Glasgow: Loch Ness, Glen Coe, Hairy Coos & The Highlands

Thinking about exploring the Scottish Highlands? This tour promises a full-day journey through some of Scotland’s most iconic sights, from the legendary Loch Ness to the dramatic peaks of Glen Coe. With a small group capped at 16 travelers, the experience aims to balance intimate storytelling with breathtaking landscapes. Known for its knowledgeable guides and flexible itinerary, this trip is often praised for offering a genuine taste of Highland beauty, history, and local life.

What we really love about this tour is its combination of scenic stops and engaging commentary—plus the chance to meet hairy coos (the adorable Highland cattle) and even try spotting Nessie. But keep in mind, it’s a long day packed with travel, so it’s not ideal for those who prefer a more relaxed pace or have mobility concerns. Still, for those eager for a comprehensive Highland adventure, this tour hits many key highlights in just one day.

This experience suits travelers who want an efficient yet authentic taste of the Highlands without breaking the bank or sacrificing comfort. It’s perfect for first-timers to Scotland, history buffs, or anyone craving dramatic scenery paired with lively storytelling.

Key Points

• Small-group size ensures a more personal and relaxed experience.
• Expert guides like Scot and Scotty make the trip engaging with stories and humor.
• Diverse stops like Loch Ness, Glen Coe, and Highland Perthshire provide a well-rounded Highland experience.
• Cost-effective at $67, offering great value for a full-day guided tour.
• Interactive experiences include meeting hairy coos and optional Loch Ness cruise.
• Comfortable transport in an air-conditioned coach makes the long day manageable.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenery, history, and Scottish charm—all packed into roughly 11 hours. It’s designed to give you a comprehensive introduction to the Highlands, with plenty of opportunities to take photos, soak in impressive landscapes, and learn from guides who clearly love sharing their knowledge.

The Itinerary: A Day in the Highland Highlights

The journey begins in Glasgow, starting from outside the Royal Scottish National Orchestra building on Killermont Street. The bus is air-conditioned, ensuring a comfortable ride through the Scottish countryside. From the start, your guide will sprinkle stories about Glasgow’s past, setting a lively tone for the day.

First Stop: Luss
About an hour into your trip, you’ll arrive at Luss, a charming village in Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park. Here, you’re free to wander, grab a coffee, or simply enjoy the breathtaking views of Loch Lomond, Scotland’s largest freshwater loch. Reviewers have appreciated the stop, with one mentioning how the “breath-taking views” set the tone for the rest of the day. The guide also shares legends behind the loch, enriching your appreciation of the landscape.

Next: Glen Coe
After a 1.5-hour drive, you’ll reach Glen Coe, famous for its stunning peaks and tragic history. This valley, carved by ancient volcanic activity, is a photographer’s dream. You’ll stop for about 15 minutes to snap pictures of towering mountains and waterfalls, feeling the weight of the landscape’s grandeur. Guides like Scot are praised for their storytelling—recounting the 17th-century massacre of the MacDonald Clan adds a poignant layer of history to the rugged scenery.

Loch Ness and Fort Augustus
A longer stop follows at Fort Augustus, where you can explore the village or take an optional cruise on Loch Ness—famous for sightings of Nessie. One guest’s review highlights this, noting that the “cruise offers a chance to hunt for the monster while enjoying stunning views of the loch and Cherry Island.” If you prefer land, walking along the Caledonian Canal or exploring the Abbey are good options. This stop is about 2 hours, allowing plenty of time to soak in the atmosphere.

The Wilderness of Cairngorms
Post-Loch Ness, your journey continues through the Cairngorms National Park, where the highest peaks in Scotland rise dramatically. If weather permits, you might even see snow on the mountains. This area is also a popular ski destination, making it an interesting contrast to the lakes and forests.

Highland Perthshire and Hairy Coos
Your final main stop is in Highland Perthshire, where you can meet the beloved hairy coos—large, fluffy Highland cattle known for their docile nature and iconic appearance. Many reviewers appreciate this part, noting it’s a fun and authentic encounter. Here, you can sample local produce, adding a flavorful touch to your Highland experience.

On the Return
En route back, you’ll pass Stirling, catching glimpses of Stirling Castle and the Wallace Monument—tiny but significant visual highlights to wrap up your day.

Comfort, Transportation, and Value

The tour’s vehicle is an air-conditioned coach, making the long drives more comfortable, especially on warmer days. The small group size (max 16 people) ensures a more relaxed atmosphere and easier access to viewpoints and photo opportunities. Drivers like Scot and Scotty are frequently praised for their humor, friendliness, and knowledge—making the long hours not just bearable but genuinely enjoyable.

Priced at $67 per person, this tour stacks up as excellent value considering the inclusions: transport, live commentary, and the chance to explore multiple key sites in one day. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want a structured yet flexible way to see the Highlands without the hassle of self-driving or multiple bookings.

What’s Not Included

You’ll need to budget separately for food, drinks, and the Loch Ness cruise if you choose to take it. The tour doesn’t provide restroom facilities on board, so planning for breaks is wise. Reviewers mention bringing snacks and water for the day, given the long duration.

Authentic Highland Experiences

From the scenic stops to meeting hairy coos, this tour offers a taste of genuine Highland life. The guides’ stories bring history alive, making the landscapes more meaningful. One reviewer mentioned Scot’s humor and storytelling as a highlight, along with ensuring everyone saw all the key sights.

The opportunity to meet cattle, sample local produce, and enjoy Scotland’s natural beauty makes this a well-rounded experience. It’s appreciated by those wanting to go beyond just sightseeing—adding personal touches and local flavor.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This trip is perfect for first-time visitors eager to see the iconic Scottish Highlands in a day. It suits history lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those who enjoy storytelling with their sightseeing. Because of the duration and physicality of some stops, it’s best for those comfortable with a full day on a coach and walking short distances.

It’s also a good choice for travelers looking for good value—combining multiple highlights into one package at an accessible price point. If you’re traveling with kids over 3 or have mobility needs, you may want to consider other options, as this tour isn’t designed for wheelchair users or very young children.

This guided tour from Glasgow offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of the Scottish Highlands. With its knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and authentic experiences like meeting hairy coos, it provides good value and a memorable day out. The carefully curated stops, including Loch Ness and Glen Coe, allow you to experience the Highlands’ beauty and history in one manageable trip.

If you’re after a small-group experience that balances storytelling, scenic vistas, and cultural encounters, this tour is an excellent choice. The mix of natural beauty and engaging guides makes it suitable for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike who want to make the most of their Highland adventure without the stress of planning every detail.

In short, whether you’re chasing Nessie, marveling at mountain panoramas, or simply soaking in Scottish charm, this tour delivers a genuine Highland experience—worth every penny.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 3 years old. The long duration and travel may be tiring for very young kids.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 11 hours, including multiple stops and scenic drives.

What is included in the price?
Your fare includes air-conditioned transportation, a live English commentary, and the services of a driver/guide.

Are meals provided?
No, food and drinks are not included. You should plan to bring snacks or purchase food during stops.

Can I join the Loch Ness cruise?
The cruise is an optional activity at Fort Augustus, not included in the ticket price. You can choose whether to take it or explore on land instead.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 16 passengers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is there any flexibility in the itinerary?
The tour follows a set schedule with specific stops; however, guides like Scot are known for their engaging storytelling and making sure guests see the main highlights.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, as there are outdoor stops and variable weather.

How do I cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making this a flexible option if your plans change.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, this experience is not suitable for wheelchair users due to the nature of stops and transport.

This detailed review aims to help you decide whether this Highland adventure matches your travel style. With its focus on value, authentic experiences, and engaging guides, it’s a memorable way to explore Scotland’s most famous landscapes.