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

Planning a trip that combines the wild beauty of the Scottish Highlands with the ancient allure of the Orkney Islands? This 5-day tour from Edinburgh promises just that, taking you on a journey through some of the most breathtaking landscapes and fascinating historical sites Scotland has to offer. It’s a well-rounded experience for those craving a mix of scenic drives, cultural history, and island adventure.

What we really like about this tour is how it balances stunning scenery with meaningful stops—from Loch Ness and Glen Coe to the mysterious Neolithic sites of Orkney. Plus, the fact that it includes accommodation and some meals makes it feel like a comprehensive package, especially for travelers who prefer a bit of guidance and comfort.

One thing to keep in mind is that there are quite a few small stops along the way, which might feel a tad rushed if you’re the type who wants more time at each spot. It’s also a group tour, so if you’re craving complete independence, this might not be ideal. However, if you enjoy being part of a guided journey that hits all the highlights, this tour could suit you perfectly.

This experience is especially suited for travelers who love scenic drives, history, and island adventures—and who appreciate knowledgeable guides to enrich the journey. If that sounds like your kind of trip, read on for a detailed look!

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering iconic Scottish Highlands and historic Orkney sites
• Expert guides who keep the journey engaging and informative
• Includes accommodation and some meals, offering good value for a multi-day trip
• Ferry crossings and transport are handled, easing travel logistics
• Small stops can be rapid, so plan for some quick visits rather than relaxed exploration
• Ideal for those interested in history, scenery, and island life

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction to the Tour

If you’re considering exploring Scotland’s northern reaches, this 5-day tour from Edinburgh offers a structured way to see some of the most captivating sights. We like that it combines the drama of the Highlands with the mystery of the Orkney Islands, providing a taste of both mainland Scotland and its island treasures.

Two aspects we find particularly appealing are the stunning scenic routes—like Loch Lomond and Glen Coe—and the prehistoric sites of Orkney, such as Skara Brae and Maeshowe. These highlights aren’t just checklist items; they’re experiences that tend to leave a lasting impression. Plus, guided by a knowledgeable driver and guide, you get insights that make these sites come alive.

A potential drawback for some is the number of stops—the itinerary includes many quick pauses, which means less time lounging or truly soaking in each place. Some reviews mention a preference for fewer stops to enjoy proper meals and leisurely exploration. But overall, if you’re comfortable with a busy schedule and love hitting the high points, this tour suits active travelers well.

This trip is ideal for those who want an organized, informative journey without the hassle of planning each detail. It’s a good fit if you’re looking for a balance of scenic beauty, history, and the convenience of a guided tour.

A Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Day 1: From Edinburgh to Loch Ness via Scottish Highlands

Your adventure kicks off in Edinburgh, where you’ll meet your guide and head north. The first stretch takes you through Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, an area famous for its shimmering waters and rugged hills. We loved the way the landscape opens up here—perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the views.

Next, the route takes you through Glen Coe, known for its haunting beauty and tragic history. This mountain pass is a favorite for many travelers, offering dramatic vistas that are hard to forget. The story of the MacDonald Clan massacre adds a layer of depth to this stunning landscape, making it not just pretty but meaningful.

After Glen Coe, you pass Fort William and follow the Great Glen toward Inverness. The drive is scenic, filled with sweeping views of mountains, lochs, and forests. Your overnight stay in Inverness provides a restful base for the next day’s explorations.

Day 2: Cross to Orkney Islands

From Inverness, you’ll travel north through the Moray and Cromarty Firths—famous for their coastal charm and wildlife. Then comes the ferry ride to the Orkney Islands, which feels like stepping into a different world. The ferry itself is a highlight, offering views of the sea and the chance to unwind before island adventures.

Once in Orkney, your first stop is the Italian Chapel—a surprisingly beautiful structure built by Italian prisoners of war during WWII. It’s a poignant and artistic site that visitors find quite moving.

Next, you’ll visit the Churchill Barriers, a series of causeways built during wartime to protect the navy fleet. The combination of history and scenic views makes these barriers a notable stop.

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Day 3: Exploring Orkney’s Prehistoric Marvels

This day is dedicated to the prehistoric sites that make Orkney a UNESCO World Heritage site. Your base in Kirkwall puts you close to major attractions. You’ll visit Maeshowe, a chambered cairn famous for its Viking carvings and mysterious origins.

The highlight for many is Skara Brae, an exceptionally well-preserved Neolithic village that offers a glimpse into early human life. Walking through these ancient dwellings is like stepping back thousands of years.

