From Edinburgh: Glenfinnan Viaduct, Hairy Coos & The Highlands
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From Edinburgh: Glenfinnan Viaduct, Hairy Coos & The Highlands
2 Days
Visiting: United Kingdom, Scotland
Tour operator:
Tour code:
603556
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
duration: 11 hours
meeting_point: 1 Parliament Square, High Street, Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH1 1RE
min_age: 3
max_age: 99
description: Departing Edinburgh
Step aboard as we depart Edinburgh ready for an action-packed day taking in Scotland’s most iconic and varied landmarks. Whilst the famous Glenfinnan (Harry Potter) viaduct serves as the pinnacle of this tour, the adventure does not stop there. Join us for a day steeped in film, history, nature, vast landscapes, not forgetting those all-important Hairy Coos.
Callander – The “Gateway To The Highlands”
Our first stop will be at the historic village of Callander, known as the "Gateway to the Highlands", where you can visit the local shops and grab a tasty bite to eat as we enter the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. Experience breath-taking views of lochs and mountains in the lush countryside as we ascend further into the park.
Glen Coe – Revealing The Secrets Of The Mountains
Our adventure continues through the county of Argyll and Bute and into the Highlands where you will be able to discover the vast expanse of Rannoch Moor, Britain’s largest moorland and onto the stunning scenery of Glencoe, part of the Caledonian Mountain range.
Learn about the fascinating geology of the extinct ancient super volcano that exploded 420 million years ago, forming the incredible "Three Sisters" mountains that can be seen today, and the tragic history of the Massacre of Glencoe. Harry Potter fans will also recognise these three peaks as the backdrop used in the final battle of Hogwarts!
Fort William – Explore This Town Nestled At The Start Of The Great Glen
Enjoy your lunch in the notable town Fort William, which sits at the base of the Nevis Range. Wander around the remains of the army barracks that once stood defending the town, stroll along the shores of Loch Linnhe, a wonderful sea loch at the start of the Great Glen and enjoy the flavours from the local cafes before hopping back on the bus to continue our journey.
Glenfinnan - Relive The Movie Magic of the Hogwarts Express
We will arrive at Glenfinnan, the pinnacle of our journey! Here you will be able to see the Glenfinnan Viaduct, which was engineered by Thomas Telford, and the Jacobite Monument.
Traverse the nearby trails to see the best views of the viaduct, have a chance to see the Jacobite Steam Train and relive the movie magic of the Hogwarts Express as it crosses over. Harry Potter fans will recognise this iconic structure from “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets."
Take a stroll down to the shores of Loch Shiel and marvel at the Glenfinnan Monument; the site where Bonnie Prince Charlie first raised his royal standard in the Jacobite Uprisings of 1745.
(Please note that the train will be operating from 5th May- 26th September 2025. On days that the train is not in operation, you will still have the opportunity to visit the viaduct.)
Journey Through The Cairngorms And Meet Some Hairy Coos!
Later in the afternoon, we will then travel across Scotland’s largest national park, the Cairngorms (meaning “Blue Mountains”) where you can relax and enjoy the rugged landscapes of these ancient hills. Driving through, you can immerse yourself in the Caledonian pine forests, before arriving at our final stop of the tour, to meet some Highland Cows, known in Scot’s as “Hairy Coos!” Round off your tour with an unforgettable experience of meeting these adorable critters up close and getting some iconic photos.
Arrival Back In Edinburgh
We will return to Edinburgh after an exciting day filled with history, adventure and stunning scenery.
what_is_included: • Transportation by touring vehicle
• Services of experienced English speaking driver guide
what_is_not_included: • Meals
• Additional admissions/entrance fees
• Gratuities
• Items of a personal nature i.e. snacks, telephone calls, newspapers
highlights: • Glencoe – Take in the views of some of Scotland’s most iconic mountains, the Three sisters of Glencoe.
• Glenfinnan Viaduct – Experience Thomas Telford’s great design where “Harry Potter And The Chamber Of Secrets” was filmed.
• Highland Cows – Meet our famous Scottish creatures!
check_in_details: Please note that check in closes 15 minutes prior to departure. We kindly ask that all passengers wishing to travel arrive at the departure point prior to check in closing.
Please also note that we take passengers from 3+ years old and valid proof of age may be required.
what_to_bring: •No matter when you visit, the weather in Scotland can be “changeable”, to say the least. We suggest that you bring suitable clothing for all conditions, including a waterproof jacket (it has been known to rain in Scotland), sunglasses and plenty of layers.
•Ensure you bring shoes suitable for short walks, on rough or uneven terrain.
•Although most attractions & eating establishments we visit accept card payments, we would also recommend bringing cash with you.
•Don’t forget a camera to snap the fantastic memories you’ll make on tour with us!
•Please limit your luggage to 1 x small/medium piece per person (no more than 15kg), along with 1 x small handbag or daypack.
disclaimers: Please be aware that the Jacobite Steam Train is operated independently by West Coast Railways. This service operates seasonally, from 5th May- 26th September 2025.
While our tour is planned to coincide with the train's schedule, we cannot guarantee that the train will be running on the day of your tour. On days when the Jacobite Steam Train is not operating, you can still enjoy views of the viaduct.
Highlights
Itinerary
What's Included
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Visit to Glenfinnan Viaduct
The tour includes a visit to the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct.
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Experience with Hairy Coos
The tour includes an experience with the famous Hairy Coos.
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Exploration of The Highlands
The tour includes exploration of the beautiful Scottish Highlands.
What's Not Included
Meals and Accommodation
Meals and accommodation are not included in the tour.
Mode of Transport
Transportation details are not provided for this tour.
Accommodation
Accommodation details are not provided for this tour.
Check out our Q&As
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What is the main attraction of this tour?
The main attraction of this tour is the Glenfinnan Viaduct, which is famous for its appearance in the Harry Potter films.
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Will we see any wildlife during the tour?
Yes, the tour includes a chance to see the famous Hairy Coos, which are a type of Highland cattle.
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What region does this tour primarily explore?
This tour primarily explores the Scottish Highlands, offering scenic views and cultural experiences.
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How much luggage can I bring?
Due to the size of our vehicles, on our multi-day tours, we guarantee to carry one piece of luggage per passenger of 55cm x 40cm x 20cm, with a maximum of 15 kg. This is equivalent to hand luggage allowed in an aircraft cabin.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
If you are delayed due to a flight cancellation for example, we will do our best to help you catch up with the tour. However, we cannot allow the tour to be affected negatively for the other passengers.
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Should I take out travel insurance?
We highly recommend you take out travel insurance.
Reviews of this operator
Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Highland Experience Tours requires a minimum deposit of 10% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of highland experience tours charges.
Up to 15 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 8 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
