From Inverness: Orkney Islands and Highlands 3-Day Tour

The Orkney Islands and Highlands tour from Inverness promises an unforgettable journey through Scotland’s captivating landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Priced at a reasonable $408.36 per person, this 3-day excursion offers exceptional value, with transportation, accommodation, and entry fees included. From the serene beauty of the Black Isle to the ancient wonders of Skara Brae, the itinerary is meticulously crafted to showcase the region’s most stunning sights. With a small group size of 16, travelers can expect personalized attention and an immersive experience. But what awaits beyond the well-known highlights? The tour promises to unveil the hidden gems that make this corner of Scotland truly enchanting.

This experience made our list of the 13 Best 3 Day Tours In Inverness.

Key Points

• Explore the Orkney Islands and Highlands on a 3-day tour from Inverness, covering ancient sites, scenic drives, and wildlife viewing.
• The tour is priced at $408.36 per person and accommodates up to 16 participants with a free cancellation policy up to 7 days in advance.
• Key highlights include visiting the Italian Chapel, Cuween Hill Chambered Cairn, Skara Brae Neolithic village, and John O’Groats for wildlife viewing.
• The tour provides transportation, accommodation, and entry to all attractions, with collapsible wheelchairs accommodated with assistance.
• The tour is suitable for adults and has received positive customer feedback, with a 5-star rating based on 4 reviews.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The 3-day Orkney Islands and Highlands Tour offers an immersive journey through the stunning landscapes and rich history of northern Scotland. Priced at $408.36 per person, the tour is limited to 16 participants and conducted in English.

You can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 7 days in advance for a full refund. The itinerary includes visits to iconic sites like the Italian Chapel, Skara Brae Neolithic village, and the Standing Stones of Stenness.

Transportation, accommodation, and entry to attractions are included, making this an excellent value for money. The tour is suitable for adults, with collapsible wheelchairs accommodated with assistance.

Itinerary Highlights

Spanning three captivating days, the Orkney Islands and Highlands Tour immerses travelers in the region’s rich history and breathtaking natural beauty.

Day one’s journey takes guests through Black Isle, where they’ll stop in Golspie for lunch and capture photos at the Helmsdale Clearance Emigrants Statue. After a ferry ride to Orkney, the tour visits the iconic Italian Chapel and offers optional activities like exploring Inganess Beach, St Magnus Cathedral, and Scapa Distillery.

On day two, the itinerary highlights prehistoric sites like Cuween Hill Chambered Cairn and Skara Brae, as well as the Standing Stones of Stenness.

The final day features a scenic drive to Gills Bay, a wildlife viewing stop at John O’Groats, and visits to Castle Sinclair Girnigoe or Wick.

Day 1: Exploring Black Isle and Orkney

Guests embark on their Orkney Islands and Highlands adventure, traveling through the picturesque Black Isle.

The tour makes a stop in Golspie for lunch, before heading to a poignant photo opportunity at the Helmsdale Clearance Emigrants Statue.

Crossing the Pentland Firth by ferry, the group arrives in the Orkney Islands, where they visit the breathtaking Italian Chapel, a remarkable feat of craftsmanship built by prisoners of war.

Participants have the option to explore Inganess Beach, St Magnus Cathedral, or the Scapa Distillery, seeing the islands’ rich history and culture.

The day concludes with an overnight stay in the charming town of Kirkwall.

1. Journey through Black Isle
2. Lunch stop in Golspie
3. Photo at Helmsdale Clearance Emigrants Statue
4. Ferry to Orkney, visit Italian Chapel and optional activities

Day 2: Uncovering Orkney’s Ancient Sites

On the second day, visitors explore some of Orkney’s most impressive ancient sites.

They’ll venture to the Cuween Hill Chambered Cairn, a 5,000-year-old Neolithic tomb. Next, they’ll discover the remarkably preserved Neolithic village of Skara Brae, which offers a glimpse into the daily lives of its prehistoric inhabitants.

After a lunch stop in the picturesque town of Stromness, the tour continues to the iconic Standing Stones of Stenness, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The day concludes with visits to the HMS Tern naval base and the Broch of Gurness, an impressive Iron Age fortification.

Throughout the day, travelers gain insights into Orkney’s rich archaeological heritage.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Day 3: Returning to Inverness

After two immersive days exploring Orkney’s ancient sites, the tour group departs Kirkwall for the return journey to Inverness.

The day begins with a ferry ride back to the mainland, followed by a lunch stop at the iconic John O’Groats, where wildlife viewing opportunities abound.

Depending on the weather, the group will visit either Castle Sinclair Girnigoe or the town of Wick.

The drive back to Inverness includes stops at:

1. Dunbeath Harbour
2. Golspie
3. Helmsdale Clearance (Emigrants Statue)
4. Black Isle

This final leg of the tour provides a scenic conclusion to the Orkney Islands and Highlands adventure.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes a variety of amenities to enhance the overall experience.

Travelers will be transported by a comfortable, air-conditioned bus and accompanied by a knowledgeable driver-guide. Accommodation and all food and drinks are provided. Onboard restrooms offer convenience throughout the journey.

The tour also covers entry fees to the featured attractions, ensuring a seamless exploration of the Orkney Islands and Highlands.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 4 years old, and pets, except assistance dogs, aren’t allowed.

Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather conditions.

Important Information

Travelers can find the meeting point for the Orkney Islands and Highlands Tour at Railway Terrace in Inverness, IV1 1NW.

To prepare for the tour, guests should bring comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. The tour accommodates collapsible wheelchairs with assistance.

While children under 4 years old aren’t suitable, the tour welcomes guests with assistance dogs. The tour provides restrooms on board the air-conditioned bus, and entry to all attractions is included in the price.

Some key information includes:

1. Meeting Point: Railway Terrace, Inverness, IV1 1NW
2. What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing
3. Accessibility: Collapsible wheelchairs accommodated with assistance
4. Exclusions: Not suitable for children under 4 years, no pets (except assistance dogs)

Customer Feedback

According to customer reviews, the Orkney Islands and Highlands Tour has garnered an outstanding rating of 5 out of 5 stars based on 4 reviews.

Reviewers consistently praise the tour’s value for money, with one stating it "exceeded expectations." The safety and organization of the tour also receive high marks, with customers noting the knowledgeable and friendly driver-guides.

One reviewer remarked, "The tour was incredibly well-organized, and the guides were truly exceptional."

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

The tour includes food and drinks, so bringing your own is not necessary. However, you’re welcome to bring snacks and water if desired. The tour provides restrooms on the bus for your convenience.

Is There a Discount for Seniors or Students?

The tour does not offer specific discounts for seniors or students. However, the overall pricing is competitively priced, and the inclusion of transportation, accommodations, and entry fees provides good value for all participants.

How Much Free Time Is Allotted at Each Stop?

The tour provides ample free time at each stop, allowing travelers to explore at their own pace. Approximately 1-2 hours of free time is typically allotted for each attraction, giving participants the flexibility to truly experience the highlights.

What Happens if the Weather Is Poor During the Tour?

If the weather is poor, the itinerary may be adjusted. The tour includes stops at indoor attractions like castles and museums, ensuring an engaging experience regardless of the weather conditions. The guide will provide options to make the most of the tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour for Additional Days?

There’s no option to extend the tour, as it’s a pre-planned 3-day itinerary. However, travelers could explore the Orkney Islands and Highlands further on their own before or after the tour, depending on their schedule and interests.

Recap

The Orkney Islands and Highlands Tour from Inverness is a captivating journey that immerses travelers in Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. With comprehensive inclusions, personalized attention, and exceptional value, this well-organized tour promises an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re exploring ancient sites, witnessing scenic drives, or catching glimpses of wildlife, this 3-day adventure will leave you with lasting memories of the Highlands’ enchanting beauty.

You can check if your dates are available here: