8-Day Isle of Skye, Orkney & North Coast 500 tour from Edinburgh

Planning a trip through Scotland’s wild and beautiful landscapes can feel overwhelming with so many options. That’s why I wanted to share an honest look at this 8-day tour, offered by Highland Explorer Tours, which has consistently earned top marks from travelers. While I haven’t done it myself, the reviews and details reveal a lot about what to expect.

What I love about this tour are its variety of stops, like exploring ancient Neolithic sites and castles, and the expert guides who bring Scottish stories to life. Plus, the opportunity to see iconic sites like the Glenfinnan Viaduct and the Isle of Skye makes it stand out. A possible snag? The itinerary is packed, making some days quite full, which might be tiring for some travelers.

This kind of tour tends to suit those who appreciate structured adventures, love scenic drives, and want a good mix of history, nature, and local culture—all in a manageable timeframe. If you’re after a flexible, relaxed pace, something more tailored might work better. But if you’re eager to cover a lot of ground with expert guidance, this tour could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Expert guides and storytelling make the experience more memorable.
• Diverse stops combine history, scenery, and local flavor.
• Small group size enhances comfort and intimacy.
• Full itinerary offers great value for the price, but can feel busy.
• Carefully curated stops include castles, archaeological sites, and natural wonders.
• Transportation is comfortable, with a mix of coach travel, ferries, and even scenic train rides.

What You Can Expect on This Tour

This 8-day journey is a well-balanced mix of sightseeing, cultural insights, and scenic drives. Priced at around $2,648.68 per person, it offers a rundown of northern Scotland and beyond. While it’s not cheap, reviews suggest you’re paying for a thoughtfully curated experience with knowledgeable guides and memorable sights.

Day 1: From Perthshire to Culloden and Clava Cairns

Your adventure kicks off in Dunkeld, right in the heart of Perthshire. Here, you can enjoy a coffee and pastry from a local bakery, getting a taste of the cozy Scottish charm. The highlight is the Highland Folk Museum, which brings to life Highland life from the 1700s—a fascinating window into traditional highland living.

Next, the tour visits the somber Culloden Battlefield, where you’ll get a chance to reflect on one of Scotland’s most historic conflicts. It’s a moving experience, especially if you appreciate sites with a sense of gravity. The day concludes with a visit to Clava Cairns, a striking Bronze Age burial ground that inspired Outlander fans.

Day 2: Castles, Coastlines, and the Orkney Islands

Starting early, you head to Dunrobin Castle, recognized for its French-inspired architecture and stunning gardens. The falconry display there is a fun and interactive addition. Then, you’ll follow the North Coast 500 route, described as Scotland’s own Route 66. This drive is packed with iconic stops like Wick, Helmsdale, and the haunting remains of Badbea, a township cleared during the Highland Clearances.

Later, a ferry whisks you across to Orkney, where your guide takes you to Kirkwall for the night. The ferry ride itself offers chances to spot wildlife and take in views that are just as impressive as the land-based sights.

Day 3: Discovering Orkney’s Ancient Treasures

Orkney is a treasure trove of Neolithic sites. You’ll visit the Italian Chapel, built during WWII by Italian prisoners of war, and the Ring of Brodgar, a massive stone circle that hints at prehistoric ceremonies. Skara Brae, a remarkably well-preserved Neolithic village, is a highlight. It’s easy to imagine what life was like for these early farmers and fishermen, surrounded by stunning ocean vistas.

You’ll also explore Stromness, a charming harbor town, and spend the afternoon visiting sites like Maes Howe, the Round Church, and the Orkney Brewery, filled with stories and local lore. The reviews rave about guides like Louise, who bring these stories to life with humor and depth.

Day 4: Heading to Skye via the North Coast

Back on the mainland, you’ll visit John O’Groats—the northernmost point of Great Britain. The drive along the North Coast 500 continues with stops at the spectacular Smoo Cave, a sea cave with a waterfall chamber, and the sandy Sango Sands beach in Durness.

Knockan Crag Nature Reserve offers stunning geology, perfect for a walk and some fresh air. The scenery here is rugged and unspoiled, giving a real sense of Scotland’s wild side.

Day 5: Exploring Skye’s Dramatic Landscapes

The first stop on Skye is Corrieshalloch Gorge, a breathtaking natural formation carved by glaciers. Next, the tour visits Eilean Donan Castle, arguably Scotland’s most photographed castle, with its picturesque setting.

In Portree, you’ll have time for lunch and a chance to soak up the lively yet quaint atmosphere. The Old Man of Storr and Kilt Rock are next, both showcasing the island’s distinctive geology and stunning coastal views. The Old Man is especially popular for photos, often shrouded in mist, adding to its mystical appeal.

Day 6: From Skye to the West Highland Line

Ferrying from Armadale to Mallaig, you’ll experience the scenic West Highland Line on the famous Jacobite Steam Train, crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct—famous from Harry Potter films. The views of Loch Shiel and the surrounding mountains are something you won’t forget.

Glencoe then offers a quick stop to marvel at its dramatic mountains and hear about its history. This area’s rugged beauty and tragic past make it a compelling part of your journey.

