5 Day Orkney Islands Tour From Edinburgh

Embark on an extraordinary 5-day journey from Edinburgh to the captivating Orkney Islands. This guided tour by Experience Scotland’s Wild offers an immersive exploration of Scotland’s rich history and stunning landscapes. From iconic sites like the Standing Stones of Stenness to the UNESCO-listed Skara Brae village, travelers will uncover the islands’ captivating past. With comfortable transportation and a small group of fellow adventurers, this tour promises an intimate, personalized experience. Whether you’re seeking to cruise Loch Ness or sample the local whisky, the itinerary provides ample opportunities to tailor your adventure. Prepare to be enchanted by the rugged beauty and captivating culture of this remote Scottish archipelago.

Key Points

• This 5-day tour from Edinburgh explores the Orkney Islands, including visits to ancient sites like the Standing Stones of Stenness and Skara Brae.
• The tour includes ferry transportation to/from the Orkney Islands and a maximum group size of 8 travelers for an intimate experience.
• Highlights of the tour include tours of Balmoral and Dunrobin Castles, a Loch Ness cruise, and an optional whisky distillery tour.
• The tour is rated 5.0 overall from 8 reviews and offers free cancellation up to 6 days in advance.
• The tour departs from a convenient location in Edinburgh and may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.

Tour Overview and Details

This 5-day Orkney Islands Tour from Edinburgh is operated by Experience Scotlands Wild.

It boasts an impressive 5.0 overall rating from 8 reviews. The tour includes ferry transportation to and from the Orkney Islands.

Highlights include guided walks in the Highlands and Orkney, visits to ancient sites like the 5,000-year-old Standing Stones of Stenness and Skara Brae, and optional activities such as a Loch Ness cruise, whisky distillery tour, and Culloden Moor Visitor Center.

The tour meets at a central location in Edinburgh and has a maximum group size of 8 travelers.

It’s not recommended for those with mobility or walking issues, and free cancellation is available up to 6 days in advance.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour’s itinerary highlights several captivating ancient sites across the Orkney Islands.

Travelers will visit the 5,000-year-old Standing Stones of Stenness and the nearby Ring of Brodgar, both impressive Neolithic monuments. They’ll also explore the Maeshowe Chambered Cairn, a remarkable 5,000-year-old burial tomb, and Skara Brae, a remarkably well-preserved Neolithic village.

Beyond the ancient sites, the tour includes visits to notable castles like Balmoral and Dunrobin.

Additional activities feature a Loch Ness cruise, a whisky distillery tour, and the Culloden Moor Visitor Center, providing a well-rounded experience of Scotland’s history and culture.

Meeting and Pickup Information

The tour meets at 256-260 Morrison St, Edinburgh EH3 8DT, UK, outside the Jolly Botanist.

Travelers should check in 15 minutes before the 7:30 am start time. The tour returns to the same meeting point at the end of the 5-day journey.

It’s important to note that this tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for those with mobility or walking issues. However, it’s conveniently located near public transportation.

With a maximum of 8 travelers, this small-group experience ensures a more personalized and intimate exploration of the Orkney Islands.

Participation Guidelines

Confirmation of booking is received upon completion of the reservation process.

This 5-day Orkney Islands tour from Edinburgh accommodates a maximum of 8 travelers. Unfortunately, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. However, it’s conveniently located near public transportation. Individuals with mobility or walking difficulties may find this tour challenging.

The tour departs from a meeting point outside the Jolly Botanist in Edinburgh, and participants are advised to arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled 7:30 am start time. At the end of the tour, guests will return to the original meeting location.

Pricing and Cancellation Policy

The tour price starts from £725.00, offering a Lowest Price Guarantee.

Travelers can enjoy free cancellation up to 6 days in advance, providing flexibility in their plans. This tour is competitively priced, ensuring value for money.

With a maximum of 8 travelers, the experience offers an intimate and personalized journey through the Orkney Islands.

Whether you’re seeking to explore ancient sites, witness natural wonders, or learn about Scottish culture, this tour provides an excellent opportunity to do so without breaking the bank.

The cancellation policy further enhances the overall experience, allowing you to book with confidence.

Exploring the Highlands

Guided short walks through the captivating Highlands of Scotland set the stage for this Orkney Islands tour.

Travelers can expect to:

1. Witness the dramatic landscapes of the Highlands, from rugged peaks to tranquil lochs.
2. Explore the ancient stone circles and chambered cairns that dot the region.
3. Visit the historic Balmoral Castle, the Scottish residence of the British Royal Family.
4. Cruise along the enigmatic Loch Ness in search of the legendary monster.

These activities provide a well-rounded introduction to the natural and cultural wonders of the Scottish Highlands before delving into the rich history and heritage of the Orkney Islands.

Uncovering Orkney’s History

Orkney’s captivating history unravels as travelers venture across the archipelago. The itinerary highlights ancient sites that offer a glimpse into the islands’ rich past.

Visitors can explore the 5,000-year-old Standing Stones of Stenness, the mystical Ring of Brodgar, and the Maeshowe Chambered Cairn, a remarkable Neolithic tomb. The UNESCO-listed Skara Brae also provides a rare glimpse into life during the Neolithic period.

Beyond the ancient monuments, the tour includes visits to notable castles, such as Balmoral and Dunrobin, allowing travelers to delve deeper into Orkney’s storied heritage.

Castles, Cruises, and Whisky

Beyond uncovering Orkney’s ancient history, the tour also delves into the islands’ captivating cultural heritage.

Highlights include:

1. Visiting Balmoral Castle, the Scottish residence of the British Royal Family, at an approximate cost of £16.
2. Exploring Dunrobin Castle, the northernmost stately home in the UK, for around £15.
3. Setting out on a Loch Ness cruise to catch a glimpse of the famous Loch Ness Monster, priced at approximately £15.
4. Touring a whisky distillery to learn about the art of crafting Scotland’s national drink, costing roughly £22.

These activities provide an immersive experience, blending Orkney’s rich history with its vibrant cultural offerings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Typical Group Size for the Tour?

The typical group size for the tour is a maximum of 8 travelers. The tour is not wheelchair accessible and is not recommended for travelers with mobility or walking problems.

Do We Have Free Time to Explore the Islands on Our Own?

The tour provides some independent exploration time on the Orkney Islands. Travelers have the opportunity to wander the ancient sites and villages at their own pace during the 5-day excursion.

Is There a Suggested Packing List for the Tour?

The tour operator recommends packing comfortable walking shoes, warm layers, rain gear, and a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and ancient sites on the Orkney Islands. Light snacks and a refillable water bottle are also suggested.

Can I Customize the Tour to Fit My Specific Interests?

Customers can customize the tour to fit their specific interests. The tour operator is flexible and willing to accommodate changes to the itinerary, within reason, to ensure guests have an enjoyable and personalized experience.

Are There Any Additional Costs Not Included in the Tour Price?

The tour price covers the main activities, but there may be additional costs for optional excursions like the Loch Ness cruise, whisky distillery visit, and entrance fees for Balmoral and Dunrobin Castles. Travelers should budget for these optional extras.

Sum Up

The 5-day Orkney Islands tour from Edinburgh offers an immersive experience into Scotland’s rich history and stunning landscapes. With visits to iconic sites, ferry transportation, and optional activities, this tour provides an intimate journey for a maximum of 8 travelers. Whether you’re exploring the Highlands, uncovering Orkney’s history, or indulging in castles, cruises, and whisky, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure.