Romantic castles, cascading waterfalls, famous Fairy Pools, with optional Jacobite Steam Train.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
Inclusions
Small Group Tour
Passionate Local Guide
Live Commentary & Storytelling in English
Two-Night Stay at Bed & Breakfast Accommodation
Complimentary Breakfast on Day 2 and 3
Ferry Crossing to Orkney
Skara Brae
Italian Chapel
Accommodation
Bed & Breakfast or Guest House
Your tour includes carefully chosen Bed and Breakfast (B&B) or guest house accommodations, hand-picked for their unique charm. B&Bs are renowned for their warm Highland hospitality, often including a complimentary Scottish cooked breakfast. At times, you'll stay at a guest house hosted by local families, giving you the opportunity to experience Scotland in an authentic way. Conveniently situated within a mile of the town centre, both B&Bs and guest houses offer easy access to local attractions and restaurants. During peak season, accommodations may be slightly farther from the town centre.
Room Types
- Single Room
- One room with one bed suitable for one adult.
- Double Room
- One room with one bed suitable for two adults.
- Twin Room
- One room with two separate beds suitable for one adult in each bed.
Accessibility and Facilities
For more information, see our Accessibility Statement.
What Other Explorers Say
Where does the tour depart from?
Your 3-Day Orkney Islands tour departs from the city centre in Inverness. For more details on your pick-up location, please visit our Departure Info page.
Is accommodation included?
Yes, two nights bed & breakfast accommodation is included in the tour price.
What accommodation will I be staying at?
Accommodation is carefully selected by our experienced team ensuring a hearty Scottish welcome. While the specific bed & breakfast or guesthouse may vary, you can be confident your stay will be comfortable.
Find more info on our Accommodation page.
What about meals?
Your accommodation comes with a freshly made breakfast each morning. However, lunch, dinner, and snacks are not included in the tour. Orkney and the Highlands are home to many exceptional restaurants and cafes that we encourage you to explore. This gives you the freedom to explore Scottish local cuisine at your leisure, catering to your preferences and dietary needs.
Does this tour operate during the winter months?
This tour runs from April until September. If you're planning to travel between November and March, check out our Winter Tours, specifically designed for the winter season.
Is this tour suitable for solo travellers?
Absolutely! Joining us solo is a fantastic way to connect with people from diverse backgrounds. You'll typically find a mix of couples, friends, and fellow solo adventurers on our tours. Please note that single room availability is limited.
Are there toilet facilities on the coach?
While our coaches don't offer onboard toilets, rest assured that our itineraries include regular comfort stops, allowing frequent access to restroom facilities.
Are your tours accessible?
Our guides are unable to assist with wheelchairs or provide physical assistance during boarding or disembarking from the coach. Passengers should be capable of boarding and disembarking independently using the access stairs or with the help of a traveling companion. Foldable wheelchairs can be stored in our onboard luggage storage during travel.
Please note that some stops on our tours may involve rough terrain or only be accessible by steps.
It's important to be aware that your accommodation may have limited accessibility for wheelchair users. More info can be found on our Accessibility page.
Can I purchase snacks or souvenirs at the stops along the way?
Yes! Our routes include stops where you can grab a snack or recharge with a drink. Occasionally, we pause at shops offering local souvenirs as well. For precise details about timing and stops, don't hesitate to inquire with your guide.
Where can I get a more detailed itinerary?
Our itinerary (in tab 2, 'Itinerary & Departure') provides a helpful outline of what to expect on the day. We refrain from providing additional details beyond what's outlined there, as factors like weather, traffic, and the preferences of our driver guides may lead to slight deviations. We also believe that part of the excitement comes from the unexpected surprises along the way! Rest assured, your journey through Scotland will be unlike any other.
What if I need to cancel my tour?
If you need to cancel your tour, you will need to inform us in writing by sending an email to info@highlandexplorertours.com. You can find our cancellation and refunds policy in section 3 in our Terms and Conditions.
I have more questions. How can you help?
Feel free to visit our general Frequently Asked Questions page for answers to common queries, or reach out to us directly via our Contact Us page.
