5-Day Orkney and Highlands Tour from Edinburgh

Introducing the 5-Day Orkney and Highlands Tour from Edinburgh

This 5-day tour combines the best of Scotland’s natural beauty, ancient sites, and historic battlegrounds, all with the convenience of guided travel from Edinburgh. It’s a well-structured itinerary that takes you from Loch Lomond to the mysterious Orkney Islands, then back through the Highland towns, providing a rich mix of scenery and history.

One of the standout features of this tour is the expert guides, who bring stories and insights that elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing. The comfortable accommodations and included breakfasts also make it feel like a well-rounded trip, without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

That said, with a busy schedule packed into just five days, some travelers might find themselves a little rushed, especially at sites like Skara Brae or Culloden. If you prefer slow-paced, deep-dive experiences or independent exploring, it’s worth considering how this trip matches your travel style.

This tour is perfect for those craving a comprehensive Scottish adventure—a mix of history, culture, and stunning landscapes—delivered with expert guidance and good value.

Key Points

• Comprehensive five-day experience covering Orkney, the Highlands, and key historical sites
• Expert guides known for knowledge and storytelling, enhancing the visit
• Stunning scenery including Loch Lomond, Glencoe, and the rugged coastline
• Prehistoric sites like Skara Brae and Maeshowe, offering a glimpse into ancient life
• Comfortable accommodations with breakfast included, simplifying logistics
• Rushed moments possible at some sites due to tight scheduling

Exploring the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Day 1: From Loch Lomond to Inverness

The adventure begins with a drive through Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, often dubbed “The Highlands in Miniature” because of its postcard-perfect lochs and mountains. We loved the way the scenery changes so dramatically here, making it a visual feast right from the start. The guide points out notable features and shares stories that make the landscape come alive.

Next, you’ll stop at Glencoe National Nature Reserve, famous not only for its dramatic mountain vistas but also for the tragic history linked to it—stories of massacre and betrayal that add somber layers to the views. The quick 30-minute stop allows for photos and a breath of fresh highland air, though note that the guide doesn’t include admission to the reserve itself.

Driving through the Great Glen and along Loch Ness, you’ll reach Inverness, the Highland capital. Here, the tour overnight provides a good base to prepare for the upcoming island adventures. Reviewers highlight that the guide, Iain, was especially knowledgeable and passionate, making the drive informative and engaging.

Day 2: Crossing to Orkney

The ferry to the Orkney Islands is a key highlight. It’s a short, scenic ride that transports you to a land full of Neolithic mysteries and WWII history. Once in Orkney, the Italian Chapel, built by Italian prisoners during WWII, stands out as a touching piece of history. The structure is surprisingly ornate and provides insight into wartime life.

Travelers like Joana, who praised her guide’s storytelling, will appreciate how the guides enhance these moments. The ferry experience itself is quite straightforward, but it’s worth keeping in mind the timing to maximize sightseeing opportunities.

Day 3: Prehistoric Wonders of Orkney

This day is dedicated to prehistoric sites. The Maeshowe Chambered Cairn is a highlight, offering a peek into Neolithic burial practices. Expect a one-hour visit, where you can marvel at the chamber’s construction and ancient carvings. Some reviews note that these sites can feel rushed, so it’s good to be prepared for a busy morning.

Then, the iconic Skara Brae, a well-preserved prehistoric village, invites you to imagine how our ancestors lived. The storm that unearthed it in the 1850s has turned out to be a fortunate twist of fate, revealing an extraordinary glimpse into early human settlement. The hour-long visit allows you to wander among the stone dwellings, with plenty of storytelling from your guide to bring the site’s significance to life.

Day 4: Returning to Mainland Scotland

After a relaxed morning in Kirkwall, you’ll hop back on the ferry to the mainland. Your first stop is John O’Groats, famous for its distinctive position where you can see both the east and west coasts. It’s a quick photo stop, but the views are memorable, especially on clear days.

Next, the Dunrobin Castle and Gardens offers a regal experience with time to explore the castle’s architecture and lush grounds. The falconry display, often included, is a crowd favorite—adding a lively and interactive element to the visit. Reviewers like Helen F appreciated guides who went above and beyond, making sure they saw more than just the main sights.

Day 5: Historic Battlefields and Small Town Charm

The final day takes you to Culloden Battlefield, where the last pitched battle on British soil took place in 1746. Walking around the site offers a sobering reflection on Scottish history, and the exhibition helps contextualize the significance. Some travelers felt the 1.5-hour stop was just enough to grasp the serious history but not long enough to fully absorb it.

Your last stop is Pitlochry, a charming town located centrally in Scotland. It’s ideal for some last-minute shopping or simply soaking in the scenic surroundings before heading back to Edinburgh. The brief 40-minute stop is a nice way to unwind and take in the Scottish country air before the journey concludes.

The Practical Side: What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers four nights of accommodation with breakfast, adding solid value for those wanting a hassle-free experience. The guide, who is part of Highland Experience Tours, is praised for his knowledge and storytelling skills, significantly enriching the trip.

Note that food and drinks outside breakfast are not included, so you’ll want to budget for meals during the day. The tour operates with a maximum group size of 35, ensuring a relatively intimate experience, especially with the storytelling and small group stops.

Luggage restrictions are quite specific—maximum 15kg and a size of 55cm x 40cm x 20cm—so pack light and smart. This is standard for many coach tours but worth noting if you prefer to travel with more gear.

How Does the Price Measure Up?

At just over $1,300 per person, this tour might seem steep at first glance. However, considering the all-inclusive nature—including transportation, expert guides, four nights’ accommodation, and breakfast—the value becomes clearer. Comparing it to the costs of booking separate excursions, car rentals, and accommodations, this organized tour can be a cost-effective way to see a lot in a short period.

On top of that, the emphasis on guided storytelling and local insights add depth that independent travel might lack, especially at historic sites like Skara Brae or Culloden.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates a mix of history, scenery, and guided storytelling, this tour is a strong pick. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who want to maximize their time without the stress of planning logistics or driving long distances.

It’s also ideal for those interested in prehistoric sites and Scottish battles, as these features are central to the experience. Families with older children or teenagers who enjoy history and landscapes will find it engaging, especially with guides who make the stories come alive.

However, if you prefer slow-paced exploration or have specific dietary restrictions, you might find the schedule a bit packed. The tour’s structure favors those happy to keep a brisk pace and absorb a lot of information in a short time.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This 5-day journey offers a wonderful blend of Scotland’s natural beauty, ancient history, and lively culture. The inclusion of expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and scenic routes make it an excellent choice for travelers wanting a comprehensive snapshot of this diverse region.

It’s especially suitable for those eager to see Orkney’s prehistoric marvels and explore the rugged Highlands, all within a well-organized framework. If you’re looking for a guided experience that balances storytelling with sightseeing, this tour will deliver.

That said, it’s a fairly full schedule, so travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace may want to consider extending their stay in individual locations or choosing a different tour. But for those short on time and eager to tick off Scotland’s major highlights, this tour hits the sweet spot.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult. Most travelers of all ages can participate, but the tour may be less suitable for very young children under 3, due to the busy schedule and site visits.

How many nights of accommodation are included?
The tour includes four nights’ accommodation, with breakfast each morning, making it convenient for planning your other meals.

What are the meeting points?
You start at 192 High St, Edinburgh, and the tour concludes at 22 St Andrew Square, Edinburgh.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour operates with a maximum of 35 travelers, providing a comfortable group setting for sightseeing and storytelling.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks outside of the included breakfast are not covered. You’ll need to budget for lunches and dinners.

What’s the duration of each site visit?
Most site visits are around an hour, with some like Loch Lomond or Pitlochry being slightly shorter, and others like Culloden or Dunrobin Castle around 1.5 hours.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 6 days before the start for a full refund. Cancellations less than 6 days in advance are not eligible for a refund.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation between sites is included, with a comfortable guide-driven vehicle that handles all the logistics.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Reviewers consistently praise guides like Iain and Fergie for their passion, storytelling, and local insights, which greatly enhance the experience.

What should I pack?
Pack light—maximum 15kg and 55cm x 40cm x 20cm bag—and bring layers, as Scottish weather can be unpredictable.

This tour offers a well-rounded, engaging way to uncover Scotland’s past and present in just five days. Whether you’re captivated by ancient sites, stunning landscapes, or lively storytelling, it’s a trip that balances value, authenticity, and comfort.