Best day tours from Glasgow for epic highland views

I was born in Glasgow, raised in Glasgow, but left Scotland for Canada when I was just seven. My memories of the Scottish countryside are more like fragments: family holidays in Millport, the fishing village of Portsoy, a day trip to St. Andrews.

For years, my returns to Scotland revolved around family visits—always time well spent. But every now and then, I’d manage to sneak in a glimpse of the legendary places I’d heard about: windswept castles, misty isles, ancient stone ruins. I made it to Islay, Inverness and Urquhart Castle, Inveraray, Arran, and Oban. Enough to fall back in love, but not nearly enough to call it complete.

All photos by Derek Cadzow and Jacqueline Weatherly-Cadzow, except where noted.

And then YouTube started whispering. Videos of rugged glens and wild coasts kept popping up—those dreamlike scenes that make you think: why haven’t I seen this in real life? So when I found a chance to explore more of the Scottish highlands through a guided tour, I grabbed it.

I chose the Oban, Glencoe, Highland Lochs & Castles tour from Rabbie’s.  

Was it the right call for us? More importantly, would it be the right call for you?

In this story, I’ll help you decide.

I’ll walk you through every stop, every view, and even a few moments I’d tweak if I could. From tea on the shores of Loch Lomond to our seafood feast in Oban, from castle ruins to the wild winds of Glencoe—this is the full picture. I hope it helps you plan a fun and rewarding Scots vacation.

A primer: are guided tours right for you?

Guided day tours from Glasgow can be a godsend for your Scottish vacation if you’re:

• Short on time and want to make every day count.
• Not keen on driving on the “other side” side of the road and stressed about driving on narrow, unfamiliar roads.
• Interested in learning from a local rather than reading plaques and pamphlets.
• Looking to see the Highlands, but hiking up Munros isn’t in the cards.

However, if your love is lingering in museums and setting your own pace a guided day tour might not be for you. Keep in mind that it’s a structured day and you’re obliged to stay on their schedule. If you’re more of a free spirit, you might find that a little difficult.

What was I looking for?

We’ve had great luck with guided tours in Nova Scotia—so why not try here too?

Knowing what you’re after will help you discern between the myriad of day tours from Glasgow. We had limited time to see everything we wanted in Scotland so I wanted a tour that:

• Took only one day, round trip.
• Provided me with a mix of new places and old favourites.
• Was led by a guide who could tell stories instead of just listing facts.
• And above all, I wanted an experience that came highly rated by travelers like us – because I didn’t have time for a do-over.

The Oban, Glencoe, Highland Lochs & Castles experience from Rabbie’s tours fit the bill for us. Here’s exactly how the day unfolded.

Oban, Glencoe, highland lochs & castles (1 day tour)

Check-in was early—8:15 a.m. at the Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station. Not gonna lie, the coffee hadn’t even kicked in yet but the excitement made up for it. Our group boarded a 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach, complete with cushy seats, air conditioning, and a guide, James W, who could have given a masterclass in Scottish storytelling.

From Glasgow, the tour headed northwest, cutting through the lowlands, past fields and into the highlands. No maps, no missed turns—all we had to do was just sit back, listen, and soak in the most jaw-dropping scenery you can imagine.

The schedule is tight but thoughtfully paced, offering a taste of everything without feeling rushed. At least not until you wish you had an hour more at every stop… just sayin’.

Balmaha and Loch Lomond – the gateway to the highlands

Photo of Loch Lomond by Gary Ellis on Unsplash

The first stop was at Balmaha, perched on the eastern shores of Loch Lomond. It’s right where you cross the Highland Boundary Fault Line, where the landscape flips from gentle farmland to rugged, mountainous highlands.

It wasn’t a sunny morning but even on a cloudy day, Loch Lomond has a raw, misty beauty.

We pulled up at a little refreshment stand by the water, grabbed hot tea (necessary, because Scotland in October doesn’t play around with the cold), and admired the choppy loch under the grey, windy skies. The stop wasn’t long—maybe 15 minutes—but it was enough to breathe in the wild air, snap a few photos, and ease into highland mode.

Jackie still can’t pronounce “Loch Lomond” to save her life, but she loved the raw beauty. Sheep, valleys, and trees—it was like stepping into a Scottish postcard.

As we continued north, one thing that stood out right away: the scenery gets wild fast. Hills roll into mountains and sheep pop up everywhere.

