5 Days Orkney Islands & NC500 Tour from Glasgow

Exploring Scotland in Just 5 Days: An Honest Look at the Orkney Islands & NC500 Tour

If you’re dreaming of experiencing Scotland’s rugged beauty, ancient sites, and stunning coastlines without the hassle of planning every detail, this 5-day small-group tour from Glasgow might catch your eye. We’ve looked into what it offers—and it definitely has some compelling features. For starters, the intimate group size (max 8 travelers) means you’ll get more personalized attention and flexibility, which is a huge plus if you prefer a more relaxed, friendly vibe.

Two aspects we really appreciate are the careful balance of natural landscapes and historical sites, along with the knowledgeable guides who seem to genuinely love sharing their insights. Plus, the chance to cross the North Coast 500, explore the Orkney Islands, and visit iconic landmarks like Skara Brae or Loch Ness—all in five days—is pretty impressive.

On the flip side, it’s not a tour for anyone expecting all-inclusive luxury or a completely hassle-free experience—meals and some entrance fees aren’t included, which means extra costs. Also, with only about 8 travelers, you’ll want to be comfortable with group travel and a packed schedule. But if you’re someone who thrives on rich scenery and cultural discovery, this tour could be just the thing.

Ultimately, this trip looks like a great fit for curious travelers who want to cover a lot of ground, see a mix of history, nature, and coastal scenery, and enjoy it with a small, friendly group. If you’re into scenic drives, ancient sites, and Scottish charm, you might find this adventure well worth it.

Key Points

• Small group size (max 8 travelers) offers a more personalized, flexible experience.
• Diverse itinerary, including Highland landscapes, Orkney’s archaeological sites, and iconic Scottish scenery.
• Expert local guides provide insights that add depth to every stop.
• Price point ($839.13) covers many highlights but does not include some entrance fees and meals.
• Long days and packed schedule mean you’ll need good stamina and a sense of adventure.
• Ideal for those who want a balance of natural beauty, history, and cultural highlights in a manageable timeframe.

A Detailed Look at the 5-Day Itinerary

Let’s break down what makes each day stand out and what you might expect.

Day 1: Land in the Highlands and Inverness

The tour kicks off in Cairngorms National Park, which we love for its expansive woodlands and mountain scenery. We appreciate the chance to stretch our legs with a woodland walk—simply a great way to start soaking in Scotland’s natural beauty. The park is the largest in the country, and it offers a peaceful, unspoiled landscape that’s perfect for easing into the trip.

Next, the Culloden Battlefield offers a poignant glimpse into Scottish history, especially for those interested in Jacobite uprisings. While admission isn’t included, the site itself is free to wander, and the storytelling from guides can make it come alive.

Heading into Inverness, the unofficial capital of the Highlands, we get some free time to explore—grab a coffee, browse shops, or just take in the river views. Then it’s off to Clava Cairns, a prehistoric burial site that’s around 4,000 years old. We loved the sense of stepping back in time here, imagining the ancient peoples who built these standing stones.

Lunch in Aviemore is a nice break; it’s a town surrounded by lochs, forests, and mountain trails, making it a good spot to relax and recharge. The day ends with a visit to Dalwhinnie Distillery, where whisky lovers can enjoy a tasting or browse for souvenirs—an authentic Highland experience.

Day 2: Driving the North Coast 500 and Visiting Orkney

The North Coast 500 is often called one of the most scenic roads in Scotland—and it doesn’t disappoint. Over three hours of driving, you’ll see rugged coastlines, dramatic cliffs, and sweeping views. The route is famous for its natural beauty, and we loved the way it made us feel like we were truly exploring remote corners of the country.

A quick stop at Latheronwheel Harbour offers another coastal scene—ideal for a short walk and photo ops. Then, the highlight of the day for many is the Italian Chapel—a surprisingly beautiful structure built by Italian prisoners of war during WWII, which adds a layer of history and resilience.

Later, a whisky tour at Scapa Distillery rounds out the day, where you can learn about the craft of whisky making and sample some drams. The tour is not included in the price, but it’s a worthwhile add-on for enthusiasts.

The day ends in Kirkwall, the capital of Orkney, where we appreciated the peaceful streets and local vibe—perfect for unwinding after a long day of driving.

Day 3: Exploring Orkney’s Ancient Sites

This day is a deep dive into Orkney’s ancient past. Visiting Kirkwall gives a taste of island life, with a chance to see St Magnus Cathedral, a stunning church sitting in the heart of town.

The real treasure here is the Maeshowe Chambered Cairn, a 5,000-year-old tomb. It’s a site that impresses with its age and preservation, and guided insights make it even more fascinating.

