Mystical Orkney & the Top O' the North of Scotland

After breakfast, we continue our journey north with enjoy a stop in Iverness along the way. Regarded as the 'Capital of the Highlands', enjoy time to take in the city's historic charm. From here, we continue onto the former Viking settlement of Wick, a principal town in the far-flung north of the Scottish mainland and where we stay tonight.

Join us as we travel to John o' Groats, best known as the most northerly point of the UK mainland. Located over eight hundred miles away from Land's End, you'll find jaw-dropping scenery in this iconic location. After some free time and the obligatory photo of the famous John O'Groats signpost, we continue to join our ferry to Orkney. As we travel, keep your eyes peeled for the marine wildlife in their natural setting, including seals, otters, seabirds, and even orcas. Upon our arrival, we conclude our day with a drive along the shoreline of the Scapa Flow, famous as a naval refuge during both World Wars, before we arrive in Kirkwall, where we are based for the next three nights.

Enjoy a memorable full-day tour with a knowledgeable local guide as you explore the island's mysterious Neolithic ancestry, a testament to its UNESCO World Heritage status. Remember to bring your camera as we visit the World Heritage sites of the five-thousand-year-old Skara Brae, the Italian Chapel, the Churchill Barriers, the Ring of Brodgar, and Stennes Standing Stones, while keeping your eyes peeled for the local wildlife! Along the way, listen to the tales of Viking intruders and wartime exploits, as you immerse yourself in Orkney's rich maritime heritage spanning centuries.

Today we have a full day to explore the town of Kirkwall, the historic and vibrant 'capital' of the Orkney archipelago. A Viking spirit still runs through Kirkwall, whilst reminders of the town's medieval past are everywhere. Why not visit the magnificent St Magnus Cathedral or stroll through the bustling town centre where restaurants, cafes, and a fabulous range of shops and independent retailers that lead to the colourful harbour? We include a visit to the Orkney Distillery, conveniently located right next to the hotel. During the guided tour, you'll learn the secrets behind the legendary, hand-crafted Orkney spirits, made using traditional copper stills, and toast the Norse gods with a tasting.

After an early start this morning, we catch the ferry back to the mainland, where we begin our journey south. Catch a glimpse of Dunrobin Castle, the most northerly of Scotland's great houses, resembling a French château with its towering conical spires, on the way to our overnight hotel.

We finish our journey back home.