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Hairy Coos and Highland Views: A Short-Day Escape from Edinburgh

234 Reviews 4.87 out of 5 stars Based on 234 traveler reviews collected by Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 97% of reviewers |
Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This experience is highly rated by travelers and has met our top quality standards.
Edinburgh, Scotland

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On average, this is booked 26 (0) days in advance.

6 hours 30 minutes (approx.)
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Offered in: English

Overview

Embark on a delightful day tour from Edinburgh, where Scotland’s rich history and breathtaking landscapes await.

There are two versions of this tour available, which you choose when booking: Visit a traditional whisky distillery for a tour and tasting, or exploring the imposing Blackness Castle, known for its dramatic riverside setting and historic role.

Continue your adventure with the tranquil beauty of Loch Katrine and the wild splendour of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, where nature and heritage blend in perfect harmony.

It’s the ideal mix of history, culture, and stunning scenery—all before returning to Edinburgh in time for dinner and evening plans!

What's Included

  • All taxes, fees and handling charges
  • Regular Comfort Breaks
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • No Toilet/Restroom on board
  • No Food or Drinks
  • Castle version: Tickets to Blackness Castle not included (Adults £8.50, Children £5)
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Meeting Location

Meeting point

1759 Regent Road
Edinburgh EH8 8DR, UK

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Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

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Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
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The Kelpies & The Helix (pass by)

Departing Edinburgh’s New Town, we leave the bustle of the city behind us as we make embark on our scenic day trip takes you on a journey through Scotland’s stunning landscapes, rich history, and finest whisky.Early on we’ll pass by the Kelpies, the towering 30-meter-high sculptures of mythical horses and Stirling, a symbol of Scottish royalty and history.
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Stirling (pass by)

We make our way past Stirling, which was once the capital of Scotland. Look out for the iconic views of the Wallace Monument and Stirling Castle, one of Scotland’s most important and grand castles.
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Deanston Distillery & Visitor Centre

Our first stop will be either Blackness Castle or Deanston Distillery, depending on the option you choose when booking.If you chose the distillery option, we'll head to Deanston Distillery - once a bustling cotton mill, this historic site now crafts exceptional single malt whiskies.Take a guided tour through the distillery to uncover the time-honored whisky-making process and the fascinating story behind this unique location. Conclude your visit with a tasting of Deanston’s finest expressions, introducing you to the rich flavors and distinctive character of their whiskies. Alternatively, enjoy a stroll by the banks of the River Teith or relax in the distillery’s Coffee Bothy.
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1 hour • Admission Ticket Free

Blackness Castle

Our first stop will depend on the option you choose, if you chose the Castle option, we'll head for Blackness Castle*.Explore Blackness Castle, a mighty 15th-century fortress, dramatically perched on the Firth of Forth. Known as “the ship that never sailed” because of its distinctive shape, Blackness Castle has served as a royal residence, garrison fortress, and prison, and offers striking views across the water. You may also recognise it from the tv show “Outlander” where it featured as Fort William.
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45 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park

Not far away and still within the Trossachs National park, we’ll make a short stop at Loch Achray, a smaller but equally picturesque loch nestled between the towering Ben A’an and Ben Venue mountains. The area around the loch is serene and peaceful, offering another chance to enjoy the beauty of the Scottish Highlands.No Scottish adventure is complete without a visit to the iconic Hairy Coos—the legendary Highland cattle. Stop for photos and enjoy the charm of these furry giants that are synonymous with Scotland’s countryside.
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15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Forth Bridge

As we make our way back to Edinburgh, you will be met with views of Scotland’s greatest piece of engineering, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Forth Bridge. This 19th century engineering marvel was at one point the World’s longest cantilever bridge. Today it neighbours the 20th century Forth Road Bridge and the 21st century Queensferry Crossing which opened in 2017. Three spectacular bridges, from three different centuries, span the Firth of Forth connecting our Capital city and the Kingdom of Fife.
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10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Edinburgh

We begin our journey back to Edinburgh, carrying with us memories of Scotland’s historic landmarks, serene lochs, and breathtaking natural scenery. We aim to be back in the Scottish capital in the late afternoon, around 5 PM.Any time not specified in the itinerary is allotted to travel between stops, exploring Scotland while on the coach.
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5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Loch Katrine

We’ll journey deeper into the heart of the Trossachs to Loch Katrine, a stunning freshwater loch. Known for its peaceful beauty, Loch Katrine was immortalised in Sir Walter Scott’s famous poem The Lady of the Lake. Admire the beauty of the Scottish landscape and relax by the tranquil waters, surrounded by forests and mountains.
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30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

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Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • No animals allowed on tour
  • When using public transport or a taxi to the departure point, please allow extra time for possible delays.
  • Any time not specified in the itinerary is allotted to travel between stops, exploring Scotland while on the coach.

Frequently Asked Questions

(7)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Hairy Coos and Highland Views: A Short-Day Escape from Edinburgh?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (BST). Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

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Activity code: C-30740P12

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.87
234 reviews

Average 4.87 out of 5 stars based on 234 traveler reviews collected by Cool Destinations and partner sites such as Trustpilot, Viator, and TripAdvisor

5 stars
216
4 stars
11
3 stars
4
2 stars
1
1 star
2

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On average, this is booked 26 (0) days in advance.

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What's Included

Activity name

  • All taxes, fees and handling charges
  • Regular Comfort Breaks
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Experienced Driver-Guide providing live commentary and story telling throughout
  • No Toilet/Restroom on board
  • No Food or Drinks
  • Castle version: Tickets to Blackness Castle not included (Adults £8.50, Children £5)
  • Whisky Distillery version: Deanston Distillery tour & tasting not included (£19.50 for adults, £6 for children)

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Please note that the tour route will vary depending on your chosen option. The Distillery option will stop at Deanston, the Castle option will stop at Blackness Castle. These cannot be combined.
  • Minimum age to travel is 8 years old. Photo ID, such as a passport, may be required. Children (8-17) must be accompanied by an adult.
  • There are regular stops on tour for comfort breaks, as we do not have toilets onboard the coaches
  • This tour in an air-conditioned coach, hosted by a local Scottish guide, rated 5-stars by the official Scottish Tourist Board
  • There are opportunities to take short nature walks, it is recommended to bring suitable clothing and footwear.
  • No animals allowed on tour
  • When using public transport or a taxi to the departure point, please allow extra time for possible delays.
  • Any time not specified in the itinerary is allotted to travel between stops, exploring Scotland while on the coach.
  • There are regular stops on tour to purchase food and refreshments that cater for most dietary requirements
  • Ouch coaches are not wheelchair accessible, but we can accommodate folding wheelchairs. Please notify us ahead of time to confirm available space. Bus has 3x approximate 30 cm steps at entrance.
  • Please note that Blackness Castle is closed 29.09.25 - 19.10.25, during these dates we'll make an alternative stop during the Castle option at: 29.09.25 - 06.10.25: Linlithgow Palace. 07.10.25 - 20.10.25: Doune Castle.
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 37 travelers
  • Operated by a business

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Free Cancellation

100% refund
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You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (BST).
  • This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

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  • Cool Rewards is a loyalty program operated by Cool Destinations. Rewards may be earned by any eligible person holding a Cool Destinations account, subject to the Cool Destinations customer Terms of Use.

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  • Rewards can be earned by making bookings on the Cool Destinations website. You will be able to see the value of the rewards you can earn during the booking process.
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