Best Highland Cows and Castles Day Trip from Edinburgh (2026 Guide)
- Jay
- Jul 3
- 4 min read
If you're short on time but want to pack in some of Scotland's most iconic sights during your trip to our wee country, Macbackpackers has the answer for you. The new Highland Cows & Castles Day Trip is a jam-packed 10-hour adventures designed for budget travellers and backpackers aged 18-35 who want a taste of the Highlands without the overnight stay.
Departing right out of Castle Rock Hostel in Edinburgh's old town, this budget-friendly group trip takes away the stress of planning public transport or renting a car, taking you into the heart of the Scottish countryside to explore, castles, palaces, lochs, Bens, and to get a face-to-face encounter with Scotland's most famous fluffy residents, all from just £65 per person.
Book your Highlands Adventure without leaving this page just below:
What is the Highland Cows & Castles Tour Itinerary?
In a single day, you'll leave the city behind and journey through some of the country's most beautiful scenery, discovering ancient history, charming villages, legendary landscapes and a few hairy Highland cows along the way.
Lasting a full 10 hours, this adventure packs a surprising amount of Scotland into one unforgettable day, without ever feeling rushed.
Whether you're wandering through picturesque Killin, or stepping back in time at the Scottish Crannog Centre, you'll get a real taste of the Scotland that lies beyond the capital city.
By the time we arrive back into Edinburgh, you'll have explored lochs, mountains, history and Highland culture—all without needing to commit to a multi-day trip.
Finlarig Castle
Stirling or Linlithgow Castle
The town of Callander
Feed and photograph Highland Cows
Killin & the Falls of Dochart
Scottish Crannog Centre or Dunkeld
Why This is the Perfect 1-Day Scotland Tour for Backpackers
For most backpackers navigating Scotland on a budget, time and money are often the biggest constraints. This day trip solves both problems by putting all the big ticket items of a trip to the Scottish Highlands into a single, high-value day. Instead of putting together an itinerary of expensive trains or feeling like you need to give an entire week to your trip to Scotland, this gives you some of those bucket list opportunities without breaking the bank.
Beyond the massive budget and time savings, the real magic is you get to experience the Macbackpackers vibe - built by backpackers, for backpackers. You'll get to hang out with 18-35 year old solo travellers and small groups, making those walks through ancient castles and meeting & greeting the fluffy coos a truly unforgettable experience. Your tour will be led by a genuine Scottish storyteller, there to give you the best of Scotland in just 10 hours.
Where Does the MacBackpackers Day Trip Depart From?
Slap-bang in the middle of Edinburgh's Old Town, at Castle Rock Hostel. If you are arriving fresh from the train or bus, it is just a swift 10-minute walk up the hill from Waverley Station or around 15-20 minutes from the Bus Station in the New Town.
If you stay the night before your trip at Castle Rock Hostel, or at one of their sister properties like Royal Mile Backpackers or High Street Hostel, you can grab a 10% discount on your accommodation when booking your tour. Checking out of the hostel and in for your tour at 7:45 am for an 8:00 am sharp departure means you can roll straight out of bed, grab your pack, and meet your guide right on the doorstep. You can grab a continental breakfast at the hostel for just £4 before you leave!
Castle Rock Hostel is one of Edinburgh’s most iconic social backpacker hostels, located right beside Edinburgh Castle in the heart of the Old Town. Set inside a grand historic building filled with art, antiques and character, it’s the perfect place for solo travellers, backpackers and groups looking to meet people and experience the city together.
Book your stay through Scotland's Top Hostels to get the best price and flexibility on your stay:
MacBackpackers 1-Day Tour: Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the exact departure and return point in Edinburgh?
Castle Rock Hostel, 15 Johnston Terrace, Edinburgh, EH1 2PW. Click here for Google Maps directions.
Can I bring a large backpack or suitcase on the day trip?
You can store a large backpack or suitcase securely at Castle Rock Hostel for free during the day trip and collect it when you return.
Are castle entry fees included in the tour price?
No, if you'd like to enter the castle you'll need to pay an additional ticket fee when you arrive, but you'll be able to explore the castle grounds and get those photo opps for free.
Is the Highland Coo meet & greet included in the tour price?
Yes! You'll get up close & personal with Scotland's iconic Hairy Coos as part of the £65 tour price.
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