Best of Loch Ness, Urquart & Cawdor Castles

Description

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

Your adventure begins as you board your motorcoach for the scenic ride through the heather-covered hills of the lush Scottish Highlands. The first stop in your journey is the parish of Cawdor, and one of the country's finest medieval structures, Cawdor Castle.

The castle is still the seat of the Earls of Cawdor, and the current home to the Dowager Countess Cawdor. However, many know this place as the setting for Duncan's murder in Shakespeare's Macbeth. While parts of the castle date back to the 14th century, it did not exist during the reign of the factual Duncan and Macbeth. Macbeth was the Thane of Cawdor and at one time there was a castle about a mile away of which nothing is left. The castle boasts a central keep and drawbridge, and was originally build around a small, living holly tree, the remains of which may still be seen in the lowest level of the tower. Originally consisting only of the large tower (or keep), the castle was expanded numerous times in the succeeding centuries, with significant additions made in the 17th century and 19th century. You'll begin your tour with the castle's spectacular gardens, then see its interior filled with rich French, English and Spanish tapestries, antique furniture and paintings by Romney, Cotes, Dali, Reynolds and Landseer. In the Pink Bedroom and the Dining Room are a series of the later, telling the story of Don Quixote.

Next, you'll travel to the city of Inverness to enjoy a delicious three-course lunch at a first-class hotel. Then, after your repast, it'll be time to begin your own search for 'Nessie.'

Your scenic drive will bring you to the jagged ruins of Urquhart Castle that stand next to the dark waters of Loch Ness. During its turbulent history the castle was plundered by the MacDonald clan of the Western Isles and then destroyed during the first Jacobite Rising of 1692. All that remains are a lone keep and crumbling walls, but legends persist that a cave beneath the castle is the home of legendary monster 'Nessie'. The Loch itself is 22 miles long, a mile wide, and 740-feet deep. The path leading to Urquhart Castle affords superb views of the ruins and the Loch. You can view a captivating video showing the area's history, then browse for quality gifts at the visitor center.

Your exploration concludes as you travel through the braes and burns of the beautiful scenic highlands as you return to your ship, reflecting on your own legendary adventure.

Special Notes:

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

Steps at Urquhart Castle may be slippery.

Photography is not permitted inside Cawdor Castle. Backpacks, day sacks and holdalls are not permitted inside the Cawdor Castle.

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

Passengers with limited mobility are able to view the Urquhart Castle ruins from the Urquhart Castle Visitors Centre.

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

Tour sequence may vary.

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

Child Price:

12 & under reduced