Scotland's Highlands & Orkney

Land Tour

Explore Scotland’s untouched north, where the landscapes are wild, and the stories run deep. From windswept cliffs in Orkney to Highland castles and serene lochs, we’ll uncover ancient sites, sip fine whisky, and fall in love with this ruggedly romantic corner of the world. Kilts optional, but wonder is guaranteed.

From price

$9,495

From price per person, twin share

Tour Provider	Bunnik Tours
Number Of Days	12
Start Location	Edinburgh, United Kingdom
End Location	Glasgow, United Kingdom
Age Range	Avg. 50+
Group Size	1 to 16
Tour Style	Premium
Tour Themes	Small group
Physical Rating	Moderate

Departure dates

From price per person, twin share - (Pricing may vary by accommodation, cabin or fare category)

Start	End	Availability	From price
07 Apr 2027	18 Apr 2027	Available	$9,495
21 Apr 2027	02 May 2027	Available	$9,595
05 May 2027	16 May 2027	Guaranteed Departure	$10,295
26 May 2027	06 Jun 2027	Available	$10,295
09 Jun 2027	20 Jun 2027	Available	$10,295
30 Jun 2027	11 Jul 2027	Guaranteed Departure	$10,295
11 Aug 2027	22 Aug 2027	Guaranteed Departure	$10,495
18 Aug 2027	29 Aug 2027	Available	$10,495
01 Sep 2027	12 Sep 2027	Guaranteed Departure	$10,295
15 Sep 2027	26 Sep 2027	Available	$9,995
29 Sep 2027	10 Oct 2027	Available	$9,495

Inclusions

Sightseeing

View the main sights of St. Andrews
Visit the renowned Glamis Castle
Explore the Bishop’s and Earl’s Palaces
See the Churchill’s Barrier
Uncover the Italian Chapel on Lamb Holm
See the Broch of Gurness
Explore the Brough of Birsay (subject to tidal times)
Marvel at the prehistoric village of Skara Brae
Be amazed by the Standing Stones of Stenness
Visit the northernmost point of mainland Great Britain, Dunnet Head
Drive along the North Coast 500 scenic route
Entry to Culloden Battlefield and Exhibition Centre
Whisky tasting at Glen Moray Distillery
Walking Tour of Inverness
Drive along the shores of Loch Ness
Enter Urquhart Castle for views of Loch Ness
Photo stop at Eilean Donan Castle
Drive along the Trotternish Peninsula
See Black Cuillin Hills
See the sites of the Isle of Skye including Old Man of Storr and Kilt Rock
Walk part of the Quiraing Walk
Skye Museum of Island Life
Dunvegan Castle
See the Glenfinnan viaduct
See Fort William
Travel on the UK's only mountain Gondola to view the Highlands
Photo stop at Inveraray Castle
Drive through Trossachs National Park
Loch Lomond Cruise

Touring

All touring in air-conditioned vehicles
Transportation in small coach or minibus
Ferry ride from Aberdeen to Kirkwall (Orkney)
Ferry ride from Stromness (Orkney) to Scrabster
Ferry ride from Armdale to Mallaig
Gondola ride up to Aonach Mor
Boat cruise through Loch Lomond

Accommodation

11 nights in 3-4 star hotels

Properties include:

Mercure Edinburgh Haymarket Hotel, Edinburgh
The Albert Hotel, Kirkwall (Orkney)
Manor House Hotel, Thurso
Caledonian Hotel, Ullapool
Glen Mohr Hotel, Inverness
Broadford Hotel, Isle of Skye
Royal Hotel, Oban
Sandman Signature Hotel, Glasgow

Hotels listed are an indication and are subject to change without notice.Double for Single Use: Please note the single supplement you pay on our tours entitles you to sole use of a room. A double for single use room is larger than a traditional single room offered in Europe. Often these rooms will be of the same size as a double/twin room, but in some cases they may be smaller.

