Loch Ness, Glencoe & The Highlands: 1 Day from Edinburgh

Rannoch Moor, Glencoe and the shores of Loch Ness, the best of the Highlands in a single day with Drive Me Wild Scotland.

Loch Ness 1 day Small-group

+3 More

Duration 1 day

Group size 16

Minimum age Travellers need to be at least 4 years-old

Availability All year round

One day, three of Scotland’s most famous landscapes. Leaving Edinburgh in the morning, we cross the Highland Boundary Fault into mountain country, drive across the wide emptiness of Rannoch Moor, and stop in Glencoe, where the scenery and the history are equally dramatic. By afternoon we reach Loch Ness for lunch, a stroll by the Caledonian Canal and, if you like, a cruise in search of Nessie. We keep vehicles small and the pace relaxed, so there is time to stand at the viewpoint rather than photograph it through a window. Your driver-guide tells the stories of the Jacobites, the clans and the glens as you travel, and adjusts stops for weather and light.

Itinerary

Day 1 Edinburgh

Morning: Edinburgh to the Trossachs

We head north past the Kelpies, the 30-metre horse-head sculptures, and within sight of Stirling Castle. Crossing the Highland Boundary Fault, the flat Lowland farmland gives way to lochs, forested glens and rugged peaks. We pause in a Highland town for a coffee break before the next leg.

Mid-morning: Rannoch Moor & Glencoe

The road crosses the vast, treeless expanse of Rannoch Moor before dropping into Glencoe, one of Scotland’s best-known landscapes and a location for many films. There are photo stops, and your guide tells the story of the glen’s turbulent past.

Afternoon: Great Glen, Fort Augustus & Loch Ness

We follow the Great Glen beneath Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain, and arrive at Fort Augustus on the edge of Loch Ness. You have free time for lunch, a walk along the Caledonian Canal, or the optional 50-minute loch cruise.

Evening: The journey south

We return via the Cairngorms National Park with scenic stops along the way, then pause among the forests of Perthshire for a final refreshment break. Through the farmland of Fife you get views of the Forth Rail Bridge before we reach Edinburgh at approximately 8:00pm.

Note: on some departures the route may run in reverse.

Tour Route Map

Loch Ness, Glencoe & The Highlands: 1 Day from Edinburgh Route Map

Click to expand

Tour Highlight

Loch Ness

hunt for Nessie on an optional cruise, or simply enjoy the shoreline

Glencoe

dramatic mountains and powerful history

Rannoch Moor

a vast, untouched wilderness

Great Glen & Fort Augustus

canal locks and loch-side views

Highland Perthshire

forested slopes and fast-flowing rivers

Good to know

Hotel pickup / pickup point: [your pickup point and time]
Small-group departure, maximum 16 seats
Comfortable walking shoes and weatherproof layers recommended year-round
Time is reserved for lunch at a local pub or cafe

Includes

Expert local driver-guide (licensed & DBS-checked)

Executive mini-coach (max 16 passengers)

Live commentary and storytelling along the route

Frequent scenic photo stops at viewpoints and hidden gems

One small bag allowance

Optional Extras

Loch Ness boat cruise ticket

Excludes

Meals, food and drinks

Attraction admission fees

Driver-guide gratuities (optional)

Personal travel insurance

Flights, transfers and accommodation

What Other Explorers Say

Our driver-guide was exceptional! Travelling in a small executive group meant we could pull in at secluded Highland viewpoints the big 50-seater coaches couldn't reach. The local folklore through Glencoe made Scotland truly come alive.

Fiona & David M. 18/05/2026

A truly five-star experience from start to finish. The pace was relaxed and unhurried with ample time for photographs, lochside walks, and an authentic village lunch. Drive Me Wild Scotland exceeded every expectation!

Benjamin C. 11/05/2026

First time exploring Scotland, and this tour made the whole trip unforgettable. Having an authentic Scottish driver-guide sharing personal stories and deep clan history made every mile fascinating. Spotless Mercedes mini-coach!

Marco T. 30/04/2026

The scenery was breathtaking, and the small group atmosphere felt so welcoming. Our driver knew exactly where to stop for panoramic photos away from the crowds and gave great recommendations for the rest of our holiday.

Sarah & Craig W. 22/04/2026

From the prompt city departure to the scenic evening return, everything was seamlessly managed. Warm Scottish hospitality, executive seating with massive panoramic windows, and brilliant storytelling. Outstanding tour!

Louise H. 14/04/2026

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do tours depart from?

This tour departs from central Edinburgh. Your exact meeting point and time are confirmed on your booking voucher.

What should I bring with me on the tour?

Comfortable walking shoes, a waterproof jacket, warm layers, a camera, and some money for lunch and optional extras.

What happens if the Scottish weather is bad?

The tour runs in all weather. Your guide adjusts stops to make the most of conditions, and Highland scenery is often at its most atmospheric in mist and rain.

Is accommodation included in the price?

No. This is a day tour and you return to Edinburgh the same evening.

How much luggage can I bring?

One small bag or day-pack per person.

Can children travel on this tour?

children aged 4 and over are welcome when accompanied by an adult.

Can I cancel or change my booking?

You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before departure and receive a full refund. If you cancel within 24 hours of departure, unfortunately we cannot offer a refund.

To cancel, please email us at hello@drivemewildscotland.co.uk as soon as possible. Your cancellation takes effect on the date we receive your written request.