Ghost, Ghouls and Graveyards Private Highland Tour

Exploring Scotland’s Highlands often means soaking in breathtaking landscapes or uncovering historic castles. But if you’re after a different kind of adventure—one that tingles your spine and sparks your imagination—the Ghost, Ghouls and Graveyards Private Highland Tour offers a compelling blend of ghost stories, spooky sites, and local legends. This 3-hour 15-minute private journey takes you beyond the usual sightseeing, diving into the mysterious and supernatural corners of Inverness and its surroundings.

What really makes this experience stand out is its personalized touch. The tour is led by guides who are not only knowledgeable but also enthusiastic about sharing the eerie tales that make each site special. Plus, the use of EMF meters adds a fun, interactive element, allowing you to see if you can detect any ghostly energies yourself. The spooky-themed minibus, decked out in creepy décor, sets the perfect mood from the moment you step aboard.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour involves quite a bit of travel between sites, meaning you’ll spend a fair amount of time on the bus. If you’re expecting a walking exploration, this might feel a little different. It’s best suited for those who love a mix of storytelling, scenic drives, and atmospheric locations. Overall, if you’re fascinated by ghost stories or enjoy a spooky adventure with a touch of history, this tour offers both entertainment and intrigue.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private tour tailored to your group, ensuring a more intimate and flexible journey.
• Authentic History & Legends: Guides share detailed stories, blending factual history with local ghost lore.
• Interactive Elements: EMF meters let you test for ghostly activity yourself, adding a hands-on thrill.
• Comfort & Convenience: Pickup from Inverness area, including Invergordon Cruise Ship and Inverness Airport, with transportation in a themed spooky bus.
• Diverse Locations: From ancient cemeteries and castles to mysterious standing stones and battlefield sites—each with its own ghostly tale.
• Value for Money: For around $615, up to 12 people get an engaging, story-rich experience that combines culture, history, and supernatural fun.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Inverness and Greyfriars Cemetery

The tour kicks off in the historic heart of Inverness at Greyfriars Cemetery, a site that packs a punch with its centuries-old gravestones and tales. Here, you’ll see the remains of a 13th-century monastery and a knight’s effigy, setting a tone that’s both reverent and eerie. Guides weave stories of a ghostly monk and a woman in black who are said to haunt the grounds and the nearby BT building, making this a compelling start for paranormal enthusiasts.

One reviewer noted, “the stories of the ghostly monk and women in black were amazing,” highlighting how well the guides blend history with ghostly legends. This stop is brief but impactful, providing a taste of Inverness’s haunted past.

Cawdor Castle and Grounds

Next, the tour takes you to the legendary Cawdor Castle, entering through the old servants’ entrance for a more authentic feel. The guides lead you to a particularly spooky spot where sightings and strange happenings have been reported. The castle itself, with its fairy-tale appearance, provides a surreal backdrop for ghost stories and legends.

The experience here isn’t just about looking at a beautiful castle; it’s about feeling the atmosphere. Reviewers mention the guides’ detailed background, making the stories come alive, and the setting becomes more than just a pretty picture—it’s a portal to the supernatural.

Cawdor Woods and the Tragic Maiden

A walk into Cawdor Woods by torchlight reveals a tragic story of a young maiden who met her end in these woods. The dark, wooded landscape heightens the spooky vibe, and guides recount her story with dramatic flair. Expect a calm but chilling walk that leaves an impression, especially if you’re fond of ghostly tales rooted in local tragedy.

Barevan Lifting Stone

The Barevan Lifting Stone is more than just a traditional Highland challenge; it’s wrapped in stories of darker, less-discussed traditions. While many focus on the physical feat, the tour highlights the folklore about its use in more sinister rites or rituals. The iconic stone itself is impressive, and the stories surrounding it add a layer of mystique.

Clava Cairns and Ancient Mysteries

The ancient Clava Cairns offer a fascinating archaeological detour. These 4,000-year-old stone circles are known for their eerie silence and the legends of restless spirits guarding the tombs. Visitors often report an unusual stillness and sightings of shadowy figures, especially at dusk. This site beautifully combines historical intrigue with supernatural tales, making it a favorite according to several reviewers who appreciated the combination of history and ghost stories.

