Seven Highland Hours: Queen’s View, Dunrobin Castle and a Falconry Display from Invergordon

INVERGORDON SIGHTSEEING TOUR FIELD GUIDE

Seven Highland Hours: Queen’s View, Dunrobin Castle and a Falconry Display from Invergordon

A seven-hour, locally guided day tour north from Invergordon visiting Queen's View, Dunrobin Castle and gardens, a falconry display, Dornoch and Balblair Distillery.

Seven Highland Hours: Queen’s View, Dunrobin Castle and a Falconry Display from Invergordon.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
Invergordon
Operator
Avril's Travels
Category
Sightseeing Tour
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Embark on a seven-hour drive through the Ross-shire glens with a born-and-bred Highland guide: sweeping hillside views at the Queen’s View, a coastal visit to Dunrobin Castle and its gardens, a must-see falconry display, time in historic Dornoch and a tasting at Balblair Distillery, with stops to take in Loch Fleet and the Dornoch Firth.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE LANDSCAPE

Queen’s View and the Heather-Filled Glens

A hillside drive through Ross-shire’s heather-filled glens brings you to the viewpoint that looks down over the Dornoch Firth — a dramatic introduction to the day’s coastal and upland scenery.

THE HISTORY

Dunrobin Castle and Its Gardens

Dunrobin Castle sits on the coast with formal gardens to explore and a long family history tied to the Duke of Sutherland; you are given time to walk the grounds and the castle exterior at leisure, with the falconry display taking place in the gardens.

THE TASTE

Balblair Distillery Tasting

Visit Balblair—the oldest distillery in the Highlands—where the itinerary includes a tasting (tasting only, not a distillery tour) and the opportunity to sample a bottling found mainly in specialist locations; note Balblair is not open on Sunday.

What the day feels like

What the Day Feels Like

The pace is measured but full: a morning hillside drive to the Queen’s View, a coastal sweep into Dunrobin with time in the gardens and a signature falconry display, short wildlife-viewing at Loch Fleet, a relaxed stop in historic Dornoch for the cathedral, beach and shops, and a concluding visit to Balblair for tasting before returning to port.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this day tour is suited for.

1
Active FamiliesAppropriate for families traveling with children aged 8 and older; children under 8 do not meet the minimum age guideline.
2
Cruise Ship VisitorsFits cruise itineraries but all participants must meet the minimum age of 8 years.
3
Multi-Generational GroupsSuitable for groups that include older children (8+) and adults; infants and toddlers below the age minimum are not appropriate.
4
Families with Young ChildrenNot recommended if your party includes children under the minimum age of 8.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

What to Bring

Be clothed for all seasons, as the Highlands can deliver varied weather in a single day.

Clothing Advice

Layered, weatherproof clothing and sturdy footwear are recommended since conditions can change quickly.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the tour?

The tour is seven hours in duration.

Is there a minimum age to join?

Yes. The tour has a minimum age of 8 years.

Where do we meet the guide at the port?

The guide will be standing across the road from the port security gates with brightly coloured umbrellas so you cannot miss them.

What time does the tour depart and return?

Departure times vary depending on your ship's arrival; the operator will email a confirmed time but generally aims for an 8:30am departure and a 3:30pm return when ships depart early.

Is Balblair Distillery open every day?

No. Balblair is not open on Sunday; the itinerary includes a tasting only and is dependent on the distillery’s opening.

What should I wear for the trip?

Be prepared for all seasons: wear layers and weatherproof outerwear because Highland weather can change during the day.