9-Day Iona, Mull, Skye & Orkney from Edinburgh
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on a captivating 9-day journey through the enchanting landscapes of Scotland. This multi-day tour offers a unique blend of breathtaking natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant local cultures. From the majestic Stirling Castle to the serene Loch Lomond, from the rugged coastlines of Mull to the mystical Iona, and from the dramatic landscapes of Skye to the ancient ruins of Orkney, this tour is a feast for the senses. Experience the charm of quaint towns like Inveraray and Oban, marvel at the towering peaks of the West Highlands, and immerse yourself in the haunting tales of Glencoe. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or a culture enthusiast, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure.
Included
8 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.
Admission to Maeshowe
Admission to Skara Brae
Admission to Culloden Museum and Battlefield
The stories and services of an English-speaking driver-guide
Transportation by a 16 seat Mercedes mini-coach
Destinations
Kirkwall
Oban
Inverness
EdinburghMap
Attractions
Maeshowe Visitor Centre
Ring of Brodgar
Battery ParkDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Stirling to Oban
- Edinburgh
- Oban - Arrival day
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- Battery Park
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Begin your journey north, passing the majestic Stirling Castle and heading towards the serene Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. Traverse the grand mountains of the West Highlands and arrive at the charming 18th-century town of Inveraray, a place steeped in history. Spend the afternoon exploring the heart of Argyll before reaching the lively town of Oban, where you'll stay for two nights.
Day 2 – Day 2: Exploring Mull and Iona
- Oban
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Start your day early with a ferry ride to the island of Mull, known for its dramatic coastlines and untamed beauty. Take another ferry to Iona, the cradle of Celtic Christianity, and explore its historic abbey and serene landscapes. You may also opt for a boat trip to Staffa, famous for its striking basalt columns and the iconic Fingal's Cave. Return to Oban for your second night.
Day 3 – Day 3: Oban to Plockton
Day 3: Oban to Plockton
Journey north along the west coast, passing the formidable Castle Stalker and heading towards the stunning Glencoe, a natural wonder steeped in history. Continue through Fort William, under the shadow of the towering Ben Nevis, and traverse the Great Glen. Arrive at the picturesque fishing village of Plockton, where you'll spend the night.
Day 4 – Day 4: Discovering Skye
Day 4: Discovering Skye
Enjoy a flexible day on the island of Skye, tailored to suit the weather and your group's interests. You might ascend the Quiraing for breathtaking views, marvel at the scenery at Loch Corruisk, or drive through the dramatic Red Cuillin to the hamlet of Elgol. Return to Plockton in the late afternoon for a relaxing evening.
Day 5 – Day 5: Plockton to Inverness
- Inverness
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Start your day with a visit to the iconic Eilean Donan Castle before heading east, taking in the stunning views over Loch Duich and the Five Sisters of Kintail. Arrive at Loch Ness for lunch and perhaps a chance to spot the elusive Nessie. Continue north, passing the historic Urquhart Castle, and arrive in Inverness, the Highland Capital, in the early evening.
Day 6 – Day 6: Inverness to Kirkwall
- Kirkwall
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- Ring of Brodgar
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Leave Inverness early, cross the Black Isle, and pass the grand Dunrobin Castle. Drive along the northeast Highland coastline, through Scotland's most northerly mainland village, John o' Groats, and take a ferry from Gills Bay to the Orkney Archipelago. Visit the famous Italian Chapel before reaching Kirkwall, Orkney's capital, where you can explore its Viking Cathedral and historic streets.
Day 7 – Day 7: Exploring Orkney
- Kirkwall
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- Maeshowe Visitor Centre
- Ring of Brodgar
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Spend the day exploring the Orkney Archipelago's green pastures and golden beaches. Visit the 5,000-year-old village of Skara Brae, the mystical stone circle at Brodgar, and the standing stones of Stenness. Travel to Maeshowe, where you'll find one of the largest collections of Norse runic inscriptions. Return to Kirkwall for your second night.
Day 8 – Day 8: Kirkwall to Ullapool
Day 8: Kirkwall to Ullapool
Leave Orkney and sail back to the mainland, then travel across the top of Scotland, passing the stunning Ben Loyal and Ben Hope mountains. Visit the far northwest Highlands and the wilderness of the Assynt mountains, stopping to view the ruins of Ardvreck Castle. Arrive in Ullapool, a beautiful fishing village, where you'll spend your last night on tour.
Day 9 – Day 9: Ullapool to Edinburgh
- Edinburgh - Departure day
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Leave Ullapool and marvel at the dramatic River Droma as it plunges into Corrieshalloch Gorge. Pass by the beautiful Loch Glascarnoch on your way to Inverness. Visit Culloden Moor, the site of a bloody battle in 1746, and the ancient standing stones at Clava Cairns. Travel through the ancient Caledonian Pine Forest and the Big Tree country of Perthshire before returning to Edinburgh, marking the end of your unforgettable journey.
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