As you step inside these ancient walls, you’ll be guided on an enchanting audio journey through the castle’s long and storied past, which reaches back to at least 1454. Each room whispers of centuries gone by — from the elegance of the 16th-century portrait gallery in the drawing room, to the warmth and richness of 17th-century Flemish tapestries adorning a bedroom once fit for nobility. Fine art, antique treasures, and the tales they carry await you at every turn, inviting you to linger a little longer. After the tour, you’ll have time to explore the varied gardens at your own pace. There are also two gift shops and a café on-site. For WOW guests, the café offers a convenient packed or boxed lunch option, which we recommend if you’d like something to take away for later in the day. Entrance and an audio guide to Cawdor Castle is included in the tour price.

Our next stop is at Culloden Battlefield, one of the most important battlefields in the UK. Here, your guide will bring the landscape to life on a 30-minute walking tour, as he enthralls you with the story of the last pitched battle on British soil; the Jacobite uprising of 1746. As you stand upon the windswept moor, it’s easy to imagine the bravery, sacrifice, and heartbreak that unfolded here, with echoes of the past lingering in the stillness. The haunting beauty of the landscape, combined with its tragic history, creates a deeply moving experience that will stay with you long after you leave.

Clava Cairns is a remarkably well-preserved Bronze Age cemetery, built around 4,000 years ago. Scattered across the site you’ll find an array of fascinating structures – passage graves, ring cairns, a kerb cairn, and atmospheric standing stones. While the history alone makes this a captivating stop, it’s also a must-see for Outlander fans. Diana Gabaldon has described Clava Cairns as the “spiritual home of Craigh na Dun”, and many visitors say it feels like stepping straight into the world of Claire and Jamie.

Our next stop is the beautiful Dores Beach, on the tranquil south shores of Loch Ness — home to one of the most breathtaking views in the whole of the UK! Take a stroll along the pebbled shore and soak up the stunning panorama or, if he’s not off on a Nessie-hunting mission, you might even meet resident monster hunter Steve Feltham, who has been searching for the Loch Ness Monster here for over 30 years and sells some very memorable souvenirs. There’s also a traditional Scottish pub right on the loch’s edge, where you may wish to enjoy a local beer or a wee dram of whisky (subject to opening hours).

With its fascinating history, scenic setting on the River Ness, and abundance of cosy pubs and quirky shops, Inverness has a charm all of its own. Known as the capital of the Highlands, it offers a wonderful mix of heritage and vibrancy. In just a short stroll you can admire the red sandstone Inverness Castle, take in the beauty of St Andrew’s Cathedral, and wander through the characterful Victorian Market — all while soaking up the lively atmosphere of this welcoming Highland city. You’ll have around one hour to explore here, with a little less time on tours lasting under eight hours.

We’ll be on the lookout for one of the Highlands’ most famous residents — the Highland cow (or “coo” as we like to say). If we spot any of these shaggy, horned beauties along the way, we’ll do our best to pull over somewhere safe so you can grab photos and enjoy a closer look. Coo sightings are never guaranteed, but we know how popular these local celebrities are amongst our guests! To round things off, we’ll travel back to Invergordon via the beautiful Black Isle, a peaceful stretch of rolling countryside dotted with small villages and farmland. You’ll be returned to the port with comfortable time to spare before your ship departs — usually at least 1 hour 15 minutes ahead. After a day packed with standout scenery, local stories, and Highland character, you’ll head back with plenty of great photos and a real feel for this special part of Scotland.