5-Day Orkney & Northern Coast Tour from Edinburgh Incl Admissions

Explore Scotland’s Stunning Highlands and Orkney Islands in 5 Days

This 5-day tour from Edinburgh offers an in-depth look at some of Scotland’s most iconic landscapes, historic sites, and archaeological wonders. Priced at $1,437.48 per person, it includes round-trip transportation, four nights in 3-star accommodations, and admission to key attractions like Skara Brae, Maeshowe, and Culloden Battlefield. The tour is highly rated, with a 5.0/5 rating based on 131 reviews, and is recommended by 99% of participants.

The journey is led by expert guides in a small group of no more than 16 travelers, making it ideal for those who prefer a more personal experience. The tour combines scenic drives through the Scottish Highlands with ferry crossings to the remote Orkney Islands, offering a blend of natural beauty, archaeological sites, and rich history. While the tour requires some walking and stairs, most accommodation is centrally located, and the pacing is designed to maximize sightseeing without feeling rushed.

Key Points

• Includes visits to iconic sites: Skara Brae, Maeshowe, Ring of Brodgar, and Culloden Battlefield
• Travel in a top-of-the-range 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach, ensuring a comfortable ride
• Four nights in 3-star accommodations with breakfast included
• Small-group size provides a more personalized and engaging experience
• Expert guides share insights into Scotland’s history, archaeology, and culture
• Crossing to Orkney involves a ferry across Pentland Firth, adding an adventurous touch

From Edinburgh to the Scottish Highlands and Loch Ness

The tour starts at 8:30 am from the Edinburgh Bus Station. The first day takes you westward past Stirling Castle and the Wallace Monument, with a stop in Callander for refreshments. The route then enters the Highlands, offering scenic views of Loch Lubnaig, Loch Earn, and the beautiful Glen Ogle and Glen Dochart.

You’ll pass through Glencoe, known for its dramatic landscape, before reaching Loch Ness. The tour allows ample time to scan the loch for its famous monster legend, and the haunting stories about Glencoe enrich the experience. The day wraps up in Inverness, where you settle into your accommodation for the night.

Crossing the Famous John o’Groats to Orkney

On the second day, the group departs Inverness, heading east along Scotland’s northeast coastline. Highlights include a quick photo stop at Dunrobin Castle and Gardens, with its stunning architecture and gardens. Continuing past the Black Isle, the route leads to John o’Groats, the well-known northern tip of mainland Britain, where travelers can appreciate rugged scenery and local wildlife.

From here, the tour crosses Pentland Firth via ferry into the Orkney archipelago. The ferry ride offers a chance to enjoy the sea views and feel the adventure of island-hopping. The next stop is the Italian Chapel on Lamb Holm, a WWII site that stands out for its distinctive construction.

Visiting the Viking Stronghold in Kirkwall

Arriving in Kirkwall, the capital of Orkney, the tour explores its magnificent Viking Cathedral and charming streets in the evening. The next day is dedicated to immersing in the prehistoric and Viking history of the islands, starting with the Neolithic village of Skara Brae—a remarkably well-preserved archaeological site that predates Stonehenge by thousands of years.

Visitors also explore the Ring of Brodgar, one of the world’s finest stone circles, dating back to around 2,500-2,000 BC. The day continues with a visit to Maeshowe Chambered Cairn, renowned for its Viking runic inscriptions from the 12th century, offering a direct link to Viking culture.

Scenic Drive Across the Highlands and Historic Castles

On day four, the journey back to the Scottish mainland involves sailing from Orkney and traveling through the northern Highlands. The route passes Ben Loyal and Ben Hope, with plenty of opportunities for scenic photos along rocky cliffs and golden beaches. A stop at Ardvreck Castle offers views of 15th-century ruins amidst wild landscapes.

The day concludes in Ullapool, a picturesque fishing village at the head of Loch Broom. The accommodation here provides a peaceful setting to relax after days of active exploration.

Stepping Through Scotland’s Historic Battlefields and Cairns

Day five begins with a visit to Culloden Battlefield, where the final Jacobite Rising culminated in a tragic and significant conflict in 1746. The site offers a moving insight into Scottish history, with a visitor center that guides visitors through the story.

Next, the tour visits the Clava Cairns, ancient standing stones made famous by the Outlander books. These prehistoric monuments are set in a lush forested landscape, making for a tranquil walk through Scotland’s ancient past. The journey then takes you through the Caledonian Pine Forest, and after a scenic lunch in this natural setting, the tour heads back towards Edinburgh via Perthshire and Fife, ending in the late afternoon.

Logistics and Accommodation Highlights

The entire tour is conducted in a 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach, which travelers find comfortable and easy to access, thanks to clearly marked non-slip steps and grab handles. Most of the accommodation is centrally located, although some B&Bs are on the outskirts, requiring a short 20-30 minute walk to local facilities.

During the trip, four nights are spent in 3-star hotels or guesthouses, with breakfast included each morning. The tour is designed to balance sightseeing with manageable walking distances, but participants should be prepared for some stairs and active days.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others

The combination of a small-group size and local expert guides makes this tour stand out. Guides like Mac, Martin, Kelly, Jodie, and others receive high praise for their historical knowledge, storytelling skills, and personable approach. The tour’s focus on prehistoric sites like Skara Brae and Maeshowe, along with iconic landmarks like Culloden and Ring of Brodgar, ensures a comprehensive look at Scotland’s ancient history.

The crossing to Orkney via ferry adds an adventurous element, and the careful planning lets travelers explore remote and historically significant locations comfortably. While the tour involves some walking and stair climbing, most accommodation options are well-located within town centers.

Final Thoughts on the 5-Day Orkney & Northern Coast Tour

This tour delivers authentic Scottish experiences packed into five days, making it ideal for history enthusiasts, archaeology buffs, and those eager to explore both mainland Scotland and the Orkney Islands. The expert guides and well-organized itinerary earn consistent praise, and the small group size means more personal attention and flexibility.

While the price of $1,437.48 reflects the comprehensive nature of the tour—including accommodation and admissions—it is worth considering if you enjoy immersive, history-rich journeys. The tour’s pacing balances active exploration with leisure, making it accessible for most travelers with a reasonable level of fitness.

Travelers who prefer a focused, well-organized experience with expert commentary and visits to historic sites like Skara Brae, Maeshowe, and Culloden will find this tour highly rewarding. It’s especially suitable for those interested in Scotland’s archaeology, Viking past, and scenic landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour departs from the Edinburgh Bus Station at 8:30 am and concludes back at the same meeting point after five days.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes transportation in a top-of-the-range 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach throughout the trip.

What attractions are included?
The trip covers Skara Brae, Maeshowe, Ring of Brodgar, Culloden Battlefield, and the Italian Chapel. Entrance fees to these sites are included.

Are accommodations arranged?
Yes, the tour provides four nights in 3-star hotels or guesthouses, with breakfast included. Most accommodations are centrally located.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 16 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The minimum age for participation is 5 years old. Participants should be prepared for active days involving walking and stairs.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 21 days before the tour start date for a full refund.

Is food included?
Breakfast is included in the accommodation, but lunch and dinner are not included in the tour price.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a camera, and some spending money for meals and optional activities.

Are there any accessibility concerns?
The bus is not wheelchair accessible, but storage for foldable wheelchairs is available. Participants must be able to get on and off independently or with assistance.

What makes this tour unique?
The blend of archaeological sites, historic landmarks, scenic landscapes, and personalized guides offers an authentic Scottish experience with a focus on history and natural beauty.