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8 Day Scottish Highlands, Isle of Skye, Orkney and North Coast 500 Tour

Embark on an unforgettable 8 day adventure through some of Scotland’s most spectacular landscapes and historic treasures. This small group tour takes you from Edinburgh into the dramatic Scottish Highlands, along the famous North Coast 500 scenic route, across ferry crossings to the ancient islands of Orkney, and on to the mystical Isle of Skye. You’ll enjoy rugged coastlines, ancient archaeological sites, atmospheric castles, highland lochs and quaint villages as you explore this truly wild and beautiful country.

This premium tour includes a passionate local guide, bed and breakfast accommodation for seven nights, a scenic ride on the Jacobite Steam Train, visits to legendary sites such as Skara Brae and Dunrobin Castle, and all ferry crossings required to reach the islands and peninsulas on your journey. 

Discover Scotland’s Natural and Cultural Wonders

Your journey begins in Edinburgh, where you will meet your guide and fellow travellers before heading north through historic countryside and the foothills of the Highlands. Along the way you will experience:

  • Cairngorms National Park and dramatic Highland scenery
  • Dunrobin Castle with its fairytale turrets and gardens
  • A scenic ride on the Jacobite Steam Train, famous for its journeys through the Highlands
  • The ancient Neolithic sites of Skara Brae, the Ring of Brodgar and Stones of Stenness on Orkney
  • The sweeping coastal beauty of the North Coast 500 route
  • Smoo Cave, a spectacular sea cave in Sutherland
  • Iconic Highland landmarks including Glenfinnan Viaduct, Eilean Donan Castle, and more
  • Time on the Isle of Skye, including rugged coastlines, sea cliffs, lochs and atmospheric villages

Your expert guide will share local history, folklore and scenic insights as you travel, bringing each stop to life with stories and context.

included in your tour

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Seven nights bed and breakfast accommodation

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FREE WIFI AND USB CHARGING ON BOARD THE COACH

Simple navy blue line drawing of a front view of a bus with large windshield and side mirrors.

all coach and ferry travel included with the tour

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entries to various tour attractions included

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Passionate local guide throughout the tour

tour highlights

  • Travel Scotland’s famous North Coast 500 scenic route
  • See ancient Neolithic wonders on Orkney
  • Ride the legendary Jacobite Steam Train
  • Enjoy unforgettable landscapes on the Isle of Skye
  • Visit historic castles, highland glens and coastal panoramas

meeting points & departure times

Your tour begins in Edinburgh, with a morning departure after a check-in at the designated meeting point. Accommodation is provided for seven nights in well-selected hotels or guesthouses, self-contained with breakfasts included.

This multi-day tour covers significant distances and varied terrain and includes ferry crossings to reach Orkney and island destinations, as well as time exploring the Highlands and Skye. Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate gear are recommended as much of the itinerary involves outdoor sightseeing.

FAQs

how long does this tour last?

This tour runs for 8 days and 7 nights.

Is accommodation included?

Yes, accommodation with bed and breakfast is included for all seven nights.

Are meals included?

Breakfast each morning is included. Lunch and evening meals are not included unless specified otherwise at booking.

Are guided experiences included?

Yes, a passionate local guide is with you throughout the tour, leading experiences and commentary.

Is transport included?

All transport is included in the tour price, including coach travel and ferry crossings to islands such as Orkney.

What highlights will I see?

Highlights include the North Coast 500, Orkney Neolithic sites, Jacobite Steam Train, Isle of Skye landscapes and historic castles and distilleries.

✅ Trusted by travellers seeking a fully guided, immersive 8 day exploration of Scotland’s most dramatic landscapes, ancient heritage and unforgettable scenic beauty.