5 Day Orkney Islands and North Coast 500 Tour from Edinburgh

Discovering Scotland in 5 Days: An In-Depth Look at the Orkney Islands & North Coast 500 Tour

Imagine packing what feels like a full year of Scottish adventure into just five days—without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. That’s roughly what this highly-rated 5-day tour from Edinburgh offers, with a maximum of only 8 travelers per group, guided by knowledgeable experts like Calum and Karen. Priced at around $929, this is an immersive, carefully curated journey through some of Scotland’s most stunning landscapes, ancient sites, and charming towns.

What I particularly love about this experience is how well it balances iconic sights with authentic local flavor. You get a taste of highland whisky, stop at historic battlegrounds like Culloden, and walk among 5,000-year-old standing stones—all in just a few days. Plus, the trip’s intimate size means you won’t be lost in a sea of travelers, which often happens with larger coach tours. The guides’ expertise and friendly manner shine through in the reviews—one traveler even raved about Calum and Karen being “great cRead more,” emphasizing how personal attention makes the experience more meaningful.

One potential consideration is the pace of the itinerary. It’s packed with visits and driving, which might feel fast for some travelers wanting deep, lingering visits at each site. Also, since costs for entry fees and optional extras like whisky tastings and castle visits aren’t included, you’ll want to budget an additional €100-€150. Still, the overall value lies in the expert guidance, the exclusive group size, and the opportunity to see everything from Neolithic villages to seafaring ruins with the ocean at your side.

Key Points

• Small-group experience: Up to 8 travelers for a more personal connection.
• Diverse itinerary: From historic battlefields to stunning coastal drives and ancient stone circles.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides like Calum and Karen enhance the experience.
• Authentic sites: Visits to Maeshowe, Skara Brae, and the Ring of Brodgar showcase 5,000-year-old history.
• Cost considerations: Entry fees and optional tastings are extra, adding to your overall budget.
• Ideal for: Travelers seeking an immersive, well-organized Scottish adventure without the crowds.

A Closer Look at the 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Highland Welcome in the Cairngorms and Culloden

Your journey begins in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, with a walk through Cairngorms National Park. Standing among ancient forests and mountain trails, you’ll immediately get a sense of the land’s rugged beauty. I love how these walks set the tone—simultaneously relaxing and awe-inspiring.

Next, the Culloden Battlefield offers a gripping history lesson about the Jacobite Uprising. The reviews praise the guides—“Calum and Karen did a great job in every detail”—noting how their local knowledge brings the stories to life. While the battlefield is fascinating, keep in mind that admission to the visitor center isn’t included, costing roughly £15. Afterward, a visit to Inverness provides a moment to stretch your legs and soak in the Highland town vibe.

The day wraps up at Clava Cairns, a burial site over 4,000 years old, where standing stones and ancient graves serve as a stark reminder of our distant past. The quiet, contemplative atmosphere here is a highlight for many visitors.

Day 2: Coastal Wonders and Orkney’s Heritage

Driving along the North Coast 500, you’ll enjoy some of Scotland’s most dramatic coastlines—think rugged cliffs, roaring waves, and sweeping vistas. The review from Erich_P highlights the well-organized itinerary and the flexibility offered by the guides, which is essential when you’re trying to soak in such a variety of sights.

Stopping at Latheronwheel Harbour allows for a quick coastal walk, and the Italian Chapel—built by prisoners of war during WWII—is a surprisingly delicate and beautiful structure. You can also tour Scapa Distillery, where the art of whisky-making becomes clear, and you can sample some drams to truly enjoy the Highland spirit.

The day ends in Kirkwall, the Orkney capital, where the narrow streets and lighthouse views set a relaxed, charming tone for the next day’s explorations.

Day 3: Ancient Monuments and Viking Roots

This day is a highlight for history and archaeology enthusiasts. Visiting St Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall offers a glimpse into medieval life, while nearby Maeshowe—a 5,000-year-old chambered cairn—is a must-see for its incredible carvings and burial chambers.

The Standing Stones of Stenness and Ring of Brodgar are jaw-droppers. Standing among these ancient stones, I couldn’t help but picture the people who erected them thousands of years ago—what were their stories? Skara Brae, the preserved Neolithic village, lets you step into the homes and imagine everyday life over five millennia ago.

