Exploring the rugged landscapes and rich history of Scotland’s northern reaches has never been easier. This 5-day tour from Edinburgh immerses visitors in the captivating Orkney Islands and Northern Coastline, offering a comprehensive journey through the region’s Neolithic settlements, medieval castles, and breathtaking natural wonders. With comfortable transportation, knowledgeable guides, and a focus on immersive experiences, travelers can expect an unforgettable adventure that showcases the unique cultural and environmental treasures of this enchanting corner of the world. For those seeking to uncover the secrets of the Scottish Highlands and beyond, this tour presents an opportunity too intriguing to overlook.
Key Points
- 5-day tour from Edinburgh exploring the Scottish Highlands and Orkney Islands, including historical landmarks, ancient Neolithic settlements, and breathtaking landscapes.
- Transportation by 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach for a comfortable and intimate experience, guided by an experienced driver/guide.
- 4 nights’ accommodation in 3-star hotels or B&Bs with breakfast, and all entrance fees to key historical sites included.
- Small group size for personalized and immersive exploration of the region’s history and natural beauty.
- Minimum age requirement of 5 years, 20kg luggage limit, and the tour is not wheelchair accessible.
Tour Overview
This 5-day tour from Edinburgh explores the captivating Scottish Highlands and the remote Orkney Islands, offering visitors a chance to enjoy the region’s rich history and stunning natural beauty.
Travelers will journey by top-of-the-range 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach, ensuring a comfortable and intimate experience.
Along the way, they’ll visit historical landmarks such as Stirling Castle, Skara Brae, Maeshowe Chambered Cairn, Culloden Battlefield, and Clava Cairns, gaining insights into Scotland’s fascinating past.
Accommodation is provided in 3-star hotels or B&Bs, with breakfast included, and an experienced driver/guide will lead the small group, making this tour an exceptional way to explore the Scottish Highlands and Orkney Islands.
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Inclusions in the Tour
The tour includes transportation by a top-of-the-range 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach, providing a comfortable and intimate experience for up to 16 passengers.
Travelers will also enjoy 4 nights’ accommodation with breakfast in 3-star hotels or B&Bs, as well as entrance fees to key historical sites like Skara Brae, Maeshowe Chambered Cairn, and Culloden Battlefield.
With an experienced driver/guide leading the way, the small group size ensures a more personalized and immersive exploration of the Scottish Highlands and Orkney Islands.
Whether it’s discovering ancient Neolithic settlements, witnessing the breathtaking landscapes, or learning about the region’s rich history, this tour offers a comprehensive and unforgettable journey through the northern reaches of Scotland.
Detailed Itinerary
On the first day, the tour departs from Edinburgh and travels north to Inverness, making stops along the way to explore the stunning Scottish Highlands and the legendary Loch Ness.
Travelers will visit Stirling Castle, a historic fortress that was once a favored residence of Scottish monarchs. The journey continues to Loch Ness, where they’ll have the chance to spot the elusive Loch Ness Monster.
From there, the tour heads to Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, where guests will spend the night.
The next day, the group crosses the Pentland Firth to the Orkney Islands, stopping at Dunrobin Castle, the stately home of the Earls and Dukes of Sutherland, and the northernmost point of the British mainland, John o’Groats, before arriving in Kirkwall, the largest town in Orkney.
Meeting and Pickup Information
Passengers meet for the tour at the Edinburgh Bus Station, specifically at Gates J and K in St Andrew Square, and should arrive 15 minutes prior to the scheduled 9:00 AM departure.
The tour concludes with drop-off at the original meeting point.
To ensure a smooth experience, guests are advised to follow these guidelines:
- Arrive 15 minutes early to allow for check-in and boarding.
- Bring a maximum of 20kg of luggage per person, as space on the mini-coach is limited.
- Please note that this tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
- Cancellations made up to 21 days before the tour are eligible for a full refund.
Additional Tour Details
Travelers must meet the minimum age requirement of 5 years to participate in this tour. Group size is limited to a maximum of 16 passengers per mini-coach, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.
Luggage allowance is 20kg per person, which should be considered when packing for the trip. Unfortunately, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Should plans change, the cancellation policy allows for a full refund up to 21 days before the tour date.
This 5-day Orkney & Northern Coast Tour from Edinburgh provides an immersive exploration of Scotland’s stunning landscapes and historical landmarks, with an experienced driver/guide to enhance the journey. Travelers can look forward to discovering the beauty and rich heritage of this captivating region.
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Accommodation and Meals
The tour includes 4 nights’ accommodation in 3-star hotels or bed and breakfasts, with breakfast provided each morning to fuel the day’s explorations. This ensures a comfortable and well-rested experience as you venture through the Scottish Highlands and Orkney Islands.
The breakfast offerings typically include:
- A selection of hot and cold items, such as cooked eggs, sausages, bacon, and pastries, to cater to various tastes.
- Fresh fruit, yogurt, and cereal options for a lighter start to the day.
- Tea, coffee, and juices to help you wake up and stay energized.
- Local specialties like haggis or porridge, providing a true taste of Scottish cuisine.
These hearty meals set you up perfectly for the day’s activities and discoveries.
Accessibility and Luggage
Moving on to the accessibility and luggage considerations, this tour has a minimum age requirement of 5 years, ensuring a family-friendly experience.
The luggage allowance is 20kg per person, which should accommodate the essentials for the 5-day journey through the Scottish Highlands and Orkney Islands.
However, it’s important to note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so guests with mobility issues may need to consider alternative options.
The small-group size of 16 passengers in a Mercedes mini-coach ensures a more intimate and personalized experience, allowing for easy navigation through the stunning landscapes.
With these accessibility and luggage details in mind, travelers can pack efficiently and focus on the unforgettable sights and experiences that this tour has to offer.
Cancellation and Refund Policy
This tour’s cancellation policy allows for a full refund up to 21 days before the tour’s departure date, providing travelers with ample flexibility to adjust their plans if needed.
Guests who cancel within 21 days of the tour may face partial or no refund, depending on the proximity to the departure date, so early planning and communication with the tour operator is advised.
Some key aspects of the cancellation and refund policy include:
- Full refund available up to 21 days before tour departure
- Partial or no refund for cancellations within 21 days of tour
- Early communication with the tour operator recommended
- Flexibility to adjust plans without financial penalties
Recap
This 5-day tour from Edinburgh provides an immersive experience in the Scottish Highlands and Orkney Islands.
Travelers can explore ancient Neolithic settlements, visit historic landmarks, and discover breathtaking landscapes.
With comfortable transportation, guided tours, and inclusive admission fees, the tour offers a personalized and intimate exploration of the region’s cultural and natural wonders.
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