From Edinburgh: Orkney and The Far North 5-Day Tour

Orkney, Edinburgh



Explore the stunning scenery and wildlife of the magical Orkney Islands on this 5-day tour. Heading north from Edinburgh, pass through the breathtaking Scottish Islands on your way to the world-famous historical sites of the Orkney Islands.

Scottish Highlands and Orkney Islands 5-Day Tour from Edinburgh

This 5-day guided tour from Edinburgh explores the Scottish Highlands and Orkney Islands, suited for history and nature enthusiasts.

Description

Starting in Edinburgh, travel north to Loch Ness passing through Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, Glen Coe, Fort William, and the Great Glen. Overnight stay in Inverness.

On day 2, journey north via Inverness along the Moray and Cromarty Firths coastlines, then board a ferry to the Orkney Islands. Visit the Italian Chapel and Churchill Barriers before overnighting in Kirkwall.

Day 3 focuses on Orkney’s ancient sites including Maeshowe chambered cairn, Skara Brae, the Standing Stones of Stenness, the Ring of Brodgar, and St Magnus Cathedral. Overnight in Kirkwall.

Return to the mainland on day 4 by ferry, explore Inverness, the Highlands capital, and stay overnight there.

On the final day, return to Edinburgh stopping at the Culloden battlefield, the Cairngorm Mountains, and Pitlochry town.

Highlights

  • Travel through Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park
  • Pass Glen Coe, Fort William, and the Great Glen en route to Loch Ness
  • Visit Italian Chapel, Churchill Barriers, Maeshowe, and Skara Brae on Orkney Islands
  • Explore St Magnus Cathedral, Standing Stones of Stenness, and Ring of Brodgar
  • Discover Inverness, the capital of the Highlands

Includes

  • Transportation
  • English-speaking driver/guide
  • 4 nights accommodation
  • 4 breakfasts
  • Ferry crossing
  • Entry to Orkney attractions: Maeshowe, Skara Brae, Italian Chapel

Excludes

  • Meals other than breakfast
  • Entry tickets not listed above
  • Tips

Important Information

  • Itinerary may change due to weather, emergencies, or external events
  • Children under 3 are not accepted; children 3 and older require valid ID (passport or birth certificate)
  • Luggage limit 15 kg; maximum size 55cm x 40cm x 20cm; one small carry-on allowed per person
  • Single travelers must select the 'Single Room' option to secure booking
  • Double/twin rooms accommodate 2 people; groups of 3 may receive a family room or need to book additional single room

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 28 days before departure for a full refund.

Book this tour for spring and summer months to experience longer daylight hours. Bring weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes guided visits to Loch Ness, Loch Lomond, the Scottish Highlands, Orkney Islands, and overnight stays in Inverness and Kirkwall.
The tour travels north from Edinburgh by coach to Inverness and then takes a ferry from the northern coast to the Orkney Islands.
Yes, the tour includes a visit to Loch Ness while traveling through the Scottish Highlands.
Overnight stays are arranged in Inverness on day one and Kirkwall in the Orkney Islands on day two.
Yes, the Italian Chapel is one of the key sites visited while exploring the Orkney Islands on this tour.
No, the ferry crossing from the mainland to the Orkney Islands is included as part of the guided tour package.
You will see Scottish Highlands scenery, national parks like Loch Lomond and Trossachs, coastal firths, and island landscapes in Orkney.
Yes, the tour is suitable for families who enjoy history and nature, but consider the pace and travel times involved.
The tour runs seasonally; check availability and weather conditions on the booking website for optimal travel times.
Meal details vary by provider; check the tour information for included meals and dining options along the route.

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