One reviewer notes that “the guides make ancient history feel alive,” which is my experience too—these sites are not just relics, but stories waiting to be told.

Day 4: Returning to Mainland Scotland and Castles

Crossing back to the mainland via ferry, you’ll stop at John O’Groats, made famous by its location at the northern tip of Britain. Photographs with the signpost here are almost compulsory.

The Grey Cairns of Camster offer an atmospheric peek into prehistoric burial practices—be prepared to crawl into the cairns, an experience that’s not for everyone but deeply memorable.

In the evening, you might explore Castle Sinclair Girnigoe—the ruins perched on dramatic coastlines—before visiting Dunrobin Castle, a fairy-tale structure surrounded by gardens and sweeping views. The guide’s insights, especially about Dunrobin’s history dating back to the 13th century, add depth for those interested in Scottish castle lore.

Day 5: Loch Ness and the Highlands

No trip to Scotland is complete without a cruise on Loch Ness. While Nessie might be elusive, the scenic water and surrounding hills are enough to keep your camera busy. The reviews note that these boat trips, around £15, offer a peaceful perspective on the legendary loch.

Next, the stunning Glencoe valley provides dramatic vistas of craggy peaks—perfect for photos and a sense of the wild Scottish landscape. The day concludes with a drive through Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, where nature and wildlife create the perfect backdrop for reflection on your journey.

Finally, the trip circles back through the Highlands, offering a final chance to soak in the scenery before returning to Edinburgh.

What Makes This Tour Special?

This experience stands out because of its intimate group size and expert guides. Many travelers praise Calum and Karen for their friendly, knowledgeable approach, adding context to everything from ancient stones to whisky distilleries. The small group makes it easier to ask questions, take photos without feeling rushed, and genuinely connect with your guides and fellow travelers.

The itinerary strikes a careful balance between scenic drives, historic sites, and local flavor. While the days are packed, the pacing allows for meaningful stops without excessive rushing. Plus, visiting places like Maeshowe and Skara Brae gives you rare access to sites that are not just tourist attractions but windows into our shared human past.

Considering the additional costs for entry fees and optional tastings, it’s worth budgeting another €100-€150. Even so, the overall value is quite favorable given the quality of guides, the unique sites, and the surprise inclusion of ferry crossings, which make for seamless travel.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who want to see a broad swath of Scotland’s heritage and landscapes in a short time. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate small-group travel and expert guides who can tell stories and answer questions along the way. History buffs, nature lovers, and whisky enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy, thanks to the carefully curated stops.

However, keep in mind that the itinerary is quite full, and some sites require walking or bending into confined spaces (like the Grey Cairns). If mobility is an issue, it’s worth considering whether the pace suits your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, the maximum group size of 8 makes it ideal for solo travelers looking for a personal, engaging experience without feeling lost in a large crowd.

Are meals included?
No, meals and snacks are not included. You’ll have opportunities for lunch in towns like Aviemore and Kirkwall, but you’ll need to budget separately for food.

What about entry fees?
Most site entry fees are not included, and travelers should budget around £11-£22 for attractions like Skara Brae, Maeshowe, and Dunrobin Castle.

How flexible is the itinerary?
Guides are praised for their flexibility, and you may have some opportunities to make tweaks based on your interests or weather conditions.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is designed for most travelers, but since some sites involve walking and confined spaces, children should be prepared for some physical activity.

What is included in the price?
Transportation, ferry crossings to and from the Orkney Islands, guided walks, and visits to major archaeological sites are included.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 6 days before the start for a full refund, according to the policy.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a comprehensive, well-organized Scottish adventure that balances iconic sights with authentic experiences, this 5-day tour could be a perfect choice. The small-group format ensures a more personal touch and richer interactions, especially with guides who clearly love sharing their knowledge. From ancient stone circles to legendary lochs, you’ll leave with a deeper understanding of Scotland’s history and landscapes.

This experience is particularly ideal for travelers who want to maximize their time in Scotland, enjoying the highlights without the hassle of self-drive logistics. The pace is brisk, but the rewards are plentiful—stunning views, fascinating stories, and memorable moments that will stay with you long after your departure.

In essence, this tour offers a snapshot of Scotland’s timeless beauty and rugged history, delivered with warmth, expertise, and a touch of Highland magic.