Meals

11 breakfasts and 6 dinners, including group welcome and farewell dinners

Tour Guides

English-speaking locally based tour director
English-speaking locally based guides

Some things to note

Please note:

We don’t want you to miss out on any aspect of your small group tour. To ensure that you don’t, we recommend you arrive at your starting destination by 3:00pm in order to take part in your welcome dinner.
Royal Military Tattoo: Performances are nightly throughout the month of August, a good reason to arrive early and attend this world renowned show!
Edinburgh Fringe Festival: In August the Fringe Festival takes over Edinburgh, why not arrive a little earlier and spend time enjoying the largest arts festival in the world!
On this tour we will be travelling in a small coach or minibus depending on our group size, which are perfectly suited for navigating the small roads and villages dotting along our route.
A number of our travel dates connect with A Tale of Two Irelands and the Discover Norway tours, if you'd like to add on Ireland and or Norway please speak to your Travel Specialist for further details.

Itinerary details

Day 1 - Begin Edinburgh

Welcome to stunning Scotland and its charming capital city, Edinburgh. With over 12,000 years of history, this land is rich with stories — from fearless Highland clans to Roman invaders who never quite managed to conquer the native Caledonians. Edinburgh itself — the nation’s capital since 1437 — is a breathtaking blend of the ancient and the modern, where cobbled lanes wind past medieval spires and contemporary culture hums around every corner. We don’t want you to miss out on any aspect of your small group tour. To ensure that you don’t, we recommend you arrive at your starting destination by 3:00pm. We’ll ease into our Scottish adventure with a relaxed walking tour to get to know this incredible city. First up is Greyfriars Kirkyard, a historic and atmospheric graveyard filled with centuries of stories. It’s also the resting place of Greyfriars Bobby — a loyal little 19th century Skye Terrier whose famed story still tugs at the heartstrings. From there, we’ll wander down Victoria Street, a delightfully wonky road lined with colourful buildings and quirky little shops (the perfect location for your first holiday photo!). Then it’s off to the Grassmarket, once the site of public hangings, now a lively square filled with pubs, character and echs of history. Tonight, we’ll enjoy a delicious group welcome dinner in a local restaurant.

Day 2 - Edinburgh – St. Andrews – Orkney

This morning, we’ll wave goodbye to lovely Edinburgh and set off on a scenic journey north. We’ll begin by crossing the Firth of Forth, where the North Sea meets Scotland, then wind our way through the rolling hills and storybook villages of Fife. The views are truly something special, so be sure to have your cameras ready! Our first stop is the historic coastal town of St. Andrews. It’s known as the birthplace of golf and oozes warm, medieval charm. Here we’ll enjoy a gentle walk passing by some of the town’s most iconic sights, including the grand ruins of St. Andrews Cathedral and its mighty castle which was once a centre of religious power and a destination for pilgrims from all over Europe. Next, we’ll continue to the village of Glamis, a small town with a big history. Said to have inspired Shakespeare’s ‘Macbeth’, it’s home to the magnificent Glamis Castle, which we’ll visit. As the childhood home of Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother, the castle is filled with royal connections and ghostly whispers, making it a place full of legend. After some free time for lunch, it’s onward to Aberdeen to catch our ferry across the Pentland Firth to Orkney — an archipelago of wild beauty and rich Norse heritage. Please keep in mind that this is a long journey, and we’ll arrive at our accommodation in the late evening. Your travel time today will be approximately 8.5 hours.

Day 3 - Orkney

Orkney, a captivating archipelago perched off the northern coast of Scotland, boasts some of Europe’s most well-preserved Neolithic sites and a wealth of stories eager to be uncovered. Today, we’ll explore its charming capital, Kirkwall, a town with no Gaelic roots but one deeply connected to the Old Norse world. Its original name, Kirkjuvágr, means ‘church bay,’ a fitting introduction to the town’s peaceful character and fascinating past. We’ll enjoy a leisurely morning, giving you time to take in the surroundings at your own pace. In the afternoon, we’ll dive into some local history with visits to the impressive Bishop’s and Earl’s Palaces. The Bishop’s Palace, built in the early 1100s, is full of history, including tales of King Hakon of Norway. Just across the road, the Renaissance-style Earl’s Palace, built in 1606, is a stunning sight and a perfect example of Orkney’s rich past. Next, we’ll head to Lamb Holm, where we’ll see the Churchill Barriers, causeways originally built during World War II to protect the naval base at Scapa Flow. These barriers now link the islands and offer some stunning views. While we’re here, we’ll also visit the Italian Chapel, a beautiful little church created by Italian prisoners of war during World War II, full of intricate frescs and a truly moving story. Returning to Kirkwall, the evening is yours to enjoy at leisure. For dinner, perhaps try some local seafood at one of the town’s cozy pubs while exploring the town at your own pace.

