Kilmartin Glen & Ancient Monuments Experience

Duration: One Day | Tour type: Historical Tour | Pickup locations: Glasgow, Stirling | Language: English

Explore Scotlands ancient History!

Journey through the rugged and breathtaking Argyll countryside on this unforgettable one-day tour. Not only will you explore Kilmartin Glen, a landscape steeped in over 5,000 years of history, but you will also encounter ancient standing stones, burial cairns, and mysterious stone circles. Along the way, learn the fascinating stories of Scotland’s Neolithic past as you wander among these remarkable monuments. At the same time, enjoy the natural beauty of rolling hills, lush glens, and historic villages that make this region truly magical. Ultimately, this tour combines history, legend, and stunning scenery into a memorable journey through time.

Tour Highlights:

Luss by the banks of Loch Lomond – Discover this picturesque village with charming cottages and stunning views over Loch Lomond. Along the way, enjoy a peaceful stroll and soak in the natural beauty.
Inveraray – Explore this charming town, famous for Inveraray Castle, Georgian architecture, and a scenic waterfront. Meanwhile, imagine life in Scotland’s historic trading and noble centers.
Achnabreck rock carvings – Step back in time to see intricate carvings etched into stone. Here, you’ll gain a fascinating glimpse into Scotland’s prehistoric past.
Dunadd hill fort – Climb this remarkable Iron Age hill fort, once the heart of the ancient kingdom of Dalriada. From the summit, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding glens and hills.
Nether Largie standing stones and cairns – Wander among a complex of prehistoric stone circles and burial cairns. At the same time, discover Scotland’s rich Neolithic culture and traditions.
Kilmartin and museum – Delve into Kilmartin Glen, home to over 800 ancient monuments. Additionally, visit the museum to uncover the stories behind its remarkable archaeological treasures.

Tour Details:

Departs from your accommodation at 8 a.m
Returns at 7 p.m. approximately
Bring waterproof clothing and walking shoes
Transportation
Air conditioning as standard
The stories and services of an English-speaking driver-guide
Tour exclusions – Entry fees to visitor attractions
Estimated cash needed for lunch and visitor attractions would be £30

Itinerary:

Leaving your hotel, we drive through Scotland’s beautiful Trossachs National Park, where the Lowlands meet the Highlands before we arrive at our first location, Luss. This picture-perfect little village sits on the banks of Loch Lomond and is the perfect way to introduce you to our beautiful country.

We then journey to Inveraray for a relaxing refreshment break before heading into the Kilmartin Glen, a landscape rich with over 800 prehistoric and historic sites. Discover ancient burial cairns, stone circles, and standing stones—the oldest of which date back more than 5,000 years, believed to have been used for burials and other Neolithic practices. Enhance your visit with a stop at the state-of-the-art Kilmartin Museum, where fascinating artifacts from the surrounding glen bring Scotland’s ancient past vividly to life.

We then take the short drive to Dunadd Hill Fort, which was home to a fort 2,000 years ago and a royal power center of Gaelic kings in the 500s to 800s AD. Enjoy the spectacular views from the rocky outcrop over the Moine Mhor and place your foot in the footsteps of the kings of Dal Riata.

The Achnabreck rock carvings are believed to be over 5000 years old. This is one of the finest examples of prehistoric rock art in Scotland. Spread over several outcrops, the carvings are extensive and complex, with spirals and massive multiple ring marks, some reaching over 1 m across.

We then return back to Inveraray to enjoy a traditional fish and chips before we drive you back to your accommodation.