5-Day Orkney Isles Tour and the Far North, from Edinburgh

Begin your tour from 1 Parliament Square - Royal Mile (Caffe Nero next to St Giles Cathedral) and reach the meeting point 15 minutes earlier for pre-departure briefing. Board your air- conditioned Mercedes coach and get set for an exciting voyage!

Day 1

The bus heads westward and covers the beautiful scenery of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. The spectacular Highlands come into sight as the bus makes its way through the breathtaking landscape of Glen Coe, equal parts beautiful and haunting. Your driver-guide will give you insight into the terrible massacre of the MacDonald Clan at Glen Coe.

The route then takes you through Fort William and the Great Glen to arrive at the fabled shores of Loch Ness, where you may enjoy an evening boat cruise, and admire the stunning hills around this massive Loch. Stay overnight at Loch Ness. B&B, Superior Guest House and Hotel accommodation packages include a full Scottish breakfast!

Day 2

On day 2, prepare to head over the sea to the Orkney Isles! The journey takes you northward via Inverness and the magnificent coastal panorama of the Moray and Cromarty Firths come into sight. Board the ferry, which is included in your ticket and embark on a memorable trip to the mystifying and exquisite Orkney Isles. Upon arrival, begin exploring the area and take in the stunning scenery. Visit the beautiful Italian Chapel, built by Italian prisoners of war, and see the famous Churchill Barriers – causeways that were erected to protect the English naval fleet from submarines. The day will finish with a visit to beautiful St Magnus Cathedral and Bishop's and Earl's Palaces.

Day 3

The third day has in store some exciting opportunities to explore the ancient history of the Isles. An incredible collection of prehistoric marvels await as you stroll around the Maeshowe chambered cairn, visit the world-renowned Skara Brae, a Neolithic village in the Isles, and the brooding stone circles of Stenness and the Ring o’Brodgar. 

Day 4

Kirkwall, which boasts many craft and gift shops to enjoy, You'll have a late morning ferry ride back to the mainland. Your expert guide will ensure you get the best out of your journey to Inverness, exploring the dramatic coastline. We will be able to visit Dunrobin Castle before reaching your overnight stop, the capital of the Highlands, Inverness.

Day 5

The journey back to Edinburgh takes you through some of the most visually majestic sights that are hard to find anywhere in the world. You find yourself reaching for the camera over and over again as each scenic view tends to outdo the last! The drive takes you through Inverness, the heart and capital of the Highlands.

Take time to visit the battlefield of Culloden which stands as the site where the Jacobite forces were defeated. You’ll also pass the imposing and majestic Cairngorm Mountains to explore the picturesque town of Pitlochry. The town is a favourite among locals and tourists alike and a must-visit in Scotland. After taking in the incomparably fantastic sights of the Scottish Highlands, head forward to Edinburgh where this wonderful tour comes to a close at the starting point.