Orkney & Scotland's North Coast

Escorted Tours

Journey north from Edinburgh past Stirling Castle and the Kelpies into the heart of the Highlands.
Trace scenic roads from Loch Lomond to Fort William and the legendary waters of Loch Ness.
Follow the North Coast 500 to John O’Groats, where wild cliffs meet endless northern skies.
Cross to the Orkney Islands to explore Skara Brae, ancient stone circles, and Norse heritage in Kirkwall.
Return south through Smoo Cave, Culloden, and the Cairngorms, surrounded by Scotland’s enduring natural beauty.

Days

55 Years of Expertise in Tailor-Made Travel

ExcellentBased on 5,276 Reviews

55 Years of Expertise in Tailor-Made Travel

ExcellentBased on 5,276 Reviews

Trip Features

Active Elements

Includes light adventure or movement for added discovery.

Epic Scenery

Showcases landscapes that elevate parts of the journey.

Rural Charm

Highlights countryside settings rich in character, culture, and tranquillity.

Escorted Tours

Journeys shared alongside a small group of fellow travellers.

Active Elements

Includes light adventure or movement for added discovery.

Epic Scenery

Showcases landscapes that elevate parts of the journey.

Rural Charm

Highlights countryside settings rich in character, culture, and tranquillity.

Escorted Tours

Journeys shared alongside a small group of fellow travellers.

Trip Itinerary

At a Glance

DAY

Arrive in Edinburgh

DAY

Edinburgh to Inverness

DAY

Inverness to Orkney

DAY

Exploring Orkney's Mainland

DAY

Orkney to Ullapool

DAY

Ullapool to Edinburgh

DAY

Depart from Edinburgh

Travel Itinerary

Trip Starts

Trip Stop

Trip Ends

Detailed Itinerary

DAY

Arrive in Edinburgh

Transfer

Edinburgh Airport to Edinburgh - City Centre

Your Accommodation

Ten Hill Place Hotel, BW Premier Collection

Ten Hill Place, BW Premier Collection was opened in November 2006. The hotel is one of Edinburgh's premier City Centre hotels. From airy public places to each of the 77 smart bedrooms, the mood of Ten Hill Place, BW Premier Collection is one of quiet sophistication, and one they believe sets them apart from other Edinburgh hotels. They have four fully equipped accessible rooms with an elevator from street level to all floors. This innovative Edinburgh hotel is within easy walking distance of Princes Street, the historic Old Town, and the City Centres main tourist, shopping, and business districts; yet peacefully situated away from the main thoroughfares. The best of Edinburgh opens up before you right outside our front door. The Festival Theatre is across the road, the National Museums are around the corner and the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, and Holyrood Palace are just a stone's throw away. Whether on business or a short city break in Edinburgh, make Ten Hill Place, BW Premier Collection your first choice.

Duration

1 Night Stay

Meal Plan

Continental Breakfast

Ten Hill Place Hotel, BW Premier Collection

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DAY

Edinburgh to Inverness

Multi Day Tour

Glencoe - The Highlands - Inverness

As you head north, you pass by some iconic Scottish landmarks, including the Kelpies, 30-meter-tall horse head sculptures, and the imposing Stirling Castle, perched high on a craggy hill. Crossing the ancient Fault Line that divides Scotland, you'll enter the breathtaking Highlands. Here, the flat, fertile plains of the Lowlands gradually give way to shimmering lochs, rugged mountain peaks, and forest-filled glens within Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. A quick break in a quaint Highland town or by a scenic loch refreshes you for the next leg of your journey. Continuing north, you traverse the vast, open landscapes of Rannoch Moor before arriving at Glen Coe, one of Scotland's most famous natural landmarks. Known for its dramatic, rugged slopes, this beautiful valley has been featured in films and has many stories to tell. You'll have time for photo stops or a short walk to fully appreciate the stunning scenery. Next, you'll visit Fort William, a charming Highland town nestled at the foot of Britain's highest mountain, Ben Nevis. You've got time for lunch and exploration, so you can decide what you want to do. Sample local cuisine, wander the streets of the town center, or visit a local museum to learn more about the area's rich history. Continuing along the rugged landscapes of Great Glen, we'll stop for photos at the most scenic viewpoints. The journey takes us north to a Highland gem, Falls of Foyers, where you can go for a short walk to admire this stunning waterfall that was a favorite spot of the poet Robert Burns. We journey along the legendary Loch Ness, whose dark, peat-stained waters hold more freshwater than all the lakes in England and Wales combined. Its vast depths make it the perfect hiding place for the elusive Loch Ness Monster. During our stop at Dores, a peaceful village with stunning views across Loch Ness, you might even spot the famous creature. As the day winds down, we arrive in Inverness, the vibrant Capital of the Highlands. The evening is free for you to enjoy—make sure to sample some local cuisine and take a leisurely stroll along the charming streets to the impressive Inverness Castle or the scenic River Ness islands. Overnight Inverness.

Your Accommodation

Moderate Hotel Inverness

We try to reserve accommodation that's no more than a 20-minute walk from the town centre. We regularly check our accommodation partners to ensure they reach a certain standard.

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DAY

Inverness to Orkney

Multi Day Tour

The East Coast and Orkney - Kirkwall

It's an early start as we leave behind the 'Capital of the Highlands,' cross over the Black Isle, and follow the iconic North Coast 500 route to Golspie for a brief stop. From there, it's just a short drive to Dunrobin Castle, a fairy-tale masterpiece with its soaring spires and beautiful gardens. Take a moment to capture a photo of this stately home before continuing along the coast, passing land once inhabited by the Picts and Vikings. We follow the North Sea coastline and stop in interesting places, admiring dramatic views of cliffs, sweeping sandy beaches, and the ever-changing sea along the way. The route winds through charming villages and small harbors, while inland the scenery transitions to moorlands, gentle glens, and winding rivers, offering a true taste of the Highlands. Around noon we reach John O'Groats, the most northerly mainland village of Scotland. We explore the most stunning sections of the coast before we get ready to board the ferry at Gills Bay. Enjoy an hour-long journey on the Pentland Firth and feel the power of the strait's famous tides, while keeping an eye out for the distant shores of Orkney, an archipelago consisting of around 70 islands, of which only 20 are inhabited. We arrive at South Ronaldsay, in St Margaret's Hope, a small village with a scenic harbor. After crossing the Churchill Barriers, built during WWII to protect the naval base at Scapa Flow, we visit the Italian Chapel, a small church with intricate frescoes, before continuing to the Viking stronghold of Kirkwall, the capital of Orkney. Kirkwall, the capital of the Orkney Islands, is a charming town steeped in history and culture, and your home for the next two nights. With a free evening ahead, you can choose how to spend your time. Perhaps take a leisurely stroll to admire the magnificent Viking-era St Magnus Cathedral and wander through the town's historic, winding streets as the evening sets in. Overnight Kirkwall.

Meal

Breakfast

Your Accommodation

Moderate Hotel Kirkwall

We try to reserve accommodation that's no more than a 20-minute walk from the town centre. We regularly check our accommodation partners to ensure they reach a certain standard.

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DAY

Exploring Orkney's Mainland

Multi Day Tour

Skara Brae & Ancient Orkney - Kirkwall

Today is your chance to explore this archipelago's fertile green pastures, fringed by shores of golden sands and washed by waters of the North Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. As you journey through Orkney, you'll also visit the sites of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a UNESCO World Heritage site that encompasses some of the most significant and well-preserved prehistoric monuments in Europe. Step back in time to an ancient world of mystery and wonder at Maeshowe, a massive, chambered cairn and passage tomb dating back over 5,000 years. This awe-inspiring structure is aligned with the sun and something magical happens here during the winter solstice. This is also where you'll find Viking graffiti—runes carved by Norsemen who visited the site in the 12th century. Next, visit the Ring of Brodgar, an ancient stone circle steeped in local legends and set against views of hills. As you stand among these towering stones, which date back over 4,000 years, you'll feel a powerful connection to the past, imagining the rituals and ceremonies that once took place here. We continue uncovering the secrets of the ancient past at Skara Brae. As you explore this 5,000-year-old village, complete with stone-built homes, furniture, and even a hidden chamber, you'll be transported back in time to imagine what life was like for its early inhabitants. With your appetite whetted by all this history, we head to Stromness for lunch. Enjoy fresh local seafood or other traditional dishes before strolling through its winding streets and a charming harbor. In the afternoon, your driver-guide will take you to more captivating sites, such as Kirbuster Museum, which offers a glimpse into the island's rural past, and perhaps even a tidal island to explore. You'll return to Kirkwall in the early evening, giving you the freedom to decide how to spend your time. Will you have dinner and take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque harbor? Or will you seek out pubs and venues hosting traditional Scottish music sessions? The choice is yours Overnight Kirkwall.

Meal

Breakfast

Your Accommodation

Moderate Hotel Kirkwall

We try to reserve accommodation that's no more than a 20-minute walk from the town centre. We regularly check our accommodation partners to ensure they reach a certain standard.

Show on Map

DAY

Orkney to Ullapool

Multi Day Tour

Explore The North Coast 500 - Ullapool

Say farewell to Kirkwall as we travel once again through the rugged, windswept landscape and past the calm and deep waters of Scapa Flow to St Margaret's Hope and the ferry terminal. Enjoy an hour-long journey across the Viking waters of the Pentland Firth and keep your eyes peeled for any signs of whales or dolphins during your crossing. Back on the mainland, the northern stretch of the North Coast 500 takes us through some of Scotland's most remote and rugged landscapes, with dramatic cliffs, windswept beaches, and rolling hills. Your driver-guide will lead you to the most scenic spots along the way before reaching Smoo Cave, a vast sea cave shaped by sea and freshwater over millennia, with a labyrinth of chambers to explore. From here, we head into the far northwest Highlands, where the wilderness of the Assynt mountains awaits. After soaking in the stunning scenery, we stop to admire the 15th-century ruins of Ardvreck Castle, perched on the shores of a loch and steeped in legends. We conclude the day with a scenic drive past the iconic silhouettes of towering mountains, back to Ullapool, passing through untouched moorlands and peat bogs en route to the shores of Loch Broom. Enjoy a well-deserved rest among the charming, whitewashed cottages of this delightful fishing village. Overnight Ullapool.

Meal

Breakfast

Your Accommodation

Moderate Hotel Ullapool

We try to reserve accommodation that's no more than a 20-minute walk from the town centre. We regularly check our accommodation partners to ensure they reach a certain standard.

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DAY

Ullapool to Edinburgh

Your Accommodation

Ten Hill Place Hotel, BW Premier Collection

Duration

1 Night Stay

Meal Plan

Continental Breakfast

Multi Day Tour

Culloden Battlefield & Clava Cairns

Today, we continue uncovering the hidden gems of the Northwest Highlands, beginning with a journey south to witness the dramatic 60-meter plunge of the River Droma into Corrieshalloch Gorge. You can take a short walk through a picturesque forest to admire the powerful waterfall as it cascades into the depths of the gorge. Enjoy breathtaking views from one of the viewing platforms or experience the thrill of crossing the suspension bridge. The adventure takes us past mountain ridges soaring into the sky, shimmering lochs, and vast, open vistas. We explore Highland hidden gems along the way before we arrive at Culloden Battlefield, the site of the tragic end of the Jacobite Rising. Walking around this eerie, flat landscape, you can reflect on the last battle fought on British soil, a place recognized by Outlander fans as a pivotal setting in the series. After learning about key events in Scottish history, we head to Clava Cairns, an ancient site of ring cairns and standing stones that inspired Craigh na Dun in Outlander. Standing among these historic monuments, you'll feel the weight of centuries. Our journey south offers classic Highland scenery, with photo stops and comfort breaks as we pass Cairngorms National Park. In Newtonmore, we visit the Highland Folk Museum, where you can explore 18th-century black houses, a working croft, and a 1930s schoolroom. As we move on, the mountains soften into lush forests in Perthshire. You'll take a final break in Dunkeld, so enjoy exploring the town's cathedral and charming streets. It's time to say goodbye to the Highlands as we continue south through the rolling hills and fertile farmlands of the Kingdom of Fife. Your last highlight is the view of the iconic UNESCO-listed Forth Rail Bridge you can admire on your way to Edinburgh. You return to Edinburgh at approximately 7:00pm.

Meal

Breakfast

Show on Map

DAY

Depart from Edinburgh

Transfer

Edinburgh - City Centre to Edinburgh Airport

What to Expect

Explore what moves you.

Cliffs by Kirkwall

River Ness in Inverness

EArdvreck Castle

St. Magnus Cathedral, Kirkwall on Orkney, Scotland

ExcellentBased on 5,276 Reviews

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Michael at Goway Travel was great to work with. We were planning a pre-trip with him prior to a group tour. He worked with us to hit the special places we wanted to visit and things we wanted to do. The accommodations arranged exceeded our expectations. Local guides were all amazing. This was the third trip we booked through Goway, and we will definitely book with them again in the future David Picka

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Goway Travel has South Pacific travel Consultant and they are all very experienced. ALICE was the agent who took care of my travel to Australia and she suggested best hotel accommodations excursions and worked within my budget. I had wonderful trip without any problems. Alice was very helpful and we are planning another trip will contact her.Saral

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Alice Teramoto Put together a perfect trip to Aitutaki and Rarotonga. The tours she included added to the experience. She was the glue to combine the complete package and would highly recommend her services.Valued Customer

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We just came back from a wonderful trip to Portugal. From the time I contacted Goway until now, I have been more than satisfied with our experience. Our agent Michael put together a 8 day package with all the requirements we had asked for. The 8 day trip went so seamless & took all the stress off us travelling in Portugal. Michael not only listened to what we wanted, but he was so quick to respond to all of our calls, emails & concerns. The transfers, hotels & tours he arranged were the best. We would highly recommend Goway. I can hardly wait to book our next adventure with Goway. Cathy

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Michael Keon from Goway Travel made our family trip to Greece memorable. Michael was a call or email away when planning our Greece trip and worked with us on our tight budget. Every detail was worked out for us before we got on the plane. Shout out to Nico, one of our drivers in Mykonos and all the great expeditions we went on. I highly recommend Goway Travel to plan your next vacation adventures. Jacqueline G. Jacqueline Garrett

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I just returned from a wonderful trip to Sweden and Norway. I had the good fortune of working with Michael Keon who helped me plan and customize an interesting and balanced itinerary. All of the logistics went well, flights, transfers, hotels in great locations, travel between destinations, fjord safaris, cruises and guided tours with knowledgeable guides to inform and make the experience even more memorable. Michael was responsive to all of my questions and made it so easy to both prepare for and ultimately enjoy the trip. Looking forward to planning the next one!Gail

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Just got back from a fabulous safari holiday in Tanzania. The trip was amazing! Exceeded my expectations. The people, the local team at Sense of Africa, the food, the accommodations (Karibu camps: Elephant Springs+Lion’s Paw and Sametu), the safari from the sky (hot air balloon)… I can keep going. Perfect way to celebrate my 50th bday. Thanks again to Alice Teramoto and Goway for making this happen! Truly a trip of a lifetimeKARISSA CARRASQUILLO

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I have had Melissa Moses plan our trips for us for quite a few years. She always finds interesting sights for us to see, the hotels are always beautiful and everything runs perfectly. Can't wait to get started on the next adventure. Andrea Jones

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Just returned from a two week trip to Prague, Vienna and Budapest booked by Michael Keon at Goway This was our second trip booked with Michael Hotels were all excellent, in great locations, transfers to and from airports went without a hitch and train travel was exactly as planned. As we worked through all the details of planning the trip, he responded to lib questions promptly, making finalizing the trip very easy I would highly recommend him as a travel agent, and we will be using him again Kevin Bourke

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Katie's knowledge and support were the primary reason the trip worked so well. Everything went smoothly, and the vacation could not have been any better. The hotels were wonderful, the two tours we took went well, and there were no issues with flights or transfers. GERAR

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What do the experts say?

Rebeka Cameron

Team Lead

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For somewhere a little lesser known, make sure to visit Dunfermline, the old capital of Scotland. Rich in history, it’s home to the impressive Dunfermline Abbey where many Scottish kings and queens are buried, including Robert the Bruce.

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Rebeka Cameron

Team Lead

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Many tourists don’t realize how diverse Scotland’s regions are, each area has its own distinct culture, accents, and traditions. For example, the Outer Hebrides have a strong Gaelic heritage that’s still thriving.. Also, Scotland has some of the most beautiful white sand beaches in Europe, especially on the west coast and islands.

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Danette Jeoffroy

Destination Specialist

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Scotland hosts two amazing events - Edinburgh Tattoo in August, and Hogmanay (New Year’s Eve). Edinburgh hosts one of the world’s biggest and most iconic New Year’s celebrations!

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Danette Jeoffroy

Destination Specialist

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The best times to visit Scotland are late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is generally milder, and the landscapes are especially beautiful

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