5-Day Orkney and Highlands Tour From Edinburgh

Set out on a captivating 5-day journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Scotland’s Orkney and Highlands regions on this expertly guided tour from Edinburgh. Discover the country’s rich history and cultural heritage as you explore iconic sites like Skara Brae and Dunrobin Castle. With comfortable accommodations, engaging activities, and a maximum group size of 35, this well-organized tour promises an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or seeking an immersive introduction to Scotland, this tour offers a chance to uncover the region’s natural wonders and uncover hidden gems that may surprise even the most seasoned adventurer.

Key Points

• This 5-day tour from Edinburgh explores the Orkney Islands and Scottish Highlands, covering key sites like Glen Coe, Orkney treasures, Dunrobin Castle, and Culloden Battlefield.
• The tour includes 4 nights’ accommodation with breakfast, and is rated 5.0 out of 14 reviews for its knowledgeable guides and well-organized itinerary.
• The itinerary features immersive experiences, with expert guides leading visits to historical sites such as the Italian Chapel, Skara Brae, and Maeshowe.
• The tour provides convenient meeting and end points in Edinburgh, with luggage restrictions and accessibility considerations for a comfortable and inclusive experience.
• Traveler feedback highlights the tour’s strengths in delivering engaging cultural and scenic highlights, while also suggesting improvements to accommodation and pacing.

Tour Overview

This 5-day tour from Edinburgh takes travelers on a journey through the stunning Orkney Islands and the Scottish Highlands.

Departing from the capital, the tour highlights the breathtaking landscapes of Glen Coe, the historical treasures of Orkney, and the captivating sites of Dunrobin Castle and Culloden Battlefield.

With a duration of five days, the tour provides a comprehensive experience, including 4 nights of accommodation with breakfast.

Rated 5.0 out of 14 reviews, this tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and well-organized itinerary.

Whether you’re interested in history, natural beauty, or simply seeking an immersive Scottish adventure, this 5-day Orkney and Highlands tour promises an unforgettable experience.

Itinerary Details

The tour’s itinerary takes travelers on a captivating journey, departing from Edinburgh and venturing into the heart of the Scottish Highlands and the enchanting Orkney Islands.

On the first day, the group will visit the dramatic landscapes of Glen Coe.

Over the next three days, they’ll explore the historical and natural wonders of Orkney, including the Italian Chapel, the Neolithic settlement of Skara Brae, and the prehistoric chambered tomb of Maeshowe.

On the final day, the tour returns to the mainland, stopping at Dunrobin Castle and the poignant Culloden Battlefield before arriving back in Edinburgh.

With a carefully curated schedule and expert guides, this tour provides an immersive experience in Scotland’s most captivating regions.

Meeting and End Points

Travelers embark on the 5-day Orkney and Highlands tour from the designated meeting point at 192 High Street in Edinburgh, where they must check in by 8:15 am before the journey begins.

At the conclusion of the tour, guests are dropped off at the Lawnmarket in Edinburgh, though an alternative end point may be used during events at Edinburgh Castle.

This convenient pickup and drop-off arrangement ensures a seamless start and finish to the excursion, allowing participants to easily access the tour from the heart of the city and return to their accommodations or onward travels with minimal hassle.

Prompt timekeeping is essential to make the most of the comprehensive itinerary.

Inclusions and Restrictions

The 5-day Orkney and Highlands tour includes a driver/guide, 4 nights of accommodation with breakfast, and the cost of all activities outlined in the itinerary.

However, travelers must adhere to specific luggage restrictions, with a maximum weight of 15kg and size dimensions of 55cm x 40cm x 20cm per person, plus a small carry-on bag.

Travelers can choose from single rooms for solo travelers, double/twin rooms for pairs, or family rooms for three if needed.

The tour has a maximum capacity of 35 travelers, and it’s important to note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though it’s stroller accessible and allows service animals.

Accessibility and Participation

While the 5-day Orkney and Highlands tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it remains stroller accessible and welcomes service animals. Most travelers can participate, though children under 3 aren’t recommended due to the tour’s nature.

The tour’s accessibility and participation guidelines are as follows:

1. The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to the uneven terrain and historic sites visited.
2. Strollers are allowed, making the tour accessible for families with young children.
3. Service animals are welcome to accompany travelers on the tour.
4. Children must be accompanied by adults, and the tour isn’t recommended for kids under 3 years old.

Traveler Feedback

Feedback from past travelers highlights both the strengths and areas for improvement of the 5-day Orkney and Highlands tour.

Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable and engaging guides, who bring the region’s rich history and stunning scenery to life. The well-organized itineraries and beautiful accommodations also receive high marks.

However, some travelers note that the occasional rushed schedule and varying bus comfort could be improved.

To enhance the overall experience, it’s recommended to opt for double-occupancy rooms for more comfort and, if possible, choose a smaller group tour size.

With thoughtful consideration of this constructive feedback, the tour can continue to provide an unforgettable journey through the Orkney Islands and Scottish Highlands.

Duration and Highlights

Spanning 5 days, this comprehensive tour from Edinburgh explores the captivating Orkney Islands and the enchanting Scottish Highlands, offering travelers an immersive experience of the region’s rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty.

The tour’s highlights include:

• Wandering the ancient ruins of Skara Brae, a well-preserved Neolithic settlement, and the enigmatic Maeshowe chambered tomb.
• Admiring the striking beauty of Glen Coe, a dramatic glacial valley with towering mountains and cascading waterfalls.
• Visiting the impressive Dunrobin Castle, a stately 19th-century mansion with stunning gardens.
• Paying respects at the Culloden Battlefield, the site of the final Jacobite rising’s decisive defeat in 1746.

Accommodation and Reviews

The tour provides 4 nights of accommodation with breakfast included, catering to a range of traveler needs. Travelers can choose from single rooms, double/twin rooms, or family rooms if required.

The overall rating from 14 reviews is an impressive 5.0, with guests praising the knowledgeable and engaging guides, the beautiful scenery, and the well-organized itineraries.

While some reviewers noted that certain accommodations could be improved and that schedules were occasionally rushed, the majority of feedback was overwhelmingly positive.

Many recommended opting for double-occupancy rooms for more comfort and highlighted that smaller group sizes enhanced the overall experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food on the Tour?

Travelers are generally allowed to bring their own food on tours, but it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand. Some may have restrictions or provide meals as part of the package.

Is It Possible to Upgrade to a Private Tour?

Yes, private tours are often available for an additional fee. Travelers should inquire with the tour operator about upgrading to a private tour to receive more personalized attention and flexibility during their journey.

Are There Opportunities for Hiking During the Tour?

The tour includes some opportunities for hiking, though the focus is on visiting historical sites and natural attractions. Moderate walking is required, but the pace can be adjusted to suit participants’ fitness levels.

Can I Request Specific Dietary Accommodations?

Yes, the tour company can typically accommodate specific dietary requirements, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free meals. Travelers should notify the company of any dietary needs when booking the tour.

How Much Free Time Is Allotted During the Orkney Stay?

The tour provides ample free time during the Orkney stay, allowing travelers to explore the historical sites and natural beauty at their own pace. Specific details on the duration of free time are not provided in the overview.

Recap

This 5-day Orkney and Highlands tour from Edinburgh promises an unforgettable exploration of Scotland’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

With comfortable accommodations, engaging activities, and an expert guide, travelers can enjoy the breathtaking landscapes of Glen Coe, the historic sites of Skara Brae and Dunrobin Castle, and the rich traditions that make Scotland a must-visit destination.