Inverness to Orkney

We begin our journey north from Inverness, travelling through the scenic coastal landscapes of the Moray and Cromarty Firths. From the mainland, we board a ferry for a memorable crossing to the Orkney Isles. Keep an eye out for dolphins, seals and other marine wildlife during the one-hour sailing to St Margaret’s Hope – our gateway to the archipelago.

Orkney lies so far north that in summer the sun sets as late as 10:30 pm, giving you ample daylight to explore. The archipelago consists of over 70 islands, though only 20 are inhabited. We'll be staying on the largest – Mainland.

On arrival, we take in Orkney’s striking scenery. Due to its remote location and glacially sculpted terrain, the islands are home to distinctive wildlife and flora, including puffins and the rare primula scotica. Orkney is also home to the UK’s oldest natural woodland and was recently named the best place to live in Britain.

Later, we visit key sites from the Second World War, starting with the Italian Chapel – built by Italian prisoners of war as a place of worship. We also see the Churchill Barriers, constructed to protect the British naval fleet from submarine attacks.

Meeting Point: 25 Union Street, Inverness, IV1 1QA at 08:00.

Today we explore Orkney in depth, with Kirkwall as our base. This charming town – home to around 6,500 residents – features narrow streets, fine old houses and the ruins of both the Bishop’s and Earl’s Palaces. You're free to explore at your own pace, perhaps visiting Highland Park Distillery – the most northerly in the UK.

We then delve into the islands’ Neolithic heritage. Highlights include Maeshowe, a chambered cairn over 5,000 years old, and Skara Brae – Europe’s best-preserved Neolithic village, uncovered by a storm in 1850. We also visit the dramatic stone circles of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar, both part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Our day concludes with a visit to St Magnus Cathedral – Britain’s most northerly cathedral. Founded in the 12th century to house the relics of Magnus the Martyr, it showcases impressive Romanesque architecture and reflects Orkney’s historical ties to Norway.

Enjoy a relaxed morning in Kirkwall, with time to explore its working harbour and browse local craft and gift shops. We then board the ferry back to the mainland and begin our return journey to Inverness, travelling along the wild northern coastline.

Our first stop is John O’Groats, where you can take in panoramic views of both the east and west coasts – a perfect photo opportunity.

We then visit Dunrobin Castle (entrance not included), the most northerly of Scotland’s grand houses and the largest in the Northern Highlands. This French chateau-style castle is Britain’s oldest continuously inhabited stately home and is still associated with the Dukes of Sutherland. Take time to explore the impressive formal gardens before we return to Inverness, where the tour concludes.

Drop off Point: 25 Union Street, Inverness, IV1 1QA, Inverness, Highland, Scotland, United Kingdom