and explore its beautiful architecture.

7. Walk along the River Ness

The River Ness flows through the heart of Inverness, and taking a walk along its banks is an excellent way to explore the city. The river is surrounded by beautiful parks and gardens that offer a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. Visitors can also take a boat ride on the river and enjoy the stunning Scottish scenery.

Book Your Tour Now

Inverness is a city that has something to offer for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor activities, Inverness has it all. From exploring ruins to enjoying traditional Scottish cuisine, you can have a unique and immersive Scottish experience in Inverness. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore one of Scotland’s most iconic destinations!