5-Day Orkney & Scotland's Northern Coast Small-Group Tour from Edinburgh
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on a captivating 5-day journey through Scotland's enchanting landscapes, from the bustling city of Edinburgh to the tranquil Orkney Archipelago. This multi-day tour offers a unique blend of history, culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. Traverse the magnificent Highlands, uncover the mysteries of Loch Ness, and explore the ancient ruins of Orkney. Wander through historic cities, quaint villages, and past towering castles. This tour promises an unforgettable adventure, filled with fascinating tales, stunning vistas, and a deep dive into Scotland's rich heritage.
Included
16 seat Mercedes mini-coach
Ferry crossings from Gills Bay - St. Margaret's Hope (return)
4 nights en-suite accommodation with breakfast
____
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
Kirkwall
Stirling
EdinburghMap
Attractions
Maeshowe Visitor Centre
Ring of BrodgarDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Edinburgh to Inverness
- Edinburgh
- Stirling
- Doune - Arrival day
- More
Kickstart your journey from Edinburgh, heading west to witness the grandeur of Stirling Castle and Doune Castle. Stop in the charming town of Callander for a quick refreshment before crossing into the stunning Highlands. Marvel at the beauty of Loch Lubnaig, Loch Earn, Glen Ogle, and Glen Dochart. Listen to the haunting tales of Glencoe and continue north to the enigmatic Loch Ness. The day ends in Inverness, the 'Capital of the Highlands', where you can explore at your leisure.
Day 2 – Day 2: Inverness to Kirkwall
- Kirkwall
- More
Begin your day early, leaving Inverness to cross the Black Isle, passing by the majestic Dunrobin Castle. Drive along the dramatic northeast Highland coastline, through Scotland's northernmost mainland village, John o' Groats, and onto Gills Bay. Here, board a ferry to the serene Orkney Archipelago. Visit the famous Italian Chapel before heading to the Viking stronghold of Kirkwall, where you can explore the Viking Cathedral and the city's historic streets.
Day 3 – Day 3: Exploring Orkney
- Kirkwall
- More
- Maeshowe Visitor Centre
- Ring of Brodgar
- More
Spend the day exploring the Orkney Archipelago's lush pastures and golden beaches. Visit the 5,000-year-old village of Skara Brae, the mystical stone circle at Brodgar, and the Druidic standing stones of Stenness. Travel to Maeshowe, home to a large collection of Norse runic inscriptions. Return to Kirkwall for a restful night after a day filled with historical discoveries.
Day 4 – Day 4: Kirkwall to Ullapool
- Kirkwall
- More
Leave Orkney behind and sail back to the mainland. Travel across the top of Scotland, past the stunning Ben Loyal and Ben Hope mountains, along rocky cliffs and golden beaches. Visit the far northwest Highlands and the wilderness of Assynt, stopping to view the 15th-century ruins of Ardvreck Castle. The day ends in the picturesque fishing village of Ullapool, nestled at the mouth of Loch Broom.
Day 5 – Day 5: Ullapool to Edinburgh
- Edinburgh - Departure day
- More
Depart from Ullapool, witnessing the dramatic River Droma as it cascades into Corrieshalloch Gorge. Admire the serene Loch Glascarnoch as you journey past Inverness. Visit the historic Culloden Moor, site of the last battle fought on British soil, and the ancient standing stones at Clava Cairns. Travel through the ancient Caledonian Pine Forest, alongside the Cairngorm mountain range. Enjoy lunch amidst these beautiful surroundings before heading back to Edinburgh, passing through Perthshire and the Kingdom of Fife.
Verified reviews
Similar tours
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.