Day 7: Free Day in Oban

This day is yours to explore Oban at your leisure. Known for its seafood and charming fishing village vibe, it’s a great place to relax, wander, and enjoy local eats. The flexibility here is appreciated, especially after several busy days.

Day 8: Scotland’s Highland Finale

On your final day, you visit Loch Awe, with St. Conan’s Kirk, a lovely church overlooking the water. Kilchurn Castle adds a fairy-tale touch, sitting dramatically on a rocky peninsula. You’ll also stop in a Highland village for lunch and enjoy the peaceful Falls of Dochart in Killin, a serene spot perfect for a reflective break.

The trip ends at the Kelpies, huge horse-head sculptures in Falkirk, a modern tribute to Scotland’s maritime heritage.

What the Reviews Say (and What That Means for You)

Many travelers praise the guides, especially mentioning Louises and Cara for their knowledge, storytelling skills, and humor. Comments like “Louise was a fountain of knowledge and told the most amazing stories” and “Cara was friendly, knowledgeable, and a great storyteller” show how guides make or break the experience.

The scenery receives universal praise, with lots of mentions of stunning views, captivating landscapes, and photo opportunities. Sites like Glencoe, the Isle of Skye, and Staffa’s puffins are frequently highlighted, showing that this trip offers plenty of visual treats.

Reviewers also note that the accommodations are comfortable and quiet, making resting between busy sightseeing days easier. The small group size (around 16 travelers) seems to contribute to a more intimate experience, giving everyone space to enjoy the scenery and ask questions.

On the practical side, the value for money gets good marks, especially considering that many stops are included, and the guided storytelling adds a lot to the trip. However, some reviews mention the schedule can be quite full, which might be tiring if you prefer a slower pace or more time at specific sites.

The Practicalities and Considerations

This tour is designed for those who want a rundown of northern Scotland and the islands in one trip. The price of around $2,648.68 includes 7 nights in 3-star bed and breakfasts, along with many included attractions and transport. You’ll need to budget extra for lunch and dinner, which aren’t included.

The group size maxes out at 16 travelers, making for a cozy, friendly atmosphere, but expect a packed schedule with many stops each day. The itinerary is carefully curated, but it does mean some stops are brief—if you’re a slow traveler or want more time at each site, it’s worth considering.

Transport-wise, the trip involves ferry rides, scenic train journeys, and coach travel. The guides have received praise for their driving skills, especially on winding, narrow roads, and their storytelling keeps the long hours engaging.

Travelers with children over 5 are welcome, but the tour is best suited for those comfortable with a full schedule and early mornings. If you’re looking for a laid-back, flexible trip, this might not be the ideal fit.

The Sum Up

This 8-day tour from Edinburgh offers a fantastic way to see some of Scotland’s most iconic and breathtaking sights, from ancient Neolithic sites to rugged coastlines and majestic castles. The guided approach ensures you get rich stories and insights, making the experience more meaningful. With a good balance of travel and sightseeing, it’s perfect for those eager to explore a wide swath of Scotland without the hassle of planning every detail.

While the schedule can be busy, the small group size and knowledgeable guides create an atmosphere that feels intimate and well-organized. The accommodations are comfortable, and the included attractions provide excellent value for the price. If you’re a traveler who loves scenic drives, cultural sites, and local legends, this tour will likely tick all your boxes.

However, if you prefer a slower pace or more time at specific sites like the Fairy Pools, you might find the tight schedule a little rushed. It’s also best suited for those comfortable with a packed itinerary and early mornings, as well as adults or older children who can handle the full days of sightseeing.

This tour stands out as a well-loved option for anyone looking to experience Scotland’s diverse landscapes and history in one memorable trip, led by guides who bring the country’s stories alive.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the minimum age to travel is 5 years old, making it suitable for families with children. Keep in mind, it’s a busy schedule, so younger kids may need to be prepared for long days.

What is included in the price?
The price covers 7 nights in 3-star bed and breakfast accommodations, breakfast each day, and many attractions like castles, archaeological sites, and scenic train rides. Lunch and dinner are not included.

How many people will be on the tour?
The group size is limited to a maximum of 16 travelers, creating a more intimate experience.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews frequently mention guides like Louise and Cara for their storytelling, humor, and depth of knowledge.

What transportation is used?
The trip involves coach travel, ferry rides, and scenic train journeys, including the famous Jacobite Steam Train.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
While the itinerary is generally flexible, some stops may be affected by weather conditions, such as misty views or ferry schedules.

How busy are the days?
Expect a packed schedule with several stops each day, some brief, to cover all the highlights.

Is hotel accommodation comfortable?
Yes, most travelers find the 3-star B&Bs quiet and cozy, although some mention the need for flexibility due to varying standards.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour starts.

Would I see everything I want?
The itinerary covers many top sites, but some favorites like the Fairy Pools aren’t included due to logistical reasons and limited parking.

If you love scenic drives, historic sites, and engaging guides, this tour could be the perfect way to experience the best of northern Scotland in a manageable, well-organized package.