5-Day Orkney and Highlands Tour from Edinburgh

Leaving from Edinburgh we’ll head towards Stirling, stopping by the castle, from here get incredible views to the Wallace Monument and over the Vale of Mentieth, the southern Highlands and the Ochil Hills. We’ll then make our way to Kilmahog, you’ll get great views of Ben Ledi from here. On the way Glen Coe we’ll stop at Loch Tulla for photographs. Then you’ll learn of the harrowing MacDonald clan massacre that took places amongst the dramatic mountains and waterfalls there. We’ll then continue a little further north to Fort William, the Highland town dominated by Ben Nevis, the tallest mountain in the UK. You’ll also get the chance to visit the old Inverlochy Castle here, although now a ruin this was one of the most pivotal castles in Scottish history. Overnight: Fort Augustus.

On day two we’ll head further north to Inverness to meet the rest of our group, and give you an introduction to the capital of the Highlands. You’ll get the ferry over to Orkney from Gills Bay, offering the chance to spot some incredible wildlife – look out for seals, puffins and even whales if you’re lucky! Another highlight of the day is a visit to the Italian Chapel, a masterpiece built from salvaged materials by Italian prisoners of war. Overnight: Kirkwall

Day three is dedicated to Orkney. We’ll take you to numerous prehistoric wonders on this incredible archipelago made up of 70 islands. Such as Maes Howe a chambered cairn, a tomb more than 5000 years old, the brooding Stone Circles of Stenness. Anyone with an interest in archaeology will love the Ness of Brodgar a Neolithic excavation site, only open whilst archaeologists are busy uncovering new items! Another source of ancient mystery is the Ring of Brodgar! You can visit St Magnus Cathedral in the afternoon before returning to your accommodation. Overnight: Kirkwall.

Day 4 involves a mid morning ferry ride and more opportunities to see Scotland’s impressive wildlife.There will be an opportunity to visit Dunrobin Castle as we travel back to the capital of the Highlands for the evening. Overnight Inverness

On our final day we’ll visit the battlefield of Culloden, the site of the defeat of the Jacobite forces. You have the chance to explore the interactive visitor centre here and learn how this brutal battle changed life in the Highlands and Islands forever. As we continue back to Edinburgh we’ll pass by Inverness, the stunning Cairngorm Mountains and have a chance to enjoy the picturesque town of Pitlochry.