Day 4 - Orkney – Thurso

Today, we’ll step way back in time as we explore some of Orkney’s most treasured archaeological sites. Our first stop is Broch of Gurness, an impressive Iron Age village built around a circular stone tower, giving us a glimpse into community life during that era. Afterwards, we’ll visit the Brough of Birsay — a tidal island rich in Viking and Pictish ruins. If the tide is just right, we’ll cross the causeway and explore on foot. We’ll then make our way to Skara Brae, one of the best-preserved prehistoric villages in Europe. Hidden beneath the sand for thousands of years, it was uncovered by a storm in 1850 and offers a remarkable window into life more than 5,000 years ago. We’ll also visit nearby Skaill House, a beautiful manor filled with centuries of stories, where you can see how life evolved from ancient times to more recent history. Special Experience Discover the ancient Standing Stones of Stenness, a megalithic structure older than Stonehenge. Set in a dramatic landscape between lochs, this sacred circle dates back over 5,000 years and is considered one of the earliest henge monuments in Britain. Today, only four of the original twelve stones remain, but standing nearly six metres tall and arranged around a central hearth, they still create a powerful and mysterious presence. As you wander among them, it’s easy to imagine the rituals and gatherings that once took place here, giving a fascinating glimpse into the lives and beliefs of Neolithic communities. Later, we’ll say goodbye to Orkney and board a ferry that will take us from Stromness to Scrabster, located back on the mainland. It’s a scenic and breezy ride across the sea — keep an eye out for seabirds and maybe even a seal or two! Dinner tonight will be at our hotel, where we’ll settle in and relax after a day filled with wonder. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

Day 5 - Thurso – Ullapool

After breakfast this morning, we’ll head out to Dunnet Head, the northernmost point of mainland Britain. This rugged, windswept peninsula features dramatic cliffs that plunge into the sea, offering breathtaking panoramic views. On a clear day, you might even be able to look back and spot the Orkney Islands in the distance. The lighthouse stands proudly at the edge, adding to the picturesque scene. If we’re lucky, we might even catch a glimpse of puffins, razorbills or other seabirds nesting along the cliffs. From there, we’ll begin one of the most scenic drives of our journey as we join the famous North Coast 500 route. Often called Scotland’s answer to Route 66, this stunning road takes us through landscapes that look straight out of a postcard — shimmering lochs, striking coastal cliffs, and winding roads that meander through hills and glens. We’ll make time for plenty of photo stops along the way. Make sure your camera is charged, we can guarantee that you’ll need it! Later this evening, we arrive in the charming harbour town of Ullapool, nestled on the shores of Loch Broom and framed by the rugged peaks of the Northwest Highlands. This picturesque village may be small, but it’s full of character — known for its whitewashed cottages, vibrant cultural scene and deep-rooted fishing heritage. We’ll check into our hotel and enjoy a hearty dinner tonight. Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.

Day 6 - Ullapool – Culloden – Inverness

Ullapool has its roots in the 18th-century herring boom, when it was established as a purpose-built fishing port on the shores of Loch Broom. Today, it has evolved into a lively coastal town with a strong creative spirit, home to galleries, music and a thriving arts community that reflects its Highland setting. This morning we farewell this characterful harbour town and continue our journey eastward, making our way to our first visit of the day, the historic battlefield of Culloden. Now a peaceful moor, Culloden was once the site of the last pitched battle fought on British soil. In 1746, the Battle of Culloden marked the dramatic end of the Jacobite uprising — a moment that forever changed Scotland’s story. We’ll visit the Culloden Battlefield and Exhibition Centre, where we’ll walk the very ground where it all happened and explore the moving exhibits that bring these powerful tales to life. Next, we’ll head to Elgin, home to the grand ruins of Elgin Cathedral, once called the ‘Lantern of the North’ for its stunning, Gothic architecture. From here, we’ll continue on to the Glen Moray Distillery, nestled in the heart of Speyside whisky country. Set on the banks of the River Lossie, the distillery has a long heritage dating back to 1897 and is known for its smooth, single malts. Still operating from a site that was once a brewery, it reflects the region’s deep whisky-making traditions, shaped by pure water, oak casks and generations of expertise! Special Experience Taste the local drop at the Glen Moray Distillery. Established in 1897, we visit the whisky distillery and learn about the Scottish drink of choice. With some delicious tastings under our belt, we’ll then enjoy a scenic drive to Inverness. On arrival, we’ll take a gentle walking tour through the heart of the town, passing the Victorian Market, Inverness Castle, St. Andrew’s Cathedral, Falcon Square, the Tollbooth Steeple, and the elegant Town House. We’ll check into our hotel this evening and relax for the night. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

