8-Day Orkney Skye and Highlands Tour from Edinburgh

Exploring Scotland’s Wild Beauty: An Honest Look at the 8-Day Orkney, Skye & Highlands Tour

If you’re dreaming of experiencing Scotland’s rugged coastlines, ancient sites, and sweeping mountain vistas, this 8-day tour from Edinburgh promises an in-depth adventure. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a picture of a well-rounded journey that combines iconic sights with lesser-known gems.

What really draws us to this tour are the expert guides who seem to bring each destination to life, and the stunning landscapes that unfold around every turn. It’s also great to see that the tour covers a broad swath of Scotland—from the prehistoric ruins of Orkney to the dramatic peaks of Skye and historic battlefields of the Highlands.

A potential consideration, however, is the pace: eight days packed with stops mean a lot of travel and walking, which might be tiring for some. But if you’re ready for an active, comprehensive trip through Scotland’s most iconic regions, this could be a perfect fit.

This tour appears best suited for travelers who value storytelling, scenic beauty, and a good mix of history and natural wonders. It’s not just a sightseeing tour—it’s a chance to really get a feel for Scotland’s soul.

Key Points

• Extensive itinerary covering Orkney, Skye, and the Highlands in just over a week.
• Knowledgeable guides who bring local stories and insights to life.
• Breathtaking views of mountains, fjords, and islands that make the trip memorable.
• Variety of sites, from prehistoric ruins to famous castles and natural wonders.
• Ferry crossings included, providing a seamless journey to the Orkney Islands.
• Group size capped at 35, offering a good social atmosphere but enough space to breathe.

The Experience in Detail: What You Can Expect

This 8-day tour is designed to take you through a significant chunk of Scotland’s most treasured landscapes and historic sites, with a mix of guided visits, scenic drives, and some free time to soak in the surroundings. Let’s break down what each part entails.

Day 1 & 2: From Loch Lomond to Glencoe and Beyond

Your adventure begins at Loch Lomond, where you get a quick but picturesque stroll along the water’s edge. It’s a straightforward stop, but the views are classic—think shimmering water against the backdrop of rolling hills. Next, you’ll visit Kilmartin Glen, home to ancient carvings dating back to the Bronze Age. It’s a quiet, contemplative spot that gives you a sense of Scotland’s long history.

The second day ramps up with visits to Glencoe, known for its stunning, often stark scenery. The stories of the infamous massacre here add a layer of historical intrigue, and the natural beauty makes it a highlight. The trip continues to Fort William, a lively town with a cozy atmosphere and a good lunch spot. Before heading off, you’ll stop at Glenfinnan Viaduct, made famous by Harry Potter, with great photo opportunities and views of the surrounding mountains.

Day 3 & 4: Skye’s Dramatic Landscapes and Legendary Sites

The third day includes stops at the Black Cuillin, a rugged mountain range, and the Old Man of Storr, a striking rock formation that’s often photographed. You’ll love the views here—think jagged rock formations and sweeping vistas. Portree Harbour, the island’s main town, offers a charming lunch spot with colorful houses and waterfront views.

Day 4 takes a turn toward the legendary castles and lochs. The Eilean Donan Castle is perhaps Scotland’s most photographed castle, perched dramatically on a loch. Although the entrance isn’t included in the price, it’s well worth the visit. Later, you’ll visit Loch Ness, where you can take a cruise in hopes of spotting the elusive monster, and explore Urquhart Castle, ruins overlooking the loch that tell tales of ancient battles and legends.

Days 5 & 6: Journey to Orkney and Its Ancient Wonders

A ferry ride from the mainland to Orkney begins your island adventure. The ferry trip itself, included in the tour, offers a chance to appreciate Scotland’s coastal beauty. Once on Orkney, you’ll visit Maes Howe, a well-preserved Neolithic chambered cairn, and Skara Brae, a remarkable Stone Age village dating back to 3180 BC. The Italian Chapel, built by WWII prisoners, offers a unique glimpse into more recent history.