Culloden Moor: Battle and Spirits

The final stop is the haunting Culloden Battlefield. Known for its brutal history, it also has a reputation for ghostly activity. Visitors often describe sensations of chills, whispering winds, and phantom figures in Highland dress wandering through the fog. The atmosphere is especially intense at dawn or dusk when the moor seems to echo with the sounds of past warriors. One reviewer noted that the spirits of Jacobite soldiers are believed to return on the anniversary of the battle, adding a layer of myth to an already powerful site.

What the Experience Includes and What to Expect

The tour provides private transportation that is both comfortable and themed to fit the spooky ambiance. The bus, decorated with eerie décor, creates an immersive mood for the ride between sites, which are all within a roughly 30 km radius of Inverness.

Your guide, whose name isn’t specified but who clearly impresses with their knowledge and storytelling ability, accompanies you through each stop. The experience includes bottled water and all fees and taxes, streamlining the day for guests. The tour begins at 4:00 pm at Inverness Cathedral and ends back at the same point, making it convenient for travelers staying locally.

A significant advantage is the small group size—up to 12 people—ensuring a more personalized and less rushed experience. The guide, possibly Fin or Michelle based on reviews, is praised for providing detailed background stories and engaging narration that brings each location alive. Reviewers share that the guides are particularly adept at balancing historical facts with supernatural legends, making the stories both credible and captivating.

Flexibility & Practicalities

The tour’s duration of just over three hours makes it an ideal evening activity, especially if you’re already exploring Inverness or arriving from a cruise or flight. The pickup service from Invergordon Cruise Ship or Inverness Airport adds flexibility, especially for travelers with limited time.

It’s worth noting that the tour is suitable for travelers aged 12 and above, and participants should have a moderate level of physical fitness due to walking and occasional torchlight exploration. Restroom access isn’t included onboard, so plan accordingly.

Price & Value Analysis

At approximately $615 for up to 12 people, this private tour offers a very personalized experience—perfect for small groups or families seeking something different. While the price might seem steep compared to regular sightseeing tours, the exclusivity, storytelling quality, and themed transportation make it a good value for those interested in ghost stories and local legends.

The reviews highlight the guides’ expertise and the immersive atmosphere as key strengths, making it a memorable experience that combines history with a dash of the supernatural. The use of EMF meters adds a fun, interactive element, turning skeptics and believers alike into participants rather than mere spectators.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for history buffs who enjoy tales of the supernatural, couples looking for a romantic yet spooky night, or groups of friends eager for an unusual adventure. It’s also ideal for travelers who appreciate storytelling, atmospheric locations, and a fun, interactive approach to Scotland’s haunted past.

Keep in mind that this isn’t a typical walking tour—it involves a considerable amount of time on the bus, with stops at outdoor sites, so some comfort with travel and outdoor exploration is recommended. If you’re sensitive to dark, eerie environments, or if you prefer more active or walking-focused tours, you might want to consider your preferences before booking.

Final Thoughts

The Ghost, Ghouls and Graveyards Private Highland Tour offers a compelling mix of history, legend, and entertainment. It’s a well-rounded experience that doesn’t just tell spooky stories but involves you in the atmosphere, making each site feel alive with history and mystery. The guides’ engaging storytelling, combined with authentic locations and interactive elements like EMF meters, creates a memorable evening that’s more than just a ghost story session.

While the journey involves traveling between sites, the themed bus, personalized approach, and intriguing stories make it worth the time. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, you’ll find yourself captivated by Inverness’s dark corners and ghostly tales.

This tour is perfect for those wanting a unique, story-rich experience that blends Scotland’s haunting past with the thrill of the paranormal. It’s especially suited for small groups seeking intimacy and a dash of adventure after sunset.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this experience is exclusive to your group, providing a more personalized and flexible adventure.

What are the pickup options?
Pickups are available from Inverness, including the Invergordon Cruise Ship and Inverness Airport, within a 30 km radius.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes, including travel time between locations.

What is included in the price?
The price covers private transportation, bottled water, all fees and taxes, and an in-person guide in English.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, participants should be at least 12 years old. It’s best suited for those comfortable with outdoor walking and some darkness.

Is there any physical activity required?
There’s some walking involved, especially at outdoor sites like Cawdor Woods and Clava Cairns, so moderate fitness is recommended.

In all, this private Highland tour offers an engaging and authentic glimpse into Scotland’s haunted lore—perfect for those craving chills, stories, and a touch of Highland mystery.