This 8-day tour provides travelers a chance to enjoy the breathtaking landscapes of Scotland’s Isle of Skye, Orkney Islands, and the iconic North Coast 500 route. Guests will experience authentic Scottish hospitality by staying in cozy 3-star B&Bs and enjoying hearty daily breakfasts. While the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or serious medical conditions, it welcomes families with children aged 5 and up. However, one highlight, the Jacobite Steam Train, is subject to last-minute changes, requiring flexibility from participants. With a mix of natural wonders and cultural exploration, this tour promises an unforgettable Scottish adventure.
Key Points
- 8-day tour departing from Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile, exploring the natural beauty of the Isle of Skye, Orkney Islands, and North Coast 500 route.
- Accommodation in cozy 3-star B&Bs with daily breakfast, providing a homely and authentic Scottish experience.
- Consistent 8:30 am departure with return to the same meeting location, ensuring a convenient and seamless experience.
- Tour not suitable for those with mobility limitations, pregnancy, or serious medical conditions, with a minimum age of 5 and a maximum group size of 16.
- Jacobite Steam Train service subject to last-minute changes, requiring flexibility and preparation for potential schedule alterations.
Tour Overview
This 8-day tour from Edinburgh takes travelers on an immersive journey through the captivating landscapes of the Isle of Skye, Orkney Islands, and the North Coast 500 route.
Departing from the historic Royal Mile, the tour provides an opportunity to explore Scotland’s stunning natural beauty, from the rugged Cuillin Mountains to the ancient Neolithic ruins.
Along the way, guests stay in cozy 3-star B&Bs and enjoy a daily breakfast.
With a maximum of 16 travelers, the tour offers an intimate and personalized experience.
However, it’s important to note that the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or certain medical conditions.
Accommodation and Meals
The tour provides 3-star B&B accommodation for 7 nights, ensuring a comfortable stay throughout the journey. Travelers can also enjoy a daily breakfast during their time on the tour.
The B&Bs are carefully selected to offer a homely and authentic Scottish experience. Breakfast is included each morning, providing a hearty start to the day’s adventures.
Dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice, catering to a range of preferences. The comfortable lodgings and daily meals help fuel the exploration of the stunning landscapes on this comprehensive tour.
Pickup and Drop-off
The tour consistently departs at 8:30 am from 60 High Street, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH1 1TB, allowing travelers ample time to reach the starting point.
Once the tour ends, it brings participants back to the meeting location, providing a convenient and seamless experience.
Travelers should plan their transportation to the departure point in advance and arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled start time to ensure a smooth check-in process.
The tour’s pickup and drop-off logistics are designed to maximize convenience and minimize hassle, allowing participants to focus on the incredible sights and experiences that await them on the Isle of Skye, Orkney, and North Coast 500 journey.
Tour Restrictions
Certain restrictions apply to this tour, ensuring the safety and comfort of all participants. Travelers with mobility limitations, expecting mothers, and those with heart conditions or other serious medical concerns should reconsider joining, as the tour isn’t wheelchair-accessible and may present physical challenges.
The minimum age to travel is 5 years old, and each person is limited to one suitcase weighing no more than 33lbs (15kg) and one carry-on bag.
Collapsible wheelchairs with removable wheels can be accommodated if accompanied by someone who can assist.
The tour has a maximum of 16 travelers.
Jacobite Steam Train service may be subject to alterations and cancellations at short notice.
Confirmation and Cancellation
Travelers receive confirmation of their booking at the time of purchase, and the tour company advises arriving at the departure point at least 15 minutes before the 8:30 am start time to ensure a punctual departure.
The tour is situated near public transportation, making it convenient for participants to reach the meeting location.
While the Jacobite Steam Train service is subject to last-minute changes or cancellations, the tour company ensures that guests are informed of any alterations to the itinerary.
The tour has a maximum of 16 travelers, providing an intimate and personalized experience.
Booking transportation to the departure point in advance is recommended to avoid any delays or complications on the day of the tour.
Transportation Recommendations
One recommendation for travelers is to book transportation to the departure point in advance. This ensures they arrive at the meeting location on 60 High Street, The Royal Mile in Edinburgh at least 15 minutes before the 8:30 am tour start time, avoiding any potential delays or complications on the day.
Considering taking public transportation like buses or trains to reach the departure point, as the tour location is conveniently near public transit.
Arranging for a rideshare or taxi service if driving oneself isn’t an option.
Allowing extra time for traffic or other unforeseen delays to arrive with plenty of time to check-in for the tour.
Keeping luggage within the specified weight and size limits to make boarding the tour bus easier.
Group Size and Accessibility
The tour accommodates a maximum of 16 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
While the bus isn’t wheelchair accessible, collapsible wheelchairs with removable wheels can be brought on the tour if accompanied by someone who can provide assistance.
The tour isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant women, or those with heart conditions or other serious medical issues.
Children as young as 5 are welcome, but the tour may not be suitable for all young travelers.
Travelers are limited to one suitcase weighing no more than 33lbs and one carry-on bag, so packing light is essential.
The small group size and accessibility considerations ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey for all participants.
Jacobite Steam Train Service
While the Jacobite Steam Train service is a highlight of the tour, it may be subject to short-notice alterations and cancellations beyond the tour operator’s control. Passengers should keep this in mind when planning their trip.
The tour itinerary includes a journey on the Jacobite Steam Train, which has captivated travelers for decades with its stunning views of the Scottish Highlands. However, as the train service operates independently, last-minute changes can occur.
Passengers are advised to:
- Be flexible and prepared for potential schedule changes
- Arrive at the departure point early in case of delays
- Bring warm, weather-appropriate clothing
- Double-check train schedules prior to the tour date
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Total Distance Covered on This Tour?
The total distance covered on this tour is not specified in the provided information. The tour itinerary includes visits to the Isle of Skye, Orkney Islands, and the North Coast 500 route, but the exact mileage is not mentioned.
Are There Any Optional Activities or Excursions During the Tour?
This 8-day tour doesn’t include optional activities or excursions. However, travelers can explore the highlights of the Isle of Skye, Orkney, and the North Coast 500 route during the scheduled sightseeing stops and free time throughout the tour.
Can I Request a Specific Room Type or Amenities for the Accommodations?
Travelers can’t request specific room types or amenities for the 3* B&B accommodations on this tour. The tour provider handles the bookings, and rooms are assigned based on availability. Guests receive 7 nights of basic bed and breakfast accommodations.
Is There Any Flexibility in the Tour Itinerary or Schedule?
The tour itinerary and schedule have limited flexibility. While participants can’t request specific accommodations, the tour provider aims to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience within the set parameters. Travelers should plan accordingly and arrive on time for the scheduled departure.
How Experienced Are the Tour Guides, and What Languages Do They Speak?
The tour guides are seasoned professionals who lead the tours in English. They have deep knowledge of the areas visited and provide engaging commentary to enrich the experience for travelers from all over the world.
Recap
This 8-day tour from Edinburgh offers travelers a chance to explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Isle of Skye, Orkney Islands, and the North Coast 500 route.
Guests will stay in cozy 3-star B&Bs, enjoy daily breakfasts, and experience an authentic Scottish adventure.
However, the tour may not be suitable for those with mobility limitations or serious medical conditions, and the Jacobite Steam Train is subject to potential last-minute changes.
