Even though Loch Ness is just a short driving distance from Inverness, it can be hard to get there without renting a car. This guided tour includes round-trip transport from an easy-to-find meeting spot, as well as admission tickets to the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition and Urquhart Castle for your convenience. Plus, it packs in guided and independent elements to allow you to learn with a guide by your side and to explore on your own.

Make your way to the Inverness bus station in advance of your group's meeting time. Then, climb into a comfortable coach and travel to Clansman Harbour. Relax on the way, listen to your guide's commentary, and take in the landscape while your driver worries about directions and traffic.

Board the cruise ship at Clansman Harbour, and explore the boat as it travels through the river down to the famous Loch Ness. Snap photos of the vistas, and listen to your guide detail the myths and legends that surround the loch and its famous inhabitant, Nessie.

Arrive at Urquhart Castle, and disembark for a short self-guided tour. The flexibility to explore on your own is a good complement to the other guided elements of the day.

Move on to the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition, where you can learn about the origin of the Loch Ness Monster narrative and the historic inhabitants of the castle and fortress. Get a comprehensive overview of the site's long history through an exploration of the seven multimedia exhibits.

Back on the bus, return to Inverness by early afternoon with plenty of daytime hours to do as you wish.