5 Days Orkney Islands & NC500 Tour from Glasgow

Travelers looking for an immersive Scottish adventure often face the challenge of choosing between countless day trips and more comprehensive tours. This 5-day small-group experience promises to unlock some of Scotland’s most iconic sights—think ancient stones, rugged coastlines, and Highland castles—without feeling rushed or anonymous. Designed for a maximum of 8 travelers, it’s a perfect blend of intimacy, expert guidance, and diverse scenery.

What stands out? First, the tour’s focus on authentic landscapes and historical sites—like the Neolithic Skara Brae and the Ring of Brodgar—delivered with a knowledgeable guide. Second, the ability to experience the stunning North Coast 500 route, often called Scotland’s answer to Route 66, and the chance to cross to the Orkney Islands by ferry. The only potential catch? The tour’s packed schedule might feel a bit intense for those who prefer slower days or more leisure time at each stop.

This tour suits adventurous travelers eager to explore outside Edinburgh or Glasgow, especially those interested in history, scenic drives, and authentic Highland or island experiences. If you’re comfortable with a moderate pace and love discovering lesser-known corners of Scotland, this could be your ideal trip.

Key Points

• Small group tours ensure personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Diverse scenery from Highland lochs to island archaeological sites keeps every day fresh and engaging.
• Expert guides provide context and storytelling that enrich the sightseeing.
• Inclusion of ferries to Orkney Islands offers a real sense of adventure and discovery.
• Cultural and historical highlights include Neolithic sites, castles, and battlefield visits.
• Value for money when considering entry fees, guided walks, and ferry crossings bundled into the price.

Day 1: Highland Beginnings and the Neolithic Past

The tour kicks off at Cairngorms National Park, the largest of Scotland’s national parks, offering a chance for a woodland walk amid towering pines. This isn’t just a photo stop; it’s a peaceful moment to breathe in the mountain air and appreciate the vastness of the Scottish landscape.

Next, the Culloden Battlefield introduces you to a pivotal moment in Scottish history—the Jacobite Uprising of 1745. The site itself is a poignant reminder of clan conflicts, and while the Battlefield Visitor Center costs extra (£15), walking the grounds is free, and your guide will likely share stories of the clans and the aftermath.

Then, you get a quick taste of Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, with a few hours to browse shops, enjoy a café, or simply soak up the riverfront scenery. The visit to Clava Cairns, a 4,000-year-old prehistoric burial site, offers a fascinating glimpse into Neolithic life, with standing stones and ancient tombs that seem to whisper stories from thousands of years ago.

In the afternoon, lunch in Aviemore gives you a chance to enjoy Highland town life. The town’s proximity to mountain trails and ancient forests means you might find yourself daydreaming about future hikes. The day wraps up with a tour of Dalwhinnie Distillery, renowned for its Highland whisky. Sampling here isn’t just about tasting; it’s about understanding the craftsmanship behind Scotland’s national drink.

Review highlight: One traveler noted, “We had a lovely time with the group and our guide John took great care of us, always ensuring that we had the right balance of history and scenery.”

Day 2: The North Coast 500 and the Orkney Bound

Day two is all about driving Scotland’s scenic North Coast 500, often called the country’s answer to the famous Route 66. The route offers dramatic cliffs, secluded beaches, and rugged coastline views that make every bend worth pausing for photos and breathless admiration.

A stop at Latheronwheel Harbor features spectacular coastal views—perfect for stretching legs and snapping photos. Then, your journey brings you to the Italian Chapel, a uniquely decorated WWII structure built by Italian prisoners of war, blending history with art in a way that surprises many travelers.

Next comes a tour of Scapa Distillery, another whisky stop where you can try a dram and learn about whisky making. The day concludes in Kirkwall, the bustling capital of Orkney, a charming town with cobbled streets, local shops, and a relaxed pace that invites exploration.

Review highlight: “Jim was an outstanding guide. Funny, informative, and ensured all were happy! We even saw puffins and fed Highland Coos,” shared a traveler, emphasizing the personal touch and the stunning wildlife.

Day 3: Orkney’s Ancient Marvels

This day is a highlight for history buffs. You’ll start in Kirkwall, visiting St Magnus Cathedral, which anchors the town’s history, and then move to Maeshowe, a 5,000-year-old chambered cairn featuring runic carvings and impressive stonework. The site is an archaeological marvel, and guided insights make it come alive.

Next, visit Standing Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar, two of the most impressive prehistoric stone circles in the UK. These sites evoke images of ancient ceremonies and community gatherings, leaving you feeling like an extra in an outlander episode.

The day ends at Skara Brae, a remarkably preserved Neolithic village. Walking through the reconstructed stone homes, beds, and shelving gives a tangible sense of what daily life was like 5,000 years ago. It’s a powerful reminder that humans have been shaping this landscape for millennia.

Review highlight: One guest remarked, “I truly felt like I was at the end of the world, surrounded by history and stunning landscapes that made the long journey worthwhile.”

Day 4: Back to the Mainland and the Coastline

Returning by ferry from St. Margaret’s Hope, the day begins with a visit to John O’Groats, famously claimed as the northernmost point of mainland Britain. The iconic signpost makes for a fun photo, and the small village has a quiet charm.

Next, explore the Grey Cairns of Camster, ancient burial mounds that require a bit of physical agility—crawling inside the cairn to the chamber is a memorable experience. This site offers a real sense of connection with the distant past, with the added thrill of being physically involved.

The group then heads back to Inverness for the night, with optional visits to Castle Sinclair Girnigoe and Dunrobin Castle, each offering spectacular views and a glimpse into Scotland’s castle-building history.

Review highlight: “Calum shared his passion and knowledge with us, making the castles and sites come alive,” a traveler noted, underscoring the importance of a knowledgeable guide.

Day 5: Highlands, Lochs, and the End of the Road

The final day travels through the Scottish Highlands, passing scenic spots like Glencoe, renowned for its dramatic landscapes, and Loch Lomond, a place of legend and serenity. The tour culminates with a cruise on Loch Ness, where the chance to spot Nessie adds a fun, if uncertain, element to the day.

Driving through the Trossachs National Park offers a last dose of natural beauty, with lush forests and tranquil lochs. The journey concludes back in Edinburgh, giving you a chance to reflect on the diverse landscapes and ancient sites you’ve explored.

Review highlight: Travelers appreciated the mix of scenery and history, with one noting, “We saw puffins, feasted our eyes on the Highlands, and learned so much from our guide.”

The $839.13 price tag covers a lot—ferry crossings, guided walks, and visits to major sites—making it a good deal when you consider entry fees and transportation costs you’d otherwise pay separately. Plus, small groups mean more personalized attention and flexible itineraries, allowing guides to tailor the experience based on interests.

The guided walks and expert commentary are big value-adds, transforming sightseeing into storytelling. Many reviewers praise their guides, describing them as knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate.

Transport is comfortable, with a modern van that seats up to five passengers, enhancing the feeling of a private tour rather than a crowded bus. The days are well-paced; however, be prepared for long drives and a packed schedule—best for active travelers ready to see a lot in a short time.

The tour’s emphasis on historic sites, scenic drives, and local distilleries means you’re not just ticking boxes but genuinely experiencing Scottish culture and landscape.

This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, scenery lovers, and adventurous spirits eager to see some of Scotland’s best sights with an intimate group. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer guided experiences over independent travel, and who appreciate a mix of cultural, archaeological, and natural highlights.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, slow-paced holiday, this might feel a bit rushed. But if you’re eager to cover a lot of ground and want an authentic, immersive Scottish experience, this tour delivers on those fronts.

This 5-day journey offers a compelling mix of ancient sites, breathtaking coastlines, and Highland castles, all delivered with knowledgeable guides and small-group intimacy. It’s a journey that appeals to those who want a deeply Scottish experience, rather than just ticking off iconic photos.

While the schedule is packed, the variety of sights—from the Neolithic Skara Brae to the rugged NC500 route—means you’ll leave with a much richer understanding of Scotland’s landscapes and history. The inclusion of ferry crossings, distillery visits, and guided walks underscores excellent value.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love history, scenery, and a bit of adventure, and who don’t mind a full itinerary. If that sounds like you, prepare for a memorable Scottish adventure that combines storytelling, stunning views, and authentic experiences.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
This tour isn’t recommended for travelers with mobility or walking problems, as some sites require walking or crawling into spaces like the Grey Cairns.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers ferries to and from the Orkney Islands, guided short walks, visits to significant archaeological sites, and some whiskey tastings at distilleries.

Are meals included?
No, meals and snacks are not included, so you should plan to bring some snacks and be prepared to buy meals during the day.

How many people will be in the group?
The tour hosts a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a quiet, personalized experience away from large coach tours.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations closer to the date may be subject to fees.

What time does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at 7:30 am at Buchanan Bus Station in Glasgow and concludes at the Jolly Botanist in Edinburgh, after a full day of travel.

What are some highlights I shouldn’t miss?
Highlights include the Skara Brae Neolithic village, the Ring of Brodgar, the North Coast 500 scenic drive, and the Loch Ness cruise.

Does the tour include entry fees?
Entry fees to sites like Culloden Moor, Dunrobin Castle, Maeshowe, and Skara Brae are not included but are reasonably priced.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, the small group size makes it ideal for solo travelers who want company and a more intimate experience.

This detailed review aims to give you a clear, honest picture of what to expect from this small-group Scottish adventure. Whether you’re drawn to ancient stones, coastal drives, or Highland castles, this tour offers a well-rounded, immersive taste of Scotland.