From Edinburgh: Orkney, Skye and the Far North 8 Day Tour

Set out on a captivating journey through Scotland’s northern reaches, where rugged landscapes meet ancient wonders. From the Neolithic marvels of the Orkney Isles to the dramatic beauty of the Isle of Skye, this 8-day tour promises an immersive experience that tantalizes the senses. Explore the well-preserved village of Skara Brae, marvel at the iconic Fairy Pools, and explore the region’s storied past at the Culloden Battlefield. Along the way, savor the flavors of traditional Scottish cuisine, enjoying the rich cultural heritage that defines this enchanting corner of the world. Prepare to be swept away by the raw, untamed essence of Scotland’s far north.

Key Points

• An 8-day tour from Edinburgh that explores the natural wonders, ancient heritage, and cultural richness of Orkney, Skye, and the Far North of Scotland.
• Highlights include visiting the Neolithic village of Skara Brae, exploring the dramatic landscapes of the Isle of Skye, and discovering the Jacobite history at Culloden Battlefield.
• Offers accommodations near Loch Ness and ferries to the Orkney Isles, providing opportunities to immerse in the region’s captivating outdoor adventures and cultural experiences.
• Uncovers a trove of Neolithic wonders in Orkney, including the Ring of Brodgar, Maeshowe, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Orkney Isles.
• Culminates with a journey into the Cairngorms National Park, showcasing Scotland’s wilderness wonderland and providing a fitting farewell to this enchanting corner of the kingdom.

Tour Overview

This 8-day tour from Edinburgh whisks travelers on an unforgettable journey through the captivating landscapes of Orkney, Skye, and the Far North of Scotland.

Showcasing the region’s breathtaking natural beauty, ancient heritage, and cultural richness, this tour is sure to delight and inspire visitors.

From exploring the mystical Neolithic village of Skara Brae to uncovering the history of the Jacobite Uprising at Culloden Battlefield, each day offers a tantalizing blend of outdoor adventures and immersive cultural experiences.

With accommodation near the legendary Loch Ness and ferries transporting guests to the remote Orkney Isles, this comprehensive tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Scotland’s most iconic destinations.

Highlights

Travelers can expect to explore Skye’s captivating landscape, from the island’s dramatic sea cliffs to its serene lochs and valleys.

Visiting the Neolithic village of Skara Brae, guests will uncover Orkney’s ancient history, stepping back in time to a bygone era.

Accommodations near the legendary Loch Ness provide the perfect base for touring the Culloden battlefield and delving into the region’s Jacobite past.

The tour also offers a chance to marvel at the Ring o’ Brodgar, an impressive stone circle dating back over 4,500 years.

Whether hiking through breathtaking scenery or seeing Scotland’s rich cultural heritage, travelers will be captivated by the highlights of this exceptional journey.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

The 8-day tour kicks off with a journey through the captivating landscapes of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, where guests will settle in Oban for the night.

The next day, they’ll board the iconic Jacobite train and cross to the Isle of Skye, seeing the island’s rugged beauty.

On day three, they’ll explore Skye’s dramatic coastlines and visit the majestic Eilean Donan Castle before continuing to Loch Ness and Inverness.

The adventure then takes them across the sea to the Orkney Isles, where they’ll discover ancient wonders like Maeshowe and the Ring o’ Brodgar.

Accommodation and Transportation

Throughout the 8-day tour, guests enjoy comfortable 3- and 4-star accommodations carefully selected to enhance their experience.

Overnights in quaint Oban, charming Inverness, and historic Kirkwall on the Orkney Isles provide a cozy home base as they explore the rugged landscapes of the Scottish Highlands and Islands.

Traveling aboard a modern, climate-controlled coach, they journey through the Trossachs, across the sea to Skye, and onward to the remote Northern Isles, with ample opportunities to savor local cuisine and witness the breathtaking scenery.

With an expert guide providing insightful commentary, guests are immersed in the rich cultural heritage of this magical region, creating memories to last a lifetime.

