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Loch Ness & Urquhart Castle Shore Excursion from InvergordonThis tour is best for guests who only have limited time in port. You take a scenic drive and lake cruise along beautiful Loch Ness, plus visit Urquhart Castle, once one of the largest castles in Scotland. After meeting your guide in Invergordon, you start your drive, passing over the Moray Firth on the Kessock Bridge. At Clansman Harbour you board a boat for a cruise along Loch Ness, taking in some of Scotland's most scenic countryside, before disembarking at Urquhart Castle. Urquhart Castle was built from the 13th century on a strategic spot with the waters of Loch Ness on three sides of the site. In 1296 the English seized it, and the castle changed hands repeatedly through Scotland's Wars of Independence before finally being blown up in 1692, when government soldiers destroyed its gatehouse to keep it out of Jacobite hands. It was never rebuilt. Today the castle is cared for by Historic Environment Scotland, and you can tour the castle ruins, its tower, and a modern visitor center holding medieval artifacts found at the site. If time allows, you can stroll along the loch or have a coffee on the terrace overlooking the water. After these highlights of Loch Ness, you return to the pier in Invergordon. Please note - Due to uneven surfaces, steps, and walking distances, this itinerary is not suitable for guests using wheelchairs. Please contact us for alternative sightseeing options, including private driving tours that may better accommodate your needs.
What's IncludedIncluded- Pick up from Hotel or Port of Invergordon
- Private English Speaking Licensed Guide
- Round Trip Transportation in Private Vehicle
- Included Interior Visits- Urquhart Castle, Loch Ness Cruise
Not Included- Meals and beverages
- Gratuities (optional, at your discretion)
- Personal shopping
Tour TimingAll times are approximate and will vary based on your group's pace and interests. 1 2 3 1 Hour Visit Urquhart Castle 4 1 Hour Return to Invergordon
ResourcesPort of Cromarty Firth - Invergordon Cruise. Cruise port where your guide meets you and the tour begins and ends. Official Website Frequently Asked QuestionsHow is this different from the full-day Loch Ness, Cawdor and Urquhart Castles tour?
This 4-hour version covers Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle only, without Cawdor Castle or the Inverness stop. It suits guests with a shorter port call.
Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
No. Due to uneven surfaces, steps, and walking distances at Urquhart Castle, this itinerary is not suitable for wheelchair users. Contact us about private driving tour alternatives.
Why is Loch Ness so well known?
Loch Ness sits in the Great Glen, a geological fault that cuts diagonally across Scotland. It is about 23 miles (37km) long and 755 feet (230m) deep at its deepest point, holding more fresh water than all the lakes in England and Wales combined, a depth and dark peaty color that have fed the Loch Ness Monster legend since as early as the 6th century.
What happened to Urquhart Castle?
Urquhart Castle changed hands repeatedly between English and Scottish forces during the Wars of Independence. In 1692, government soldiers blew up its gatehouse to prevent Jacobite forces from using it, and it has stood in ruins ever since. Also Available: ›Loch Ness - Cawdor & Urquhart Castles - From Invergordon cruise port, this tour travels along the beautiful Loch Ness and includes a visits two of the Scottish Highlands castles; Urquhart Castle and Cawdor Castle. You also enjoy a cruise on Loch Ness and some free time in the town of Inverness. A licensed English-speaking guide accompanies you throughout. ›Dunrobin Castle and Dalmore Distillery - Also available from this port — From Invergordon cruise port, the highlight of this tour is a visit to the Dunrobin Castle, regarded as one of the "Jewels of the Scottish Highlands". You also enjoy free time in the town of Dornoch and a visit to the famous Dalmore Distillery. Your tour includes an English-speaking driver guide. Our Back-to-Ship Guarantee Every excursion returning 1.5 hours before departure is covered. If we are late, we cover your costs to reach the next port. More info ›
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Review Location- Invergordon 
