Loch Ness & Urquhart Castle Ruins

Description

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

What you will visit:

Urquhart Castle
Once you arrive to the castle grounds, you'll be welcomed at the Visitors' Centre where you can see the exhibitions and a film presentation. You'll tour the ruins of Urquhart Castle, once a medieval Scottish stronghold on the shores of Loch Ness, and learn more about "Nessie," whose cave is thought to be under the castle. You'll arrive at the jagged ruins of Urquhart Castle, which stands next to the dark waters of Loch Ness. All that remains are a lone keep and crumbling walls of this stronghold. The Loch itself is 22 miles long, one mile wide and 740 feet deep, and derives its dark brown colour from peat.

During its turbulent history, Glen Urquart was raided every year and many cattle were stolen by the clansmen of the Lord of the Isles. It was during the last raid in 1527, that the castle itself was attacked, raiders stole everything of value and set it on fire. It was rebuilt and during 1692, fearing a siege by a group of Jacobites, the garrison chief packed the castle with explosives, lit the fuse and marched out for the last time leaving Urquart to the flames.

What you will see along the way:
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.

Photo opportunity:
Be sure to have your cameras at the ready, you just might spot 'Nessie' in the loch, a favorite photo opportunity for guests of all ages.

Special Notes:

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

Steps at the Urquhuart Castle may be slippery. Guests 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