Neolithic Wonders of Orkney

Stepping off the ferry onto the rugged Orkney Isles, guests uncover a trove of Neolithic wonders that transport them back thousands of years through Scotland’s captivating past. The ancient village of Skara Brae, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reveals the remarkably well-preserved homes of Neolithic people. Nearby, the mysterious Ring of Brodgar – a stone circle that once had over 60 monoliths – invokes a sense of reverence and wonder. And the chambered tomb of Maeshowe, with its intricate carvings, provides a glimpse into the sophisticated spiritual beliefs of these early inhabitants. Through these tangible links to the past, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for the enduring strength of Orkney’s Neolithic legacy.

Neolithic Site	Highlights	Significance
Skara Brae	Well-preserved Stone Age village	Provides insight into daily life 5,000 years ago
Ring of Brodgar	Impressive stone circle	One of the finest examples of Neolithic ceremonial sites
Maeshowe	Chambered tomb with intricate carvings	Showcases the advanced engineering and religious beliefs of the time

Exploring the Isle of Skye

After seeing Orkney’s captivating Neolithic heritage, travelers embark on a journey to the Isle of Skye, where they’ll discover a breathtaking landscape that seems to have been sculpted by the very elements themselves.

Jagged peaks, serene lochs, and windswept moors create a scene of rugged, untamed beauty. Visitors can explore the iconic Fairy Pools, whose crystal-clear waters beckon for a refreshing dip, or wander through the dramatic Quiraing, a geological masterpiece formed by ancient landslides.

Foodies delight in sampling local specialties like freshly caught seafood and hearty lamb dishes, fueling their adventures through this enchanting isle. From the legendary Cuillin mountains to the charming coastal villages, Skye captivates all who set foot upon its shores.

Culloden Battlefield and Cairngorms

The tour’s final day commences with a moving visit to the Culloden Battlefield, where visitors can palpably feel the weight of history as they walk the very ground where the Jacobite uprising met its tragic end.

Afterwards, they journey into the dramatic Cairngorms National Park, where towering peaks, ancient forests, and rushing rivers create a wilderness wonderland ripe for exploration. Travelers may hike through fragrant pine woods, spotting red deer and golden eagles, or indulge in a dram of Scotch whisky at a local distillery.

The day culminates in the charming Victorian town of Pitlochry, where guests can browse the quaint shops and savor traditional Scottish fare before bidding farewell to this enchanting corner of the kingdom.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes a range of thoughtfully curated elements to elevate the experience, from comfortable accommodations and guided explorations to admission fees for the most remarkable historical sites.

Yet, it’s important to note that certain expenses, like meals beyond breakfast, aren’t covered, allowing guests the flexibility to indulge in local culinary delights at their own pace.

Snacks and beverages can be purchased during rest stops, while seafood fresh from the North Atlantic, hearty Highland beef, and regional produce await in villages along the way.

While children under 3 aren’t permitted, the tour is designed to provide an immersive journey for adults, with a reasonable 15kg luggage limit per person.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Add Extra Days to the Tour?

Sure, travelers can easily extend their tour by adding extra days. The tour operator offers flexibility, allowing guests to customize their experience and explore Scotland’s captivating landscapes and rich cultural heritage at their own pace.

Is It Possible to Book This Tour Privately?

Yes, travelers can book this private tour for their group. The personal guide and itinerary ensure an exclusive, tailored experience exploring Orkney, Skye, and the rugged Scottish Highlands at their own pace.

What Types of Dietary Requirements Can Be Accommodated?

This tour offers a range of dietary accommodations. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meals can be provided with advance notice. The driver-guide works closely with the accommodations to ensure guests’ culinary needs are met throughout the journey.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour operator offers discounted rates for seniors and students, though the specifics are not provided. Guests should inquire about any available concessions when booking to potentially enjoy savings on this immersive exploration of Scotland’s stunning northern regions.

Can I Bring More Than 15 Kg of Luggage?

The tour operator has a strict 15 kg per person luggage limit. Exceeding this allowance isn’t permitted, as it can cause issues with transporting the group’s belongings. Travelers should pack light and smartly to ensure a seamless, comfortable journey.

Recap

This immersive 8-day tour through Scotland’s captivating north unveils a tapestry of ancient wonders, dramatic landscapes, and cultural treasures.

From the Neolithic villages of Orkney to the rugged beauty of Skye and the Cairngorms, travelers embark on a journey that delights the senses and leaves an indelible mark.

With opportunities to savor local cuisine and explore storied sites, this comprehensive itinerary promises an unforgettable exploration of Scotland’s most enchanting regions.