Kylesku Bridge
Kylesku Bridge © VisitScotland Richard Elliot
Castle of Mey © VisitScotland Kenny Lam
Chrchill Barriers
Skara Brae
UPDATED TOUR
As we set off on this spectacular tour, we journey across the famous scenic North Coast Route, described as Scotland’s own Route 66. The highlight of this breath-taking tour is a visit to Orkney, one of Scotland’s most accessible and popular islands. We take a full day guided tour to marvel at the wealth of the Neolithic remains and local culture.
PACKAGED ITINERARY
Day 1 Arrival
We arrive at our overnight hotel in the borders in time for dinner.
Day 2 Journey to the Highlands
We make a prompt start this morning to journey north to the Scottish Highlands via Perth, stopping at Pitlochry over lunchtime to explore this quaint highland town at leisure.
Day 3 North Coast Route
Today we travel clockwise along the North Coast Route, Scotland’s answer to Route 66. First, we travel to the west coast fishing village of Ullapool, before continuing north via wide single-track roads to our next destination of Durness, stopping at lunchtime for a refreshment break. Finally, we follow the main roads east along the northerly coastal edges of Scotland, marvelling at the breath-taking views around every corner on the way to Thurso.
Day 4 Orkney Isles
After an early start we make our way to Scrabster for our morning ferry to Stromness on Orkney. On arrival, we meet our local guide who will be with us throughout our step-on tour of the island. We visit the ancient settlement of Skara Brae, uncovered by a storm in 1850. This ancient settlement is older than Stonehenge and the amazingly preserved rooms provide us with a unique insight into prehistoric human living. From here we head to the mystical Ring of Brodgar to view the standing stones, reminiscent of those at Stonehenge and Avebury, constructed around 2500 – 2000 BC. We continue to Kirkwall to spend some free time for lunch. In the afternoon, we visit the Italian Chapel, ‘the miracle of camp 60’, which was built by Italian prisoners during WWII. We then travel past the Churchill Barriers, the construction of which was ordered by Winston Churchill after the tragic torpedoing of the battleship Royal Oak in Scapa Flow during 1939. Finally, we make our way back for our ferry crossing to the mainland.
Day 5 Castle & Gardens of Mey & John o’ Groats Suggested Driver’s Day Off
Today we visit the former royal residence of the Queen Mother, the Castle & Gardens of Mey, where we get an insight into Her Majesty’s life in Caithness and spend time enjoying the peaceful gardens and grounds. We then head to the most northerly point of the mainland, John o’ Groats, a famous start or finish point for cyclists and walkers making the great journey to or from Land’s End. We can explore the village and admire the beautiful scenery, surrounding coast and wildlife before returning to our hotel.
If you require a driver’s day off, this would be the ideal day. Speak to the sales team for information about booking a guide and coach hire.
Day 6 Departure
After breakfast, we head south on our journey home.
Please speak to the sales team for overnight options.
Please note, this tour relies on island ferry services. In the event that a sailing is cancelled or delayed, be aware that itineraries will have to be adapted, sometimes at very short notice.
Set in extensive manicured gardens and woodland grounds, this traditional Victorian manor house is replete with character and old-world charm. The bedrooms are furnished in rich, warm colours in a contemporary style and include a TV, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. The restaurant is located in a stately, elegant room boasting chandeliers and a large open Victorian fireplace; all complimented by a menu of traditional Scottish fare. There is also a bar and comfortable lounge where you can enjoy the impressive views over to Ben Wyvis. There is a lift but there are some period features that might make access difficult for people with limited mobility.
Built in 1710 and steeped in history, the Gretna Hall Hotel is just a 10-minute walk from the Gretna Retail Outlet and Gretna town centre, and only 500 yards from the famous Blacksmiths visitor attraction. The hotel offers a perfect blend of traditional and contemporary. All 97 bedrooms are equipped with a TV, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. The modern restaurant is bright and stylish, and there is a comfortable bar with cosy seating and an outside seating area.
Centrally located in the heart of Thurso, this popular groups hotel is ideal as a base for day trips to Orkney. The hotel offers comfortable accommodation with 42 traditionally decorated bedrooms, equipped with a TV, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. There is a large, elegant dining room and an airy bar with plenty of seating. The reception area features an attractive fireplace with a carved wooden mantel and Caithness stone hearth, traditional décor and comfortable seating, perfect for relaxing. Please be aware that there is no lift at the hotel and there are some steps.
Night 1
Night 2
Nights 3 & 5
5 Nights Half Board
Twin from £664pp
Single Supplement from £116
Selected Dates Only
Based on Sunday arrivals
Inclusions
• Return ferry crossings Scrabster – Stromness
• Full day guided tour of Orkney
• Entrance to Skara Brae
• Entrance to the Italian Chapel
• Entrance to Castle & Gardens of Mey
Please refer to your quote for hotel inclusions.
