Orkney Islands and The Northern Highlands - 3 day tour
Orkney Islands and the Northern Highlands
3 day/2 night tour
The Orkney Islands are home to many fascinating historical treasures. On this absorbing tour, you’ll have the chance to visit ancient Neolithic sites, including Skara Brae, Maeshowe and the evocative Ring of Brodgar. Discover Scapa Flow, the scene of momentous events in both World Wars and explore the mighty St Magnus Cathedral, one of the finest in Europe. On the mainland, you’ll travel along the North Coast 500 route, famed for its stunning coastal views and have the opportunity to visit grand Dunrobin Castle.
Northern Highlands - enjoy stunning mountain views and sweeping seascapes
Italian Chapel - visit this ornate chapel constructed by Italian prisoners of war
Skara Brae - step back 5,000 years to discover all about Neolithic life at this well-preserved settlement of prehistoric dwellings
Ring of Brodgar - explore this magnificent circle of monoliths, one of the most significant in the United Kingdom
Kirkwall - discover how the Vikings shaped this bustling town and see the magnificent St Magnus Cathedral
Movie locations - Venus Peter, The Silver Darlings and The Spy in Black
Guest house accommodation included
Full Tour Itinerary
Select Day:
Day 1 - Inverness - Dunrobin Castle - Kirkwall
Our Orkney Islands tour begins with a scenic drive from Inverness, heading north to admire the stunning Dunrobin Castle, which overlooks the beautiful Moray Firth. You can tour some of the 189 rooms and explore the delightful gardens during the visit.
We then journey along the renowned North Coast 500, reaching the UK’s northernmost point at John O’Groats. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around this iconic spot before we set sail for the Orkney Islands.
As we cross the Pentland Firth, watch for grey seals and orcas if you are lucky.
In the afternoon, there is free time in Kirkwall, the largest community in Orkney, to wander its charming streets and discover its Viking heritage.
Why not visit the impressive St Magnus Cathedral and the Bishop’s & Earl’s Palaces? Alternatively, explore the many studio shops where you can see artists and craftspeople at work. It’s an excellent opportunity to pick up a unique souvenir of your visit to these Northern Isles.
We return to our accommodation in the late afternoon, giving you time to relax and reflect on the day’s adventures.
Overnight: Kirkwall (2 nights)
Day 2 - Exploring Orkney
Today, we delve into the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of the Orkney Islands.
Our first stop is the ancient Standing Stones of Stenness, which may be the oldest stone circle in the UK. Dating back over 5,000 years, only four of the stones remain standing, but it still makes for an impressive sight. We then visit the impressive Ring of Brodgar, a stunning stone circle dramatically situated overlooking two lochs. It’s one of the best-preserved stone circles in the UK, providing hints of forgotten ritual and belief.
Next, we explore Skara Brae, a remarkably well-preserved Stone Age settlement overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. It’s incredible to think that this community was thriving before the building of the pyramids! During your visit, you’ll see houses complete with their stone furniture, presenting a fascinating insight into the daily lives of Neolithic people.
Prepare to be awed by the dramatic Yesnaby Cliffs, famous for their rugged beauty and striking sea stacks. If you’re fortunate, you might catch sight of puffins nesting along the cliffs.
Finally, tides permitting, we’ll visit the Brough of Birsay, a tidal island teeming with archaeological treasures and offering spectacular sea views. This day promises an unforgettable journey through Orkney’s ancient past and coastal wonders.
Day 3 - Kirkwall - Italian Chapel - Inverness
Before leaving Orkney’s enchanting landscapes, we visit a local farm to meet the fascinating Mangalitsa pigs, famous for their unique woolly coats, often called “hairy pigs.”
Next, we explore the moving Italian Chapel. Italian prisoners of war constructed this ornate chapel from two simple Nissen huts during World War 2.
After a morning of exploration, we board the ferry back to mainland Scotland.
Our first stop is Duncansby Head, the northeastern tip of Scotland, offering stunning views over the North Sea. Continuing, we visit the charming village of Lybster on the rugged Caithness coast.
The final leg of our journey brings us to the historic town of Dornoch, renowned for its beautiful cathedral and quaint streets. After soaking in the town’s rich history, we return to Inverness in the early evening, ending this memorable island adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I expect on this Signature Multi-day Tour?
For the discerning traveller a Signature Multi-day Tour offers amazing value for money, comfortable accommodation, well-paced sightseeing and luxury travel.
All of this combines to create the definitive Scottish experience.
Each tour is hosted by a professional driver/guide, who has been chosen for their extensive knowledge as well as their driving skills. And being locals you are sure to get that extra insight. If you should have any problems during your stay, they’ll go out of their way to help.
You will want to see as much as possible, but you don’t want to be rushed. Our tours are carefully planned to strike the right balance, and as well as comfortable mini/midicoach travel many feature memorable railway or ferry journeys.
Having somewhere pleasant to stay after an exciting day of discovery is an important part of your holiday experience. Comfortable guest house accommodation with en-suite bathrooms, tv and other amenities is included in the price of all tours.
A tasty Scottish breakfast is included each morning of your stay.
What type of room should I choose?
There are different bedrooms types to choose from, here is what you can expect:
Single room - one person sleeping in a single bed
Twin room - two people sleeping in two separate beds
Double room - two people sharing one large bed
Family room - three people sharing a room sleeping in one large bed (2 people) and one single bed (1 person)
Please note that a family room can be a standard double room with either a sofa bed or a rollaway bed.
What are the optional extras on this tour and how much do they cost?
To give you complete choice admission fees are not included in the cost of this tour. The tour itinerary has been carefully designed to provide sufficient time for you to visit these attractions:
Italian Chapel
Skara Brae
Dunrobin Castle
If you click on the links above they will provide you with more information on each attraction including current admission prices. In some cases a special discount is offered to tour passengers, your driver/guide will provide details if this applies.
Please note that credit/debit cards are not always accepted so it is recommended that you carry sufficient cash with you should you want to make a visit.
Can I book seats on the coach?
The seating on the coach is not allocated so you are free to sit in any vacant seat.
We recommend that you and your party arrive at the boarding point together so that you can be seated in the same part of the coach.
What meals are included ?
A full Scottish breakfast is included from day 2 onwards.
This hearty meal can consist of fruit juice; a choice of cereal; bakery basket; cooked items such as eggs, bacon, sausage, mushrooms, tomato and, maybe, a taste of haggis! plus tea or coffee. Vegetarian and vegan options are always available.
Lunch and dinner are not included in the price.
During the touring day there will be a stop where you can enjoy lunch in a local pub or restaurant. Your driver/guide will be happy to suggest a conveniently located restaurant where you can enjoy good food for dinner.
Inclusions
Accommodation
- 2 nights guest house accommodation
- Location: Kirkwall, Orkney Islands (2)
Meals
- Scottish/Continental breakfast (2)
Tour Essentials
- Transport by air-conditioned vehicle
- Ferry to the Orkney Islands
- Live commentary in English
- Services of an experienced driver/guide
- Service charges and taxes
Exclusions
- Admission charges
- Meals, snacks or items of a personal nature
- Gratuity to your driver/guide
Departure information
19 Union Street
Inverness, IV1 1QA
Check-in: 07:15 hrs
Tour Departs: 07:30 hrs
Tour Returns: 18:00 hrs
Child details
Concession discounts apply to adults aged 60 years and above; students and children aged 5 to 16 years inclusive.
We’re really sorry but children aged under 5 years cannot travel on this tour.
Photo-ID may be requested to confirm discount entitlement.
Price Notes
Book Assured
Book by paying a 20% deposit. Make date changes or get a full refund with 8 days notice before travel. Click here for more information.
Accommodation
The price of this tour includes guest house accommodation with en-suite bathroom.
Luggage Allowance
One medium sized suitcase/bag per person (maximum weight: 15 kilos)
Admission Prices
In order to give you maximum flexibility admission fees are not included in the cost of this tour.
FAQs
Please see the FAQ section for more information on this tour.
Product code
HET 04120
