Embark on an exciting shore excursion from Invergordon, exploring Clava Cairns, Culloden Moor, Loch Ness, and Urquhart Castle. Discover the mysteries of ancient standing stones, relive the historic Battle of Culloden, search for the legendary Loch Ness Monster, and immerse yourself in the rich history of Urquhart Castle.
Embark on an exciting shore excursion from Invergordon, exploring Clava Cairns, Culloden Moor, Loch Ness, and Urquhart Castle. Discover the mysteries of ancient standing stones, relive the historic Battle of Culloden, search for the legendary Loch Ness Monster, and immerse yourself in the rich history of Urquhart Castle.
- Clava Cairns - The journey begins at The Clava Cairns, also known as the Prehistoric Burial Cairns of Balnuaran of Clava. These are the remnants of a once expansive Bronze Age burial site, dating back 4,000 years. The site still features original elements such as passage graves, standing stones, and ring cairns (stone circles).
- **Culloden…
- Clava Cairns - The journey begins at The Clava Cairns, also known as the Prehistoric Burial Cairns of Balnuaran of Clava. These are the remnants of a once expansive Bronze Age burial site, dating back 4,000 years. The site still features original elements such as passage graves, standing stones, and ring cairns (stone circles).
- Culloden Battlefield - The next destination is Culloden Moor, the site of the last significant battle on British soil. This moor is the final resting place for 1,500 Jacobite and 50 Government soldiers who perished in 1746. Visitors can walk along the battle lines and view the soldiers’ graves near the memorial cairn at the center of the battlefield.
Flags mark the front lines of both armies, illustrating the battle’s vast scale, while clan markers in the center denote the graves of the fallen.
In our ongoing conservation efforts, we strive to restore the land to its 18th-century appearance. Collaborating with our Facilities team, we use goats and Shetland cows to graze the land as they would have in the past.
Culloden’s unique landscape also supports diverse wildlife, including skylarks, which both reside and breed on the battlefield, and garden tiger moth caterpillars.
- Loch Ness - The tour continues along the banks of Loch Ness, offering breathtaking views of the world’s most famous loch. Nessie, the friendly monster, is said to inhabit these waters. Be sure to have your cameras ready.
- Great Glen Distillery - Next, enjoy a taste of “Nessie water” and take advantage of a complimentary gin tasting at this award-winning distillery. You might also want to try some freshly made local ice cream.
- Urquhart Castle - Experience the wild natural beauty and 1,000 years of history at Urquhart Castle, which provides a glimpse of the Highlands at their most dramatic.
Explore a millennium of history, witness medieval life, and take in the stunning views over Loch Ness from the ruins of this magnificent Highland castle.
Climb the Grant Tower, which overlooks the iconic loch, peek into a grim prison cell that allegedly held the legendary Gaelic bard Domhnall Donn, and imagine the grand banquets once held in the great hall. For a more relaxed view of the iconic ruins, set against the backdrop of Loch Ness and the Great Glen hills, visit the café.
Urquhart’s tales are also shared through a fascinating collection of artifacts left by its residents, historic replicas, including a full-sized, working trebuchet siege engine, and a short film.

- Pick up & drop off from the port
- Local guide
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Bottled water
- Pick up & drop off from the port
- Local guide
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Bottled water
- Admission fees
- Admission fees
- Admission fees
- Admission fees
Experience a seamless pick-up directly from your cruise ship at Cromarty Port, Invergordon.
The journey begins at Clava Cairns, home to the iconic standing stones celebrated by Diana Gabaldon, the author of Outlander. Discover the intriguing tales and mysteries of this 4,000-year-old site with your knowledgeable guide.
Next, visit the historic site of…
Experience a seamless pick-up directly from your cruise ship at Cromarty Port, Invergordon.
The journey begins at Clava Cairns, home to the iconic standing stones celebrated by Diana Gabaldon, the author of Outlander. Discover the intriguing tales and mysteries of this 4,000-year-old site with your knowledgeable guide.
Next, visit the historic site of the Battle of Culloden, where in April 1746, on a cold, wet moor, the brave Jacobites faced the formidable army of King George II, forever altering the lives of the Highlanders.
No trip to the Highlands is complete without a visit to the world-renowned Loch Ness. Keep your camera ready for a possible sighting of Nessie, the legendary creature.
Then, enjoy a taste of “Nessie water” and sample some gin, along with a complimentary dram at the award-winning Great Glen Distillery.
Finally, explore the enchanting Urquhart Castle, nestled on the shores of Loch Ness, boasting a rich history spanning 1,000 years.
- Visiting the Culloden Battlefield Site is free of charge, however the optional entry to the exhibition cost an estimated 10 Pounds per adult
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.