The Standing Stones of Stenness and Ring of Brodgar are grand, ancient stone circles that could easily make you feel like you’ve stepped onto a movie set. We loved feeling the sense of history and scale, especially knowing these stones are over 5,000 years old. One reviewer mentioned feeling like Claire from Outlander—these sites do have that epic, mystical vibe.

Skara Brae completes the day with a walk through the restored Neolithic village, where you can see the homes and furniture of people who lived millennia ago. The site is well-preserved, and the guide’s commentary helps bring it to life.

Day 4: Back to the Mainland and Northern Coast

After ferrying back to the mainland, your day includes visits to John O’Groats, famously known as the northeastern tip of the UK. Snapping a photo with the iconic signpost is almost a must-do.

The Grey Cairns of Camster are another ancient find—you’ll crawl into the cairn if you’re comfortable with cramped spaces, as this experience is a bit adventurous.

Later, we revisit Inverness for another night, giving you the chance to explore more or relax. The Castle Sinclair Girnigoe ruins offer stunning coastal views, and Dunrobin Castle feels like something out of a fairy tale, with beautiful gardens and a grand facade.

Day 5: Loch Ness, Glencoe, and Scenic Highlands

The final day is packed with some of Scotland’s most iconic scenery. A cruise on Loch Ness is a fun way to end—whether you’re after Nessie or just the stunning waterscapes, it’s a memorable experience.

Glencoe is another highlight—its dramatic valley and rugged peaks are unforgettable, and the scenery is truly spectacular. We loved hearing stories about its history and geology.

Finally, the journey wraps up with a visit to Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, a place that’s often described as Scotland’s “gateway to the Highlands,” full of beauty, wildlife, and peaceful landscapes.

The journey back through the Highlands takes around four hours, giving you a good dose of Scottish scenery before arriving in Edinburgh.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This tour shines because of its careful mix of natural beauty, history, and culture. The stops are thoughtfully chosen to give you a well-rounded experience of Scotland’s most iconic sights. The small group setting, with a maximum of 8 travelers, means you’ll get more personalized attention, and the guides—described as knowledgeable and passionate—make every site come alive.

Many reviews mention the expert guides—Jim and Calum, for example—who are praised for their humor, knowledge, and flexibility. One reviewer even mentioned being surprised with birthday cupcakes, which hints at a tour guide who genuinely cares about making the experience memorable.

The cost ($839.13) covers quite a bit—ferry crossings, guided walks, and access to many significant sites—making it a good value for a comprehensive, guided adventure. However, you should budget for some additional costs: entrance fees, whisky tastings, and meals aren’t included. These extras can add up but are typical for this kind of tour.

The itinerary is intensive, with long days and a lot of moving around—something to consider if you prefer a more relaxed pace. But for those eager to see the highlights in a short time, it’s efficient and well-organized.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you have a passion for Scotland’s landscapes, history, and coastal scenery, and you’re comfortable with group travel and a busy schedule, this tour offers excellent value. It’s perfect for travelers who want a curated experience without the stress of planning every detail.

Those interested in ancient sites, such as Skara Brae, Maeshowe, and standing stones, will appreciate the guided insights and access. Whisky lovers will find the distillery visits a highlight, and people who enjoy scenic drives will love the North Coast 500 route.

It might be less suitable if you’re looking for a very relaxed pace or have mobility concerns, as the tour involves walking, uneven terrain, and some strenuous activity like crawling into Cairns. But overall, it’s an engaging adventure for those eager to explore Scotland’s rugged, historic, and scenic treasures in just five days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for someone with mobility issues?
Not really. The tour involves walking and short hikes, and some sites, such as Grey Cairns of Camster, require mobility for crawling into cramped spaces.

Are meals included?
No, meals and snacks are not included, so you’ll need to budget for food during the trip.

How much does entrance to sites cost?
Entry fees vary: Culloden Moor Visitor Center (~£15), Dunrobin Castle (~£15), Maeshowe (~£11), Skara Brae (~£13), Loch Ness Cruise (~£17), among others. These are additional costs.

What’s the group size?
A maximum of 8 travelers, which helps keep things intimate and flexible.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
While the data doesn’t specify seasons, Scotland’s weather is most stable in late spring through early fall. Check with the provider for specific availability.

Is the tour suitable for families?
It’s not explicitly geared toward children, and the physical aspects may be challenging for younger travelers. It’s better suited for adults and older teens.

How long are the driving days?
Long enough to keep you busy—around 3-4 hours of driving each day, with scenic stops along the way.

What’s the start and end location?
Starts at Buchanan Bus Station Taxi Rank in Glasgow and ends at The Jolly Botanist in Edinburgh.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations closer to the date may incur fees.

If you’re craving a rich, varied taste of Scotland’s landscapes and history, this tour offers a balanced, well-reviewed way to experience it all. Just be prepared for some busy days and extra costs, but know that the guides, scenery, and sites promise to make it memorable.