Best of Loch Ness, Urquhart & Cawdor Castles

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

You'll arrive at the jagged ruins of Urquhart Castle, which stands next to the dark waters of Loch Ness. The Loch is 22 miles long, one mile wide and 740 feet deep. Its waters are stained a dark brown from peat. All that remains are a lone keep and crumbling walls of this stronghold.

During its turbulent history, Glen Urquart was raided every year and many cattle were stolen by the clansmen of the Lord of the Isles. His powerbase was Lochaber and Skye but his ambitions extended much further. His clansmen were part Irish and part Norse. The last raid was 1527 when not only did they steal all the cattle but they attacked Urquart Castle; stripped it of everything of value and set it on fire. They were never seen again. The castle was rebuilt and the Grants there in their lot with the English crown, in 1692 a group of Jacobites loyal to the exiled Stuarts laid siege to the castle but could not get in. Thinking a stronger force might return the Grant garrison chief packed the castle with explosives, lit the fuse and marched out for the last time leaving Urquart to the flames. It remained in the Grant possession for 200 years but is now being looked after by Historic Scotland for the nation. Legends persist that a cave beneath the castle is the home of legendary monster 'Nessie.' Once you arrive, you'll be welcomed at the Visitors' Centre where you can see the exhibitions and a film presentation.

After your visit, you'll re-board your motorcoach and continue on to Inverness, where the Ness River meets the waters of Beauly Firth. You'll travel through the city, an important trading port since the 9th-century, passing the cathedral and Inverness Castle. The current castle dates from the 19th century, but a series of castles have occupied the site since the Middle Ages. You'll cross Cromarty Bridge and return alongside the Firth as your adventure concludes, taking you back to Invergordon and your ship.

Special Notes:

The drive from Invergordon to Loch Ness is approximately one hour.

Steps at the Urquhuart Castle may be slippery. Passengers with limited mobility are able to view the Urquhart Castle ruins from the Urquhart Castle Visitors Centre.

Bring local currency or credit cards for additional purchases - credit cards are accepted in a majority of shops, but not all.

Wear comfortable walking shoes and clothing suited to the day's conditions. Bring a hat and a waterproof jacket.

Use of an audio headset (included) will enhance your tour experience.

Child Price:

12 & under reduced