The day continues with visits to the Standing Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar, both magnificent stone circles with a mysterious atmosphere. These sites are accessible and awe-inspiring, especially if you enjoy archaeology and ancient landscapes.

Your tour concludes with a visit to St Magnus Cathedral, a beautiful medieval church that crowns Kirkwall’s skyline.

Day 4: Return to the Highlands

After ferrying back to the mainland, you’ll head to Inverness, the “Capital of the Highlands.” The drive offers more stunning scenery, including the famous Cairngorm Mountains and picturesque towns like Pitlochry.

This day is more relaxed, giving you a chance to explore Inverness at your own pace. The city is charming, with good options for local dining and shops.

Day 5: Back to Edinburgh with Historical Highlights

On your return, the tour makes a meaningful stop at Culloden Battlefield, the site of the famous Jacobite defeat. It’s a sobering but important piece of Scottish history.

Then, you’ll pass through the scenic Cairngorm Mountains and the lovely town of Pitlochry before heading back to Edinburgh. The journey wraps up with plenty of opportunities for photos and reflecting on your trip.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the tour are transportation, an English-speaking driver/guide, 4 nights of accommodation, 4 breakfasts, ferry crossings, and entry to key Orkney sites like Maeshowe, Skara Brae, and the Italian Chapel.

Extras like meals beyond breakfast and personal entry tickets outside the listed sites aren’t covered, so consider bringing some cash or cards for those.

The price of $1,151 per person seems reasonable for the scope, especially considering accommodation, ferry rides, and some entry fees are included. The value hinges on your interest in history and scenery—most travelers find it a good deal for a comprehensive multi-day experience.

The Group Experience and Travel Logistics

The tour operates with a live guide and tends to run with a group, which can be a positive or negative depending on your style. The guide, as one reviewer mentioned, can be very knowledgeable and engaging, keeping the journey lively with stories and music.

Transportation is arranged, and the itinerary is carefully planned, but keep in mind that there are many small stops—some travelers may find these a little hurried, especially if they prefer longer, more relaxed visits.

Luggage restrictions are modest—15 kg maximum weight and 55cm x 40cm x 20cm size—so pack wisely if you’re traveling light.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal if you’re looking for a guided, all-inclusive experience that hits the highlights of Scotland’s north and Orkney. It’s great for history buffs, scenery lovers, and those curious about ancient sites.

It’s less suited for travelers seeking total independence or those who prefer a very slow, unstructured pace. Families with children over 3 can join, but the busy schedule might not be perfect for very young kids.

If you enjoy guided group trips with a focus on storytelling and scenic routes, you’ll likely find this a rewarding adventure.

Final Thoughts

This 5-day tour from Edinburgh offers a solid balance of stunning scenery, historical depth, and island exploration. It’s a well-organized way to experience both the Highlands and Orkney’s ancient sites, especially if you value knowledgeable guides and the convenience of included transport and accommodation.

While the itinerary packs in lots of stops, some travelers mentioned a preference for more relaxed visits—so if you like quick sightseeing rather than leisurely exploration, this might suit you well. The value is clear, considering the scope of sights covered and the comfort of guided travel.

In the end, this experience is perfect if you want a rundown of Northern Scotland and Orkney, with the benefits of expert guidance and a structured schedule that minimizes planning stress. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a scenery seeker, you’ll come away with plenty to reflect on—and hopefully, inspired to return for more.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts 5 days, with daily activities, sightseeing, and travel between destinations.

What is included in the price?
Transportation, an English-speaking guide, 4 nights’ accommodation, 4 breakfasts, ferry crossings, and entry tickets for key Orkney attractions like Maeshowe, Skara Brae, and the Italian Chapel.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Yes, children over 3 years old are accepted with proof of age. No children under 3 are permitted.

What should I pack?
Bring weather-appropriate clothing, a small bag for essentials (max 15kg), and any personal items. The luggage size is limited to 55cm x 40cm x 20cm.

Is the tour suitable for someone with mobility issues?
The information doesn’t specify, but given the many stops and walking involved at sites like Skara Brae and stone circles, it might require some mobility.

Will I have free time?
The schedule is quite packed, so expect limited free time, mostly in towns like Inverness and Kirkwall.

What is the guide like?
Based on reviews, guides are knowledgeable and entertaining, adding stories and music to keep the journey lively.

How is the accommodation?
Reviews mention the B&Bs are good, clean, and hospitable, providing comfortable overnight stays.

If you’re ready to explore Scotland’s wild landscapes and ancient secrets with a trusted guide, this tour could be just the thing to make that happen.

You can check availability for your dates here: