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3 day tour
Orkney Islands and The Northern Highlands Small Group Tour
From
£405.00
Tour Summary
Orkney Islands and the Northern Highlands
3 day/2 night tour
The Orkney Islands are home to many fascinating historical treasures. On this absorbing tour, you’ll have the chance to visit ancient Neolithic sites, including Skara Brae, Maeshowe and the evocative Ring of Brodgar. Discover Scapa Flow, the scene of momentous events in both World Wars and explore the mighty St Magnus Cathedral, one of the finest in Europe. On the mainland, you’ll travel along the North Coast 500 route, famed for its stunning coastal views and have the opportunity to visit grand Dunrobin Castle.
Northern Highlands - enjoy stunning mountain views and sweeping seascapes
Italian Chapel - visit this ornate chapel constructed by Italian prisoners of war
Skara Brae - step back 5,000 years to discover all about Neolithic life at this well-preserved settlement of prehistoric dwellings
Ring of Brodgar - explore this magnificent circle of monoliths, one of the most significant in the United Kingdom
Kirkwall - discover how the Vikings shaped this bustling town and see the magnificent St Magnus Cathedral
Movie locations - Venus Peter, The Silver Darlings and The Spy in Black
Guest house accommodation included
Full Tour Itinerary
Select Day:
Day 1 - Inverness - Dunrobin Castle - Kirkwall
Our Orkney Islands tour begins with a scenic drive from Inverness, heading north to admire the stunning Dunrobin Castle, which overlooks the beautiful Moray Firth. You can tour some of the 189 rooms and explore the delightful gardens during the visit.
We then journey along the renowned North Coast 500, reaching the UK’s northernmost point at John O’Groats. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around this iconic spot before we set sail for the Orkney Islands.
As we cross the Pentland Firth, watch for grey seals and orcas if you are lucky.
In the afternoon, there is free time in Kirkwall, the largest community in Orkney, to wander its charming streets and discover its Viking heritage.
Why not visit the impressive St Magnus Cathedral and the Bishop’s & Earl’s Palaces? Alternatively, explore the many studio shops where you can see artists and craftspeople at work. It’s an excellent opportunity to pick up a unique souvenir of your visit to these Northern Isles.
We return to our accommodation in the late afternoon, giving you time to relax and reflect on the day’s adventures.
Overnight: Kirkwall (2 nights)
Day 2 - Exploring Orkney
Today, we delve into the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of the Orkney Islands.
Our first stop is the ancient Standing Stones of Stenness, which may be the oldest stone circle in the UK. Dating back over 5,000 years, only four of the stones remain standing, but it still makes for an impressive sight. We then visit the impressive Ring of Brodgar, a stunning stone circle dramatically situated overlooking two lochs. It’s one of the best-preserved stone circles in the UK, offering hints of forgotten rituals and beliefs.
Next, we explore Skara Brae, a remarkably well-preserved Stone Age settlement overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. It’s incredible to think that this community was thriving before the building of the pyramids! During your visit, you’ll see houses complete with their stone furniture, presenting a fascinating insight into the daily lives of Neolithic people.
Prepare to be amazed by the Yesnaby Cliffs, known for their rugged beauty and striking sea stacks. If you’re lucky, you might see some puffins nesting along the cliffs.
Finally, tides permitting, we’ll visit the Brough of Birsay, a tidal island teeming with archaeological treasures and offering spectacular sea views.
Day 3 - Kirkwall - Italian Chapel - Inverness
Before leaving Orkney’s enchanting landscapes, we visit a local farm to meet the fascinating Mangalitsa pigs, famous for their unique woolly coats, often called “hairy pigs.”
Next, we explore the moving Italian Chapel. Italian prisoners of war constructed this ornate chapel from two simple Nissen huts during World War 2.
After a morning of exploration, we board the ferry for the return sailing to mainland Scotland.
On arrival, our first stop is Duncansby Head, the most northeasterly point on the British mainland. Guarded by a lonely lighthouse, the cliffs are home to thriving seabird colonies, including puffins during the summer and offer fantastic views towards the dramatic Stacks and the Orkney Islands beyond.
Later, we visit the historic fishing village of Lybster, before the final part of the journey takes us to Dornoch, renowned for its famous cathedral and golfing traditions. After our visit, we travel to Inverness and return in the early evening.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I expect on this Small Group Tour?
With a maximum of just 16 passengers, a Small Group Tour provides a more personal and flexible travelling experience. You’ll enjoy more time off the bus, with freedom to explore free from the crowds.
While you will see all the highlights, these tours are carefully planned to travel off the highways, so you’ll discover quaint villages and picturesque vistas that other tours cannot reach.
Small group tours are operated by purpose-built mini-coaches with air-conditioning, panoramic windows and comfortable seating.
Each group is led by an experienced driver/guide who will entertain and inform you with stories of our history, nature and folklore.
Many travellers prefer small group touring as it’s considered more authentic and there is a better chance to connect with locals as well as their fellow explorers.
What type of room should I choose?
This tour includes guest house accommodation.
There are different bedroom types to choose from. Here is what you can expect:
Single room - one person sleeping in a single bed
Twin room - two people sleeping in two separate beds
Double room - two people sharing one large bed
Family room - three people sharing a room, sleeping in one large bed (2 people) and one single bed (1 person)
Please note that a family room can be a standard double room with either a sofa bed or a rollaway bed.
What are the optional extras on this tour and how much do they cost?
To give you complete choice admission fees are not included in the cost of this tour. The tour itinerary has been carefully designed to provide sufficient time for you to visit these attractions:
Italian Chapel
Skara Brae
Dunrobin Castle
If you click on the links above they will provide you with more information on each attraction including current admission prices. In some cases a special discount is offered to tour passengers, your driver/guide will provide details if this applies.
Please note that credit/debit cards are not always accepted so it is recommended that you carry sufficient cash with you should you want to make a visit.
Can I book seats on the coach?
The seating on the coach is not allocated so you are free to sit in any vacant seat.
We recommend that you and your party arrive at the boarding point together so that you can be seated in the same part of the coach.
What meals are included ?
Breakfast is included from day 2 onwards, which can be either a cooked or continental option.
If the accommodation provides a cooked breakfast, it will likely include bacon, sausages and eggs. You might even get the chance to taste haggis too, if you wish.
A continental spread could consist of cereals, yoghurts, bread, pastries and fruit.
Tea and coffee are served with both options.
Lunch and dinner are not included in the price.
During the touring day, there will be a stop in a town or village where you can pick up lunch.
In the evening, your driver/guide will be happy to suggest a conveniently located restaurant where you can enjoy dinner.
At popular destinations such as Skye, Oban, Fort William and Inverness, making a dinner reservation in advance is recommended.
For more information on meals and accommodation while on tour, click here.
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Customer Reviews Overall Rating:
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Rating: (5 /5) 11 Aug 2025
Spot on with Harrison. Grand tour guide! We couldn't be happier with the experience. Harrison's constant banter was incredible and captivating. He navigated the winding roads with ease and always had a great recommendation for a local pub or a scenic viewpoint. The tour was perfectly paced, allowing us to soak in the stunning landscapes and rich history without ever feeling rushed. A truly unforgettable trip!
Joao from Aveiro, PT
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