Invergordon Private Sheepdogs, Highland cows and Castle Tour

Thinking about exploring the Scottish Highlands beyond the usual tourist spots? This private tour from Invergordon offers a balanced mix of wildlife, history, and local culture, all tailored for a small group that values personalized attention. We’ve looked into this experience—perfect for lovers of nature, castles, and authentic Highland life—and here’s what you need to know.

What we love about this tour is how it combines close encounters with iconic Highland animals like Highland cows and sheepdogs with visits to historic sites such as Cawdor Castle. It’s a genuinely immersive way to understand the region’s traditions. The second highlight is the carefully curated stops that balance scenic drives with meaningful cultural insights, all wrapped up in a comfortable, private vehicle.

One potential consideration is the price point—at nearly $900 for a group of two, this isn’t a budget option. However, the personalized experience and variety of highlights make it a good value for those looking for a comprehensive, hassle-free day of discovery.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a customized, in-depth overview of the Highlands without the crowds. It’s perfect for couples, small families, or friends eager to explore with a knowledgeable guide, and who appreciate the comfort of private transport.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Only your group joins, ensuring a tailored tour.
• Wildlife Encounters: Get up close with Highland cows, sheep, and Pygmy goats.
• Historical Highlights: Visit Cawdor Castle and Clava Cairns, connecting you with Scotland’s past.
• Scenic Drive: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Highland landscape during the journey.
• Cultural Insights: Learn about Scottish heritage through visits and local stories.
• Convenience: Pickup and private transportation make for a relaxed, stress-free day.

A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

This tour kicks off in Invergordon at 9:00am, with a flexible pickup arrangement designed to suit your needs, whether from your accommodation or a nearby spot. The first stop, Leanach, is a picturesque farm where you’ll see working sheepdogs in action. While the review mentions some disruption in seeing Highland cows on this particular day, the focus on sheepdogs offers a fascinating look at traditional Highland farming techniques. We loved the way guides explain how these intelligent dogs help manage sheep, giving you an authentic peek into rural Highland life.

Next, you’ll visit Clava Cairns, a site that feels like stepping into a Scotland myth—stone circles and ancient cairns built thousands of years ago. This stop not only offers a chance to learn about ancient burial practices but also connects you to the landscape’s timelessness. The connection to the Outlander series adds a touch of pop culture, making it especially appealing to fans. Expect about 30 minutes here, with free admission, so you can take your time soaking in the history and atmosphere.

The highlight for many visitors is Cawdor Castle, a medieval fortress built in 1370. The castle is the real star, with its enchanting grounds and legendary links to Shakespeare’s Macbeth. The nearly two-hour visit includes exploring the castle’s interiors, gardens, and grounds—an excellent opportunity to picture Scottish nobles living their lives centuries ago. The included admission makes this a good value, and the guide’s stories will bring the castle’s history vividly to life.

Inverness offers a contrasting flavor of Scottish life with a visit to the Victorian Market, a charming spot to browse local crafts and Scottish gifts. It’s a lively, authentic shopping experience that feels both traditional and inviting. Duration here is about 1.5 hours, ample time for a relaxed stroll, some souvenir shopping, or a quick coffee.

The next stop is the Clootie Well at Munlochy, a mystical Celtic site where visitors traditionally leave cloth offerings for healing. This short visit offers a glimpse into ancient Celtic beliefs, adding depth and variety to the day. It’s free to visit and provides an unusual insight into Scotland’s pagan roots.

The scenic drive through the Scottish Highlands rounds out the day, offering stunning vistas that make the journey itself worthwhile. The guide’s commentary—if you’re lucky—can turn the landscape into a living story of Scotland’s natural beauty.

What’s Included and What to Consider

For around $898.84, you get a private, all-day experience with air-conditioned transport, bottled water, shortbread or Scottish tablet, and snacks. The inclusion of child safety seats—with options from birth—makes this accessible for families. The tour’s private nature means you’ll avoid the crowds and get a more intimate look at each site, guided by someone who can answer your questions.

Not included is lunch, so plan for a picnic or a meal in Inverness. The entry fee to Cawdor Castle is included, but the Clootie Well, Clava Cairns, and farm visit are free. The flexibility of pickup points and the availability of a mobile ticket add to the convenience.

Transport time from Invergordon to Inverness is about 45 minutes each way, which means you’ll spend roughly 4-5 hours actively touring, with plenty of time to enjoy each stop.

Authentic Encounters and Real-World Feedback

A review from Darian_R highlights the professionalism and friendliness of the guide, Cash, who was “prompt at the dock and easy going.” Although they didn’t see Highland cows due to a farm conflict, the overall experience was still positive. The reviewer noted that Cash took them to “all kinds of beautiful places across Scotland,” emphasizing the flexibility and scenic variety of the tour.

This anecdote underscores the value of a private tour—if something isn’t quite right, the guide can adapt, ensuring you still enjoy a memorable day. The emphasis on knowledgeable guides and stunning views is a recurring theme among satisfied clients, which bodes well for future travelers.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits travelers who seek a comprehensive, personalized introduction to Highland wildlife and heritage. If you’re interested in seeing Highland cows, sheepdogs, and historic castles without the hassle of organizing multiple visits yourself, this is a strong choice. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate a comfort-focused day—private transportation, flexible stops, and a small group guarantee a relaxed pace.

Families with children will appreciate the included safety seats and the chance to see animals up close. History buffs will enjoy the visits to Cawdor Castle and Clava Cairns, connecting Scotland’s past with its present.

However, if you’re on a tight budget, this experience might feel like a splurge, but for the value of private, customized service combined with diverse highlights, many find it well worth the cost.

This Invergordon-focused tour delivers a well-rounded taste of Scottish culture—combining wildlife, history, and scenery in one smooth, personalized package. The stops are thoughtfully chosen, balancing scenic drives with immersive experiences, and the private setting ensures you can explore at your own pace.

Expect knowledgeable guides who not only share facts but also stories that bring each site to life. The highlights—such as highland cows, Cawdor Castle, and the ancient Cairns—are memorable and photogenic, perfect for travelers who want more than just a quick look.

While the price may seem steep, the convenience and depth of experience offered make it a good value for those wanting an authentic taste of the Highlands without the busy tour bus crowds. It’s most suited for couples, small groups, or families eager for a tailored day of Highland discovery.

If you’re ready for a day that combines Scotland’s stunning natural beauty with its deep-rooted stories and traditions, this tour is likely to leave you with stories and photos you’ll cherish.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this is a private experience for your group only, offering personalized attention and flexibility.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 9:00am, with pickup arrangements available at the meeting point or another suitable location in Invergordon.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour runs approximately 6 to 8 hours, depending on stops and pace.

What is included in the price?
You get private transportation, bottled water, snacks like shortbread or Scottish tablet, and entry to Cawdor Castle.

Are children welcome?
Yes, the tour provides a range of child safety seats—rear-facing options available—and is suitable for most children.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy if you notify at least 24 hours in advance.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, so you might want to bring a picnic or plan to eat in Inverness.

What if I want to see Highland cows?
While the tour includes farm visits, Highland cows depend on farm schedules and availability. The guide will do their best to accommodate.

How scenic is the drive?
Expect panoramic views of the Scottish Highlands—think rolling hills, rugged landscapes, and lush scenery—perfect for photography and enjoying the landscape.

In all, this tour offers a genuine, flexible introduction to Scotland’s wildlife, history, and landscape—an excellent choice for curious travelers eager to experience the Highlands authentically.