5-Day Orkney & Scotland's Northern Coast Small-Group Tour from Edinburgh
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable multi-day tour through the heart of Scotland's Highlands and the enchanting Orkney Archipelago. This journey offers a perfect blend of breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and cultural treasures. From the bustling city of Edinburgh to the serene beauty of Inverness, and the ancient wonders of Orkney, each day promises new adventures and discoveries. Enjoy comfortable accommodations in charming towns and villages, and savor the local cuisine as you explore iconic landmarks, mystical stone circles, and dramatic coastlines. This tour is designed to provide an immersive experience, leaving you with lasting memories of Scotland's natural and historical splendor.
Included
16 seat Mercedes mini-coach
Ferry crossings from Gills Bay - St. Margaret's Hope (return)
4 nights en-suite accommodation with breakfast
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What should I expect from a B&B?
B&Bs are traditionally small family owned and run properties offering a handful of guest rooms. They are usually residential properties, so they tend to be located on the outskirts of towns and you should be prepared for a 20-30 minute walk to local facilities like pubs and restaurants.
It’s unusual for a B&B to offer any additional services like concierge, porterage, evening meals or room-service. Wi-fi is usually, but not always available and it’s worth bearing in mind that access can be unreliable in more remote locations.
If you have difficulty with stairs, please request a ground-floor room as lifts will not be available in this type of property.
What should I expect from a Hotel?
Hotels vary in size but tend to be larger properties run by a team of staff. They usually have a relatively central location but may be up to a 20-30 minute walk from local facilities. They are often housed in traditional old buildings and bathrooms are always for private use and are typically en-suite.
The services and facilities offered by hotels varies considerably so you should make a special request at the time of booking if you expect anything specific such as concierge, porterage, bar, restaurant, room service etc. Wi-fi may only be available in communal areas and access can be unreliable in remote locations.
If you have difficulty with stairs, please let us know so that we can either book a ground floor room or a hotel with lift access, if available.
hotel: 4 night(s);
Admission to Maeshowe
Admission to Skara Brae
Admission to Culloden Museum and Battlefield
Rabbie's driver-guide
Destinations
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Edinburgh to Inverness
- Edinburgh
- Stirling
- Doune - Arrival day
- More
Depart from Edinburgh and journey westward, passing iconic landmarks like Stirling Castle and the Wallace Monument. Enjoy a brief stop in the charming town of Callander before venturing into the breathtaking Highlands. Marvel at the beauty of Loch Lubnaig, Loch Earn, Glen Ogle, and Glen Dochart. Experience the haunting allure of Glencoe and continue north to the enigmatic Loch Ness. Conclude your day in Inverness, where you can explore the 'Capital of the Highlands' at your leisure.
Day 2 – Day 2: Inverness to Kirkwall
- Kirkwall
- More
Begin your day early, departing from Inverness and crossing the Black Isle. Pass by the majestic Dunrobin Castle and travel along the scenic northeast Highland coastline. Visit John o' Groats (seasonal) before boarding the ferry at Gills Bay to the Orkney Archipelago. Explore the renowned Italian Chapel and continue to Kirkwall, where you can visit the magnificent Viking Cathedral and wander through the historic streets.
Day 3 – Day 3: Exploring Orkney
- Kirkwall
- More
- Maeshowe Visitor Centre
- Ring of Brodgar
- More
Discover the rich history and stunning landscapes of Orkney. Visit the ancient village of Skara Brae, the mystical Ring of Brodgar, and the Druidic Standing Stones of Stenness. Explore Maeshowe, where Viking runic inscriptions tell tales of the past. Return to Kirkwall for another night, reflecting on a day filled with unforgettable experiences.
Day 4 – Day 4: Kirkwall to Ullapool
- Kirkwall
- More
After a leisurely start, sail back to the mainland and traverse the northernmost reaches of Scotland. Pass the majestic Ben Loyal and Ben Hope mountains, and explore the rugged cliffs and golden beaches. Visit the ruins of Ardvreck Castle before arriving in the picturesque fishing village of Ullapool for your final night's stay.
Day 5 – Day 5: Ullapool to Edinburgh
- Edinburgh - Departure day
- More
Depart from Ullapool and witness the dramatic River Droma cascading into Corrieshalloch Gorge. Admire the serene Loch Glascarnoch en route to Inverness. Visit the historic Culloden Moor and the ancient Clava Cairns. Journey through the Caledonian Pine Forest and the Cairngorm mountain range, enjoying a scenic lunch before returning to Edinburgh, enriched by your Highland adventure.
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