Clan Tour – OUTLANDER series and Loch Ness

If you’re a fan of the Outlander series or simply intrigued by Scotland’s legendary landscapes and history, this Clan Tour in Inverness promises an engaging day out. Offering a blend of filming sites, historic battles, and natural wonders, this private tour is designed for those who want an authentic experience without the hassle of planning every detail.

What we love most about this experience is the personalized touch — a private guide who can tailor the day to your interests and take you beyond the typical tourist spots. The carefully curated itinerary ensures you see key Outlander locations, historic sites, and scenic vistas, all in one day. That said, the price point of around $186.53 per person might seem steep for some, especially since entrance fees to certain sites like Urquhart Castle and Culloden Battlefield are not included. Still, many reviews highlight excellent value, especially when you consider the insider knowledge and flexibility a private guide provides.

This tour is best suited for Outlander fans, history enthusiasts, and nature lovers who want an immersive day in the Scottish Highlands. If you’re after a relaxed, informative journey that offers good access to iconic locations, this tour is likely to hit the mark. Just be prepared for a full day on the move — the itinerary is packed with stops, each offering unique insights and picture-worthy moments.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience tailored to your interests and pace
• Includes major Outlander filming locations plus historic sites like Culloden and Clava Cairns
• Hassle-free pickup from your Highland accommodation makes the day seamless
• Expert guide with detailed knowledge of Scottish history and Outlander connections
• Cost reflects a premium experience, but many reviewers find it excellent value considering the private service
• Limited group size (max 8 travelers) ensures a more intimate, flexible tour

The Itinerary Unpacked: What to Expect

Stop 1: Wardlaw Mausoleum

Starting the day close to Inverness, the Wardlaw Mausoleum in Kirkhill is a quiet funeral site built in 1634 for the Clan Fraser of Lovat. It’s a peaceful spot that offers a glimpse into Scottish clan history. While admission is free, this stop is more about setting the tone for the day than an elaborate site.

Reviewers like Denine praise George, the guide, for his wealth of knowledge about these historic sites, adding layers of context that make even a quick stop memorable. It’s a short, 30-minute visit perfect for warming up your historical curiosity.

Stop 2: Urquhart Castle

Next, you’ll visit the iconic Urquhart Castle ruins on the shores of Loch Ness. This site is a highlight for many, as the castle’s history is dramatic — changing hands between Scots and English during the Wars of Independence, and finally destroyed by government troops during the Jacobite Risings.

The castle remains are enormous enough to wander around for about 1.5 hours, giving you time to soak in the views over Loch Ness. Although the entrance fee isn’t included, many travelers agree it’s worth the small splurge. From the reviews, we learn that the ruins evoke a visceral sense of medieval life, and the views of Loch Ness are unforgettable.

Stop 3: Loch Ness

Of course, no trip to Inverness is complete without a stop at Loch Ness. This 15-minute visit isn’t about lengthy sightseeing but rather about soaking in the legendary scenery and the possibility of Nessie sightings — with over 1,100 recorded sightings, it’s a place where the mystery still lingers.

Travelers often mention that the scenery alone makes it worth the quick stop. While the monster remains elusive, the breathtaking landscape provides ample photo opportunities.

Stop 4: Great Glen Distillery

The Great Glen Distillery in Drumnadrochit offers a welcome change — a chance to learn about Scotland’s modern craft side. Established during the pandemic in 2020, the distillery uses local botanicals and Loch Ness water to produce their signature Great Glen Gin.

A 30-minute visit here is a delightful chance to sample a locally inspired product and learn about the startup story of this small but ambitious distillery. Reviewers mention that the owners’ story adds a personal touch, and the gin’s unique flavor reflects the area’s natural bounty.

Stop 5: Culloden House Hotel

Dating back to the 16th century, the Culloden House Hotel has hosted royals, Jacobite leaders, and even Bonnie Prince Charlie himself. The spot is steeped in history, and a quick 15-minute peek reveals its significance.

While the tour does not include entry to the house, the stop is an excellent way to connect with the battlefield’s history, especially for those who appreciate the stories of Scottish clans and rebellion.

Stop 6: Clava Cairns

One of the most atmospheric stops, the Clava Cairns are a Bronze Age burial site with standing stones, passage graves, and ring cairns. This site, dating back 4,000 years, inspired the famous Outlander book and TV series — the largest standing stone even features in Diana Gabaldon’s novel.

Expect about 30 minutes here to wander among the ancient stones and imagine life thousands of years ago. Reviewers share that the site feels almost mystical, and guides tend to weave in stories connecting the stones to both history and Outlander.

Stop 7: Culloden Battlefield

The grand finale is the Culloden Battlefield, the site of the pivotal 1746 Jacobite uprising. Here, you can walk the grounds where history was made — a battle that changed the course of Britain and Scotland forever.

While entrance fees aren’t included, the 2-hour visit is packed with stories and sights that vividly bring the era to life. Many reviews praise the guide’s detailed storytelling, making this a truly immersive experience.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour is conducted in a comfortable, spacious vehicle, with WiFi onboard — ideal for sharing photos or updating friends during the day. The group is kept small (up to 8 travelers), providing a more personalized experience and flexibility to explore and ask questions.

The pickup from your Highland accommodation simplifies logistics, letting you relax from the moment you start the day. The duration of 6 to 7 hours means a full, enriching itinerary, but be prepared for a busy day—there’s a lot to see.

Pricing and Value

At around $186.53 per person, this tour is priced in the premium range, but many travelers consider it well worth the cost. The private format means no large crowds, and the guide’s detailed knowledge enhances every site. Entrance fees for some sites are extra, but many reviews note that the overall experience is a great value for those interested in history, Outlander, and scenery.

The inclusion of bottled water and WiFi makes the day comfortable, and the expert guidance turns a standard sightseeing day into an engaging storytelling experience.

Why Choose This Tour?

This experience is ideal for Outlander fans eager to see the sets and filming locations firsthand, history buffs wanting a deeper understanding of Scottish history, or nature lovers craving scenic vistas and the chance to explore off-the-beaten-path sites. Reviewers consistently mention the knowledgeable guides and the personal attention as major highlights — making the day feel special.

It’s not the cheapest option, but the private setting and expert storytelling justify the price for many. It’s perfect if you want the flexibility to customize your day and learn stories directly from a passionate guide.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a compelling mix of Scottish history, natural beauty, and Outlander magic. The private format means you get a tailored experience, with a guide who truly knows their stuff — a rare combo that many reviews highlight as the key to a memorable day.

While you should be prepared for a full schedule, the variety of stops— from ancient stone circles to battlefield sites — keeps the experience dynamic and engaging. The scenic views along Loch Ness and the Highlands alone make it worth the price, but add a knowledgeable guide who can tell stories that stick with you, and it becomes even more valuable.

If you’re after a seamless, well-rounded day that covers the must-see sites and offers genuine insights, this tour in Inverness ticks all the boxes. It’s especially recommended for Outlander fans and history lovers who want a more intimate, meaningful experience than large group tours typically provide.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this is a private tour for your party, ensuring a personalized experience with a knowledgeable guide.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, covering several historic sites, Loch Ness, and filming locations.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees for Urquhart Castle and Culloden Battlefield are not included, so be prepared for additional costs if you wish to enter those sites.

Does the tour pick up from my accommodation?
Yes, the tour includes hassle-free pickup from your Highland accommodation and ends back at the meeting point.

What’s the group size?
A maximum of 8 travelers ensures an intimate experience with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and customize stops.

Is this suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. If you have specific needs, it’s best to check with the provider beforehand.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made around 98 days in advance, so planning ahead guarantees availability during peak seasons.

To sum it up, this Clan Tour combines history, scenery, and Outlander magic into a well-structured, engaging day. Perfect for those who want the depth of a private guide, the comfort of a scenic drive, and the thrill of visiting iconic filming sites. Whether you’re an Outlander superfan or a curious traveler, this tour offers a memorable, insightful journey into Scotland’s past and present.