Day 7 - Inverness

Inverness, often referred to as the capital of the Scottish Highlands, sits at the point where the River Ness flows into the Moray Firth. With origins stretching back to Pictish times, it has long been a strategic settlement due to its position controlling key routes through the Highlands. The city’s history is closely tied to Scotland’s wider story of clans and conflict, including its proximity to the Battle of Culloden, one of the most significant events in Jacobite history. Today, Inverness offers a relaxed riverside setting and a compact, walkable centre, where historic landmarks sit alongside warm cafés, shops and cultural hotspots. It serves as both a vibrant Highland hub and the perfect gateway for exploring the surrounding lochs, castles and dramatic landscapes of northern Scotland. Today we’ll have the entire day at leisure to explore everything that this quaint city has to offer. Perhaps you may wish to visit The Highlanders’ Museum — located within the grounds of the historic Fort George — and immerse yourself in the history of the Highland regiments from just after the Battle of Culloden to present day. If delicious food and wine is more your thing, then you might like to check out the Highland Food and Drink Trail. On the banks of the River Ness and directly across from the Inverness Cathedral, you’ll find a delightful array of pop-up street food vendors showcasing the best of local produce — yum! Optional Excursion Step into the opulence of Dunrobin Castle, often referred to as the jewel of the Highlands. The historic home of the Earls and Dukes of Sutherland, this magnificent castle resembles a French château and boasts more than 185 rooms. Explore the castle, museum and beautifully landscaped grounds on this fascinating tour. 5hrs – from GBP 17pp (minimum 2 people). Cash only.

Day 8 - Inverness – Loch Ness – Isle of Skye

This morning, we enjoy a scenic drive along the legendary shores of Loch Ness, a deep, mysterious stretch of water steeped in folklore and framed by rolling Highland hills. Our journey takes us to the charming village of Drumnadrochit, gateway to some of Scotland’s most famous history and legend. Here, we explore the dramatic ruins of Urquhart Castle, one of the largest castles in Scotland and dramatically positioned on a a rugged outcrop overlooking Loch Ness. With origins dating back over 1,000 years, the castle has witnessed centuries of conflict between Scottish clans and English forces. Today, its weathered stone walls, imposing Grant Tower and sweeping views across the loch make it one of the most atmospheric and photographed historic sites in the country. We then continue west toward the picturesque village of Dornie, where we pause for a photo stop at the world-famous Eilean Donan Castle. Set on a small tidal island where three sea lochs meet, and connected to the mainland by a charming stone footbridge, this iconic castle is often considered one of Scotland’s most beautiful landmarks. Originally built in the 13th century and later restored to its former glory, it’s a striking symbol of Highland heritage. Next we’ll find a spot for some free time to relax and enjoy a leisurely lunch. Perhaps you could try a traditional bowl of Cullen Skink, a hearty Scottish fish soup, or a savory Scotch pie in one of the local cafés along the loch. Finally, we’ll head to the Isle of Skye, checking into our hotel we’ll delight in a group dinner. Your travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours.

Day 9 - Isle of Skye

Renowned for its breathtaking beauty, the Isle of Skye is a true Scottish gem. From its rugged landscapes to its rich history, it’s easy to see why it’s one of the most captivating places in the country. Today, we’ll dive right into its charm with a full day of exploring this enchanting island. Our adventure begins with a drive to Portree — the island’s largest town — with a photo stop at the village of Sligachan, where we’ll take in the breathtaking sight of Black Cuilin Hills. In Portree, we’ll have the chance to pick up some snacks for our day ahead and enjoy the local shops. Afterwards, we’ll visit the famous Old Man of Storr, a giant rock formation that has inspired countless legends and offers jaw-dropping views. We’ll then continue to Kilt Rock, a striking cliff that gets its name from its resemblance to a kilt. From here, we’ll head to Flodigarry for a scenic walk to view the Quiraing, a landscape of ancient landslips and towering pinnacles. As we continue our journey through the Trotternish Peninsula, we’ll arrive at the Skye Museum of Island Life. Here we’ll step back in time and explore a traditional Highland village from 100 years ago. Our final stop of the day is Dunvegan Castle, the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland, and home to the chiefs of Clan MacLeod for over 800 years. Later in the evening, we make our way back to the hotel. Today involves approximately 1 hour of walking across uneven ground. Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.

Day 10 - Isle of Skye – Fort William – Oban

This morning, we’ll say goodbye to the beautiful Isle of Skye and begin our journey back to the mainland with a scenic ferry ride from Armadale to Mallaig. Keep your eyes peeled on the water, seabirds and seals sometimes like to tag along for the ride! Back on land, our journey takes us past Glenfinnan. Here, we’ll look to get a glimpse of the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct as we pass through, a breathtaking sight made even more magical by its star turn in the Harry Potter films. You might recognise it as the route of the Hogwarts Express, curving gracefully through the Highlands. Next, we’ll stop in at Fort William, a bustling Highland town tucked beneath the mighty Ben Nevis, the tallest mountain in the United Kingdom. We then continue to Torlundy and the Nevis Range, where the UK’s only mountain gondola awaits. Special Experience Board the United Kingdom’s only mountain gondola for stunning aerial views of the Highlands, ascending to Scotland's Aonach Mor. Taking to the sky for a unique journey, we’ll board a gondola to ascend the lower slopes of the incredible Aonach Mor, one of the highest peaks in the Western Highlands. As we rise above the tree line, we’ll notice the landscape shift from ancient Caledonian pine forest to wide-open mountain terrain shaped by glaciers and time! This afternoon, our adventure takes us to the quaint town of Oban, meaning ‘Little Bay’ in Gaelic. Nestled on the west coast, Oban is surrounded by dramatic shores, a picturesque harbour, and lush countryside. Often called the 'Seafood Capital of Scotland,' this welcoming town is known for its daily fresh catch — making it a haven for food lovers and coastal wanderers alike. Your travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours.

Day 11 - Oban – Loch Lomond – Glasgow

During World War II, Oban played a vital role as a strategic base for flying boats and anti-submarine patrols, with its surrounding waters bustling with naval activity. This morning we’ll bid farewell to this lovely harbour town and begin our journey towards Loch Lomond. En route, we’ll pass by Inveraray Castle — Downton Abbey fans might recognise it as Duneagle Castle from the Christmas special! Though we won’t stop, it’s a sight worth a glance, sitting proudly against the Highland backdrop. Our drive takes us into the heart of Trossachs National Park, often called the ‘Highlands in Miniature’ for its enchanting mix of rugged hills, glistening lochs and ancient woodlands — sounds dreamy right? Special Experience Incredible scenery awaits us at Trossachs National Park where we cruise the vast waters of Loch Lomond admiring its spectacular natural beauty. Established as Scotland’s first national park in 2002, it covers an expansive area of around 1,865 square kilometres, making it one of the largest protected regions in the UK. Within its boundaries are 22 lochs, including the iconic Loch Lomond — the largest inland stretch of water in Great Britain — along with a diverse mix of mountains, woodlands and open moorland. The park is also home to a rich variety of wildlife and centuries of history, with stunning landscapes that have inspired Scottish folklore, ptry and music. While here, we’ll enjoy a scenic cruise on the tranquil waters of Loch Lomond. After we’ve immersed in nature, we’ll then enjoy some free time in the picturesque lochside village of Luss. You can take the opportunity to hike the Luss Heritage Trail, a scenic path that offers breathtaking views of Loch Lomond and the surrounding countryside or simply relax in the pretty town. Later, we’ll arrive in Glasgow — Scotland’s biggest city — bursting with energy, creativity and character. After checking into our hotel, we’ll have some time to freshen up before indulging in a group farewell dinner at a local restaurant. Your travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours.

Day 12 - Finish Glasgow

Our tour comes to an end after breakfast this morning. We bid farewell to newfound friends and to the unforgettable landscapes of wonderful Scotland!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I choose this tour?

You should choose this tour to explore Scotland's untouched north and ruggedly romantic landscapes. This premium experience takes you from the windswept cliffs of Orkney to Highland castles and serene lochs, blending ancient history with modern culture. With a focus on meaningful moments and small group connections, you'll enjoy curated experiences like whisky tastings, mountain gondola rides, and cruises on Loch Lomond.

What type of traveller is this tour designed for, what type of traveller will enjoy this tour most?

This tour is specifically designed with travellers aged 55 and over in mind, balancing comfort, pace, and enriching experiences. It is ideal for curious travellers who appreciate a 'premium' style of touring and enjoy a mix of guided discovery and the freedom to explore. Those who love history, wild landscapes, and the companionship of like-minded travellers will enjoy this journey most.

What are the pros and cons of this tour?

The pros include a small group size (maximum 16 people), a comprehensive itinerary covering iconic sites like the Isle of Skye and Orkney, and unique 'Special Experiences' such as the Aonach Mor gondola. A potential con for some may be the long travel days, such as the journey from Edinburgh to Orkney which takes approximately 8.5 hours.

Is this a good option for solo travellers, couples, or families?

This tour is an excellent option for solo travellers and couples who enjoy small group dynamics and making new friends. While it is not specifically marketed toward families, the premium nature and curated pace make it a rewarding experience for adults. The focus on 'meaningful moments of connection' ensures a welcoming environment for all.

Is this tour better for first-time visitors or experienced travellers?

This tour is wonderful for both. First-time visitors will love seeing the legendary highlights like Loch Ness, Edinburgh, and the Isle of Skye. Experienced travellers will appreciate the venture into the 'untouched north' and the inclusion of less-visited gems like the Neolithic sites of Orkney and the North Coast 500 route.

Is this suitable for people with mobility concerns?

The tour is rated as having 'Moderate' physicality. While many activities are relaxed walking tours or scenic drives, some days involve more activity, such as Day 9 on the Isle of Skye, which includes approximately one hour of walking across uneven ground. We recommend reviewing these specific activities to ensure they align with your mobility needs.

Is this tour more focused on sightseeing, culture, or adventure?

This tour provides a balanced blend of all three. It offers extensive sightseeing of Scotland's natural beauty, deep cultural immersion through visits to Neolithic sites, historic castles, and whisky distilleries, and a touch of adventure via the North Coast 500 drive and the mountain gondola ascent.

What is the pace of this tour (fast-paced vs relaxed)?

The pace is generally balanced to suit the 55+ age group, combining structured sightseeing with leisure time. While some days involve significant travel distances to reach remote areas, other days, such as the full day at leisure in Inverness, are designed to be very relaxed.

Does the itinerary feel rushed or relaxed?

The itinerary is designed to strike a balance between guidance and freedom. While there are long transit days to ensure you see the far reaches of the north, the inclusion of leisure time in Kirkwall and a full free day in Inverness prevents the trip from feeling rushed.

Are key highlights and landmarks included?

Yes, the tour covers many of Scotland's most iconic landmarks, including Edinburgh Castle's city, the Isle of Skye, Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle, Eilean Donan Castle, and the North Coast 500. It also includes unique sites like the Standing Stones of Stenness and the Glenfinnan Viaduct.

Are language barriers handled by the guide?

The provided text does not explicitly mention language barriers or translation services; however, as the tour operates within the United Kingdom and is managed by professional small-group experts, guidance is provided throughout the journey to help you navigate the experience.

Disclaimer:

These FAQs have been generated with the assistance of AI to provide a general overview. They are intended as a starting point only and should be reviewed based on your knowledge, current supplier information and client requirements.