Orkney: Ancient Mysteries & Timeless Beauty Tour
Uncover ancient mysteries and timeless beauty on an unforgettable journey through Orkney and the Scottish Highlands.
Unforgettable Adventures Await
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From Neolithic tombs to Viking strongholds, experience history and legend where land meets sea.
Step into a land where ancient stones whisper stories of the past, where windswept cliffs guard Neolithic tombs, and where Viking and medieval legends still echo through the islands. On this 8-day journey to Orkney and the Highlands, you’ll uncover some of the most remarkable archaeological sites in Europe — from the awe-inspiring Skara Brae to the mystical Ring of Brodgar. Along the way, enjoy luxury accommodations, hearty Highland cuisine, and the company of fellow travelers as history, mystery, and breathtaking scenery come together for an unforgettable adventure.
Your Daily Itinerary
Please Note: All tour itineraries are subject to change. Finalized itineraries will be announced closer to the departure date. We strive to ensure each experience is as enriching and seamless as possible, and adjustments may be made to enhance the overall journey.
Day 1 – August 18
Fly into the picturesque Highlands and arrive in Inverness, where your journey begins. After settling in at the elegant Loch Ness Country House Hotel, we’ll gather together for a warm welcome dinner. This evening offers the perfect chance to relax, meet fellow travelers, and prepare for the adventures that lie ahead.
Day 2 – August 19
After breakfast, we’ll embark on a scenic drive through the northern Highlands to Scrabster, where we board the ferry to the enchanting Orkney Islands. Upon arrival, we’ll check into our charming base, The Lynnfield Hotel, known for its cozy atmosphere and outstanding cuisine. We’ll enjoy dinner together at the hotel, settling in for our first night on Orkney soil.
Day 3 – August 20
Today’s explorations take us south across Orkney. We’ll begin at the beautifully moving Italian Chapel, a WWII treasure built by Italian prisoners of war. Next, we continue to the dramatic Tomb of the Eagles, an ancient site steeped in mystery and legend.
In the afternoon, we’ll stop at the unique Sheila Kirk Café, once a church, now transformed into a welcoming café and jewelry shop. Afterwards, we indulge in a whisky tasting at the world-renowned Highland Park Distillery before returning to the hotel to refresh. Later, we gather for dinner at Twenty One, one of Kirkwall’s finest restaurants.
Day 4 – August 21
Today we island-hop to Rousay, known as “the Egypt of the North” for its remarkable density of archaeological treasures. Our journey begins at Taversöe Tuick, a rare double-storey Neolithic tomb — the only one of its kind in northern Europe. We then continue to the Blackhammer Chambered Cairn, a striking long stalled tomb that still stands as a testament to ancient craftsmanship.
The highlight of the day awaits on Rousay’s wild west coast at the awe-inspiring Midhowe Chambered Cairn, the largest and most dramatic on the island, protected under a vast hangar that allows us to gaze directly into its interior chambers. Just steps away lies the Midhowe Broch, a remarkable Iron Age roundhouse overlooking the waters of Eynhallow Sound.
We’ll pause for lunch at The Taversoe Inn, then visit the Rousay Heritage Center before returning to the mainland. On the way back, we’ll stop at the Broch of Gurness before returning to our hotel. Dinner tonight is at Lucano’s Italian, a delightful spot with a touch of Mediterranean flair.
Day 5 – August 22
Today is dedicated to exploring the heart of Kirkwall. We begin with the majestic St. Magnus Cathedral, often called the “Light of the North,” followed by a visit to the Bishop’s and Earl’s Palaces, which echo with the intrigues of centuries past. The Orkney Museum offers further insight into the islands’ fascinating history, before we enjoy lunch at the much-loved Helgi’s.
In the afternoon, there is the option of a visit to the Scapa Distillery, where Orkney’s whisky heritage continues to flourish. Tonight, we enjoy another fine dinner back at our hotel.
Day 6 – August 23
We start the day with a visit to the Wideford Hill Cairn, involving a bit more walking — but the views and atmosphere make it well worth the effort. From there, we continue to the Stones of Stenness and the mystical Ring of Brodgar, two of Europe’s most important Neolithic monuments. Lunch is in Stromness at the welcoming Ferry Inn, before we continue to the imposing Maeshowe Chambered Cairn, famous for its Viking graffiti carved into its ancient stones. Those who wish may also join an optional visit to a local gin distillery to round off the day.
Day 7 – August 24
After checking out of our hotel, we visit the world-famous Skara Brae, a Stone Age village astonishingly preserved for over 5,000 years. Then it’s time to bid farewell to Orkney as we take the ferry back to the mainland and drive to Inverness. Tonight, we’ll check into the elegant Ness Walk Hotel and gather for a festive farewell dinner, celebrating our unforgettable week of history, mystery, and camaraderie.
Day 8 – August 25
After breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to newfound friends and the landscapes of Orkney and the Highlands. Depart from Inverness with memories of ancient tombs, towering cathedrals, and timeless seascapes — a journey truly unlike any other.
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