5 Day Orkney and Highlands |
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May to September Departs Tuesdays |
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Limited time ... want to get off the beaten track ... discover the rich and diverse culture of Scotland? Then this is the tour for you!
Launching this season we have a fantastic new tour visiting the very best of the Highlands, remote Sutherland - the least densely populated area of Europe - and the incredible Orkney Isles.
Day 1 - Leaving Edinburgh at 8.30 a.m. we head straight for Stirling for tales of William Wallace and Robert the Bruce. We'll wind our way through the Highlands, stopping to take in the dramatic atmosphere of Glencoe before trying to find our illusive monster in Loch Ness. We'll have a wonderful short walk to see Rogie Falls before arriving at the Aultguish Inn, our home for the night.
Day 2 - Today we wind our way along the far North Western coast – a chance to explore the famous Smoo caves and explore some of the most remote and rugged landscapes Europe has to offer. Deserted beaches, towering mountains, sparkling lochs and the wide open skies really set the tone today before we take the evening ferry to the awesome Orkney Islands.
Day 3 - From our base in the fishing village of St Margaret's Hope we spend a full and energetic day today exploring the islands - it will be packed with Viking ancestry and world-renowned archaeological treasures such as Skara Brae and the Ring of Brogar. Plus a chance to gaze in wonder at the island's Italian Chapel, search for the coastal Puffins (May-July) and also walk to one of the neighbouring islands. Loads of time will be spent off the bus and much time spent walking especially along some of the fantastic beaches – a day to remember (another one!)
Day 4 – Another morning on Orkney witnessing locals making Orkney Cheese / Jewellery and going for some lovely walks in the area (experience a Gloup). This afternoon we return to the mainland visiting John O'Groats before heading south via Wick and the atmospheric ruins of Castle Sinclair. Finally another castle, Carbisdale our home for the night! A unique experience living it up in style, surrounded by the priceless art collection.
Day 5 – Our last day takes us up the banks of Loch Ness for some essential Nessie hunting before an emotional stop at tragic Culloden battlefield. Then we cheer ourselves up with beautiful forest walks at the Hermitage and a distillery visit before making our way over the Firth of Forth back to Edinburgh – happy honorary Scots!
We're certain that this will be a really special trip, and one you'll remember for a long time to come. We look forward to seeing you.
Tour itineraries and accommodation can vary due to acts of God etc, but we normally stick to this. kitty includes hostels, evening meals, breakfasts etc. Everything except lunch, drinks and souvenirs.
Please note that this tour will generally join with our 9 day tour on the first day of the trip.
This tour will not stay at Carbisdale Castle throughout May and June and then on the following dates - 2nd, 9th and 16th September. However we will use great alternative accommodation at Loch Ness.
Alternative tours
Like this itinerary but short of time? Try the 3 Day Skye & Highlands.
Just got to get to the Islands? Try the 6 Day Hebridean Explorer.
Never slept in a castle before? Try the 6 Day Monster Castle Tour, 5 Day Orkney and Highlands or 9 Day Island Hopper.
