Orkney Islands & The Northern Highlands
Explore Orkney's Neolithic sites, Norse heritage, and dramatic coastal views.
Check In Time: 7:15
Departure Time: 7:30
Return Time: 18:00
Last Updated: 30/04/2026 14:43:55 by Io Meinhard
| # | Property | Value | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Product ID | ORK | ||
| 2 | Name | Orkney Islands & The Northern Highlands | ||
| 3 | Duration | 3 | ||
| 4 | Description Headline | Explore Orkney's Neolithic sites, Norse heritage, and dramatic coastal views. | ||
| 5 | Description Short | Experience the magic of Scotland on our 3-day Orkney Islands tour from Inverness, where history, culture, and stunning landscapes come alive. Marvel at Dunrobin Castle, and breathe in the fresh coastal air at John O'Groats before crossing the Pentland Firth – will you spot a whale? Those fascinated by history will fall in love with Kirkwall’s Norse roots, the Neolithic wonders of Skara Brae, and the Ring of Brodgar. This tour promises an unforgettable experience, capturing the essence of Orkney and the north of Scotland's heritage and natural beauty. | ||
| 6 | Description | Experience the magic of Scotland on our 3-day Orkney Islands tour from Inverness, where history, culture, and stunning landscapes come alive. Marvel at Dunrobin Castle, and breathe in the fresh coastal air at John O'Groats before crossing the Pentland Firth – will you spot a whale? Those fascinated by history will fall in love with Kirkwall’s Norse roots, the Neolithic wonders of Skara Brae, and the Ring of Brodgar. This tour promises an unforgettable experience, capturing the essence of Orkney and the north of Scotland's heritage and natural beauty. | ||
| 7 | Web Url | https://highlandexplorertours.com/tours-from-inverness/3-day-orkney-islands-the-northern-highlands | ||
| 8 | Start Location | Inverness City Centre | Long: 57.478862 | Lat: -4.224785 |
| 9 | Start Map | |||
| 10 | End City | Inverness City Centre | Long: 57.478862 | Lat: -4.224785 |
| 11 | End Map | |||
| Booking Engine | ||||
| 12 | Filters | |||
| 13 | Tags | |||
| Addons | ||
|---|---|---|
| ID | Name | Link to Product Page |
| ECO | Help restore Scotland's forests | Link |
| Accommodation | ||
|---|---|---|
| ID | Name | Link to Product Page |
| Similar Products (For cross Sale) | ||
|---|---|---|
| ID | Name | Link to Product Page |
| I3S | Isle of Skye, Loch Ness & The West Highlands | Link |
| IE6 | Isle of Skye Community & Outdoor Adventure | Link |
| X8O | Isle of Skye, Orkney & North Coast 500 | Link |
Itinerary
Name: Inverness to Kirkwall
Short Description: Our Orkney Islands tour begins as we leave from Inverness and head north to take in majestic views of the iconic Dunrobin Castle, overlooking the breathtaking Moray Firth . Our adventure continues along the legendary North Coast 500, leading to the UK mainland’s most northerly point: John O’Groats. Take a stroll around this famous landmark, before we set sail to the Orkney Islands, where you might be fortunate enough to spot grey seals or even orcas as we cross the Pentland Firth. In the afternoon, enjoy free time to explore the vibrant town of Kirkwall. Wander through its charming streets and soak in the local culture. We’ll arrive back at our accommodation late afternoon, giving you ample time to unwind and reflect on the day’s adventures. (Overnight: Kirkwall)
Description: Our Orkney Islands tour begins as we leave from Inverness and head north to take in majestic views of the iconic Dunrobin Castle, overlooking the breathtaking Moray Firth . Our adventure continues along the legendary North Coast 500, leading to the UK mainland’s most northerly point: John O’Groats. Take a stroll around this famous landmark, before we set sail to the Orkney Islands, where you might be fortunate enough to spot grey seals or even orcas as we cross the Pentland Firth. In the afternoon, enjoy free time to explore the vibrant town of Kirkwall. Wander through its charming streets and soak in the local culture. We’ll arrive back at our accommodation late afternoon, giving you ample time to unwind and reflect on the day’s adventures. (Overnight: Kirkwall)
Highlights
- Dunrobin Castle(CastleDunrobin)
- John O'Groats(JohnOGroats)
- Kirkwall(KirkwallHEX)
Name: Kirkwall to Kirkwall
Short Description: Today is the day we dive into the rich history and stunning landscapes of the Orkney Islands. Our first stop is the Standing Stones of Stenness, believed to be the oldest monument on the British Isles, dating back 5,000 years. Next up is the ancient Ring of Brodgar, a magnificent stone circle that stands as a testament to Orkney’s prehistoric past. Journey onwards to the world-renowned Skara Brae, an impeccably preserved Stone Age village that offers a fascinating glimpse into life over 5,000 years ago. Get ready to be amazed by the beautiful Yesnaby Cliffs, a rugged coastal wonder known for its dramatic sea stacks. If you're lucky, you might even spot some adorable puffins nesting along the cliffs. Next, and if the tidal state allows we'll visit the Brough of Birsay, a tidal island packed with archaeological treasures and panoramic sea views. (Overnight: Kirkwall)
Description: Today is the day we dive into the rich history and stunning landscapes of the Orkney Islands. Our first stop is the Standing Stones of Stenness, believed to be the oldest monument on the British Isles, dating back 5,000 years. Next up is the ancient Ring of Brodgar, a magnificent stone circle that stands as a testament to Orkney’s prehistoric past. Journey onwards to the world-renowned Skara Brae, an impeccably preserved Stone Age village that offers a fascinating glimpse into life over 5,000 years ago. Get ready to be amazed by the beautiful Yesnaby Cliffs, a rugged coastal wonder known for its dramatic sea stacks. If you're lucky, you might even spot some adorable puffins nesting along the cliffs. Next, and if the tidal state allows we'll visit the Brough of Birsay, a tidal island packed with archaeological treasures and panoramic sea views. (Overnight: Kirkwall)
Highlights
- Ring of Brodgar(BrodgarRing)
- Yesnaby Cliffs(Yesnaby)
Name: Kirkwall to Inverness
Short Description: Before we bid farewell to Orkney's enchanting beauty, we visit a local farm for a firsthand encounter with the famous Mangalitsa pigs, renowned for their intriguing woolly coats and affectionately known as “hairy pigs”. Our journey continues as we explore the poignant Italian Chapel, a symbol of hope and resilience built by Italian prisoners of war during WWII. After a morning of discovery, we board the ferry back to the mainland, where more adventures await. First, we feast our eyes on Duncansby Head, the northeastern tip of mainland Scotland, enjoying panoramic views over the North Sea. We journey to the picturesque village of Lybster, nestled on the rugged Caithness coast. The final stop of our adventure is the historic town of Dornoch, known for its stunning cathedral and charming streets, before we arrive back in Inverness in the early evening.
Description: Before we bid farewell to Orkney's enchanting beauty, we visit a local farm for a firsthand encounter with the famous Mangalitsa pigs, renowned for their intriguing woolly coats and affectionately known as “hairy pigs”. Our journey continues as we explore the poignant Italian Chapel, a symbol of hope and resilience built by Italian prisoners of war during WWII. After a morning of discovery, we board the ferry back to the mainland, where more adventures await. First, we feast our eyes on Duncansby Head, the northeastern tip of mainland Scotland, enjoying panoramic views over the North Sea. We journey to the picturesque village of Lybster, nestled on the rugged Caithness coast. The final stop of our adventure is the historic town of Dornoch, known for its stunning cathedral and charming streets, before we arrive back in Inverness in the early evening.
Highlights
- Italian Chapel(ItalianChapel)
- Duncansby Head(Duncansby)
Inclusions
Item 1: Small Group Tour
Item 2: Passionate Local Guide
Item 3: Live Commentary & Storytelling in English
Item 4: Two-Night Stay at Bed & Breakfast Accommodation
Item 5: Complimentary Breakfast on Day 2 and 3
Item 6: Ferry Crossing to Orkney
Item 7: Skara Brae
Item 8: Italian Chapel
Highlights
Name: John O'Groats
NameShort: John O'Groats
John O'Groats is famed for being the northernmost point of mainland Britain, where the North Sea meets the Atlantic. It's also the gateway to wild adventures, like a ferry ride to the Orkney Isles or spotting seals along the rugged coast.
John O'Groats is famed for being the northernmost point of mainland Britain, where the North Sea meets the Atlantic. It's also the gateway to wild adventures, like a ferry ride to the Orkney Isles or spotting seals along the rugged coast.
Image Name: John O'Groats
Image Alt: John O'Groats
Name: Duncansby Head
NameShort: Duncansby Head
Duncansby Head boasts stunning sea stacks and sweeping cliffs that stretch towards the horizon. It's a prime spot to watch the powerful Atlantic waves and catch a glimpse of the rare, ancient seabird colonies nesting along the rugged shores.
Duncansby Head boasts stunning sea stacks and sweeping cliffs that stretch towards the horizon. It's a prime spot to watch the powerful Atlantic waves and catch a glimpse of the rare, ancient seabird colonies nesting along the rugged shores.
Image Name: Duncansby Head
Image Alt: Duncansby Head
Name: Ring of Brodgar
NameShort: Ring of Brodgar
Follow in the footsteps of humans 5000 years ago at this epic stone circle. The Ring of Brodgar is a vast and mysterious archaeological gem, and the most iconic site in the heart of Neolithic Orkney.
Follow in the footsteps of humans 5000 years ago at this epic stone circle. The Ring of Brodgar is a vast and mysterious archaeological gem, and the most iconic site in the heart of Neolithic Orkney.
Image Name: Ring of Brodgar
Image Alt: Ring of Brodgar
Name: Small Group Tour
NameShort: Small Group Tour
Small groups, big adventures! Our small group tours offer an intimate, relaxed way to explore while you soak up Scotland's magic. Please note that, due to vehicle availability, there may be instances where this tour operates on a larger bus.
Small groups, big adventures! Our small group tours offer an intimate, relaxed way to explore while you soak up Scotland's magic. Please note that, due to vehicle availability, there may be instances where this tour operates on a larger bus.
Image Name:
Image Alt:
Name: Yesnaby Cliffs
NameShort: Yesnaby Cliffs
The Yesnaby Cliffs are a hidden gem on Orkney’s west coast, where dramatic sea stacks rise from the waves. Only here can you spot the rare Primula Scotica, a tiny purple flower, while puffins nest from April to July.
The Yesnaby Cliffs are a hidden gem on Orkney’s west coast, where dramatic sea stacks rise from the waves. Only here can you spot the rare Primula Scotica, a tiny purple flower, while puffins nest from April to July.
Image Name: Yesnaby Cliffs
Image Alt: Yesnaby Cliffs
Name: Skara Brae
NameShort: Skara Brae
Skara Brae is an exceptionally well-preserved Neolithic settlement, featuring household furniture from 5,000 years ago. The site remained hidden for centuries until a storm in 1850 revealed this remarkable discovery. Prepare to be amazed!
Skara Brae is an exceptionally well-preserved Neolithic settlement, featuring household furniture from 5,000 years ago. The site remained hidden for centuries until a storm in 1850 revealed this remarkable discovery. Prepare to be amazed!
Image Name: Skara Brae
Image Alt: Skara Brae
Name: Kirkwall
NameShort: Kirkwall
As the capital of Orkney, it should come as no surprise that Kirkwall is steeped in Norse history. Visit St. Magnus Cathedral, a masterpiece of medieval architecture, or take a stroll through the town's charming streets to visit its many traditional shops.
As the capital of Orkney, it should come as no surprise that Kirkwall is steeped in Norse history. Visit St. Magnus Cathedral, a masterpiece of medieval architecture, or take a stroll through the town's charming streets to visit its many traditional shops.
Image Name: Kirkwall
Image Alt: Kirkwall
Name: Italian Chapel
NameShort: Italian Chapel
The beautiful Italian Chapel was built during World War Two using two military huts. The chapel was the creation of Italian prisoners of war who were based on the island, and it is now one of Orkney’s best-loved attractions.
The beautiful Italian Chapel was built during World War Two using two military huts. The chapel was the creation of Italian prisoners of war who were based on the island, and it is now one of Orkney’s best-loved attractions.
Image Name: Italian Chapel
Image Alt: Italian Chapel
Name: Dunrobin Castle
NameShort: Dunrobin Castle
A castle straight out of a fairy tale. Set along the North Coast 500 route, Dunrobin Castle overlooks the North Sea, boasting beautiful gardens, an extensive art collection, and a rich history dating back to the 13th century.
A castle straight out of a fairy tale. Set along the North Coast 500 route, Dunrobin Castle overlooks the North Sea, boasting beautiful gardens, an extensive art collection, and a rich history dating back to the 13th century.
Image Name: Dunrobin Castle
Image Alt: Dunrobin Castle
Media
Name: Duncansby Head
Duncansby Head
Duncansby Head, a dramatic cliffside with towering sea stacks and sweeping views of the North Sea
Meta Data
Name: Yesnaby Cliffs
Yesnaby Cliffs
Yesnaby Cliffs on Orkney, with rugged cliffs towering over the crashing sea below
Meta Data
Name: Skara Brae
Skara Brae
Skara Brae, ancient stone village on Orkney, bathed in sunlight with clear skies above
Meta Data
Name: View of Dunrobin Castle
View of Dunrobin Castle
Dunrobin Castle, a fairy-tale fortress with turrets, set against lush gardens
Meta Data
Name: Ring of Brodgar
Ring of Brodgar
Ring of Brodgar, a prehistoric stone circle on Orkney, surrounded by grasslands
Meta Data
Name: Kirkwall
Kirkwall
Kirkwall Harbour with colourful boats docked against the backdrop of historic buildings and sea
Meta Data
Name: John O'Groats
John O'Groats
John O'Groats Harbour with colourful buildings, fishing boats docked
Meta Data
Name: Orkney Islands & The Northern Highlands Map
Orkney Islands & The Northern Highlands Map
Itinerary map of 3 Day Orkney Islands Tour from Inverness
