8 Day Isle of Skye, Orkney & North Coast 500 tour from Edinburgh

Day 1: Edinburgh to Inverness

1. Dunkeld
   45m
   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.
2. Highland Folk Museum
   1h 40m · Admission ticket included
   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.
3. Culloden Battlefield
   1h 45m · Admission ticket included
   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.
4. Clava Cairns
   25m
   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.

Day 2: Inverness to Orkney

1. Dunrobin Castle and Gardens
   2h · Admission ticket not included
   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.
2. North Coast 500
   4h
   Experience the rugged charm of Scotland’s very own “route 66”.
3. Orkney Islands
   1h 15m
   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.

Day 3: Orkney

1. The Italian Chapel
   20m · Admission ticket included
   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.
2. Ring of Brodgar
   20m
   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.
3. Skara Brae
   2h · Admission ticket included
   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.
4. Yesnaby Cliffs
   2h
   A stretch of amazing cliffs, seastacks and rocky beaches.

Day 4: Orkney to Ullapool

1. John O'Groats
   1h
   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.
2. North Coast 500
   4h
   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.
3. Smoo Cave
   45m
   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.
4. Durness
   45m
   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.
5. Knockan Crag National Nature Reserve
   1h
   Marvel at the scenery and mild-blowing geology of the North-West Highlands with a walk through Knockan Crag Nature Reserve.

Day 5: Ullapool to Portree

1. Corrieshalloch Gorge National Nature Reserve
   45m
   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.
2. Eilean Donan Castle
   15m · Admission ticket not included
   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.
3. Portree
   1h 30m
   We arrive in Skye in time for lunch, stopping at the island’s largest settlement Portree with its charming high street and local eateries.
4. The Old Man of Storr
   30m
   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.
5. Kilt Rock
   15m
   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.
6. Isle of Skye
   Pass by
   End your day of exploring the Isle of Skye.

Day 6: Portree to Oban

1. Armadale
   30m
   Time to board the ferry from Armadale to Mallaig. Remember to look out for some wildlife!
2. Glenfinnan Viaduct
   2h · Admission ticket included
   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.
3. Glencoe
   15m
   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.

Day 7: Oban to Oban

1. Oban
   12h
   Today is your free day to explore the charming fishing town of Oban! You will soon find out, there is no shortage of exciting things to see or tasty local seafood to eat. We advise booking wildlife tours in advance.

Day 8: Oban to Edinburgh

1. St Conan's Kirk
   45m
   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.
2. Kilchurn Castle
   1h · Admission ticket not included
   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.
3. Scottish Highlands
   30m
   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.
4. Falls of Dochart
   30m
   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
5. The Kelpies & The Helix
   30m
   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.

• 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.
• Travel insurance is recommended.
• Please note that itinerary order may change.
• The tour may operate with our sister company, Highland Explorer Tours.