Full disclosure: although Gary’s photo above was taken on a nice sunny day, our morning was not like that at all (although it cleared up by lunchtime). Here’s our picture of Loch Lomond…

What we loved

• Beautiful, misty scenery with lots of character
• Quick but memorable stop for photos and fresh air

What we’d change

• Only 15 minutes here—just enough time to stretch your legs. Perhaps a little longer would have yielded some better photos…

Cairndow and the Rest and Be Thankful pass – where the highlands truly begin

Next, the tour climbed up through Cairndow to the legendary Rest and Be Thankful pass. Even if you didn’t know a thing about it, the name alone should tell you everything you need to know.

The pass sits high up between Glen Croe and Glen Kinglas, a place so steep and remote that even hardened 18th-century soldiers carving military roads through it had to stop, take a breather, and literally carve “Rest and Be Thankful” into a stone at the summit. I couldn’t have said it better!

The view from the pass was panoramic—a sweeping, misty valley with mountains stacking up like dominoes. But it came with a side of fierce wind that practically yanked the camera out of your hands. Still, worth every second.

 (Tip: bring a windbreaker — and a death grip for your phone.)

Off in the distance, we spotted Ben Arthur, aka “The Cobbler,” a mountain that looks a bit like a hunched figure—if you squint right.

What we loved

• One of the most scenic valleys we’ve ever seen
• A moving connection to highland history

What we’d change

• No signage to indicate where the original inscribed stone is unless you walk further up the hill.

Inveraray – a postcard-perfect town on the edge of Loch Fyne

After a winding drive through the Arrochar Alps—not real Alps, but close enough when you’re looking up at craggy peaks—we rolled into the harbor town of Inveraray on the shores of Loch Fyne.

It’s one of those places that feels almost too postcard-perfect: straight streets, Georgian houses, the whole thing carefully planned back in the 1700s.

The tour description teased a visit to Inveraray Castle and the town’s historic jail. Reality check: with only about 30 minutes here, you have to pick your battles. A full castle tour wasn’t realistic unless you wanted to sprint there and back. So we stayed in town, wandered through the little shops, and took in the waterfront views. (Jackie’s photo of the castle was expertly snapped as we drove by it!)

One thing that stood out was the small fishing boat “Vital Spark” bobbing in the harbor—a familiar sight if you know Scottish TV shows such as The Tales of Para Handy. It looked a little lonely without its usual companion boat, but the charm was still there.

Quick note if you visit independently: Inveraray is worth a longer stop if you can swing it. Between the castle, the jail, and the stunning views of Loch Fyne, there’s way more to soak in than a rushed half-hour allows. The Courtyard gift shop is always worth a peek. The layout of Inveraray reminded us of Islay—with cottages flanking a street that ends in a church. Familiar and photogenic.

What we loved

• Charming, walkable town with beautiful loch views
• Shopping and photo opportunities galore

What we’d change

• Not enough time to walk to the castle or explore more deeply.

Kilchurn Castle on Loch Awe – a step back in time

Somewhere between Inveraray and Oban, we pulled over beside a field near Kilchurn Castle, perched on a tiny peninsula jutting into Loch Awe. This 15th-century ruin looks like it was plucked straight from a medieval movie set—all crumbling stone walls and lonely towers against a misty loch backdrop.

We hopped a fence (with permission, but I still felt like a kid going somewhere forbidden!), crossed the pasture to see some Highland cows (or as Jackie says, “big orange fluffy dudes”) up close. A few minutes of cow-gazing and a couple dozen photos later, we turned back to the castle.

Fun fact: Kilchurn was built by Sir Colin Campbell around 1450 and was once home to the Campbells of Breadalbane. Later, it was turned into a garrison stronghold, and today, it boasts the oldest surviving barracks on the British mainland. But honestly, standing there with the loch shimmering behind it, the history takes a back seat to the sheer drama of the scene.

What we loved

• One of the most photogenic ruins in Scotland
• Getting up close with Highland cattle made it unforgettable

What we’d change

• No interior access to the castle, and the fence hop isn’t for everyone.

Oban – Gateway to the islands (and home to some pretty good seafood!)

Next up was Oban, a bustling harbor town that calls itself the “Gateway to the Islands” and “Seafood Capital of Scotland.”

The harbor itself, wide and open, is dotted with fishing boats and ferries heading to the Hebridean islands.

For a tasty but quick meal, our guide James suggested a fine waterfront restaurant (EE-USK seafood restaurant) that served giant portions of delicious fresh fish and offered expansive sea views to dine by — a great place to relax and enjoy lunch.

Afterwards, we wandered the shops—tartans, textiles, and whisky (yes, including our favourite, Bruichladdich). And as if to show off the Scots sense of humor, I noticed a shop window sign that read: “Dogs allowed with a well-behaved owner.” Classic.

We had about 90 minutes to explore Oban (‘Little Bay’ in Gaelic)—enough for our lunch, a walk around the harbour, taking pictures, and window shopping for tartans and whisky. It’s a lively town, but not overwhelming. There’s a relaxed energy, like everyone’s just happy to be near the sea.

Up on the hill overlooking the town, there’s a compelling structure looking much like an ancient roman colosseum (see the main Oban picture above).

But looks can be deceiving: it’s actually a 200-meter wide “folly” built between 1897 and 1902, called McCaig’s Tower or McCaig’s Folly. (Folly: an ornamental building with no practical purpose, especially a tower or mock-Gothic ruin built in a large garden or park.)

It was built by John Stuart McCaig, who intended to provide a lasting monument to his family and provide work for the local stonemasons during the winter months. The empty shell of the tower is now a public garden with magnificent views of the surrounding islands.

As we left Oban, our guide James made a quick detour to a side road for a peek at Castle Stalker. It rises out of the water like something out of a fairy tale. Or, if you’re a Monty Python fan like me, a very specific fairy tale: this was one of the castles used in the filming of Monty Python and the Holy Grail.

Castle Stalker itself is impossibly photogenic: square, brooding, rugged. Surrounded by shimmering water, with mountains rising behind it, it looked untouched by time. You can visit the castle by boat if you book ahead, but from where we stood, the view was perfect.

What we loved

• Great food, great views, great whisky
• Monty Python castle moment

What we’d change

• Would’ve loved time to visit McCaig’s Tower or take a harbour tour.

Glencoe – beauty borne of tragedy

After leaving Oban, the scenery cranked up another level. We hugged the coastline and made our way into Glencoe, maybe the most scenic and dramatic valley in all of Scotland.

Glencoe is one of those places where you find yourself whispering without meaning to. It’s massive. Stark. Silent. The mountains tower above, their slopes so steep they seem to lean in around you. And the wind was strong enough to turn your umbrella inside out, if you dared bring one.

our guide James filled us in on the darker history here. The Glencoe Massacre of 1692, when members of the MacDonald clan were slaughtered by government forces under the command of Robert Campbell of Glenlyon, many of whom had been guests in their homes. It’s the kind of story that sticks with you, even as you’re standing there gawking at the landscape.

The visitors center at Glencoe is worth a stop if you have time (we had about 30 minutes). Inside, you’ll find:

• A 3D map of the valley showing how glaciers carved out the landscape.
• A small theater playing a short film called The Glen Revealed.
• Exhibits on local wildlife, geology, and—yes—the brutal history of the place.

Given the choice between exhibits and breathing in the scenery, we went outside. A short path behind the center leads you into the glen (valley) with a closer view of the breathtaking mountains.

Standing there, with the wind tugging at your jacket and the mountains rising like walls around you, it’s easy to feel tiny and totally awestruck.

What we loved

• A landscape that leaves you speechless
• The walk and the reconstructed turf house were worth the time

What we’d change

• 30 minutes wasn’t long enough for all the visitor centre offers.

The drive back: Rannoch Moor, Glen Falloch, and a touch of Skyfall

Heading south out of Glencoe, the road winds through Rannoch Moor. It’s a wild, desolate stretch of peat bogs, lochs, and heather at 1,000 feet above sea level. It’s hauntingly beautiful in that uniquely Scottish way. You half expect a lone piper to appear on a hilltop.

One memorable highlight: driving past the spot where the James Bond film, Skyfall, filmed those sweeping shots of James Bond’s Aston Martin DB5 cruising through the Highlands and the exterior shots of the fictional Skyfall Lodge in Glencoe.

James even played the Skyfall theme over the speaker system for full effect. Cheesy? Maybe. Did it give chills anyway? Absolutely.

Other roadside gems:

• Waterfalls tumbling down sheer cliffs, some so close to the road you could almost touch them.
• Endless vistas where the only signs of life were tiny white cottages tucked at the bases of mountains.
• We even spotted poutine on a roadside café menu—Canada in the Highlands.

The drive took us past Glen Falloch, wound along the shores of Loch Lomond, and finally dropped us back into the edges of Glasgow—tired, windblown, and absolutely stunned by what we’d seen in just a single day.

Also worth noting: the highlands are a wedding photo hotspot. We spotted a bride and groom posing for pictures by the river. Brave souls, considering the gale-force gusts.

Yep, it’s that kind of place.

What we loved

• Beautiful and haunting scenery
• The unexpected Bond moment

What we’d change

• Hard to get good photos at full speed in the coach

James had one final surprise for us on the way home. As the miles to Glasgow flashed by and the tour wound down, he waxed poetic on the bus’s intercom about Scotland and the national anthem, which he said he’d play for us.

The next thing we heard was the pop song “I would walk 500 miles” by what James described as the Scottish national poets, the Proclaimers (in reality a Scots music duo). Soon, heads bobbed in time with the music and watched scenery flash by for our final few miles in the highlands.

Quipped James: “This song is famously about how far an average Scottish person would walk to find a pub that’s open”!

The verdict: was this tour worth the time and money?

Short answer: 100% yes.

It’s not a leisurely stroll through Scottish history. It’s a fast-paced, scenery-packed, story-filled journey. Perfect if you’ve only got a day and want to taste the highlands without worrying about logistics.

A few personal takeaways:

What I Loved:

• Not having to drive or navigate, and simply enjoying the sights and the stories.
• Learning history and folklore from a funny and brilliant local storyteller.
• Seeing a crazy variety of landscapes in just one trip.

What I Wished For:

• More time at stops like Inveraray and Glencoe.
• A little less rushing when the views begged you to linger.

This Tour if Perfect For You If:

• You’re short on time but still want a taste of the real Scotland.
• You’re nervous about driving in unfamiliar territory with unfamiliar rules of the road.
• You care more about soaking up big landscapes and historic sites than spending time in busy cities.
• You enjoy a faster pace—always moving, always seeing something new.

Skip It If:

• You like setting your own schedule and lingering longer in certain places. This tour might feel a little rushed.
• You’re a serious student of history and culture, or an avid photographer. You might find the quick stops limiting.
• You’re an active traveler looking for hiking, biking, or hands-on experiences. This one’s more about sightseeing and storytelling, so you might feel a little boxed in.

What others have said:

Don’t just listen to us; here’s a testimonial from IMC (more reviews here):

“Brilliant tour and guide. Graham really knew his stuff and gave us lots of information and stories about the places we visited. Not only that; he was also very entertaining. He made everyone welcome and included. Graham genuinely made our day.”

Would I do It again?

Honestly, I wouldn’t repeat the exact same tour—not because it wasn’t great, but because Scotland’s packed with so much to see. Next time, I’d pick a different route to explore even more, and I’d definitely be looking on Rabbie’s tour list. 

But if you’ve never been on the Oban, Glencoe, Highland Lochs & Castles tour before, I’d recommend it in a heartbeat. It’s an easy, scenic, and well-run way to experience a huge slice of the highlands without the headache of planning it all yourself.

Bottom line: If you want a crash course in what makes Scotland magical—rugged coasts, misty glens, ancient castles, and tales of heroism and heartbreak— his tour’s a no-brainer.

Other great Scottish tours from Glasgow

If you loved the Oban, Glencoe, Highland Lochs & Castles tour, good news! There are more day tours from Glasgow that deliver wild landscapes, fascinating history, and more unforgettable moments.

Here’s Rabbie’s tour from Glasgow catalog and five top-rated tours for unforgettable Scottish adventures:

St Andrews and the kingdom of Fife (1 day)

Rating: 5/5 (6 reviews)
Duration: Approx. 10 hours
Departure: Buchanan Bus Station, Glasgow

Embark on a captivating full-day journey from Glasgow to the Kingdom of Fife, where history and scenic beauty intertwine. Marvel at the towering Kelpies, explore the charming village of Falkland with its royal palace, and immerse yourself in the medieval allure of St Andrews—home to ancient ruins, the prestigious university, and the iconic Old Course. 

This tour offers a rich tapestry of Scotland’s heritage, all experienced from the comfort of a small-group coach led by an engaging guide.

What others have said:

Don’t just listen to us; here’s a testimonial from Antonio N. (more reviews here):

“It was a great trip and got to see the kelpies!”

A day on the Isle of Arran (1 day)

Rating: 5/5 (3 reviews)
Duration: Approx. 10 hours
Departure: Buchanan Bus Station, Glasgow

Embark on a captivating full-day journey from Glasgow to the Isle of Arran, affectionately known as ‘Scotland in Miniature.’ 

This tour offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from exploring the grand Brodick Castle and its enchanting gardens to visiting the picturesque village of Lochranza, home to a historic ruined castle. Stroll along serene beaches, perhaps in Blackwaterfoot, and immerse yourself in the island’s diverse landscapes of lochs, mountains, and moors. 

With the convenience of a small-group coach and the insights of an engaging guide, this adventure promises a memorable taste of Scotland’s natural beauty and heritage.

What others have said:

Don’t just listen to us; here’s a testimonial from an anonymous guest. (more reviews here):

“Great Tour! Great driver and host who took us around Arran Island! I have been on another tour with them, and will happily book on again!… Even better we had great weather too!! Do check out Rabbie’s Tours!”

A day on the Isle of Bute (1 day)

Rating: 5/5 (1 review)
Duration: Approx. 10 hours
Departure: Buchanan Bus Station, Glasgow

Embark on a captivating full-day journey from Glasgow to the enchanting Isle of Bute, a hidden gem off Scotland’s west coast. 

Begin with a scenic drive along the Clyde Estuary, followed by a ferry crossing to Rothesay, Bute’s charming main town. Explore the magnificent Mount Stuart, a 19th-century neo-Gothic mansion renowned for its opulent interiors and lush gardens. Enjoy a leisurely drive around the island’s southern coast, taking in dramatic coastal views and perhaps spotting local wildlife like red squirrels and otters. 

With free time in Rothesay to savor local cuisine or visit historic sites, this tour offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural exploration—all within a day.

What others have said:

Don’t just listen to us; here’s a testimonial from Srushti. (more reviews here):

“Mesmerizing Day!!”

Outlander adventure (1 day)

Rating: 4.9/5 (220+ reviews)
Duration: Approx. 9 hours
Departure: Buchanan Bus Station, Glasgow

You don’t have to be a diehard Outlander fan to enjoy this tour. But if you are, get ready for chills. You’ll visit iconic filming locations like Doune Castle (Castle Leoch), Culross (Cranesmuir), and Blackness Castle (Fort William). Even if you haven’t read the books or binged the series, the historic sites and coastal villages make it a beautiful day out.

The guide weaves in Scottish history alongside Outlander trivia, so you’re never just stuck in fan-tour mode. It’s a good balance of structured stops and free time, and you’ll leave with a new appreciation for both Scotland’s real history and its on-screen magic.

What others have said:

Don’t just listen to us; here’s a testimonial from Brittany. (more reviews here):

“We loved this Outlander Adventure Tour. There is something for all ages to see and to learn. Our guide Stephen was fantastic. He was funny, engaging, and knowledgeable.”

Tour to the Isle of Skye (3 days)

Rating: 4.9/5 (230+ reviews)
Duration: 3 days, 2 nights
Departure: Buchanan Bus Station, Glasgow

The Isle of Skye is pure Scottish magic—and there’s no better way to really explore it than over three unhurried days.

This captivating three-day journey from Glasgow takes you to the enchanting Isle of Skye, often referred to as the “Misty Isle.” It offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from exploring the dramatic landscapes of Glencoe and the iconic Eilean Donan Castle to immersing yourself in the rugged beauty of Skye’s Quiraing and Old Man of Storr. Along the way, you’ll visit charming villages, witness breathtaking coastal views, and delve into Scotland’s rich history and folklore. 

With the convenience of a small-group coach and the insights of an engaging guide, this adventure promises an unforgettable taste of Scotland’s natural beauty and heritage.

What others have said:

Don’t just listen to us; here’s a testimonial from Hons Oakland. (more reviews here):

“Lovely experience with Rabbies Glasgows tour to The Isle of Skye. I tend to be a bit of skeptical of tours and wonder if the expense is worth it. I am very pleased to report this tour was worth every pound. Our tour guide Jeff C was superb from the word go.”

FAQ: Planning day tours from Glasgow

Got questions about day tours from Glasgow Scotland? You’re not alone. Here’s a quick guide to help you get the most out of your Highland adventure.

Conclusion: did the Oban, Glencoe, highland lochs, & castles tour hit the mark?

The Oban, Glencoe, highland lochs, & castles tour hit all the right notes: stunning landscapes and small towns full of character, and just enough storytelling to keep you engaged without feeling like you were back in school.

Sure, there were moments when I wished for a little more time at certain stops, but when you cover this much ground in one day, that’s just part of the trade-off. You get to see a lot in a short amount of time.

Getting out of the city and into the highlands without the stress of driving or planning every detail made the entire experience feel effortless. The scenery alone was enough to make the trip unforgettable, but having a guide who could bring the history and legends to life? That took it to another level.

If you’re after epic mountain views, cozy coastal villages, or a little Scottish magic without the hassle, a tour like this one is a perfect way to dive deep into the heart of Scotland—even if you only have a day to spare.

Happy travels!