From Inverness: 3-Day Orkney & The Far North Tour

Day 1

Over the sea to the Orkney Isles

Your journey begins as we head north from Inverness, passing the spectacular coastal views of the Moray and Cromarty Firths. Then it’s time to board the ferry for a memorable crossing to St Margaret’s Hope, the gateway to Orkney. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, seals, and other marine wildlife during the hour-long journey.

Orkney lies so far north that in summer the sun sets as late as 10:30 pm, giving you extra daylight to explore. This remote archipelago includes over 70 islands, of which around 20 are inhabited. You’ll be staying on Mainland Orkney, the largest island in the group.

Explore Orkney’s Unique Nature

Once on the island, soak in the windswept beauty and look out for rare wildlife like the tiny purple Primula Scotica and charismatic puffins. Orkney’s remote location has allowed many unique species to thrive. You’ll also learn about the island’s unusual geography, shaped by glacial erosion, and visit what’s believed to be the UK’s oldest natural woodland.

Discover WWII History – Italian Chapel & Churchill Barriers

Orkney played a vital role during the Second World War. You’ll visit the beautifully preserved Italian Chapel, built by Italian prisoners of war who later became paid workers after Italy joined the Allies. Nearby, you’ll see the impressive Churchill Barriers, a series of causeways constructed to protect the British naval fleet from enemy submarines.

Overnight: Kirkwall

Day 2

Ancient Orkney: Neolithic Marvels & Norse Heritage

From your base in Kirkwall, the capital of Orkney, you’ll spend the day exploring the island’s ancient past. Kirkwall itself is charming, with its narrow lanes, old stone buildings, and the ruins of the Bishop’s Palace and Earl’s Palace. It’s also home to Highland Park Distillery, the northernmost whisky distillery in the UK.

Walk Among Europe’s Best-Preserved Neolithic Sites

Orkney is a treasure trove of prehistoric sites. You’ll visit:

• Maeshowe – a stunning Neolithic chambered cairn

• Skara Brae – Europe’s most complete Neolithic village, hidden for centuries and uncovered after a storm in 1850

• The Standing Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar – majestic stone circles that form part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site

These incredible monuments reveal a world from over 5,000 years ago—older than the pyramids of Egypt.

Visit the Northernmost Cathedral in Britain

Finish the day at the awe-inspiring St Magnus Cathedral, a striking Romanesque structure founded in the 12th century as the final resting place of Magnus the Martyr, Earl of Orkney. At that time, Orkney was part of Norway, and the Norse influence is still felt across the islands.

Overnight: Kirkwall

Day 3

Journey South via John O’Groats & Dunrobin Castle

Enjoy a relaxed morning in Kirkwall, browsing local craft shops or walking along the harbour. Late morning, we board the ferry back to the Scottish mainland and begin our journey south along the northern coastline.

Visit John O’Groats – The End of the Road

We stop at John O’Groats, the northernmost point on the British mainland and a great spot for panoramic views and photos. From here, you can see both the east and west coasts of the UK—a rare and beautiful sight.

Step Into a Storybook at Dunrobin Castle

Next, we explore the fairytale-like Dunrobin Castle, the most northerly of Scotland’s grand estates. With its French chateau-style architecture, manicured gardens, and centuries of history, this is one of the most elegant castles in the Highlands. It’s also Britain’s oldest continuously inhabited stately home, formerly owned by the Dukes of Sutherland.

Afterwards, relax and enjoy the Highland scenery as we make our way back to Inverness.

Q. How does our accommodation booking service work?

We can book your accommodation for you, or you can choose to book your own, as long as it is centrally located at the overnight stop location. Your driver-guide will drop you off and pick you up from the accommodation during the tour.

Q. How much will the accommodation cost?

Accommodation is not included in the tour price, however, when you click to add a room the cost will be added onto the tour.

Accommodation costs depend on availability and season.

Q. If I wish to book my own accommodation is there anything I need to know?

Once you’ve booked your accommodation, you’ll need to contact us at reservations@highlandexperience.com and let us know where you have booked to stay. Please, only reserve accommodation within the overnight towns that your tour stops in. If you’re unsure, please check with us first.

Q. What do the different room types mean?

• No matter when you visit, the weather in Scotland can be “changeable”, to say the least. We suggest that you bring suitable clothing for all conditions, including a waterproof jacket (it has been known to rain in Scotland), sunglasses and plenty of layers.
• Ensure you bring shoes suitable for short walks, on rough or uneven terrain.
• Although most attractions & eating establishments we visit accept card payments, we would also recommend bringing cash with you.
• Don’t forget a camera to snap the fantastic memories you’ll make on tour with us!
• Please limit your luggage to 1 x small/medium piece per person (no more than 15kg), along with 1 x small handbag or daypack.