From Edinburgh - 8-Day Skye, Orkney & North Coast 500 Tour

Rannoch Moor, Scottish Highlands, Edinburgh



Discover Orkney’s wild coastline and Neolithic settlements, take in amazing views on the gorgeous North Coast 500, and explore the mysterious Isle of Skye on an 8-day trip from Edinburgh.

Highlands and Islands 8-Day Guided Tour from Edinburgh

This 8-day guided tour starts in Edinburgh and is ideal for travellers wanting to explore Scotland’s Highlands, Orkney, and Isle of Skye with expert local guides.

Highlights

  • Admire the rugged landscape of Orkney
  • Discover Skye’s history and mythology
  • Explore iconic Scottish sights with an expert guide
  • Ride the famous Jacobite Steam Train

Itinerary

Day 1: Edinburgh - Inverness
Visit Dunkeld in Perthshire, the Highland Folk Museum, Culloden Battlefield, and the Clava Cairns before arriving in Inverness.

Day 2: Inverness - Orkney
Tour Dunrobin Castle, visit a whisky distillery, then take a ferry to Orkney, arriving in Kirkwall for overnight.

Day 3: Orkney
See the Italian Chapel, Ring of Brodgar, Skara Brae neolithic village, and explore Stromness before an afternoon in Orkney.

Day 4: Orkney - Ullapool
Return to the mainland by ferry, travel the North Coast 500, visit Smoo Cave, Sango Sands beach, and Knockan Crag Nature Reserve.

Day 5: Ullapool - Portree
Stop at Corrieshalloch Gorge and Eilean Donan Castle. Arrive in Skye, visit Portree, Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock, and Mealt Waterfall.

Day 6: Portree - Oban
Board the Jacobite Steam Train from Mallaig to Fort William. Explore Glen Coe with its dramatic mountains and history.

Day 7: Oban - Oban
Free day to explore Oban or book a wildlife boat trip (advance booking is recommended).

Day 8: Oban - Edinburgh
Visit Kilchurn Castle, Falls of Dochart, and Falkirk’s Kelpies before returning to Edinburgh.

Includes

  • Local guide throughout the tour
  • 7 nights accommodation in B&Bs with breakfast
  • Visit to a whisky distillery
  • Transportation by air-conditioned bus
  • Ferry crossings
  • Tickets for the Jacobite Steam Train

Excludes

  • Pickup or drop-off at your pre-departure accommodation
  • Additional entrance fees
  • Lunch, dinner, and drinks
  • Gratuities

Important Information

  • The tour returns at approximately 5pm.
  • The Jacobite Steam Train runs April to October and may be subject to change or cancellation without notice.
  • Stop at Glenfinnan Viaduct by coach depends on availability.
  • Minimum age is 5 years. Travellers aged 5-17 must be accompanied by an adult.
  • Itinerary order may vary without prior notice.
  • Travel insurance is recommended.
  • Arrive at least 15 minutes before check-in. Late arrivals are not refunded and departure times will not be delayed.
  • Travel time return estimates may be affected by weather and traffic, allow at least 3 hours for onward travel or reservations.
  • Each traveller may bring one suitcase (max 15kg) and one carry-on bag.
  • Collapsible wheelchairs permitted if accompanied by an assistant.

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Book in advance to secure your place and bring suitable clothing for variable Scottish weather and comfortable walking shoes.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes guided visits to Edinburgh, Inverness, Orkney, Isle of Skye, and the North Coast 500 with local experts and attractions like the Jacobite Steam Train.
The tour starts in Edinburgh and typically ends in Inverness after exploring the Highlands, Orkney, and Skye.
Expert local guides lead the tour, providing insights into Scotland’s history, culture, and natural landscapes.
Yes, the tour includes a ride on the famous Jacobite Steam Train as part of the itinerary.
On day one, you visit Dunkeld, the Highland Folk Museum, Culloden Battlefield, and the Clava Cairns before arriving in Inverness.
You can book the tour online through the official tour website or authorized travel platforms offering the itinerary.
Yes, accommodation is included as part of the guided 8-day tour package.
The best time is during the spring to early autumn months for more favorable weather and longer daylight hours.
No, transportation between locations is provided as part of the guided tour package.
Meal inclusion varies; check the tour details on the website for specific information about meals.

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