Welcome to Fort William
Basking on Loch Linnhe's shores amid magnificent mountain scenery, Fort William has one of the most enviable settings in all of Scotland. If it weren't for the busy dual carriageway crammed between the less-than-attractive town centre and the loch, and one of the highest rainfall records in the country, it would be almost idyllic. Even so, the Fort has carved out a reputation as the 'Outdoor Capital of the UK' (www.outdoorcapital.co.uk), and easy access by rail and bus makes it a good base for exploring the surrounding mountains and glens.
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Fort William activities
Loch Ness, Highlands, Glencoe Small-Group Tour from Edinburgh
Depart from central Edinburgh by air-conditioned minivan in the morning and pass Linlithgow Palace — the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots — Stirling Castle and the Wallace Monument en route to the most dramatic of all Highland glens, Glencoe. Hear the truth about the infamous 1692 massacre of Clan MacDonald from your knowledgeable guide, and learn of the area’s fascinating history and heritage. Journey onward through Fort William, site of the military post built during the Jacobite Rebellions in the 18th century, and continue up the Great Glen between Fort William and Inverness. Take the time to capture the stunning Scottish Highlands scenery from the comfort of your coach as you travel. Stop at Fort Augustus, by the shores of famous Loch Ness, and enjoy breathtaking views out over the loch. Pause for lunch by the waterside at your own expense, or enjoy a 1-hour boat cruise on the loch to appreciate the beautiful views from the water (not included). The boat has a sonar system, so if Nessie is down there you won’t miss her! Loch cruises run from Easter to the end of October. Hop back aboard your minivan and continue on through the village of Spean Bridge to the Cairngorms National Park. Take in views of the spectacular Highlands scenery along the shores of Loch Laggan and marvel at Craig Meagaidh, one of the area’s impressive mountains. It is here that TV series Monarch of the Glen was filmed. Continue over the Drummochter Summit — where herds of red deer often graze — and visit the Victorian town of Pitlochry, the final stop for the day. At the end of your time in Pitlochry, head back by minivan to Edinburgh where your tour will conclude.
Scottish Highlands, Glencoe, and Loch Ness Tour from Glasgow
With a maximum group size of 16 passengers, you are sure to have a memorable and personal experience on this special day trip to the Scottish Highlands. Traveling in a small group means you can reach out-of-the-way places to discover the real Scotland!Head north towards the Highlands along the "bonnie, bonnie" banks of Loch Lomond - Scotland's largest Loch. Continue into the Highlands to reach the most dramatic of all Highland glens, Glencoe. This area is steeped in history, and you will hear the truth about the infamous 1692 massacre of Clan MacDonald.Journeying through Fort William, site of the military post built during the Jacobite Rebellions in the 18th century, you'll continue up the Great Glen, between Fort William and Inverness.After lunch at Fort Augustus on the shores of Loch Ness, you have the option of taking an hour-long cruise on the loch (not included). Head back through Inverness, the Cairngorms National Park, and the countryside, where the TV series Monarch of the Glen was filmed. Continuing over the Drummochter Summit, where herds of red deer often graze, you'll visit the Victorian town of Pitlochry.Continue through Perthshire and past Stirling Castle and the Wallace Monument, commemorating Scotland's great hero William Wallace, played by Mel Gibson in the Oscar-winning movie Braveheart. Then just a short drive back to Glasgow.The Scottish Highlands and Islands are Europe's last great wilderness! This personalized tour is as close as you can get to touring in your own car, with the added benefit of gaining intimate knowledge of Scotland. Traveling in a small group means you can take lots of stops and reach "out of the way" places, giving you more time off the bus to discover the real Scotland.
2-Day Loch Ness and Inverness Small Group Tour from Edinburgh
This two-day trip from Edinburgh to Loch Ness and Inverness will show you the Scottish Highland’s most beautiful scenery. The tour includes views of Ben Nevis and an optional boat ride on eerie Loch Ness, where you can look for the Loch Ness Monster. You’ll visit Glencoe, a wilderness steeped in grim history, where you can soak up the atmosphere on an afternoon walk. You'll see the stronghold of Urquhart Castle, and spend the night in Inverness, the capital of the Scottish Highlands.The Scottish Highlands are Europe's last great wilderness! This personalized tour is as close as you can get to touring in your own car, with the added benefit of gaining intimate knowledge of Scotland. Traveling in a small group means you can take lots of stops and reach out-of-the-way places, giving you more time out of the van to discover the real Scotland.Day 1: Edinburgh – InvernessDepart Edinburgh in the morning and take a leisurely stroll along the River Tay or explore the wooded grounds of the Hermitage to look for 18th-century follies such as Ossian's Cave. From here you will continue on to the popular holiday town of Pitlochry, where there will be free time to have lunch (own expense) in one of the local restaurants or cafes. Cross over the geological fault line, which separates the Lowlands from the Highlands, taking in views of the magnificent Highland scenery and passing the majestic Blair Castle before entering Cairngorm National Park. This unique area is one of the last remaining pockets of native Caledonian pine forest left standing. Your guide will stop in the ancient Rothiemurchus Estate to allow you time to fully appreciate the stunning views. Continue your journey north, arriving at Inverness in the early evening. You will be dropped off at your accommodation, and the evening is free for you to explore the capital of the Highlands.Overnight: 3-star hotel or B&B in InvernessDay 2: Inverness – Edinburgh After a leisurely breakfast, you will picked up from your Inverness accommodation and travel toward the famous Loch Ness. There will be stops along the way to take photos of the beautiful surrounding countryside. Upon arrival you will have the option to take a boat trip out on the loch (April to October; price not included) to look for Nessie the Loch Ness Monster, and take in views of Urquhart Castle, or you may stay on dry land to explore the castle's mighty ruins.Journey south past Ben Nevis and Fort William to Glencoe. This haunting glen was the scene of a terrible massacre in 1692, where many of the Macdonald Clan died. The tour stops here for you to take in the unique atmosphere of this place. The return journey to Edinburgh takes you across the wild and remote Rannoch Moor and through the countryside around Stirling, before concluding in Edinburgh in the evening.
Loch Ness and the Scottish Highlands Tour from Edinburgh
Take a day trip from Edinburgh to discover the Scottish Highlands and the famous Loch Ness. Begin your journey by bus heading north from Edinburgh past the inspiring sculptures of the Kelpies and the imposing Stirling Castle. Pass the Trossachs, cross Rannoch Moor, and stop at the dramatic Glen Coe, the site of the infamous massacre in 1692. Pass through Fort William, one of the largest settlements in the Scottish Highlands, before driving through the Great Glen. All the while your guide will talk you through the most important and interesting sights of the region. When you arrive at Fort Augustus, a charming Highland village on the banks of the famous Loch Ness, take a leisurely stroll through the village or simply relax by the Caledonian Canal. Enjoy a locally produced ‘Taste of Scotland ’picnic lunch that includes a bottle of Scottish mineral water, a choice of freshly made sandwiches and shortbread. If you want to learn more about Scottish cuisine, your guide can direct you to some great local cafés for more tasty treats. You also have the opportunity to take a 1-hour boat cruise on the loch (own expense). Discover the mysteries of the legendary Nessie monster on a custom-built boat designed specifically for sailing on this loch, equipped with the very latest underwater imaging technology, giving you a fascinating view of the terrain and life under the surface. Relax with a coffee or beer at the onboard bar. Your journey continues past the shimmering Loch Laggan and then over the Pass of Drumochter, the main mountain pass connecting the northern and southern Scottish Highlands. Heading south, pass Perthshire and Big Tree Country, filled with lush forests, rivers and mountains, before getting an impressive view of Forth Bridge. Your Loch Ness and Scottish Highlands day tour ends in Edinburgh around 8pm.
3-Day Isle of Skye and Highlands Tour from Edinburgh
DetailsYou will get to experience Scotland through its scenery, culture and history in this three day tour brought to you by one of our fantastic driver-guides. Depart from Edinburgh and day one will take you through the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. You’ll have to time to explore a picturesque villages perched on the banks of the loch. From here we’ll head a further north to one of the most beautiful places in Scotland, Glen Coe. Once sight of the gruesome MacDonald Clan Massacre; this glen of dramatic mountains and waterfalls will be a highlight of your Scottish trip. Your lunchtime stop will be in Fort William, many films were shot in or near this bustling Highland town. You can also take in views of Ben Nevis, the UK's tallest peak. Our day ends with a visit to one of Scotland’s most iconic castles, Eilean Donan (own expense). Perched on a small tidal island where Loch Duich, Loch Long and Loch Alsh meet, the backdrop to the castle is as unforgettable as the castle itself.Overnight: Isle of SkyeAfter breakfast, your second day is dedicated to the Isle of Skye. Your experienced driver-guide will ensure you get the most out of your day on the island based on weather and your group. You’ll be able to enjoy a leisurely lunch (own expense) in the colorful harbor town of Portree. The rest of the afternoon will be spent taking you to various beautiful spots such as Kilt Rock, the Old Man of Storr and the opportunity to taste a few drams of whisky.Overnight: Skye.After another restful night of the Isle of Skye, we’ll journey off the island to Loch Ness, the deepest loch in the UK and home of the famous monster Nessie. There are many ways to experience the beauty and mystery, perhaps a Jacobite cruise (own expense) to see Urquhart Castle (own expense) or just monster spotting from the shore, the choice is yours! We’ll then make our way to Culloden Battlefield. Here you have the chance to stand upon the place of the famous 1745 battle, and learn about it in the interactive visitor centre (own expense). We’ll then journey south to the pretty town of Pitlochry perched on the River Tummel, before returning to the capital city of Edinburgh.
Glencoe, Loch Ness, and The Highlands Day Tour from Edinburgh
This 12 hour tour departs from Edinburgh, passing Stirling Castle on your way to the first stop at Kilmahog. Here you can get to know the local residents, the Highlands Cows, and have time for some light refreshments.As you continue your journey northwards you will be immersed in the wonderful scenery of Rannoch Moor and Glencoe where a short stop will be made for photo opportunities. The tour will next stop at Fort William, via Loch Linnhe, where you will stop for lunch before reaching Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK.Next your Driver-Guide will take you through the Great Glen and up to Urquhart Castle to reach Loch Ness, home to the Loch Ness monster, Nessie! Here you will spend a couple of hours at Loch Ness, with the chance to visit the ruins of Urquhart Castle (own expense) and take a boat cruise (own expense) across the Loch itself, keeping your eyes peeled for any stirrings in the water. The coach will then make its way through Inverness, named the ‘Capital of the Highlands’, before journeying back to Edinburgh through the Grampian Mountains and the Forest of Atholl. A refreshment stop is made in the lovely town of Pitlochry before you finally make it back to Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.