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Trip Style
Small Group
Accommodation
Boutique
Max. Group Size
15
Guide Level
Fully Guided
Trip Code
BEHOHII
Overview
Read 2 reviews and enjoy exclusive savings on Back-Roads 5 Day Orkney and the Highlands. From the character-filled metropolis of Inverness, to the rugged mysteriousness of Orkney, and back again - discover dramatic landscapes, towns steeped in Viking history and ancient sites with roots stretching back over 5,000 years. Join us as we delve deeper into this breathtaking region of Scotland.
Itinerary
Our journey through the misty crags and heather-clad moors of Scotland will begin in Inverness, the welcoming capital of the Highlands. Tonight, we'll have the opportunity to get to know our fellow travel companions and Tour Leader over a sumptuous welcome meal. Stay: Pentahotel Inverness (or similar) (D)
After regrouping for breakfast this morning, we'll admire the staggering vistas of soaring peaks and wide valleys as our road takes us north. Our first stop of the day will be Strathpeffer – a stylish Victorian spa town, where we'll have some free time to explore. Afterwards, we'll leave land behind and sail to Orkney on a short ferry journey, complete with an abundance of scenic views. Kirkwall in Orkney, first settled by the Vikings, will be our home for the next two nights. Stay: The Standing Stones Hotel (or similar) (B)
Majestic landscapes, scenic roads and an imagination-firing history: Orkney delivers on every level. Today we'll walk in the footsteps of ancient islanders at the mysterious Maeshowe tomb, the Neolithic village of Skara Brae and the mystical Ring of Brodgar – taking in the history and significance of each site as we go. Our next stop will be the Iron Age Broch of Gurness – and, if the tide is on our side, we'll round off the day with an atmospheric walk to Brough of Birsay island. Stay: The Standing Stones Hotel (or similar) (B)
From the St Magnus Cathedral to the Bishop's Palace, we'll find plenty of Norse sites on our doorstep in Kirkwall. This afternoon will see us venture to Scapa Flow, where we'll see the famous Italian Chapel and stop for a photo opportunity at the WWII shipwrecks. Later on, we'll board the ferry back to the mainland – where we'll reminisce on our tour and enjoy a farewell dinner in Wick. Stay: Mackays Hotel (or similar) (B/D)
After one final breakfast together, we'll hit the road back to Inverness. It's been a tour that's delved deep into Scotland's heritage, so it's only fitting that we finish with a stop at the historic Dunrobin Castle. We'll take some time to explore the impressive white towers and formal gardens of this stately home before travelling the meandering coastal road over the Dornoch and Cromarty Firths. Don't forget to focus your camera lens on the soul-stirring Scottish scenery as we go. When we reach Inverness, we'll say our goodbyes. (B)
Trip Inclusions
- Enjoy a two-night stay in Orkney, the home of some of Europe's most ancient sites
- Explore the impressive Dunrobin Castle and gardens
- Travel beautiful coastal and countryside roads through the Highlands
- 4 nights in hand-picked accommodation
- Premium mini-coach transportation
- Experienced Back-Roads Tour Leader and Driver
- 4 Breakfasts, 2 Dinners
- Accommodation, itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Prices are for land/cruise only. International flights not included.
Trip Reviews (2) Most Recent 'Orkney and the Highlands' Reviews
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Our tour was fabulous 1 Dora Pearce, Australia, Aug 2013
Our tour of the Orkneys & Scottish Highlands was fabulous with regard to the ancient neolithic historical sites visited, less ancient castles and rugged scenery viewed, good accommodation and knowledgeable and witty tour guide. Our Global Journeys consultant was very helpful in following up on a query regarding tour inclusions before we headed off.
A memorable experience in an awe inspiring part of the world 2 Judy Brand, Australia, Jun 2013
It was a memorable experience in an awe inspiring part of the world.
Prices & Dates
There are currently no departures available on this trip. Either it's the end of the season and new departures will be released shortly, or this itinerary has been changed and will no longer continue. Feel free to contact us for information about when next seasons dates will be released or click here to view the general release dates for all destinations.
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Prices and trip information are correct at the time at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Back-Roads. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Back-Roads. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Prices and trip information are correct at the time at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Back-Roads. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Back-Roads. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
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