From Edinburgh: Orkney, Skye and the Far North 8 Day Tour

Traveling through Scotland’s dramatic landscapes and ancient sites can be a dream for many, and this 8-day tour from Edinburgh offers a pretty thorough way to do it. While we haven’t taken this trip ourselves, we’ve gathered enough info to give you a good sense of what it’s like—and whether it might be a fit for your travel style.

What we like most? First, the expert guides seem to make a real difference, bringing alive the history and scenery with their insights. Second, the stunning scenery across the islands and highlands truly sounds unbeatable, from the Cuillin Mountains to Loch Ness and the mysterious Orkney Islands.

A potential consideration? The tour covers a lot of ground, so it’s quite packed. If you prefer slow travel or want to explore one spot deeply, this might feel rushed. It’s best suited for those who want a rundown rather than a leisurely, in-depth exploration of each location.

This tour would suit travelers who are eager to see a wide variety of Scottish sights in a structured way, especially those interested in history, ancient sites, and breathtaking landscapes. If you love learning from knowledgeable guides and don’t mind a bit of moving around, this could be right up your alley.

Key Points

• Extensive itinerary covering the Highlands, Skye, and Orkney over 8 days
• Expert guides enhance the experience with storytelling and local insights
• Primarily includes transportation and select attractions, with some optional extras
• Rich variety of scenery and history, from castles to prehistoric sites
• Accommodation included, offering convenient overnight stays
• A good balance of structured sightseeing and free time for exploration or relaxation

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

This tour is designed to give travelers a genuine sense of Scotland’s diverse landscapes and history, all within a manageable eight days. It balances natural beauty with cultural and archaeological highlights, making it a compelling choice for those who want a taste of everything.

Day 1: Highland Scenery and Ancient Roots

The journey kicks off in the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, a spot famed for its glittering lochs and rolling hills. As you travel west towards Oban, your guides might share stories about Scotland’s past, setting the tone for the trip.

In Kilmartin Glen, you’ll find over 5,000 years of history laid out as you walk among ancient monuments like Dunadd Hill Fort and the Temple Wood Stone Circle. It’s a real highlight for history buffs or anyone interested in Scotland’s early days. Staying overnight in Oban offers a cozy base to start soaking in the Scottish atmosphere.

Day 2: The Highlands and the Ferry to Skye

This day is a mix of stunning scenery and iconic sights. The haunting landscape of Glen Coe is a must-see, with its rugged cliffs and stories of past tragedies. As the tallest mountain in Britain, Ben Nevis makes a brief appearance from afar, reminding us of the wild grandeur of these hills.

Passing Fort William and crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct — famous from Harry Potter — adds a touch of pop culture fun. Then, the ferry ride to the Isle of Skye begins, opening up a world of rugged mountains, charming villages, and dramatic coastlines. The ferry is a practical way to move between these remote parts, and you might find the crossing quite scenic.

Day 3: Exploring Skyes’s Spectacular Landscapes

This is the day many travelers look forward to — full of breathtaking views and natural wonders. The Cuillin Mountains promise rugged peaks for the adventurous, while the Quiraing offers striking slanting hills perfect for hikes or photo stops.

The Trotternish peninsula is a highlight, with iconic spots like the Old Man of Storr and the dramatic cliffs that will make your camera happy. Staying in Skye allows for an immersive experience, whether you want to wander or just soak in the scenery.

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Day 4: Castles, Loch Ness, and a Taste of the Highlands

Leaving Skye behind, the tour hits the scenic Eilean Donan Castle, often called Scotland’s most photographed castle. It’s a classic stop that looks like it’s straight out of a storybook.

Next, you head towards Loch Ness, where you can opt for a cruise or visit Urquhart Castle (additional cost). The legendary monster might be a fun detour, but the real draw is the sheer beauty of this vast, mysterious loch. An overnight stay in Inverness keeps you close to this area.

Day 5: To the Orkney Islands

One of the trip’s most distinctive sections, this involves traveling north and then taking a ferry to the Orkney Islands. The coastal scenery on the way is picturesque, and the ferry crossing is often described as memorable.

Once on Orkney, you’ll visit the Italian Chapel, uniquely built by Italian prisoners of war, and see the Churchill Barriers, historic causeways built to defend the navy. Staying in Kirkwall puts you at the heart of the island’s history and culture.

Day 6: Ancient Wonders of Orkney

This day is dedicated to exploring the island’s prehistoric sites. The Maeshowe chambered cairn and the Neolithic village of Skara Brae are UNESCO-listed and truly fascinating. The Stone Circles of Stenness and Ring o’ Brodgar are atmospheric and evoke thoughts of ancient rituals.

The St Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall is also worth a visit, offering a glimpse into medieval architecture. This full day of exploration showcases how much history is packed into these islands.

Day 7: Return to the Mainland and Scenic Journey South

Heading back to the Scottish mainland, you might pass Dunrobin Castle, adding a regal touch to the trip. The drive south from Inverness is scenic, with plenty of photo stops and opportunities to appreciate Scotland’s varied landscapes. An overnight in Inverness keeps the trip comfortable and allows for reflection on the journey so far.

Day 8: Final Highlights and Departure

On your last day, a visit to the Battlefield of Culloden—which marks the end of the Jacobite uprising—is both sobering and interesting. Passing the Cairngorm mountains and stopping in Pitlochry means you’ll leave with memories of dramatic scenery and historic sites.

What Does the Tour Include and What Are the Extra Costs?

The tour covers transportation, a guide, 7 nights’ accommodation, and breakfast each day. Entrance to some key sites like Maes Howe, Skara Brae, and the Italian Chapel is included, which is a real plus. However, some attractions like Loch Ness Cruise, Urquhart Castle, and Culloden Visitor Centre are optional extras, so budget accordingly if you want to add those in.

The price of around $1,908 per person reflects a mid-range level—considering it includes accommodations and entrance fees for key sites, it offers good value for a comprehensive Scottish adventure. The guided aspect ensures you’ll get local stories and context, often making the experience richer than self-guided visits.

How About the Guides?

From reviews, it’s clear that guides like Alex and Andy make a real difference. Travelers describe them as knowledgeable and engaging, which helps bring the scenery and history to life. Having a guide who can share stories and answer questions makes the long days more enjoyable and informative.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The tour runs with a live English-speaking guide, and the group size isn’t specified but likely moderate, given the scope. The itinerary is quite full, so expect early mornings and days packed with sights. The accommodations are included, which simplifies logistics, and breakfast is provided each morning.

You’ll need to manage your luggage carefully — the maximum weight is 15 kg, with a size limit of 55cm x 40cm x 20cm — so pack smart. Children over 3 can join, but note that some sites or activities might require extra consideration.

While most of the tour is accessible for those comfortable with travel, the busy schedule and travel between islands mean it’s best suited for those who enjoy moving around and don’t mind a packed itinerary.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re eager to see a broad slice of Scotland’s natural beauty, historical sites, and islands in one organized trip, this tour has a lot to offer. It’s especially good if you want to leave the planning to someone else and focus on experiencing the sights.

Travelers who love learning from guides and enjoy a mixture of scenic drives, archaeological sites, and iconic landmarks will find this tour fulfilling. Because it covers islands, castles, and scenic highlands, it’s a solid choice for those looking for a well-rounded Scottish experience.

However, if you prefer to explore at a more leisurely pace or focus deeply on fewer sites, you might find the schedule a bit rushed. It’s also worth considering additional costs for some attractions if those are must-sees for you.

All in all, this guided trip offers a comprehensive, well-organized way to see the best of northern Scotland and the islands, making it a tempting option for adventurous, history-loving travelers ready to cover a lot of ground.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation is included throughout the trip, from coach travel to ferries between islands.

Do I need to book attractions separately?
Some attractions, like Loch Ness Cruises or Urquhart Castle, are optional extras and not included in the main price.

How many nights do I stay in each place?
You’ll stay overnight in Oban, Skye, Inverness, and Kirkwall, with a total of 7 nights’ accommodation.

Can I bring luggage?
Yes, but be mindful that the maximum luggage weight is 15 kg, with a size limit of 55cm x 40cm x 20cm.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children over 3 years old can join, but the tour is best suited for those comfortable with a busy schedule and long days of travel.

What kind of guides lead the tour?
The tour is led by English-speaking guides known for their knowledge and engaging storytelling.

Are there vegetarian or special diet options?
The tour includes breakfast, but other meals are not included. You should check with the provider for specific dietary needs.

What are the main highlights of the tour?
Expect visits to castles, prehistoric sites, stunning islands like Skye and Orkney, and scenic drives through the Highlands.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, Scotland’s weather can be unpredictable. The itinerary may be adjusted due to weather, but the core sights remain the focus.

If you enjoy a packed, scenic, and historically rich journey through Scotland’s north and islands, this tour could be your perfect adventure. Just be ready for some moving around and a good dose of awe-inspiring views.

You can check availability for your dates here: