Isle of Skye, Orkney & North Coast 500
The entire package; remote Orkney, famous North Coast 500, and magical Skye.
Check In Time: 8:15
Departure Time: 8:30
Return Time: 17:00
Last Updated: 30/04/2026 14:53:09 by Io Meinhard
| # | Property | Value | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Product ID | X8O | ||
| 2 | Name | Isle of Skye, Orkney & North Coast 500 | ||
| 3 | Duration | 8 | ||
| 4 | Description Headline | The entire package; remote Orkney, famous North Coast 500, and magical Skye. | ||
| 5 | Description Short | Let us take you on a journey to some of Scotland’s most stunning and historically significant sights. Our Orkney Islands tour from Edinburgh uncovers Scotland’s wild coastline and Neolithic settlements such as Skara Brae, the towering Ring of Brodgar, and the Stones of Stenness. Admire the spectacular views of the North Coast 500 beaches and shores, a famous drive that will leave you in awe with its impressive landscapes, rock formations and cliff-top coastal vistas. You’ll be blown away by the iconic sights and scenery on Orkney and the Isle of Skye and can indulge in some of Scotland’s finest seafood at the fishing port of Oban. There’s even the chance to travel on the famous Jacobite Steam Train, one of the greatest rail journeys in the world! Your passionate local guide will tell tales of Viking history, myths, and legends. We guarantee this tour will leave you loving Scotland as much as we do! | ||
| 6 | Description | Let us take you on a journey to some of Scotland’s most stunning and historically significant sights. Our Orkney Islands tour from Edinburgh uncovers Scotland’s wild coastline and Neolithic settlements such as Skara Brae, the towering Ring of Brodgar, and the Stones of Stenness. Admire the spectacular views of the North Coast 500 beaches and shores, a famous drive that will leave you in awe with its impressive landscapes, rock formations and cliff-top coastal vistas. You’ll be blown away by the iconic sights and scenery on Orkney and the Isle of Skye and can indulge in some of Scotland’s finest seafood at the fishing port of Oban. There’s even the chance to travel on the famous Jacobite Steam Train, one of the greatest rail journeys in the world! Your passionate local guide will tell tales of Viking history, myths, and legends. We guarantee this tour will leave you loving Scotland as much as we do! | ||
| 7 | Web Url | https://www.highlandexplorertours.com/3-6-day-tours/8-day-tour-isle-of-skye-orkney-north-coast-500 | ||
| 8 | Start Location | 60 High Street, EH1 1TB, Edinburgh | Long: -3.186111 | Lat: 55.950264 |
| 9 | Start Map | |||
| 10 | End City | 60 High Street, EH1 1TB, Edinburgh | Long: -3.186111 | Lat: 55.950264 |
| 11 | End Map | |||
| Booking Engine | ||||
| 12 | Filters | |||
| 13 | Tags | |||
| Addons | ||
|---|---|---|
| ID | Name | Link to Product Page |
| HEC | Hogwarts Express | Link |
| Accommodation | ||
|---|---|---|
| ID | Name | Link to Product Page |
| Similar Products (For cross Sale) | ||
|---|---|---|
| ID | Name | Link to Product Page |
| 3XM | Mull, Iona & Staffa Puffin Experience | Link |
| X6D | Isle of Skye & Outer Hebrides | Link |
| X5R | Isle of Skye, Loch Ness & Inverness | Link |
Itinerary
Name: Day 1: Edinburgh to Inverness
Short Description: Our Orkney Islands tour from Edinburgh begins with a journey past the stunning Forth Bridges, heading into the Highlands through Perthshire – a region of forests, rivers, and mountains. We visit the quaint village of Dunkeld with its historic cathedral sitting on the banks of the River Tay. After a visit to the Highland Folk Museum, used to film scenes in Outlander, we make our way through the mountainous Cairngorms National Park before heading to Culloden Battlefield; site of the last battle fought on British soil, followed by the mysterious chambered cairns and standing stones of Clava Cairns, both of which inspired the hit series Outlander. Our home for the night is Inverness, Capital of the Highlands. Explore some of the many live-music venues, or take a relaxing stroll and enjoy the tranquillity of the River Ness Isles; there’s so much to see and do here. (Overnight: Inverness)
Description: Our Orkney Islands tour from Edinburgh begins with a journey past the stunning Forth Bridges, heading into the Highlands through Perthshire – a region of forests, rivers, and mountains. We visit the quaint village of Dunkeld with its historic cathedral sitting on the banks of the River Tay. After a visit to the Highland Folk Museum, used to film scenes in Outlander, we make our way through the mountainous Cairngorms National Park before heading to Culloden Battlefield; site of the last battle fought on British soil, followed by the mysterious chambered cairns and standing stones of Clava Cairns, both of which inspired the hit series Outlander. Our home for the night is Inverness, Capital of the Highlands. Explore some of the many live-music venues, or take a relaxing stroll and enjoy the tranquillity of the River Ness Isles; there’s so much to see and do here. (Overnight: Inverness)
Highlights
- Forth Bridges(Bridges)
- Highland Folk Museum(Museum)
- Cairngorms National Park(Cairngorms)
- Culloden Battlefield (Culloden)
- Clava Cairns (Clava)
- Inverness(Inverness)
Name: Day 2: Inverness to Kirkwall
Short Description: We depart Inverness and head further north to join the spectacular North Coast 500 trail which takes us along the stunning northeast coastline. Our first stop of the day is at Dunrobin Castle, one of Scotland’s most northerly castles dating back to the early 1300s. This fairytale castle resembles a French chateau, with spectacular gardens. Continuing north your guide will regale you with stories of folklore, and recount one of Scotland’s most important historical events; the tragedy of the Highland Clearances and explain how this shaped communities into what they are today. No Scottish trip would be complete without paying a visit to a local whisky distillery where you have the chance to savour the taste of our favourite national drink the ‘water of life’. An hour-long ferry takes us over to the Orkney Islands; an archipelago with beautiful views as far as the eye can see. You may even get the chance to spot dolphins, whales and orcas! We arrive at our destination for the night Kirkwall*, Orkney’s largest town. (Overnight: Kirkwall*) *Some departures will stay in Stromness due to accommodation availability
Description: We depart Inverness and head further north to join the spectacular North Coast 500 trail which takes us along the stunning northeast coastline. Our first stop of the day is at Dunrobin Castle, one of Scotland’s most northerly castles dating back to the early 1300s. This fairytale castle resembles a French chateau, with spectacular gardens. Continuing north your guide will regale you with stories of folklore, and recount one of Scotland’s most important historical events; the tragedy of the Highland Clearances and explain how this shaped communities into what they are today. No Scottish trip would be complete without paying a visit to a local whisky distillery where you have the chance to savour the taste of our favourite national drink the ‘water of life’. An hour-long ferry takes us over to the Orkney Islands; an archipelago with beautiful views as far as the eye can see. You may even get the chance to spot dolphins, whales and orcas! We arrive at our destination for the night Kirkwall*, Orkney’s largest town. (Overnight: Kirkwall*) *Some departures will stay in Stromness due to accommodation availability
Highlights
- Dunrobin Castle(CastleDunrobin)
- Whisky Distillery(Whisky)
- Kirkwall(KirkwallHEX)
Name: Day 3: Orkney
Short Description: We depart Kirkwall and head to one of Orkney’s most loved attractions, The Italian Chapel, built by prisoners during WWII. The rest of the day will be spent exploring Orkney’s Neolithic history with stops at Skara Brae, the best-preserved Neolithic settlement anywhere in Western Europe, the towering Ring of Brodgar and the Stones of Stenness. The afternoon will be spent exploring the stunning Yesnabv Cliffs home to puffins from April until July. This stretch of coastline is a must-see location on your visit to Orkney. We return to Kirkwall late afternoon with the chance to explore the town and the opportunity to visit St Magnus Cathedral and take a walk by the ‘Peedie Sea.’ (Overnight: Kirkwall*) *Some departures will stay in Stromness due to accommodation availability.
Description: We depart Kirkwall and head to one of Orkney’s most loved attractions, The Italian Chapel, built by prisoners during WWII. The rest of the day will be spent exploring Orkney’s Neolithic history with stops at Skara Brae, the best-preserved Neolithic settlement anywhere in Western Europe, the towering Ring of Brodgar and the Stones of Stenness. The afternoon will be spent exploring the stunning Yesnabv Cliffs home to puffins from April until July. This stretch of coastline is a must-see location on your visit to Orkney. We return to Kirkwall late afternoon with the chance to explore the town and the opportunity to visit St Magnus Cathedral and take a walk by the ‘Peedie Sea.’ (Overnight: Kirkwall*) *Some departures will stay in Stromness due to accommodation availability.
Highlights
- Italian Chapel(ItalianChapel)
- Skara Brae(SkaraBrae)
- Ring of Brodgar(BrodgarRing)
- Kirkwall(KirkwallHEX)
Name: Day 4: Kirkwall to Ullapool
Short Description: We bid farewell to Orkney to catch the first ferry back to the mainland to re-join the North Coast 500 trail. This stretch of coastline offers up some truly stunning views. We make a stop at Smoo Cave, a spectacular sea cave set into the limestone cliffs of Sutherland. We travel from east to west over the majestic Kylesku bridge, stopping for a stroll at the jewel in the crown of the north-west Highland’s Geopark – Knockan Crag. We arrive into Ullapool at in the evening where you can spend the night exploring the beautiful harbour village, try some local ale and listen to traditional live music. (Overnight: Ullapool)
Description: We bid farewell to Orkney to catch the first ferry back to the mainland to re-join the North Coast 500 trail. This stretch of coastline offers up some truly stunning views. We make a stop at Smoo Cave, a spectacular sea cave set into the limestone cliffs of Sutherland. We travel from east to west over the majestic Kylesku bridge, stopping for a stroll at the jewel in the crown of the north-west Highland’s Geopark – Knockan Crag. We arrive into Ullapool at in the evening where you can spend the night exploring the beautiful harbour village, try some local ale and listen to traditional live music. (Overnight: Ullapool)
Highlights
- Smoo Cave(SmooCave)
- North Coast 500(HEXNC500)
- Ullapool(Ullapool)
Name: Day 5: Ullapool to Portree
Short Description: We depart Ullapool and travel through some of Scotland’s most awe-inspiring landscapes on route to the Isle of Skye. Think serene lochs, rugged scenery, and mountain ranges with cascading waterfalls. We pass the romantic Eilean Donan Castle, before crossing the Skye Bridge to our enchanting island destination. Hear tales of Bonnie Prince Charlie’s escape from the mainland against the backdrop of the jagged Cuillin Mountains. Your guide will tell stories of folklore such as how the mysterious Old Man of Storr was created. Your last stop of the day will be a visit to Kilt Rock with its impressive cascading waterfall. We spend the night in Portree, Isle of Skye’s bustling hub. (Overnight: Portree)
Description: We depart Ullapool and travel through some of Scotland’s most awe-inspiring landscapes on route to the Isle of Skye. Think serene lochs, rugged scenery, and mountain ranges with cascading waterfalls. We pass the romantic Eilean Donan Castle, before crossing the Skye Bridge to our enchanting island destination. Hear tales of Bonnie Prince Charlie’s escape from the mainland against the backdrop of the jagged Cuillin Mountains. Your guide will tell stories of folklore such as how the mysterious Old Man of Storr was created. Your last stop of the day will be a visit to Kilt Rock with its impressive cascading waterfall. We spend the night in Portree, Isle of Skye’s bustling hub. (Overnight: Portree)
Highlights
- Eilean Donan Castle(Eilean)
- Cuillins(Cuillins)
- Old Man of Storr(Storr)
- Kilt Rock(Kilt)
- Portree(Portree)
Name: Day 6: Portree to Oban
Short Description: This morning, we have the chance to explore a wee bit more of the beautiful Isle of Skye. We visit the stunning Sleat peninsula known as the ‘garden of Skye’ and drive through the magnificent Cuillin Mountains. Say goodbye to Skye as we ferry to the west coast fishing village of Mallaig with time to enjoy a lunch of fresh Scottish seafood. Here you can board the Jacobite Steam Train aka ‘Hogwarts Express’ to Fort William, one of the most spectacular railway journeys in the world. The train crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct where a monument to Bonnie Prince Charlie’s campaign now stands. After a stop in eerie Glen Coe our journey takes us along the west coast, to the bustling fishing town of Oban, where we will spend the next two nights. (Overnight: Oban)
Description: This morning, we have the chance to explore a wee bit more of the beautiful Isle of Skye. We visit the stunning Sleat peninsula known as the ‘garden of Skye’ and drive through the magnificent Cuillin Mountains. Say goodbye to Skye as we ferry to the west coast fishing village of Mallaig with time to enjoy a lunch of fresh Scottish seafood. Here you can board the Jacobite Steam Train aka ‘Hogwarts Express’ to Fort William, one of the most spectacular railway journeys in the world. The train crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct where a monument to Bonnie Prince Charlie’s campaign now stands. After a stop in eerie Glen Coe our journey takes us along the west coast, to the bustling fishing town of Oban, where we will spend the next two nights. (Overnight: Oban)
Highlights
- Jacobite Steam Train (Hogwarts Express)(Jacobite)
- Glenfinnan Viaduct(Glenfinnan)
- Glen Coe(Glencoe)
Name: Day 7: Oban
Short Description: After an action-packed 6 days of exploring, today is an opportunity to relax, explore or get active at your own pace. From our base in Oban you can set off by ferry for a day on one of the Western Isles (Mull, Iona, Staffa or Kerrera), visit the local whisky distillery for a taste of Scotland’s ‘Water of Life,’ or climb up to Battery Hill to see McCaig’s Tower and watch the sun set over Oban. All activities today are optional. Check out our FAQ section for recommended boat tour operators in Oban. (Overnight: Oban)
Description: After an action-packed 6 days of exploring, today is an opportunity to relax, explore or get active at your own pace. From our base in Oban you can set off by ferry for a day on one of the Western Isles (Mull, Iona, Staffa or Kerrera), visit the local whisky distillery for a taste of Scotland’s ‘Water of Life,’ or climb up to Battery Hill to see McCaig’s Tower and watch the sun set over Oban. All activities today are optional. Check out our FAQ section for recommended boat tour operators in Oban. (Overnight: Oban)
Highlights
- Oban (Oban)
Name: Day 8: Oban to Edinburgh
Short Description: We leave Oban and travel through the Pass of Brander and Loch Awe before crossing back into the Lowlands of Scotland. Marvel at the dramatic splendour of the ruins of Kilchurn Castle and catch a glimpse of the beautiful Falls of Dochart as you head further south. You’ll notice the scenery change as we drive past Stirling and the striking Wallace Monument. After lunch, we make our way to the iconic Kelpies, the world’s largest equine sculptures dedicated the horse-powered heritage of Central Scotland and designed by Andy Scott. Your North Coast 500 & Orkney Islands tour comes to an end as we arrive back into Edinburgh in the early evening.
Description: We leave Oban and travel through the Pass of Brander and Loch Awe before crossing back into the Lowlands of Scotland. Marvel at the dramatic splendour of the ruins of Kilchurn Castle and catch a glimpse of the beautiful Falls of Dochart as you head further south. You’ll notice the scenery change as we drive past Stirling and the striking Wallace Monument. After lunch, we make our way to the iconic Kelpies, the world’s largest equine sculptures dedicated the horse-powered heritage of Central Scotland and designed by Andy Scott. Your North Coast 500 & Orkney Islands tour comes to an end as we arrive back into Edinburgh in the early evening.
Highlights
- Kilchurn Castle(Kilchurn)
- Kelpies (Kelpies)
Inclusions
Item 1: Small Group Tour
Item 2: Passionate Local Guide
Item 3: Live Commentary & Storytelling in English
Item 4: Seven-Night Stay at Bed & Breakfast Accommodation
Item 5: Complimentary Breakfast Each Morning of Your Stay
Item 6: Whisky Distillery Visit
Item 7: Italian Chapel
Item 8: Skara Brae
Item 9: All Ferry Crossings
Highlights
Name: North Coast 500
NameShort: North Coast 500
The North Coast 500 is one of Scotland's most famous driving routes, spanning 516 miles of stunning landscapes. You'll pass rugged coastlines, traditional villages, historic castles, and sandy beaches... A must-see for any nature enthusiast.
The North Coast 500 is one of Scotland's most famous driving routes, spanning 516 miles of stunning landscapes. You'll pass rugged coastlines, traditional villages, historic castles, and sandy beaches... A must-see for any nature enthusiast.
Image Name: North Coast 500
Image Alt: North Coast 500
Name: Isle of Skye
NameShort: Isle of Skye
Skye is Scotland’s most popular isle, and you’ll quickly understand why. Skye exudes magic from every mountain, waterfall and rainbow, while its unique geology and beguiling mythology are unlike anywhere else in Scotland. Skye is an ancient and truly enchanting island.
Skye is Scotland’s most popular isle, and you’ll quickly understand why. Skye exudes magic from every mountain, waterfall and rainbow, while its unique geology and beguiling mythology are unlike anywhere else in Scotland. Skye is an ancient and truly enchanting island.
Image Name: Isle of Skye
Image Alt: Isle of Skye
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: Jacobite Steam Train (Hogwarts Express)
NameShort: Jacobite Steam Train (Hogwarts Express)
The Jacobite Steam Train shot to worldwide fame as the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films. The route between Fort William and Mallaig on the West Highland Line has been voted the most scenic rail journey in the world.
The Jacobite Steam Train shot to worldwide fame as the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films. The route between Fort William and Mallaig on the West Highland Line has been voted the most scenic rail journey in the world.
Image Name: Jacobite Steam Train
Image Alt: Jacobite Steam Train
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: 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
Name: Smoo Cave
NameShort: Smoo Cave
Smoo Cave is a standout natural attraction on the North Coast 500, showcasing remarkable Scottish geology. Its impressive 50ft entrance leads to a stunning waterfall chamber, complete with an underground lake and boat trips.
Smoo Cave is a standout natural attraction on the North Coast 500, showcasing remarkable Scottish geology. Its impressive 50ft entrance leads to a stunning waterfall chamber, complete with an underground lake and boat trips.
Image Name: Smoo Cave
Image Alt: Smoo Cave
Name: Ullapool
NameShort: Ullapool
Ullapool is an idyllic fishing town in the north-west coast of the Scottish Highlands. Here, you can explore quaint shops, savour fresh seafood, or stroll along the town's shores while watching the sun set over the North Atlantic Ocean.
Ullapool is an idyllic fishing town in the north-west coast of the Scottish Highlands. Here, you can explore quaint shops, savour fresh seafood, or stroll along the town's shores while watching the sun set over the North Atlantic Ocean.
Image Name: Ullapool
Image Alt: Ullapool
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: Highland Folk Museum
NameShort: Highland Folk Museum
Highland Folk Museum is Britain’s first open air museum, which offers a glimpse into Highland life through the centuries. Attractions include an 18th century township and a working croft, as well as costumes, photographs, textiles and agricultural tools.
Highland Folk Museum is Britain’s first open air museum, which offers a glimpse into Highland life through the centuries. Attractions include an 18th century township and a working croft, as well as costumes, photographs, textiles and agricultural tools.
Image Name: Highland Folk Museum
Image Alt: Highland Folk Museum
Name: Kilchurn Castle
NameShort: Kilchurn Castle
Situated on the shores of Loch Awe in Argyll and Bute, Kilchurn Castle is a historic gem dating back to the 15th century. This well-preserved fortress offers a captivating glimpse into Scotland's medieval past, boasting impressive stone walls and fantastic views of the surrounding countryside.
Situated on the shores of Loch Awe in Argyll and Bute, Kilchurn Castle is a historic gem dating back to the 15th century. This well-preserved fortress offers a captivating glimpse into Scotland's medieval past, boasting impressive stone walls and fantastic views of the surrounding countryside.
Image Name: Kilchurn Castle
Image Alt: Kilchurn Castle
Name: Old Man of Storr
NameShort: Old Man of Storr
The Old Man of Storr is a striking pinnacle of rock, perched high upon Skye’s otherworldly landscape. This geological wonder is one of the island’s most iconic sights - it looks even more impressive on a misty day.
The Old Man of Storr is a striking pinnacle of rock, perched high upon Skye’s otherworldly landscape. This geological wonder is one of the island’s most iconic sights - it looks even more impressive on a misty day.
Image Name: Old Man of Storr
Image Alt: Old Man of Storr
Name: Kilt Rock
NameShort: Kilt Rock
Kilt Rock is a breath-taking sight on Skye’s dramatic coastline. Marvel at the magic of Mealt Falls, as it cascades down the striking cliff face - which is said to be shaped by a mythical giant’s kilt.
Kilt Rock is a breath-taking sight on Skye’s dramatic coastline. Marvel at the magic of Mealt Falls, as it cascades down the striking cliff face - which is said to be shaped by a mythical giant’s kilt.
Image Name: Kilt Rock
Image Alt: Kilt Rock
Name: Oban
NameShort: Oban
Oban is tourist town with a busy ferry port serving the Hebrides. Enjoy fresh seafood by the water and visit McCaig’s tower - a local landmark which resembles the Colosseum - for amazing views of Oban and its neighbouring islands.
Oban is tourist town with a busy ferry port serving the Hebrides. Enjoy fresh seafood by the water and visit McCaig’s tower - a local landmark which resembles the Colosseum - for amazing views of Oban and its neighbouring islands.
Image Name: Oban
Image Alt: Oban
Name: Cuillins
NameShort: Cuillins
The Cuillin mountains are a breath-taking geological wonder, which form the centrepiece of Skye’s otherworldly landscape. The striking red and black peaks have been around for millions of years, through volcanic eruptions and glaciation. A truly captivating sight.
The Cuillin mountains are a breath-taking geological wonder, which form the centrepiece of Skye’s otherworldly landscape. The striking red and black peaks have been around for millions of years, through volcanic eruptions and glaciation. A truly captivating sight.
Image Name: Cuillin Mountains
Image Alt: Cuillin Mountains
Name: Portree
NameShort: Portree
Portree is Skye’s central hub and most populated town, with numerous shops and places to eat. The main square is a hive of activity, while the quaint harbour with its brightly coloured facades is lifted straight from a postcard.
Portree is Skye’s central hub and most populated town, with numerous shops and places to eat. The main square is a hive of activity, while the quaint harbour with its brightly coloured facades is lifted straight from a postcard.
Image Name: Portree
Image Alt: Portree
Name: Glenfinnan Viaduct
NameShort: Glenfinnan Viaduct
The Glenfinnan Viaduct is known to many as the ‘Harry Potter Bridge’ after featuring in two of the famous films. The iconic bridge has twenty-one arches which curve around the dramatic Highland landscape, with views over the stunning Loch Shiel.
The Glenfinnan Viaduct is known to many as the ‘Harry Potter Bridge’ after featuring in two of the famous films. The iconic bridge has twenty-one arches which curve around the dramatic Highland landscape, with views over the stunning Loch Shiel.
Image Name: Glenfinnan Viaduct
Image Alt: Glenfinnan Viaduct
Name: Eilean Donan Castle
NameShort: Eilean Donan Castle
Eilean Donan Castle is perfectly formed and instantly recognisable. A charming stone bridge leads out to the island, which is surrounded by three lochs and a backdrop of mountains. The castle is one of the most photographed sights in Scotland.
Eilean Donan Castle is perfectly formed and instantly recognisable. A charming stone bridge leads out to the island, which is surrounded by three lochs and a backdrop of mountains. The castle is one of the most photographed sights in Scotland.
Image Name: Eilean Donan Castle
Image Alt: Eilean Donan Castle
Name: Inverness
NameShort: Inverness
Inverness is world-famous for its proximity to Loch Ness, and its connections to the Outlander story. Known as the ‘Capital of the Highlands’, Inverness has numerous pubs where Highland hospitality is best served with a local drink and live music.
Inverness is world-famous for its proximity to Loch Ness, and its connections to the Outlander story. Known as the ‘Capital of the Highlands’, Inverness has numerous pubs where Highland hospitality is best served with a local drink and live music.
Image Name: Inverness
Image Alt: Inverness
Name: Clava Cairns
NameShort: Clava Cairns
Clava Cairns is a special place, from the peaceful setting to the arrangement of 4000 year old stones. The prehistoric structures include ring cairns, passage graves, and standing stones; perfect for staging your very own Outlander-inspired photo!
Clava Cairns is a special place, from the peaceful setting to the arrangement of 4000 year old stones. The prehistoric structures include ring cairns, passage graves, and standing stones; perfect for staging your very own Outlander-inspired photo!
Image Name: Clava Cairns
Image Alt: Clava Cairns
Name: Cairngorms National Park
NameShort: Cairngorms National Park
The Cairngorms National Park is an area of vast natural beauty, and is the largest national park in Britain. Scotland’s wild scenery can be found in abundance, with lochs, glens, rivers and mountains as far as the eye can see.
The Cairngorms National Park is an area of vast natural beauty, and is the largest national park in Britain. Scotland’s wild scenery can be found in abundance, with lochs, glens, rivers and mountains as far as the eye can see.
Image Name: Cairngorms
Image Alt: Cairngorms National Park
Name: Whisky Distillery
NameShort: Whisky Distillery
Our national drink is enjoyed around the world, but there’s nowhere better to try whisky than in Scotland itself. Learn about whisky production, and sample the ‘water of life’ straight from the source at a whisky distillery.
Our national drink is enjoyed around the world, but there’s nowhere better to try whisky than in Scotland itself. Learn about whisky production, and sample the ‘water of life’ straight from the source at a whisky distillery.
Image Name: Whisky Distillery
Image Alt: Whisky Distillery
Name: Kelpies
NameShort: Kelpies
The Kelpies are steel sculptures of two horses’ heads; 30 meters high and weighing 300 tonnes. Kelpies are mythological creatures in Scottish folklore, and this modern attraction is the largest equine landmark in the world, designed by Scottish artist Andy Scott.
The Kelpies are steel sculptures of two horses’ heads; 30 meters high and weighing 300 tonnes. Kelpies are mythological creatures in Scottish folklore, and this modern attraction is the largest equine landmark in the world, designed by Scottish artist Andy Scott.
Image Name: The Kelpies
Image Alt: The Kelpies
Media
Name: North Coast 500
North Coast 500
Kylesku Bridge crossing Loch a' Chàirn Bhàin, part of the North Coast 500 route, with views of mountains and water
Meta Data
Name: Dunrobin Castle
Dunrobin Castle
Dunrobin Castle, a grand Scottish mansion with turrets and spires, seen from its beautifully landscaped garden
Meta Data
Name: Orkney Highland Cows
Orkney Highland Cows
A group of Highland cows with long, shaggy fur walking along the road on the trail in Orkney
Meta Data
Name: Orkney
Orkney
Orkney coast with a rocky beach, rugged cliffs, and clear blue waters stretching into the horizon
Meta Data
Name: Orkney Standing Stones
Orkney Standing Stones
Ring of Brodgar in Orkney, ancient stone circle set against a cloudy sky with rolling hills in the background
Meta Data
Name: Skara Brae
Skara Brae
Skara Brae, a well-preserved Neolithic village in Orkney, bathed in sunlight with stone dwellings and grassy mounds
Meta Data
Name: Yesnaby Cliffs
Yesnaby Cliffs
Yesnaby Cliffs in Orkney, towering over the sea with dramatic rock formations and crashing waves below
Meta Data
Name: Jacobite Steam Train
Jacobite Steam Train
Jacobite Steam Train crossing the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, with the lush Highland landscape stretching beneath
Meta Data
Name: Jacobite Steam Train
Jacobite Steam Train
View from near the Jacobite Steam Train carriages as it crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct, with the dramatic valley below
Meta Data
Name: Isle of Skye
Isle of Skye
Old Man of Storr on the Isle of Skye, silhouetted against a vibrant sunset sky with surrounding rugged landscape
Meta Data
Name: Glen Coe
Glen Coe
Glen Coe, a scenic valley in the Scottish Highlands, bathed in sunlight with towering mountains and lush green slopes
Meta Data
Name: 8 Day Isle of Skye, Orkney & North Coast 500 Map
8 Day Isle of Skye, Orkney & North Coast 500 Map
Itinerary map of Orkney tour from Edinburgh