From Edinburgh: Orkney, Skye and the Far North 8 Day Tour

Experience the Magic of Scotland on an 8-Day Tour from Edinburgh

If you’re dreaming of rugged coastlines, ancient stone circles, and islands bursting with history, the From Edinburgh: Orkney, Skye, and the Far North 8-Day Tour offers an impressive way to explore Scotland beyond the usual. Priced at around $1,908 per person, this itinerary takes you from the vibrant capital through some of the country’s most iconic landscapes, culminating in a trip to the mysterious Orkney Islands.

What we love most? First, the balanced itinerary that mixes natural beauty with archaeological marvels — like the Neolithic village of Skara Brae — and historic sites such as Culloden. Second, the expert guides make all the difference, offering insights that bring the places alive.

A possible drawback? The tour covers a lot of ground, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace, some days might feel a bit packed. Yet, for those eager to see a broad swath of Scotland in a manageable timeframe, it’s hard to beat.

This tour suits travelers who want a rundown with a focus on history, stunning scenery, and authentic island experiences, all delivered with knowledgeable guides who clearly love sharing their homeland.

Key Points

• Diverse Scenery: From the mountains of Skye to the islands of Orkney, you’ll see some of Scotland’s most stunning landscapes.
• Historical Depth: Visits to Skara Brae, Culloden, and Neolithic sites provide a rich sense of Scotland’s ancient past.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Alex and Andy are praised for their knowledge and engaging storytelling.
• Well-Structured Itinerary: Carefully planned days ensure you see key highlights without feeling rushed.
• Authentic Experiences: Opportunities to explore castles, stone circles, and local towns make your trip genuine.
• Value for Money: Seven nights’ accommodation, most entrance fees, and transport are included, making it a practical choice.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Day 1: From Edinburgh to the Highlands and Kilmartin Glen

We start our adventure traveling through the scenic Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, famous for its shimmering waters and lush landscapes. The highlight here is Kilmartin Glen, which is packed with over 5,000 years of history — a perfect introduction to Scotland’s ancient past. We loved the way the guides explained the significance of Dunadd Hill Fort and Temple Wood Stone Circle, making history feel immediate and real.

Staying overnight in Oban gives us a taste of coastal life, with its lively harbor and plenty of seafood options.

Day 2: Highland Beauty and the Isle of Skye

This day is a mixture of haunting landscapes and iconic scenery. Passing Glen Coe, you’ll understand why this valley is considered one of Scotland’s most dramatic. The guides point out the history of its glacial formations and tragic past, making it an evocative stop. From there, we head past Ben Nevis, Britain’s tallest mountain, and stop at Fort William.

The highlight? The Glenfinnan Viaduct, instantly recognizable from Harry Potter films, which adds a fun pop culture twist to the day. The ferry to Skye is a highlight, offering water views that set the tone for this rugged island.

Day 3: Exploring the Enchanting Isle of Skye

Here, you’re free to lose yourself among the island’s natural wonders. We loved the Cuillin Mountains, which tower above the landscape, and the Quiraing, with its slanting, otherworldly hills. The Trotternish Peninsula offers breathtaking views, with jagged cliffs and coastal scenes that make you want to stop every few minutes.

Staying overnight on Skye allows you to soak in the atmosphere — and maybe catch a sunset over the mountains.

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Day 4: Castles, Lochs, and Mysteries

Our first stop is Eilean Donan Castle, arguably Scotland’s most photographed castle — picture-perfect with its bridges and river setting. We appreciated the optional visit to Loch Ness and the chance (at extra cost) to cruise its mysterious waters and visit Urquhart Castle.

The journey ends in Inverness, a charming city with a lively atmosphere and great spots for local eats.

Day 5: To the Orkney Islands

Crossing from Inverness to the Orkney Islands via ferry is a highlight. The trip offers scenic views and a sense of adventure. Upon arrival in Kirkwall, you’ll find a town rich with history and craft shops, perfect for a relaxed evening.

Day 6: Ancient Wonders of Orkney

This day is packed with archaeological marvels. Visiting Maeshowe, a Neolithic chambered cairn, and the world-famous Skara Brae village, you’ll walk through sites that feel almost surreal — like stepping into a time capsule. The Ring of Brodgar and Stenness stone circles impress with their scale and mystery.

