5 Day Orkney Islands and North Coast 500 Tour from Edinburgh

Discover Scotland in Style: A 5-Day Orkney Islands and North Coast 500 Tour Review

If you’re dreaming of a Scottish adventure that combines rugged coastlines, ancient monuments, and vibrant culture—all wrapped in a cozy, small-group experience—this 5-day tour from Edinburgh might just be your perfect match. Offering an intimate journey with a maximum of 8 travelers, it promises personalized attention, in-depth explorations, and a taste of everything from whisky tastings to Neolithic marvels.

What really caught our eye (and from what travelers rave about) is the way this tour balances the highlights of the Highlands with lesser-known gems like the ancient Clava Cairns and the mysterious Skara Brae. Plus, the inclusion of the ferry to Orkney adds a real sense of adventure. That said, the packed itinerary might be a stretch if you’re prone to long days or prefer a more relaxed pace. Overall, it’s ideal for history buffs, nature lovers, and those wanting a comprehensive Scottish experience in a small, friendly group.

Key Points

• Small group intimacy enhances the experience with personalized guides.
• Diverse highlights range from prehistoric sites to coastal drives and castles.
• Expert guides like Calum and Karen bring history and scenery to life.
• Value for money considering the included ferry rides, distillery visits, and guided walks.
• Active itinerary with some walking but no major mobility challenges needed.
• Ideal for travelers seeking a deep, authentic look at Scotland’s culture and landscapes.

An In-Depth Look at the 5-Day Itinerary

This tour packs a lot into five days, offering a comprehensive taste of what makes Scotland special—its history, natural beauty, and charming towns. Let’s break down each day to see what you’ll experience.

Day 1: Highland Wilderness and Historic Battlefields

Starting bright and early at 8:30 am in Edinburgh, the journey begins with a visit to Cairngorms National Park. We loved how the tour includes a woodland walk in Scotland’s largest national park, which is perfect for stretching your legs and soaking in the scenery. The park’s expansive forests and mountain vistas set an immediate tone of rugged beauty.

Next, a visit to Culloden Battlefield offers a chance to connect with the tumultuous past of the Jacobite uprising. While the visitor center fee (~£15) isn’t included, exploring the site where history was made is well worth it. Reviewers mention the guides do a good job in bringing the history to life, making it more than just a walk among stones.

Inverness provides a brief stop for free exploration—think cozy cafes or browsing local shops—before heading to the Clava Cairns. This prehistoric site, dating back over 4,000 years, offers a peek into Neolithic burial practices. The quiet, standing stones evoke a sense of ancient mystery, and with no entry fee, it’s a peaceful, contemplative spot.

Lunch in Aviemore allows you to enjoy local flavors and relax in a town famous for mountain trails and nearby lochs. The tour’s inclusion of Dalwhinnie Distillery for a whisky tasting adds a sensory dimension, with the opportunity to browse the distillery shop—an excellent chance for souvenir shopping.

Overall, Day 1 balances outdoor scenery, historical reflection, and whisky culture—all within a manageable pace.

Day 2: The Coastal Drive and Orkney Bound

Day 2 kicks off with a scenic drive along the North Coast 500, a route celebrated for its dramatic coastline and stunning vistas. The guide’s commentary makes the drive engaging, highlighting local features and history.

A highlight is the Latheronwheel Harbor, where you can stretch your legs with a coastal walk amid cliffs and crashing waves—viewpoints that are truly postcard-worthy. The visit to The Italian Chapel, built by WWII Italian prisoners of war, offers a poignant glimpse into wartime stories and craftsmanship.

Next, the tour brings you to Scapa Distillery for another whisky experience, where you’ll learn about whisky-making processes and sample drams. Reviews note that this part of the tour is informative and enjoyable, especially for whisky enthusiasts.

Arriving in Kirkwall, the capital of Orkney, you’ll have free time to explore charming streets and cafes, setting the stage for two nights on these historic islands. This day’s mix of coastal scenery and cultural stops paints a vivid portrait of the northern coast.

Day 3: Ancient Monuments and Viking Heritage

This day is a deep dive into Orkney’s archaeological wonders. Visiting Kirkwall again, you can admire St Magnus Cathedral, a striking medieval structure that dominates the town.

The star attractions are the Maeshowe Chambered Cairn and the Standing Stones of Stenness—both over 5000 years old. The reviews indicate knowledgeable guides make the visit to Maeshowe particularly compelling, offering insights into the Neolithic era that truly enhance the experience.

A visit to the Ring of Brodgar—one of the largest stone circles in Britain—rounds out this ancient sites tour. Walking among these stones, it’s easy to imagine what life was like for the early peoples. Skara Brae, the preserved Neolithic village, allows you to step into homes that are thousands of years old, with some reviewers noting how surreal it feels to walk through these remarkably preserved dwellings.

Day 4: Return to the Mainland & Coastal Castles

Ferrying back from Orkney at St. Margaret’s Hope, the journey continues with visits to scenic and historic sites on the mainland. John O’Groats, famous as the northernmost point of the British mainland, makes for a great photo op—famous for the iconic signpost.

