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8-Day Isle of Skye, Orkney & North Coast 500 tour from Edinburgh
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Calendar
Overview
Spend an unforgettable 8 days with us as we explore Scotland's North Coast 500. Discover Scotland's most beautiful sites from Dunrobin Castle to Skara Brae, the Isle of Skye and the world-famous Jacobite Steam Train. Immerse yourself in Scotland's rich history with one of our fantastic guides, and make lifelong memories along the way.
Description
Day 1: Edinburgh to Inverness
Stop At: Dunkeld, Dunkeld United Kingdom
Our first stop of the day is Dunkeld in the heart of Perthshire. Known for its 13th century cathedral, this is the perfect spot to fuel up with a coffee and pastry from a charming local bakery.
Duration: 45 minutes
Stop At: Highland Folk Museum, Aultlarie Croft Kingussie Road, Newtonmore PH201AY United Kingdom
The Highland Folk Museum is Britain's first open-aired museum and an opportunity to experience firsthand how highlanders lived, worked and socialised from the 1700s.
Duration: 1 hour 40 minutes
Stop At: Culloden Battlefield, Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre, Culloden Moor IV25EU United Kingdom
One of the most somber locations in Scotland, Culloden Battlefield remains mostly untouched to pay respect to those who lost their lives in the final Jacobite Uprising of 1746.
Duration: 1 hour 20 minutes
Stop At: Clava Cairns, Balnuaran of Clava, Scottish Highlands IV25EU United Kingdom
Visit one of the inspirations behind Outlander - the Clava Cairns standing stones. These stones stand proudly at 10 feet tall and are known for being a bronze age burial ground.
Duration: 20 minutes
Accommodation included:
Overnight in Inverness, B&B accommodation
Day 2: Inverness to Orkney
Stop At: Dunrobin Castle and Gardens, Golspie KW106SF United Kingdom
The incredibly beautiful Dunrobin Castle traces its origins back to the 13th century, recognised as one of Britain's oldest inhabited houses. The castle is known for its French-inspired architecture, making it stand out from other Scottish castles. We also have the opportunity to observe a falconry display.
Duration: 3 hours
Stop At: North Coast 500, Inverness United Kingdom
Experience the rugged charm of Scotland’s very own “route 66”. We pass Wick, Helmsdale, and stop to visit some stops. Visit the haunting remains of Badbea, a township cleared during the period known as the Highland Clearances and descend down Whaligoe Steps to view a traditional fish-landing station.
Duration: 4 hours
Stop At: Orkney Islands United Kingdom
We head over the sea to Orkney by way of ferry for our last leg of the day. Upon arrival your guide drives you to Kirkwall, where you settle in for the night.
Duration: 1 hour
Meals included:
Breakfast
Accommodation included:
Overnight in Orkney, B&B accommodation
Day 3: Orkney
Stop At: The Italian Chapel, Lamb Holm, St. Mary's KW172RT United Kingdom
The breathtaking Italian Chapel was built during World War Two using two Nissen huts. The chapel was the dream child of Italian prisoners of war who were based on the island and is now one of Orkney’s best-loved attractions.
Duration: 20 minutes
Stop At: Ring of Brodgar, Brodgar B9055, Stromness KW163JZ United Kingdom
Follow in the footsteps of humans 5000 years ago at this epic stone circle. The Ring of Brodgar is a vast and mysterious archaeological gem, and the most iconic site in the Heart of Neolithic Orkney.
Duration: 20 minutes
Stop At: Skara Brae, Skara Brae B9056, Stromness KW163LR United Kingdom
Visit Skara Brae, an incredibly well-preserved neolithic village consisting of 10 houses. Its existence was only discovered in the 19th century after it was uncovered during a storm. We learn about the peaceful community of farmers and fishermen who once lived there and take in the incredible ocean views which surround it.
Duration: 2 hours
Stop At: Stromness, Stromness United Kingdom
Next we visit Stromness, the second largest settlement in Orkney, for a bite to eat and a chance to explore.
Duration: 45 minutes
Stop At: Orkney Islands United Kingdom
We spend the afternoon exploring: from Mae’s Howe to Earls Bu; Round church to Orkney Brewery; your guide will organize an afternoon packed with storytelling and Orcadian adventure.
Duration: 2 hours 50 minutes
Meals included:
Breakfast
Accommodation included:
Overnight in Orkney, B&B accommodation
Day 4: Orkney to Ullapool
Stop At: John O'Groats, John O'Groats United Kingdom
We hop on a ferry back to the mainland where our adventurers continue! We arrive in John O’Groats, the northernmost point of Great Britain.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: North Coast 500, Inverness United Kingdom
We continue our journey along the North Coast 500. When it comes to this drive, there’s no such thing as “too far”. Your guide takes you to every unmissable stop and view along the way, so sit back and enjoy.
Duration: 4 hours
Stop At: Smoo Cave, Durness United Kingdom
Smoo Cave is one of the top natural attractions on the North Coast 500 and epic example of Scottish geology; from the sea cave’s impressive 50ft entrance to the waterfall chamber deep inside, complete with its own lake and boat trips.
Duration: 45 minutes
Stop At: Durness, Durness United Kingdom
We make a stop in Durness to visit Sango Sands beach for our lunch break and the chance to enjoy one of Scotland’s beautiful highland beaches.
Duration: 45 minutes
Stop At: Knockan Crag National Nature Reserve, Ullapool IV274HH United Kingdom
Marvel at the scenery and mild-blowing geology of the North-West Highlands with a walk through Knockan Crag Nature Reserve.
Duration: 1 hour
Meals included:
Breakfast
Accommodation included:
Overnight in Ullapool, B&B accommodation
Day 5: Ullapool to Portree
Stop At: Corrieshalloch Gorge National Nature Reserve, Braemore, Ullapool IV232PJ United Kingdom
Today we head for the land of faeries; Skye! Our first stop of the day is at Corrieshalloch Gorge, one of the most impressive gorges in the UK. The gorge was formed from melted glacial water and stands approximately 1.5 km long, 60m deep, and 10m wide.
Duration: 45 minutes
Stop At: Eilean Donan Castle, Kyle of Lochalsh IV408DX United Kingdom
Next we stop at the most photographed castle in Scotland, Eilean Donan. Eilean Donan Castle has links to both clans MacKenzie and MacRae, and is the perfect place to stop before today’s final destination – Skye.
Duration: 15 minutes
Stop At: Portree, Portree United Kingdom
We arrive in Skye in time for lunch, stopping at the island’s largest settlement Portree with its charming high street and local eateries.
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Stop At: The Old Man of Storr United Kingdom
When it comes to cool geology, this natural wonder is the absolute pinnacle. Standing tall on Skye’s ancient landslip, the Old Man of Storr is such a poser. Sometimes hidden by mist, this is a popular hangout for mischievous fairies.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Kilt Rock United Kingdom
Soak up the iconic view of Kilt Rock, a rugged cliff which resembles – you’ve guessed it – a kilt. Marvel at the breathtaking Mealt Waterfall as it runs into the ocean.
Duration: 15 minutes
Meals included:
Breakfast
Accommodation included:
Overnight in Portree, B&B accommodation
Day 6: Portree to Oban
Stop At: Armadale, Armadale United Kingdom
Time to board the ferry from Armadale to Mallaig. Remember to look out for some wildlife!
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Glenfinnan Viaduct, Glenfinnan Lodge A830 Rd, Glenfinnan PH374LT United Kingdom
The Jacobite Steam Train and Glenfinnan Viaduct have shot to worldwide fame since starring in the Harry Potter films, and whether you’re a fan or not, a ride on this classic train is an experience like no other. The West Highland Line between Mallaig and Fort William is famous for its wildly beautiful scenery and dreamy sands of the west coast. The train steams over the 21 arches of the Glenfinnan Viaduct with views across the stunning Loch Shiel, where Bonnie Prince Charlie famously landed in August 1745. Along the coast, you can see the silhouette of the Small Isles, and the bonnie beaches at Arisaig and Morar. You’ll quickly understand why it’s been voted the most scenic rail journey in the world.
Duration: 2 hours
Stop At: Glencoe, Scottish Highlands United Kingdom
Glencoe is dominated by majestic mountains which completely contrast the vast and flat expanse of its neighbouring Rannoch Moor. Buachaille Etive Mòr, which overlooks the moor, is a bonnie brute of a mountain, and a fond favourite with photographers. Your guide will take you through Glencoe’s sad history; you will truly feel like you have been transported through time.
Duration: 15 minutes
Meals included:
Breakfast
Accommodation included:
Overnight in Oban, B&B accommodation
Day 7: Oban to Oban
Stop At: Oban, Oban United Kingdom
Today is your free day to explore the charming fishing village of Oban! Your guide is on hand to offer suggestions of what to see and do, but as you will soon find out, there is no shortage of exciting things to see or tasty local seafood to eat. Enjoy!
Duration: 12 hours
Meals included:
Breakfast
Accommodation included:
Overnight in Oban, B&B accommodation
Day 8: Oban to Edinburgh
Stop At: St Conan's Kirk, A85/Saint Conan's Rd, Loch Awe PA331AQ United Kingdom
St. Conan’s Kirk, which sits on the banks of Loch Awe. Built between 1881 and 1886, St. Conan’s sits amongst an enchanting forest and is the heart of Dalmally’s local community.
Duration: 45 minutes
Stop At: Kilchurn Castle, Lochawe, Dalmally PA331AF United Kingdom
Kilchurn Castle was built in the mid-1400s by Sir Colin Campbell, the 1st Lord of Glenorchy. Today the castle is derelict and sits dramatically on a rocky peninsula.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Scottish Highlands United Kingdom
Take the opportunity to explore a charming Highland village for some lunch and the chance to stretch your legs. Your guide will recommend all the best stops for coffee and food.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Falls of Dochart, Gray Street, Killin FK218SL United Kingdom
Next we make a stop at the impressive Falls of Dochart which run through the village of Killin. The perfect peaceful stop for a bit of respite and reflection
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: The Kelpies & The Helix, 4 Stadium Way, The Helix, Falkirk FK29EE United Kingdom
The Kelpies are a stunning spectacle of modern engineering, designed by Scottish artist Andy Scott. Kelpies are mythological beasts in Scottish folklore, and this fantastic equine landmark is the largest of its kind in the world, “neighing” at a height of 30 meters and weighing a mighty 300 tonnes.
Duration: 30 minutes
Meals included:
Breakfast
Schedule
- Reservations are REQUIRED for all bookings
- Book Your Package On-Line and Receive Your Confirmation
- Departure point: Detailed check-in instructions - including the address and parking information if applicable - will be included in your final confirmation email.
- Duration: 8 days (Approx.)
- Departure Time: 08:30 AM
- Return Details: Returns to original departure point
What's Included
- 3* B&B accommodation - 7 nights
- Gratuities (Optional)
- Lunch/dinner
What To Bring
- Confirmation Voucher (printed or mobile)
- Any required or suggested items listed on your confirmation email.
- A Smile!
Additional Info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- The minimum age to travel is 5 years old
- Each traveler is allowed a maximum of 1 suitcase weighing no more than 33lbs (15kg) and 1 carry-on bag
- Collapsible wheelchairs with removable wheels can be accommodated providing the passenger is accompanied by someone who can assist them to board and disembark
- It is recommended to book transport to the departure point in advance. Please also allow extra time to get to the departure point for check-in. We advise you arrive at least 15 minutes before the tour departure to allow time to check-in for the tour. Unfortunately, we are unable to hold the bus or refund for any late arrivals.
- Please note that the Jacobite Steam Train service may be subject to alterations and cancellations at short notice, outwith our control
- Return times are approximate and subject to road conditions and weather. Please ensure you allocate sufficient time for any onward travel plans, allowing at least 3 hours after the scheduled return time for connections or activities.
- Operated by Highland Explorer Tours Ltd
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- Cut-off times are based on the experience’s local time.
- This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
Reviews
Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 40 traveler reviews collected by Cool Destinations and partner sites such as Trustpilot, Viator, and TripAdvisor
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Free cancellation
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- Cut-off times are based on the experience’s local time.
- This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.