The Italian Chapel, built by Italian prisoners of war, adds a human touch to the island’s long history.

Day 7: Return South with Scenic Detours

Heading back to the mainland, you might visit Dunrobin Castle or enjoy scenic drives through the Cairngorm Mountains. The journey offers a chance to reflect on your trip’s highlights and take in more of Scotland’s diverse landscapes.

Day 8: Final Stops and Departure

The last day includes a visit to the Battle of Culloden site, where the Jacobite uprising was decisively defeated — a must for history buffs. Passing through the picturesque town of Pitlochry rounds out the trip with charming scenery.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides transportation, an English-speaking guide, seven nights’ accommodation, and breakfasts at each hotel. Entrance fees to key sites like Maes Howe, Skara Brae, and the Italian Chapel are covered, which simplifies planning.

Extras like meals outside breakfast, admission to additional attractions (like Loch Ness cruises or castles), and optional visits are up to you, at extra cost. This flexibility helps travelers budget accordingly.

Practical Considerations

• The luggage allowance is 15kg, with a size limit of 55cm x 40cm x 20cm, so pack efficiently.
• The tour is not suitable for children under 3 years old.
• For solo travelers, choosing the Single Room option is recommended, as the tour may not have space for those traveling alone otherwise.
• The tour can be affected by weather or unforeseen events, so some itinerary changes are possible.

How the Tour Feels in Practice

Based on reviews, guides like Alex and Andy are highly praised for their knowledge and engaging storytelling. Travelers appreciated how they brought history and scenery alive, making each stop meaningful. One reviewer said, “Great destinations & even better tour guides — thank you,” which is a common sentiment.

The tour’s pacing strikes a balance: enough time to explore major sights without feeling overly rushed. The days are packed with incredible scenery and historic sites, but the guidance helps you appreciate each stop rather than just check boxes.

The inclusion of the ferry rides, castle visits, and archaeological sites means you’ll enjoy a varied experience, mixing natural beauty with cultural discovery. Travelers often mention how the stunning views and authentic experiences leave a lasting impression.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip appeals most to history lovers eager to walk through ancient sites or to those captivated by Scotland’s rugged landscapes. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy days exploring Skye’s mountains and coastlines, while island-hoppers will find the Orkney Islands a fascinating destination.

It’s ideal for those who want a comprehensive Scottish experience but don’t want to plan every detail themselves. The guided element, along with accommodations and key attractions included, provides good value for the price.

If you’re someone who prefers a relaxed, slow-paced vacation, this might be too busy. But if you’re eager to see the highlights of Northern Scotland and the islands within a week, this tour offers an engaging, well-organized option.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
Transportation, an English-speaking guide, seven nights’ accommodation with breakfast, and entrance to key sites like Maes Howe, Skara Brae, and the Italian Chapel are included.

Are accommodations comfortable?
While not explicitly detailed, the tour offers overnight stays in well-located hotels or lodges, providing a comfortable base for exploring.

Can I visit castles like Urquhart Castle?
Yes, visits to castles such as Urquhart are optional and may require an additional fee. The tour includes other attractions, but some extras are at your own cost.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children under 3 years old are not allowed, so it’s best suited for older children, teenagers, and adults.

How strenuous is the itinerary?
It involves a fair amount of travel and walking at various sites. Days are busy, but guides help manage pacing. Be prepared for some long days.

What’s the best way to pack?
The luggage weight limit is 15kg with a maximum size of 55cm x 40cm x 20cm. Pack efficiently for variable weather and comfortable travel.

Can solo travelers join?
Yes, but solo travelers should select the Single Room option, as the tour might not have room sharing options available otherwise.

Are meals other than breakfast included?
No, meals outside the included breakfasts are not covered, so budget accordingly for lunches and dinners.

What if the weather is bad?
The itinerary is subject to change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances, but the guides aim to keep the experience rewarding regardless.

To sum it up, this 8-day Scottish tour from Edinburgh offers a fulfilling blend of natural beauty, archaeology, and history, guided by knowledgeable locals. It’s ideal for travelers eager to see a wide variety of sites without the hassle of planning, and who want to soak up the authentic feel of these remote, storied places. If you love epic landscapes, ancient ruins, and a well-organized adventure, this trip is well worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: