From Inverness: Cawdor Castle, Cairngorms and Highland Coos
Overview
Available languages
8 hours 15 minutes
Mobile ticket
Start your adventure on this small-group tour at the ancient Clava Cairns, one of Scotland's best-preserved Bronze Age burial sites. Next, we’ll journey to the iconic Cawdor Castle, steeped in history and surrounded by captivating legends. Explore its enchanting halls and stroll through the meticulously landscaped gardens that embody its charm.
Our next destination is to meet with the fluffiest locals - the hairy Highland coos. Afterward, enjoy a relaxing walk through the ancient Scots Pine Forest, home to Scotland’s majestic native trees. We’ll then take a break for lunch in the vibrant town of Aviemore, the perfect place to soak in the local atmosphere.
Our journey continues through the stunning landscapes of Cairngorms National Park, where breathtaking views and potential wildlife sightings await.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children under 5 years old, including infants who do not require a seat, are not permitted to travel. We are unable to accommodate any child under the age of 5. Anyone aged 5-17 must be accompanied by an adult.
The order of the itinerary route is subject to change.
Collapsible wheelchairs with removable wheels can be accommodated providing the passenger is accompanied by someone who can assist them to board and disembark.
Return times are approximate and subject to road conditions and weather. Please ensure you allocate sufficient time for any onward travel plans, allowing at least 3 hours after the scheduled return time for connections or activities.
It is recommended to book transport to the departure point in advance. Please also allow extra time to get to the departure point for check-in. We advise you arrive at least 15 minutes before the tour departure to allow time to check-in for the tour. Unfortunately, we are unable to hold the bus or refund for any late arrivals.
If downloading an audio guide, remember to bring your headset.
Due to vehicle availability, there may be instances where this tour runs on a bigger bus.
The tour may operate with our sister company, HAGGiS Adventures.
The order of the itinerary route is subject to change.
What To Expect
Clava Cairns
Discover the ancient mystery of Clava Cairns, a prehistoric burial site dating back over 4,000 years. Nestled in a serene Highland landscape, these atmospheric stone circles and passage graves offer a captivating glimpse into Scotland’s distant past. A must-see for history lovers and Outlander fans alike!
Cawdor Castle
Step into the timeless beauty of Cawdor Castle, a Highland gem steeped in history and charm. Wander through its enchanting gardens, explore centuries-old rooms, and immerse yourself in the legend of Shakespeare’s Macbeth. Perfect for history buffs and nature lovers alike - Cawdor Castle is where Scottish heritage comes to life!
Options
Tour with Cawdor Castle ticket
Entrance to Cawdor Castle
Tour without castle entry
What‘s Included
Foreign language audio guides available
Transportation in air-conditioned mini-bus
Local, passionate guide
Entrance to Cawdor Castle (unless option chosen)
Food and drinks not provided
Tips
Hotel pick up and drop off
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
115 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Wonderful tour
POLYXENI P,May 30, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Sonia is the best of the bests guides! Everything was perfect! The only thing I would recommend is instead of having lunch in Aviemore, to get to another, more scenic town.
Great day out accessing a wide range of sites and spectacular scenery
Br0nny,May 29, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Excellent tour with something for everyone We were given plenty of time at each stop and Sonia was friendly, knowledgeable and had excellent taste in music! She went above and beyond, even taking a small detour to get closer to some Highland cattle.
Best tour on our trip!
X2808ZCambert,May 29, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Sonia was absolutely incredible. Gave us a though history and beautiful guide through the highlands. We even got to pet and feed a highland coo!
Highly Recommend!
F7586ZWjessed,May 29, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Sonia was fun, knowledgeable and funny! Amazing experience!
Lovely day in the cairngorms
martinq867,May 27, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Brilliant day out with Craig.Really enjoyed all the places we visited.
Enjoyed the Journey
Nathan M,May 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Enjoyed our day with Emily as she showed us the back roads and farms on the way to great stops at Cawdor Castle and the Cairngorms. She made the day much more than just getting from one destination to another and the overall experience was a fantastic journey. Hairy Coos, sheep, Clydesdales, pheasants, hares, and even a couple of deer. Well done Emily!
Great experience!
R6220EWjulied,May 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great variety of sights to see. Appreciated the stop in wee village for lunch :). Loved the old bridges and’s castles. Thank you for finding harry coos - a delight for my daughter. Emily was knowledgeable and super friendly. A great guide!
Cool, fun, great
520gabbyd,May 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our guide Emily was a very kind, happy person with lots of helpful information and clear communication. We got the perfect amount of time at each stop. The castle was super cool and coos were super cute. Highly recommend doing this tour specifically with Emily!
Great tour
cortneyl2023,May 21, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Iain was an amazing and informative guide!! I can’t recommend this tour enough!
Wonderful day out of Inverness.
terriwU9991FQ,May 21, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was a lovely day with Iaian. We were able to see parts of Scotland that we wouldn't have on our own with the time we had. We heard some Scottish history and interesting tidbits about the area we loved to hear. Thanks for a wonderful day!
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Operated by Highland Explorer Tours Ltd