From Edinburgh: Orkney and The Far North 5-Day Tour

Scotland’s "From Edinburgh: Orkney and The Far North 5-Day Tour" offers an immersive journey through the country’s breathtaking landscapes and rich history. With high ratings, flexible cancellation, and a well-rounded experience that includes iconic sites like Skara Brae, this tour promises to transport travelers to a world of ancient wonders and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re seeking to uncover Orkney’s ancient past or marvel at the Cairngorms’ majesty, this 5-day adventure could be the perfect way to discover the far north.

Key Points

• A 5-day tour from Edinburgh to the Orkney Islands, covering key sites like Maeshowe, Skara Brae, and the Italian Chapel.
• The tour is priced starting at $1,227.40 per person, with free cancellation up to 14 days in advance.
• The package includes transportation, 4 nights of accommodation with 4 breakfasts, and entry to Orkney attractions.
• The tour has received an overall rating of 4.9/5 from past customers, with praise for the knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation.
• Luggage restrictions of 15 kg and size limitations of 55cm x 40cm x 20cm apply, and children under 3 are not permitted.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour offers a 5-day journey from Edinburgh to the Orkney Islands, priced from $1,227.40 per person.

A 5-day journey from Edinburgh to the Orkney Islands, priced from $1,227.40 per person.

Free cancellation is available up to 14 days in advance for a full refund.

The tour includes a live English-speaking guide. Accommodation is provided for 4 nights, with 4 breakfasts included.

Entry to key Orkney attractions, such as Maeshowe, Skara Brae, and the Italian Chapel, is covered.

Travelers should note the weight and size limits for luggage.

With an overall rating of 4.9/5 from past customers, the tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the Orkney Islands and the Scottish Highlands.

Itinerary Highlights

As the tour begins, travelers depart Edinburgh and journey northward, passing through Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, Glen Coe, Fort William, and the Great Glen before arriving in Inverness for an overnight stay.

The next day, they ferry to the Orkney Islands, visiting the Italian Chapel and Churchill Barriers.

On day three, the group explores Orkney’s ancient sites, including Maeshowe, Skara Brae, Stenness, Ring of Brodgar, and St Magnus Cathedral.

Returning to the mainland, they spend the fourth day in Inverness before heading back to Edinburgh on the final day, stopping at Culloden, Cairngorm Mountains, and Pitlochry.

Included Services

This tour includes transportation and ferry crossing, 4 nights’ accommodation with 4 breakfasts, and entry to the Orkney attractions of Maeshowe, Skara Brae, and the Italian Chapel.

The price excludes meals beyond breakfast, other entry tickets not listed, and tips.

Travelers should note the maximum luggage weight and size limits, as well as the requirement for a single room option for solo travelers.

Important Information

What’re the key details travelers should be aware of for this tour?

Children under 3 years old aren’t permitted; those 3 and above must provide proof of age.

Children 3 and older must provide proof of age to participate in this tour.

Travelers are limited to 15 kg of luggage, with a size restriction of 55cm x 40cm x 20cm.

Solo travelers will need to pay for a single room, while double/twin rooms are available for two people.

The tour offers a great value, but travelers should keep in mind that meals, other than breakfast, and some entry tickets aren’t included in the price.

Following these important guidelines will ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.

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Customer Reviews and Ratings

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the Orkney and The Far North Tour, with an impressive overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars based on 12 reviews.

Highlights from the feedback include:

• Transportation services received a perfect 5/5 score, with comments praising the comfort and reliability of the vehicles.

• The tour’s value for money was rated 4.4/5, with travelers noting the high-quality accommodations and inclusions.

• Reviewers highlighted the knowledgeable and engaging tour guides, who brought the rich history and stunning landscapes to life.

• Some guests suggested having fewer stops to allow for more time at each location and better lunch experiences.

• The tour received glowing praise for its well-organized itinerary and delivering an unforgettable exploration of Scotland’s northern wonders.

Exploring Loch Ness and Trossachs National Park

As travelers depart Edinburgh, they journey north towards the majestic Loch Ness and the stunning Trossachs National Park.

Along the way, they’ll stop at Loch Lomond, admiring its picturesque islands and shoreline. Entering the Trossachs, they’ll be awed by the dramatic mountains, glens, and forests.

Reaching Glen Coe, they’ll learn about its turbulent history and marvel at the rugged landscape. Continuing to Fort William, they’ll gaze up at Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest peak.

Traversing the Great Glen, they’ll arrive in Inverness, the historic capital of the Highlands, where they’ll spend the night before ferrying to the Orkney Islands the next day.

Discovering Orkney’s Ancient History

The Orkney Islands boast a remarkable ancient history, providing visitors with a unique glimpse into the archipelago’s rich cultural heritage.

The tour explores several renowned prehistoric sites, including:

• Maeshowe, a Neolithic chambered cairn featuring intricate Norse runic inscriptions

• Skara Brae, a remarkably well-preserved 5,000-year-old Neolithic village

• Stenness, home to the iconic Standing Stones, one of Britain’s most impressive Stone Age monuments

• The Ring of Brodgar, a massive stone circle dating back to around 2500 BC

• St Magnus Cathedral, a magnificent 12th-century cathedral in Kirkwall, the capital of Orkney

These evocative sites offer a captivating window into the islands’ ancient past.

Returning to Edinburgh via Inverness and Cairngorms

After exploring Orkney’s ancient wonders, the tour returns to the mainland, allowing travelers to discover the captivating landscapes of Inverness and the Cairngorms.

In Inverness, they’ll have time to explore the city’s historic sites before heading south through the Cairngorms National Park. Along the way, they’ll visit the famous Culloden battlefield, site of the last Jacobite rising.

The tour then continues to the charming town of Pitlochry, known for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities.

Finally, the group returns to Edinburgh, concluding this incredible journey through the Scottish Highlands and islands.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Fit My Preferences?

The tour allows some flexibility to fit traveler preferences. While the core itinerary is set, customers can discuss customizations like adding, removing, or spending more time at certain stops with the tour provider before booking.

What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?

The average group size for this 5-day tour is not explicitly stated in the information provided. However, tour companies typically aim for small group sizes, often around 12-16 travelers, to provide a more personalized experience.

Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available?

The tour provider doesn’t offer any discounts or package deals on this 5-day Orkney tour from Edinburgh. However, they do provide free cancellation up to 14 days in advance for a full refund if needed.

Can I Extend My Stay in Orkney or Inverness?

You can extend your stay in Orkney or Inverness, but it would need to be booked separately from the tour. The tour package has a fixed 5-day itinerary, so any additional nights would need to be arranged independently.

Do You Provide Any Recommendations for Local Cuisine or Restaurants?

The tour doesn’t provide restaurant recommendations, but there are plenty of local dining options near Kirkwall and Inverness featuring traditional Scottish fare like seafood, hearty stews, and meat pies. Travelers can research top-rated eateries during free time on the tour.

The Sum Up

This 5-day tour from Edinburgh offers an immersive experience exploring Scotland’s stunning landscapes and rich history. Travelers can discover iconic sites like Orkney’s Neolithic ruins, enjoy breathtaking views, and benefit from knowledgeable guides and comfortable accommodations. With high customer ratings and flexible cancellation options, it’s an ideal way to uncover the natural and cultural wonders of the Orkney Islands and Scotland’s far north.

You can check availability for your dates here: