5 Day Orkney Islands and North Coast 500 Tour from Edinburgh

A 5-Day Journey through Scotland’s Historic and Scenic Treasures

Imagine exploring Scotland’s most iconic sights—from the rugged Highlands to ancient Neolithic sites and the remote Orkney Islands—all within just five days. This tour from Edinburgh, offered by Experience Scotland’s Wild, provides an intimate experience with a maximum of 8 travelers, making it feel more like a trip with friends than a bus tour. Priced at around $929.77 per person, this adventure blends natural beauty, history, and local flavors, with guided insights that make each stop come alive.

What we love about this tour is how it balances stunning scenery with rich history—visiting everything from the dramatic Cairngorms National Park to the mysterious standing stones of Orkney. Plus, the inclusion of whisky tastings at two distilleries offers a taste of Scotland’s world-famous spirit without rushing through. On the flip side, it’s a fairly full itinerary, so if you prefer a laid-back pace or must avoid extensive walking, that’s worth considering.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of nature, history, and culture, and who appreciate small-group intimacy. It’s perfect if you want to venture off the typical tourist path, explore ancient sites, and see some of the most breathtaking coastlines in the UK. While not suited for travelers with mobility issues due to some walking and uneven terrain, adventurous spirits will find it a highly rewarding experience.

Key Points

• Small group size: Up to 8 travelers for more personalized attention.
• Rich variety: Combines natural parks, historic battlegrounds, ancient sites, and scenic coastal drives.
• Authentic experiences: Whisky tastings, guided walks, and visits to ancient monuments.
• Flexible itinerary: Opportunities to enjoy free time in towns like Inverness and Kirkwall.
• Varied scenery: From rugged coastlines to ancient stone circles and lush forests.
• Value: For under $1,000, you get a comprehensive experience with included ferries, guided walks, and entry to key sites.

Exploring Scotland in Depth

This tour offers a well-rounded survey of Scotland’s highlights, focusing on areas that resonate with history buffs, nature lovers, and those curious about Scottish culture. It’s designed to maximize seeing key sites without feeling rushed, thanks to thoughtful pacing and expert guidance.

Day 1: From Edinburgh to the Cairngorms and Highland Heritage

Your adventure begins at the Cairngorms National Park, the largest in the UK, known for its sweeping woodlands and mountain scenery. Expect a leisurely walk through forests that showcase Scotland’s lush landscape. It’s an ideal way to stretch your legs after traveling, and the natural scenery here sets the tone for the trip.

Next, you’ll visit Culloden Battlefield, where history comes alive. Although the entrance fee isn’t included, the site provides a sobering reminder of the Jacobite uprising, with interpretive displays and possibly a guided tour to deepen understanding. It’s a powerful stop that helps frame Scotland’s tumultuous past.

In Inverness, you’ll enjoy some free time to explore—perhaps a coffee in a cozy café or a stroll along the River Ness. The town’s friendly atmosphere makes it a nice break before heading to the prehistoric Clava Cairns, standing stones that have been silent witnesses for over 4,000 years. No admission fee here, but the site’s ancient carvings and burial chambers offer a quiet moment to reflect on early Scottish life.

Lunchtime in Aviemore is a highlight, given its location amidst mountains and lochs, perfect for those who love outdoor pursuits or simply want to enjoy local fare. Afterward, a visit to Dalwhinnie Distillery offers a taste of Highland whisky. We loved the relaxed atmosphere—here, you can sample a dram or browse for a special gift. Whisky tasting is a key part of Scottish culture, and this stop provides a genuine, no-pressure experience.

Day 2: The North Coast 500 and the Beauty of Coastal Scotland

Traveling north, the North Coast 500 drive is a spectacular showcase of rugged coastlines and dramatic cliffs. It’s one of the most scenic routes in the UK, rivaling any coastal drive in the world. The group stops at Latheronwheel Harbor, where we appreciated the stunning views and the chance to stretch our legs with a seaside walk.

The Italian Chapel is a surprising highlight—built by Italian prisoners of war during WWII, it’s a beautiful, peaceful spot with intricate decorations. It’s a poignant reminder of wartime resilience.

Further along, the Scapa Distillery offers another whisky experience—an opportunity for deeper tastings and learning about Scotch whisky production. For those who enjoy spirits, this is a genuine treat, with the added bonus of visiting a working distillery.

Arriving in Kirkwall, the capital of Orkney, we immediately felt transported to a different world. The quiet streets and seaside views make it a charming base for exploring the islands. We loved how this day combines coastal scenery, history, and local flavor.

Day 3: Ancient Megaliths and Viking Roots in Orkney

The third day is dedicated to exploring the Viking and Neolithic history of Orkney. Visiting St Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall offers a glimpse into medieval life, while Maeshowe Chambered Cairn transports you back 5,000 years. The guided tour enriches this experience, giving context to the impressive mound.

The Standing Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar are jaw-dropping. These stone circles are among the largest in the UK, and their mysterious origins spark curiosity. We loved standing among these giants, imagining the ancient ceremonies they might have hosted.

Skara Brae, a well-preserved Neolithic village, feels like stepping into a time capsule. Walking through the reconstructed homes allows you to picture early Scottish settlers’ daily lives. It’s a must-see for history buffs, and the fact that it’s so well preserved makes it even more special.

Day 4: From Islands to Mainland Landmarks

After ferrying back to the mainland, the tour heads to John O’Groats, the iconic northern tip of Britain. While the small village is mostly a photo stop at the famous signpost, it’s a fun photo opportunity and a chance to appreciate the rugged northern coast.

The Grey Cairns of Camster offer an immersive experience—visiting these ancient burial sites involves crawling into the cairns, which is great fun if you’re mobile and comfortable with confined spaces. They date back to thousands of years, adding to the sense of connection with Scotland’s distant past.

Later, the day includes a visit to Castle Sinclair Girnigoe, whose ruins overlook the sea, offering stunning views and a sense of Scottish heritage. The visit culminates at Dunrobin Castle, a fairy-tale castle with beautiful gardens. The castle’s grand rooms and coastal vistas provide a fitting end to the day.

Day 5: Loch Ness, Glencoe, and the Scenic Highlands

The final day is a whirlwind through some of Scotland’s most iconic landscapes. The Loch Ness cruise is a highlight—whether or not you spot Nessie, the views across the water are unforgettable. The possibility of encountering the legendary monster adds a fun element.

Glencoe’s dramatic valley is next—towering mountains and rugged terrain set the scene for some of Scotland’s most famous scenery. It’s a place that inspires awe, and the quick stop allows you to soak in the vastness.

Finally, a drive through Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park offers a peaceful conclusion, with stunning views and wildlife. The tour wraps up back in Edinburgh, leaving you with a deep appreciation for Scotland’s natural beauty and historic depth.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This 5-day small-group tour offers excellent value if you want a comprehensive taste of Scotland’s most captivating sites. Its well-thought-out itinerary balances nature, history, and local culture, making it perfect for travelers eager to see diverse highlights without the hassle of planning each step.

The guides, praised for their knowledge and engaging storytelling, make the ancient sites and scenic drives come alive. The inclusion of whisky tastings and ferry rides adds authentic touches that really deepen your understanding of Scottish traditions.

You’ll want to be prepared for some walking and uneven terrain at sites like Skara Brae or the cairns, and the full schedule means early mornings and long days. But if you’re up for a lively, immersive experience that combines history, landscapes, and local flavors, this tour delivers.

This experience suits adventurous, curious travelers who appreciate small-group intimacy, authentic sites, and Scottish scenery at its finest.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
Not entirely. The tour involves walking at ancient sites and some uneven terrain, so it’s best for those with good mobility.

Are meals included in the price?
Meals and snacks are not included, so you’ll want to budget for breakfasts, lunches, and perhaps a few memorable dinners.

How much are the entry fees to sites like Culloden, Skara Brae, and Dunrobin Castle?
Entry fees are not included but are approximately £11 for Maeshowe, £13 for Skara Brae, and around £15 for Dunrobin Castle. Culloden’s visitor center is about £15 if visited.

What’s the group size?
A maximum of 8 travelers, which keeps the experience intimate and flexible.

When should I book this tour?
It’s popular—often booked about 167 days in advance—so plan early to secure your spot.

What is the best time of year to join?
While not specified, Scotland’s weather can vary, and late spring to early autumn typically offers the best conditions for sightseeing.

Are there any age restrictions or physical requirements?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s not recommended for those with significant mobility or walking problems.

To sum it up, this tour offers a wonderfully detailed and authentic journey through Scotland’s historic sites, stunning landscapes, and cultural traditions—all in a small-group setting that feels personal and relaxed. It’s suited for travelers eager to see a mix of iconic sights and hidden gems, and who enjoy engaging guides that bring the history alive. If you’re looking for a well-organized, value-packed adventure that captures the spirit of Scotland, this might just be your ideal trip.