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Hairy Coos and Highland Views: A Short-Day Escape from Edinburgh

4.8 Excellent 350 reviews
|
6h 30m
|
English
Free cancellation · up to 24 hours before Instant confirmation Live guide

Ratings & Reviews

4.8
350 reviews
5
318
4
20
3
7
2
3
1
2
Ratings collected from Guidekin & Viator & Tripadvisor
Recommended by 97% of travellers: 338 four- and five-star reviews

Overview

Guidekin summary

Choose a whisky distillery stop or Blackness Castle alongside Loch Katrine and Highland scenery. Air-conditioned transport and live commentary are included; the castle and distillery routes cannot be combined, and admission costs extra. 4.85 from 350 reviews at €54 per person for 6h 30m.

From the guide

Embark on a delightful day tour from Edinburgh, where Scotland’s rich history and breathtaking landscapes await.

There are two versions of this tour available, which you choose when booking: Visit a traditional whisky distillery for a tour and tasting, or exploring the imposing Blackness Castle, known for its dramatic riverside setting and historic role.

Continue your adventure with the tranquil beauty of Loch Katrine and the wild splendour of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, where nature and heritage blend in perfect harmony.

It’s the ideal mix of history, culture, and stunning scenery—all before returning to Edinburgh in time for dinner and evening plans!

Tour options

The operator sells this tour in 2 versions. Prices are the operator's current list for two travellers; the calendar shows the exact figure for your date and party.

With optional Castle Visit

from €54 / person
Guide: English

Stop at Blackness Castle: We will not stop at a distillery on this version of the tour. Tickets to the castle not included. Min age 7+.

With optional Distillery tour

from €54 / person
Guide: English

Stop at Deanston Distillery: We will not stop at a castle on this version of the tour. Distillery tour tickets not included. Min age 8+.

Schedule & Availability

Runs daily
Departs: 10:30
Scheduled through September 2027

This tour runs daily, departing at 10:30. Scheduled through September 2027. These are the operator’s scheduled departures, not a live seat count: availability is confirmed at checkout. Schedule last checked October 1, 2026.

What's Included

All taxes, fees and handling charges
Experienced Driver-Guide providing live commentary and story telling throughout
Regular Comfort Breaks
In-vehicle air conditioning: Air-conditioned vehicle

What's Not Included

No Toilet/Restroom on board
No Food or Drinks
Entrance fees: Castle version: Tickets to Blackness Castle not included (Adults £8.50, Children £5)
Entrance fees: Whisky Distillery version: Deanston Distillery tour & tasting not included (£19.50 for adults, £6 for children)

Itinerary

The Kelpies & The Helix Stop 1
Departing Edinburgh’s New Town, we leave the bustle of the city behind us as we make embark on our scenic day trip takes you on a journey through Scotland’s stunning landscapes, rich history, and finest whisky. Early on we’ll pass by the Kelpies, the towering 30-meter-high sculptures of mythical horses and Stirling, a symbol of Scottish royalty and history.
Pass by
Stirling Stop 2
We make our way past Stirling, which was once the capital of Scotland. Look out for the iconic views of the Wallace Monument and Stirling Castle, one of Scotland’s most important and grand castles.
Pass by
Deanston Distillery & Visitor Centre Stop 3
Our first stop will be either Blackness Castle or Deanston Distillery, depending on the option you choose when booking. If you chose the distillery option, we'll head to Deanston Distillery - once a bustling cotton mill, this historic site now crafts exceptional single malt whiskies. Take a guided tour through the distillery to uncover the time-honored whisky-making process and the fascinating story behind this unique location. Conclude your visit with a tasting of Deanston’s finest expressions, introducing you to the rich flavors and distinctive character of their whiskies. Alternatively, enjoy a stroll by the banks of the River Teith or relax in the distillery’s Coffee Bothy.
1h
Blackness Castle Stop 4
Our first stop will depend on the option you choose, if you chose the Castle option, we'll head for Blackness Castle*. Explore Blackness Castle, a mighty 15th-century fortress, dramatically perched on the Firth of Forth. Known as “the ship that never sailed” because of its distinctive shape, Blackness Castle has served as a royal residence, garrison fortress, and prison, and offers striking views across the water. You may also recognise it from the tv show “Outlander” where it featured as Fort William.
45 min
Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park Stop 5
Not far away and still within the Trossachs National park, we’ll make a short stop at Loch Achray, a smaller but equally picturesque loch nestled between the towering Ben A’an and Ben Venue mountains. The area around the loch is serene and peaceful, offering another chance to enjoy the beauty of the Scottish Highlands. No Scottish adventure is complete without a visit to the iconic Hairy Coos—the legendary Highland cattle. Stop for photos and enjoy the charm of these furry giants that are synonymous with Scotland’s countryside.
15 min
Forth Bridge Stop 6
As we make our way back to Edinburgh, you will be met with views of Scotland’s greatest piece of engineering, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Forth Bridge. This 19th century engineering marvel was at one point the World’s longest cantilever bridge. Today it neighbours the 20th century Forth Road Bridge and the 21st century Queensferry Crossing which opened in 2017. Three spectacular bridges, from three different centuries, span the Firth of Forth connecting our Capital city and the Kingdom of Fife.
10 min
Edinburgh Stop 7
We begin our journey back to Edinburgh, carrying with us memories of Scotland’s historic landmarks, serene lochs, and breathtaking natural scenery. We aim to be back in the Scottish capital in the late afternoon, around 5 PM. Any time not specified in the itinerary is allotted to travel between stops, exploring Scotland while on the coach.
5 min
Loch Katrine Stop 8
We’ll journey deeper into the heart of the Trossachs to Loch Katrine, a stunning freshwater loch. Known for its peaceful beauty, Loch Katrine was immortalised in Sir Walter Scott’s famous poem The Lady of the Lake. Admire the beauty of the Scottish landscape and relax by the tranquil waters, surrounded by forests and mountains.
30 min

Departure & Return

Start point

We meet in front of Burns Monument, at 1759 Regent Road, Edinburgh. What3Words: ///allow.topped.joined CHECK-IN STARTS AT 10:15 AM, BUS DEPARTS 10:30 AM.

Open in Google Maps
End point

We meet in front of Burns Monument, at 1759 Regent Road, Edinburgh. What3Words: ///allow.topped.joined CHECK-IN STARTS AT 10:15 AM, BUS DEPARTS 10:30 AM.

Additional Information

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Please note that the tour route will vary depending on your chosen option. The Distillery option will stop at Deanston, the Castle option will stop at Blackness Castle. These cannot be combined.
  • Minimum age to travel is 8 years old. Photo ID, such as a passport, may be required. Children (8-17) must be accompanied by an adult.
  • There are regular stops on tour for comfort breaks, as we do not have toilets onboard the coaches
  • This tour in an air-conditioned coach, hosted by a local Scottish guide, rated 5-stars by the official Scottish Tourist Board
  • There are opportunities to take short nature walks, it is recommended to bring suitable clothing and footwear.
  • No animals allowed on tour
  • When using public transport or a taxi to the departure point, please allow extra time for possible delays.
  • Any time not specified in the itinerary is allotted to travel between stops, exploring Scotland while on the coach.
  • There are regular stops on tour to purchase food and refreshments that cater for most dietary requirements
  • Ouch coaches are not wheelchair accessible, but we can accommodate folding wheelchairs. Please notify us ahead of time to confirm available space. Bus has 3x approximate 30 cm steps at entrance.

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

1+ daysFull refund
0-1 daysNo refund

Compared with other Day Trips from Edinburgh

TourPriceDurationRatingGroup
This tour · #37 of 90€546h 30m4.85 (350)shared
Stirling, Highlands & Distillery in Spanish€7712h4.98 (405)shared
Edinburgh: Glenfinnan Viaduct, Glencoe & Fort William€5412h4.93 (6417)shared
Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Glencoe and The Highlands€5412h 30m4.92 (6699)shared

Ranked #37 of 90 in Day Trips from Edinburgh by Guidekin score (rating weighted by review volume). Prices here run from €54 to €940, median €77; typical length 10h. 26 of 90 are private. Figures are live from the tour cards; the rubric is our handpicked set, not the whole market. Compare all 90 Day Trips from Edinburgh

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