Standing Stones, Castles, and Highlands Tour from Glasgow: Is It Worth It?

Looking to get out of Glasgow and explore a bit of Scottish history and stunning scenery? So, the ‘Standing Stones, Inveraray and Kilchurn Castles & Highland Tour’ sounds pretty enticing, doesn’t it? I thought so, too, and decided to check this tour out myself. Here’s what you might expect.

What’s the Buzz About This Highland Tour Anyway?

The general idea with this type of outing, is that, it takes you from Glasgow into the Scottish Highlands. This specific tour packs in quite a lot: standing stones that are steeped in mystery, Inveraray Castle (think stately home vibes), Kilchurn Castle which stands in picturesque ruin and some of the glorious Highland scenery the kind Scotland is famous for. It’s basically a full day of history, views, and that proper Scottish atmosphere you might be hoping for.

I had rather hoped this outing would allow me to learn about some old stones and the story of some very old fortifications. What really sells it, yet, is the Highlands, and a bus can just get you to all sorts of viewpoints a person might not discover alone.

The Standing Stones: Ancient Mysteries

First up: the standing stones. That is, these aren’t just rocks sticking out of the ground; rather, they are pieces of history from thousands of years back, and at Kilmartin Glen, that is, there are loads of them! I am saying, these stones are linked to ancient rituals and the Bronze Age people that were here, too it’s almost like walking back in time. The guide, alright, usually shares some stories and facts, but the magic lies in letting your thoughts run wild and picturing what life was like way back when.

Alright, do keep in mind that how fascinating you may find the standing stones really depends on your perspective. It’s almost an abstract thing, is that, since it is basically rocks and fields! Yet, if your thing is to appreciate the remote history, or to just let your mind wonder in what arguably, might be one of the earliest ceremonial places in Scotland, so, this alone will make the outing worthwhile just by itself.

Inveraray Castle: A Dose of Nobility

Then, so, it’s off to Inveraray Castle, that looks like it popped right out of a fairytale. This has been the home to the Duke of Argyll, the clan chief of the Campbells, for centuries. That’s not even the best thing about this stately pile; really, you can wander around inside and have a glance at how the upper crust lived (and still do). Tapestries, grand furniture, and stories in every corner. The gardens are delightful to walk in, too! You will definitely feel fancy after a visit here.

I found there’s this feeling of time standing completely still inside its walls. Just imagine, generation after generation treading the very same corridors, is that, hosting elaborate parties, that, so, these were historical negotiations – that’s something else! I can suggest grabbing a guidebook as you stroll around, you’ll learn such a lot more, I promise!

Kilchurn Castle: The Iconic Ruin

You have got to admire this castle, or what’s left of it anyway, that’s standing proudly on the banks of Loch Awe. It looks straight up like a postcard. Kilchurn Castle may be in ruins now, but, basically, its tower still stands rather tall and defiant and lets you feel its long life! Trust me when I say you’re going to need a camera ready for this stop! Oh, and comfy shoes since there could be a short walk over to get there. That is, it can be a bit muddy depending on when you visit.

I will give you one suggestion, if you can get up to the tower you must, that is, the photo possibilities from up there looking out over Loch Awe are awesome, absolutely awesome. Think about it! The ancient stone against this amazing background – it really captures Scotland perfectly!

The Highlands Scenery: Jaw-Dropping Vistas

Of course, you travel though the Highlands. I mean, you’ve got lochs, mountains and glens all rolled into one proper view, really. The views driving through Glencoe will really stick with you after this day, I promise! Depending on the time of year, you’ll probably find it swathed in sunshine or brooding under dark clouds. The weather, that is, just adds to the drama, and anyway the tour guides usually know all the excellent spots for a quick photograph opportunity. The Highlands will really capture you and take hold of your imagination!

You might want to try and keep your eyes peeled for the local wildlife – you could spot a red deer! Just seeing that great wild expanse rolling out before you might even make you believe in giants roaming in the hills!

Is This Tour for You? Some things to think about…

Who might like it then, right? So, if you’re big on history, love gazing at landscapes, and desire that taste of proper Scottish culture then, surely, that ‘Standing Stones, Inveraray and Kilchurn Castles & Highlands Tour’ really could be your thing. The tour gets the job done nicely, and it will let you relax while still packing heaps into the day.

Consider also your own personal pace and what you expect of a day tour. If you don’t have time to be running between places or going stir-crazy by simply sitting on a bus all day, I might say, then, perhaps it’s best you pick some different locations and take things slowly. That having been said, for those willing to surrender to a day of hustle and bustle, that would deliver great moments that this outing might not disappoint.