Days 7 & 8: Back to the Mainland and Historic Battlefields

Returning to the mainland via ferry, you’ll visit John O’ Groats, famously known as the northernmost point of the UK mainland. While it’s more about the photo ops and iconic status, it’s a fun milestone.

Your final day includes a visit to Culloden Battlefield, where the last battle fought on British soil took place. It’s a sobering but important site, offering context to Scottish history. The tour wraps up in Pitlochry, a charming town perfect for a relaxed stroll before heading back to Edinburgh.

How the Tour Works: Logistics and Comfort

The tour operates with a group cap of 35 travelers, striking a balance between camaraderie and comfort. Transportation is by bus, with a well-planned schedule that keeps the pace moving but also allows time to enjoy each stop. The ferry rides are included, making the island transition seamless.

Accommodation is provided for 7 nights, with options to stay in cozy bed and breakfasts—reviews praise the quality of these stays. The start point is in central Edinburgh, and the tour concludes back in the city, making it convenient for travelers to connect with other plans.

The tour’s price of around $2,365 per person is competitive when considering the number of sites, ferry rides, and guided commentary. It’s a good value for those wanting a comprehensive experience without the hassle of planning each leg.

What Travelers Say

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, with one reviewer mentioning Jim Donovan as possibly the best guide they’ve had. The guides seem to make a real difference, adding stories and context that enrich the experience.

The scenery receives universal praise—viewing mountains, lochs, and ancient sites seems to be a highlight for everyone. Reviewers also appreciate the balance of structured visits and free time, which allows for personal exploration.

Some mention the early mornings and packed schedule, but most feel that the journey is worth the effort. The only drawback could be the pace for those who prefer a slower, more relaxed trip—this tour is full-on and designed to maximize sights.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided overview of Scotland’s most iconic landscapes and historic sites in one go. It suits those comfortable with a busy schedule and who enjoy storytelling and scenic drives.

While it’s not explicitly tailored for families or children, the focus on history, scenery, and moderate walking makes it suitable for most adults and older teens who are up for some travel days. If you’re seeking a deep dive into Scottish culture, landscape, and mythology, this tour will hit the mark.

Final Thoughts

This 8-day tour from Edinburgh offers a rich tapestry of Scotland’s scenery, history, and folklore, wrapped up in a well-organized package. It’s perfect for those who want to see a lot without the stress of planning logistics every step of the way.

The combination of amazing guides, breathtaking sights, and a good variety of stops makes it a trip that many will remember fondly. It’s not the cheapest option, but when you factor in ferry rides, accommodation, and entry to key sites, it’s a solid value for an all-encompassing Scottish adventure.

For anyone eager to see Scotland’s wild coastlines, ancient ruins, and mountain peaks—all in one trip—this tour provides a balanced, engaging experience that covers the essentials and some hidden gems.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, solo travelers are welcome. Just remember to select the Single Room option, as the tour may not accept unaccompanied bookings otherwise.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes 7 nights’ accommodation, ferry to Orkney, and visits to attractions like Maes Howe, Skara Brae, and the Italian Chapel. Breakfast is optional but available.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Children must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is primarily geared toward adult travelers, and children under 3 are not accepted.

How long are the ferry rides?
The ferry to Orkney takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes each way, included in the tour price.

What sites are not included in the tour fee?
Entrance fees to Eilean Donan Castle, Loch Ness cruise, Urquhart Castle, and Culloden Battlefield are not included, though some are available to visit during the stops.

How many people typically participate?
The maximum group size is 35 travelers, offering an intimate yet lively atmosphere.

Can I expect free time at major stops?
Yes, many stops, like Portree Harbour and Pitlochry, include about an hour or so of free time for exploration or lunch.

What is the booking cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than that may incur fees, so plan accordingly.

If you’re ready for a deep dive into Scotland’s landscapes and stories, this tour offers a fantastic way to do it—just pack your camera and a good pair of walking shoes.