The Grey Cairns of Camster, accessed with some crawling into the burial chamber, offer a hands-on archaeological experience. Reviewers point out that this site requires mobility but rewards visitors with a tangible connection to prehistoric Scotland.

In the evening, the tour stays near Inverness, with a visit to Castle Sinclair Girnigoe, offering breathtaking coastal views, and Dunrobin Castle, which looks straight out of a fairy tale. While entry fees (~£15) are not included, exploring these castles allows for a leisurely way to soak in Scottish history and architecture.

Day 5: Loch Ness, Glencoe, and the Highlands

The grand finale takes you through some of Scotland’s most iconic landscapes. Starting with a cruise on Loch Ness, you might catch a glimpse of Nessie—the legendary monster—while enjoying the tranquil waters.

From there, the tour moves to Glencoe, renowned for its striking mountain formations and dramatic scenery. Many travelers find this valley to be one of the most photogenic spots in Scotland.

Continuing to Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, the tour provides opportunities to appreciate Scotland’s natural beauty and hear about local wildlife and culture.

Finally, a scenic drive through the Scottish Highlands wraps up the trip before returning to Edinburgh, completing a journey that truly captures the essence of Scotland.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, specifically mentioning Calum and Karen for their engaging storytelling and local insights. One reviewer called the tour an “absolutely wonderful experience,” highlighting the seamless organization and the flexibility offered by the guides.

The stunning scenery is another standout—whether it’s the ancient stone circles or the rugged coastlines—making every moment feel worthwhile. The small group size means you get plenty of personalized attention and the chance to ask questions, making the experience more intimate and tailored.

A couple of reviewers noted that the itinerary is packed, which means early mornings and long days, but they felt the value of the diverse locations and stories made up for it. The inclusion of ferry rides and notable sites like Skara Brae and Maeshowe added richness to their visit, with many appreciating the depth of exploration.

The Value of This Tour

At $929.77 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package, including ferry rides to Orkney, guided walks, and visits to key archaeological sites. The price reflects the inclusion of transportation, expert guides, and unique experiences like whisky tastings, making it a strong deal for travelers wanting more than just a snapshot of Scotland.

While meals and some entry fees are not included—meaning additional costs—you gain the convenience of a well-organized trip that covers some of the most iconic and hidden spots in Scotland. For those seeking a balanced mix of history, nature, and culture in a small-group setting, this tour offers excellent value.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts eager to explore Neolithic sites, whisky lovers interested in multiple distillery visits, and nature lovers who want to see Scotland’s coastlines and mountains firsthand. It’s also great for travelers who prefer small groups for a more personalized experience and don’t mind a busy schedule that covers a lot in five days.

However, those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved at sites like Skara Brae and the Grey Cairns. The tour’s pace is energetic, but the guides’ expertise helps make the long days engaging and rewarding.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
Not really. The itinerary involves walking and some crawling at sites like the Grey Cairns, so it’s best suited for those with good mobility.

What is included in the price?
The price covers ferry rides to and from Orkney, guided walks, visits to archaeological sites, whisky tastings at Dalwhinnie and Scapa distilleries, and the small-group experience.

Are meals included?
No, meals and snacks are not included, so plan to bring some cash or cards for your lunches and optional dinners.

How much are the entry fees?
Entry fees for attractions like Culloden Moor, Dunrobin Castle, Maeshowe, Skara Brae, and Loch Ness cruises are approximately £11-£15, payable extra.

What are the tour start and end points?
The tour starts at 256-260 Morrison St, Edinburgh, at 8:30 am and ends back in Edinburgh at the same meeting point.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While most travelers can participate, the active nature and walking at archaeological sites may be more suitable for older children and adults.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are permitted up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than that may incur charges.

What if I want to customize the itinerary?
This small-group tour is quite structured, but guides are known for their flexibility within the schedule.

Is there a best time of year to take this tour?
While not specified, Scotland’s weather and scenery are best appreciated in late spring through early fall.

How many people are in the group?
A maximum of 8 travelers ensures a personal experience, allowing for more interaction and tailored commentary.

Final Thoughts

This 5-day Scottish adventure offers a well-rounded, immersive experience that balances iconic sights with lesser-known gems. The small group size and knowledgeable guides elevate the journey, providing insights and stories that bring each location to life. From the ancient stones of Orkney to the rugged beauty of Glencoe, travelers will leave with a deeper appreciation of Scotland’s rich tapestry.

While the itinerary is quite full and requires a bit of stamina, it’s perfect for those who love history, natural beauty, and authentic experiences. The inclusion of ferry rides, whisky tastings, and guided walks means you get a lot of value packed into just five days.

In short, if you’re after a comprehensive, engaging, and scenic tour of Scotland that respects small-group intimacy and rich storytelling, this tour is a fantastic choice—especially for first-timers eager to get a good taste of everything Scotland has to offer.