From Edinburgh: 8-Day Skye, Orkney & North Coast 500 Tour

Exploring Scotland’s northern regions is a captivating experience. This 8-day tour from Edinburgh takes travelers on an immersive journey through the Orkney Islands, North Coast 500, and Isle of Skye. Visitors will discover stunning landscapes, rich history, and charming towns. From guided excursions to free time, the tour blends must-see sites and culture. Whether it’s the awe-inspiring Dunrobin Castle or the historic Culloden Battlefield, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure.

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Key Points

Explore Scotland’s northern regions on an 8-day tour from Edinburgh, including visits to Dunkeld, Highland Folk Museum, and Culloden Battlefield.
Discover Dunrobin Castle, a local whisky distillery, and the historical sites of the Orkney Islands.
Journey along the North Coast 500 route, experiencing Scotland’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage.
Gain insights into Orkney’s unique history and heritage through guided tours of sites like the Italian Chapel and Skara Brae.
Combine guided exploration with independent discovery, allowing for a well-rounded experience of Scotland’s natural beauty and cultural richness.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Highlights

This 8-day tour from Edinburgh offers a captivating exploration of Scotland’s enchanting northern regions.

Highlights include visits to the historic Dunkeld, the Highland Folk Museum, and the Culloden Battlefield.

Discover the historic Dunkeld, the Highland Folk Museum, and the Culloden Battlefield on this captivating Scottish tour.

Travelers will discover the majestic Dunrobin Castle, tour a whisky distillery, and explore the captivating Orkney Islands, with stops at the Italian Chapel, Ring of Brodgar, and Skara Brae.

The journey continues along the scenic North Coast 500 route, showcasing natural wonders like Smoo Cave, Durness, and Knockan Crag.

Iconic landmarks such as Eilean Donan Castle, the Old Man of Storr, and the Jacobite Steam Train ride add to the unforgettable experience.

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Itinerary Day 1: Edinburgh to Inverness

The tour begins with a journey from Edinburgh to Inverness. Along the way, guests will stop at Dunkeld, a charming town on the River Tay known for its historic cathedral.

Next, they’ll visit the Highland Folk Museum, an open-air museum that offers a glimpse into traditional Scottish life.

The tour then proceeds to the Culloden Battlefield, the site of the final Jacobite rising, before exploring the Clava Cairns, a well-preserved Bronze Age cemetery complex.

The day culminates with arrival in Inverness, the capital of the Scottish Highlands, where guests will have the evening free to explore.

Itinerary Day 2: Inverness to Orkney

On the second day, the tour departs Inverness and heads east to Dunrobin Castle, a stately home with stunning Renaissance-style gardens.

After exploring the castle, the group visits a local whisky distillery to learn about the region’s renowned spirit.

Next, they board a ferry to Orkney, an archipelago off the northern coast.

The afternoon is spent discovering Orkney’s historical and cultural highlights, which may include:

The Italian Chapel, built by Italian prisoners of war during WWII.
The Ring of Brodgar, a Neolithic stone circle.
Skara Brae, a well-preserved Neolithic village.
The picturesque town of Stromness.

Itinerary Day 3: Exploring Orkney

After arriving on the Orkney archipelago, the tour spends the entire third day exploring its rich historical and cultural sites.

Visitors will visit the Italian Chapel, a beautiful place of worship built by Italian prisoners of war.

Next, they’ll marvel at the prehistoric Ring of Brodgar and the nearby Neolithic settlement of Skara Brae.

The day continues with a trip to the historic town of Stromness, known for its charming streets and harbor.

Throughout the day, the guide shares fascinating insights into Orkney’s unique heritage and way of life, leaving participants with a deeper appreciation for this captivating region.

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Itinerary Day 4: Orkney to Ullapool

Departing Orkney, the tour heads west across the Pentland Firth to the quaint fishing town of Ullapool on the North Coast 500 route.

The journey features several highlights:

Visiting Smoo Cave, an impressive sea cave with a waterfall.
Exploring the coastal village of Durness, known for its stunning scenery.
Stopping at Knockan Crag National Nature Reserve to admire the unique geological features.
Taking in the views of the mountainous landscape during the drive along the North Coast 500.

The day provides a scenic transition from the islands to the rugged northern mainland.

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Itinerary Day 5: Ullapool to Portree

The tour now heads east from Ullapool to the picturesque town of Portree on the Isle of Skye.

Along the way, they’ll stop at Corrieshalloch Gorge, a dramatic natural wonder with a high waterfall.

Next, they’ll visit the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland’s most photographed landmarks.

After that, they’ll arrive in Portree, the capital of Skye, and have time to explore the charming town.

The tour will then head to some of Skye’s most famous landmarks, including the Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock, and Mealt Waterfall, taking in the island’s dramatic landscapes.

Itinerary Day 6: Portree to Oban

Leaving Portree, the tour heads south to the town of Oban, known as the "Gateway to the Isles".

The day’s highlights include:

A ride on the famous Jacobite Steam Train, which was featured in the Harry Potter films as the Hogwarts Express.
A visit to the scenic Glen Coe, a dramatic valley renowned for its natural beauty and historical significance.
Opportunities to admire the picturesque landscapes, including rugged mountains, sparkling lochs, and charming villages.
Free time in Oban to explore the town’s seafront, sample local seafood, and visit attractions like McCaig’s Tower.

Itinerary Day 7 and 8: Oban to Edinburgh

After exploring Oban, the tour takes a leisurely pace on the final two days, allowing participants to savor the remaining highlights of the journey.

On Day 7, guests have a free day to discover Oban at their own pace.

The tour resumes on Day 8, heading back to Edinburgh with stops at St. Conan’s Kirk, Kilchurn Castle, Falls of Dochart, and the iconic Kelpies.

The tour provides a comprehensive experience of Scotland’s stunning landscapes, history, and culture, with a perfect balance of guided exploration and independent discovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Solo Travelers Welcome on This Tour?

Yes, solo travelers are welcome on this tour. The group size is limited to 16 participants, providing an opportunity for solo travelers to join a small group and explore the Skye, Orkney, and North Coast 500 regions together.

Is There Any Flexibility to Modify the Itinerary?

The tour itinerary is generally set, but there may be some flexibility to modify it based on traveler interests and weather conditions. Guests should discuss any requests with the tour provider in advance.

What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?

The tour is limited to 16 participants, providing a small group experience. The tour company emphasizes that the group size is capped to ensure personalized attention and an intimate exploration of the destinations along the route.

Can I Leave My Luggage During the Tour?

The tour allows a maximum of 1 suitcase (33 pounds) and 1 carry-on bag per person. Collapsible wheelchairs are accepted with assistance. However, there’s no mention of storing extra luggage during the tour.

Do I Need to Purchase Travel Insurance for This Tour?

Travel insurance is recommended for this tour, though not required. It can provide coverage for issues like trip cancellations, medical expenses, and lost or stolen belongings, offering peace of mind during the journey.

The Sum Up

This 8-day tour from Edinburgh offers an unforgettable exploration of Scotland’s northern regions. Discover the stunning Orkney Islands, the historic Culloden Battlefield, and the picturesque North Coast 500 route. Experience the charm of towns like Ullapool and Portree, and enjoy a ride on the iconic Jacobite Steam Train. With a blend of guided visits and free time, this tour immerses travelers in Scotland’s unique culture and natural wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here: