Orkney, Skye, & The Far North

Day two takes you over the Connel Bridge through Appin to the haunting landscape of Glen Coe (scene of the terrible massacre of the MacDonald Clan), here you will have the time to admire the sensational scenery in one of Scotland's most astonishing landscapes, as well as learning about the tragic history of the area. We’ll stop in the town of Fort William for lunch. You will continue west from Fort William on board your bus, making a stop to view the Glenfinnan Viaduct, made famous by the Harry Potter films. We will also be able to see Glenfinnan Monument - and the gorgeous scenery that surrounds it.. We will then have time in Mallaig before we will board a ferry over to the Isle of Skye.

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You’ll have the whole of the third day to explore Skye’s mysteries and landscapes. Here the mountains and beaches beckon, so lose yourself amongst the Cuillin Mountains, take in the spectacular scenery of the Kilt rock waterfall, The Old Man of Storr and the Trotternish Peninsula, including a visit to the capital of the island, Portree. Your expert local driver-guide will be able to help you explore some of the lesser explored hidden gems and show you some of their own personal favourite spots on the island.

We’ll leave Skye by crossing the Skye Bridge, heading straight to Scotland’s most photographed castle, Eilean Donan* which you’ll have ample time to explore. This castle is set in an astonishing location, sitting on it's own island in Loch Duich, beneath the mountains of the Five Sisters of Kintail, 

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We will then head towards the Great Glen and Loch Ness - the world's most famous Loch. Here you will enjoy exploring Urquhart Castle before taking a boat cruise on the Loch (optional extra).  The day will end in the city of Inverness, which will be the overnight location for the final night of the tour.

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Today you head north from Inverness and the spectacular coastal scenery of the Moray and Cromarty Firths. Then you board the ferry for the memorable trip to the mysterious and magical Orkney Isles. Once you arrive you can take in the stunning scenery and start exploring. You'll visit the beautiful Italian Chapel, which was built by Italian prisoners of war. You'll also see the famous Churchill Barriers - causeways that were constructed to protect the British naval fleet from submarines.

From your base in Kirkwall, which boasts many craft and gift shops to enjoy, you'll spend the whole of day six exploring the islands. This is a land full of ancient history and you'll be able to take in prehistoric marvels such as the Maeshowe chambered cairn, the world-famous Neolithic village of Skara Brae and the brooding stone circles of Stenness and the Ring o'Brodgar. The day will finish with a visit to beautiful St Magnus Cathedral.

A relaxed start today, with a mid morning ferry ride back to the mainland. As you travel south along the coast of Caithness and Sutherland, there will be a chance to visit Dunrobin Castle, the historic home of the Earls of Sutherland, and one of Northern Scotland's most impressive buildings. You will spend the final evening of your town in the city of Inverness.

The final day of the tour will begin with a visit to the battlefield of Culloden the site of the defeat of the final defeat of the Jacobite forces. We will also explore Clava Cairns, a group of Prehistoric Burial Cairns, a site that inspired the Outlander series. On your way south you could maybe enjoy a wee dram at a local distillery. Then you’ll pass the stunning mountains of the Cairngorms National Park and be able to explore the picturesque town of Pitlochry before arriving back in Edinburgh.

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