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

Key Points

• Five-day adventure from Edinburgh takes you through Scotland’s stunning landscapes and historic sites.
• Visit the Orkney Islands, including the Italian Chapel, Maeshowe, Skara Brae, and stone circles.
• Enjoy scenic drives past Loch Lomond, Glen Coe, and Loch Ness, with overnight stays in Inverness and Kirkwall.
• Includes ferry crossings and accommodations with four breakfasts, providing convenience and comfort.
• Guided by knowledgeable guides, with a flexible itinerary that balances sightseeing and travel.
• Aimed at those interested in history, scenery, and wildlife, with a practical pace and some small stops.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Scotland’s Natural Beauty and Historic Landmarks

The From Edinburgh: Orkney and The Far North 5-Day Tour offers a comprehensive look at Scotland’s diverse landscape and ancient sites. For a set price of $1,151 per person, travelers embark on a journey that combines scenic drives, historic explorations, and island adventures. Spanning five days, the tour starts in Edinburgh and takes travelers north through iconic locations such as Loch Lomond, Glen Coe, and Loch Ness before reaching the fascinating Orkney Islands.

The tour is designed for those eager to see Scotland’s natural beauty and historic treasures without the hassle of planning individual routes. It includes transportation, a guide, four nights of accommodation, and ferry crossings, making it a practical choice for those wanting an in-depth experience with minimal logistical stress.

From Loch Lomond to Loch Ness: Scotland’s Scenic Highlights

The adventure begins with a drive west from Edinburgh into the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. Travelers enjoy sweeping views of the loch and surrounding hills, known for their tranquil beauty. As the journey continues, the route takes in Glen Coe, a landscape famous for its haunting valleys and historical significance related to the MacDonald Clan.

From there, the tour moves through Fort William and follows the Great Glen to Loch Ness, where the iconic waterscape awaits. The overnight stay in Inverness offers a chance to explore Scotland’s northern hub, setting the stage for the next day’s island adventure.

Crossing to the Orkney Islands by Ferry

On the second day, the tour departs Inverness via a scenic drive along the Moray and Cromarty Firths coastlines before boarding a ferry to the Orkney Islands. The ferry ride itself is a memorable part of the journey, providing views of the North Sea and the islands’ rugged coastlines.

Once in Orkney, the tour highlights include the Italian Chapel, built by Italian prisoners of war, and the Churchill Barriers, which were constructed during wartime to protect the navy fleet. These sites reveal both military history and the ingenuity of the island’s inhabitants.

Discovering Prehistoric Sites in the Orkney Islands

Day three is dedicated to exploring the ancient roots of the islands. The Maeshowe chambered cairn stands out as a Neolithic masterpiece, with its mysterious carvings and alignments. The Neolithic village of Skara Brae offers a rare glimpse into early human settlement, with well-preserved stone houses dating back thousands of years.

In addition, visitors see the Stone Circles of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar, two remarkable prehistoric monuments that evoke a sense of mystery and wonder. The day concludes with a visit to St Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall, a striking example of medieval architecture.

More Great Tours Nearby

Returning to the Mainland and Visiting Inverness

On day four, a ferry ride takes travelers back to the mainland, where the tour continues with a visit to Inverness, the capital of the Highlands. Here, visitors have an opportunity to walk through the town’s historic streets and enjoy local sights. The overnight stay in Inverness provides a relaxing break before heading back south.

Scenic Drive Back to Edinburgh with Historic Stops

The return journey on day five includes visits to Culloden Battlefield, the site of the Jacobite defeat, offering insights into Scottish history. Passing through the Cairngorm Mountains, the group enjoys views of rugged peaks and wilderness. A stop in Pitlochry adds a charming finish to the trip, with the chance to explore this picturesque town before arriving back in Edinburgh.

Logistics, Accommodation, and Guide Experience

The tour departs from 1 Parliament Square, Caffe Nero on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh. It includes guided commentary from an English-speaking driver/guide, who enhances the experience with local insights and storytelling. Accommodation is provided for four nights, with breakfasts included. The trip involves ferry crossings and a flexible itinerary that may adapt to weather or other unforeseen events.

Travelers are advised to pack no more than 15 kg of luggage, with a maximum size of 55cm x 40cm x 20cm, and are reminded that children under three years old are not accepted.

Honest Reflections: Strengths and Limitations

The strengths of this tour lie in its expert guides and well-curated stops at significant historical and natural sites. The scenery along Loch Lomond, Glen Coe, and Loch Ness often receives praise for its breathtaking beauty, and the ferry journeys add a layer of adventure.

However, some reviews point out that the small stops can feel excessive at times, with a desire for longer periods to sit down and enjoy meals. Guides are noted for their knowledge and entertainment, but the pace may not suit those seeking a more relaxed day without frequent quick stops.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour fits travelers eager for a balanced experience of scenic drives, historic sites, and island exploration. It suits those interested in prehistoric monuments, WWII history, and natural landscapes. The itinerary’s pacing, with multiple short stops, is ideal for people who enjoy a steady flow of sightseeing without long periods of downtime.

It is less suitable for travelers seeking extensive leisure time at each site or those with mobility concerns, as some stops may involve walking or brief exploration.

Final Thoughts on the Orkney and Highland 5-Day Tour

The 5-day From Edinburgh tour provides a comprehensive look at some of Scotland’s most iconic landscapes and historic sites. The inclusion of ferry crossings, guided commentary, and well-chosen stops makes it a practical and engaging way to experience the north of Scotland and the Orkney Islands.

While the itinerary is packed, it offers a solid balance of scenic beauty, history, and island adventure. The tour is most suited to those who enjoy active sightseeing with expert guides and are comfortable with a somewhat brisk pace.

The high ratings and positive reviews underscore its appeal for lovers of Scottish scenery and history who want an organized, informative trip without the hassle of planning details themselves.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes transportation, an English-speaking guide, four nights of accommodation, four breakfasts, and ferry crossings to and from the Orkney Islands.

Are meals outside breakfast included?
No, meals other than breakfast are not included in the price.

Can I bring large luggage on this tour?
No, the maximum luggage weight is 15 kg, with a size limit of 55cm x 40cm x 20cm. Only one small carry-on per person is permitted.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children over 3 years old are accepted with proof of age. Children under 3 are not accepted.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour starts at 1 Parliament Square, Caffe Nero, Edinburgh and ends back at the same location.

How flexible is the itinerary?
The guide reserves the right to change the itinerary due to weather or other factors. Some stops may be brief, and the pace is generally brisk.

What is the guide’s style?
Guides are knowledgeable and aim to keep the group entertained with jokes and music, according to reviews that praise their storytelling.

Is this tour good for history and scenery enthusiasts?
Yes, the tour offers plenty of historic sites, prehistoric monuments, and scenic drives, making it ideal for those keen on Scotland’s history and landscape.

How long are the ferry crossings?
The ferry rides are a key part of the journey, but specific durations are not detailed in the provided information.

What should I consider when booking?
Book early to secure a spot and choose the single room option if traveling alone, as double/twin rooms are for two people and family rooms for three depending on availability.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby