Orkney Explorer by Air

Fly from your chosen airport to Glasgow where we will arrange transfer to your overnight hotel in the Glasgow area. Enjoy a leisurely dinner tonight in the hotel.

After breakfast this morning, we set off on our north coast adventure. We travel through beautiful Perthshire, past the Cairngorm National Park and to the Scottish Highlands. We will stop for lunch at Inverness to give you some time to explore before we head on to the North Coast of Scotland for a two-night stay in pretty Thurso.

Included Highlights

Inverness

This morning we travel along the north coast of Scotland to visit the Castle of Mey, the only privately owned home by the late Queen Mother. She purchased the estate in 1952 and it became a labour of love for her majesty as she set about restoring and renovating the castle and its gardens.

We continue our journey to explore the north coast and will make a stop at John O'Groats which is famous for being the most northerly point in mainland Britain. After this unique photo opportunity, we continue on to the historic seaport of Wick. Originally a Viking settlement where the Vikings used the mouth of the Wick River as a passage for their longships and trading vessels, Wick then became one of Europe's largest Herring ports. You will have free time to explore, so why not visit the Wick Heritage Centre?

Included Highlights

Wick John O'Groats Castle of Mey

After breakfast today, we board the ferry with our coach and sail for 90 minutes to Orkney.

The day concludes with a tour along the shoreline of Scapa Flow – famous as the naval refuge during both world wars. We stay for three nights on Orkney.

Included Highlights

Orkney Islands

Our local guide joins the coach for a memorable day out. As the day unfolds, the islands' Neolithic ancestry is evident as many ancient monuments, stone circles, settlements and tombs are visited – a testament to its UNESCO World Heritage status.

The tour includes a scenic circular tour of the island visiting most of the main sites including 5000-year old Skara Brae, Churchill Barriers, Ring of Brodgar, Stenness Standing Stones and Italian Chapel. Along the way, listen to the tales of Viking intruders, wartime exploits and immerse yourself in Orkneys' rich maritime heritage.

Included Highlights

Orkney Islands Guided Tour

Enjoy a day at leisure to explore at your own pace.

It's an early start today to catch the ferry back to the mainland and then begin our journey through Scotland. Sit back, relax and enjoy the stunning Scottish Highland landscapes. Our overnight stay will be in the Glasgow area where you will enjoy one last dinner with your fellow travellers.

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Glasgow airport for your flight home.