orkney shetland tour

Orkney and Shetland Tours

Our orkney and shetland tours.

Elevate your Scottish adventure with our exhilarating Orkney and Shetland tours. Our carefully curated small-group and private experiences blend iconic Scottish spots with hidden gems. Visit Shetland’s treasures like Jarlshof, Broch of Mousa, Muckle Flugga lighthouse, and the dramatic volcanic cliffs of Eshaness . Alternatively, if you’re drawn to a trip to Orkney instead, our expert storyteller will guide you through the mystical Ring of Brodgar, Skara Brae, the Old Man of Hoy, and the Stones of Stenness . Both regions boast abundant birdlife, featuring gannets, hen harriers, sea eagles, merlin, and the charming puffin. Keep an eye out for sea life too, as Orcas are often spotted in these waters!

Extend your experience with time in the Highlands and Hebrides or add breathtaking drone footage upon request. Discover the magic of our journeys with exceptional TripAdvisor reviews. Whether you’re interested in an Orkney or Shetland tour from Edinburgh or Glasgow , feel free to send a booking inquiry on our contact form or any questions to [email protected] , contact us via telephone, or connect with us on Facebook/Instagram. We’re more than happy to assist you! 

Photos of trips to Orkney and Shetland

Stones of stenness.

Neolithic Standing Stones of Orkney

Muckle Flugga Lighthouse

Shetland's stunning coastline

Neolithic Village in Orkney

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Orkney and Shetland Explorer - 3 days

This tour of Orkney and Shetland is one of our favourites - we'd suggest at least a week to explore the islands, but ten days is better, and two weeks is perfect. This is a great part of the world to slow down, relax and immerse yourself.

Here at The Tartan Road, we specialise in luxury Scottish vacations . Our tours are bespoke and tailored to exactly what you want to do. This itinerary is just an example - get in touch and let us customise it for your perfect holiday.

This tour of Orkney and Shetland is one of our favourites - we'd suggest at least a week to explore the islands, but ten days is better, and two weeks is perfect. This is a great part of the world to slow down, relax and immerse yourself.

The easiest way to get there is by air. You can fly from  Glasgow ,  Edinburgh ,  Inverness , or (new for 2023) direct from London. Once you're on the islands, the easiest way to get around is by car.

Price on Request

Departure days.

• W Wednesday

January — December

Contact details

• +44 (01631) 402066
• View tour details
• [email protected]

Key facilities

• Level Access
• Hearing Loop
• Pets Welcome
• Disabled Parking

Tour information

• Aberdeen Airport
• Edinburgh & The Lothians
• Edinburgh - City Centre
• Edinburgh Airport
• Glasgow Airport
• Glasgow City Centre
• Greater Glasgow & The Clyde Valley
• Inverness Airport
• Loch Lomond Area
• Loch Lomond, The Trossachs, Stirling & Forth Valley
• Los Angeles
• Minneapolis
• Oban, Mull and Lorn
• San Francisco
• Skye & Lochalsh
• Stirling Area
• Washington, D.C.
• Driver guide
• Small Group (1-16)
• Archaeology
• Architecture
• Food and drink
• Island Hopping
• Outdoor Activities
• Photography

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Tour company information

The tartan road.

The Tartan Road curates tailormade holidays in Scotland. Our blend of local knowledge and exceptional service has positioned us at the forefront of Scottish luxury travel. We offer two services - Tailored and Unique. Our Tailored vacations are fully bespoke, and each one showcases the best that Scotland has to offer. The Unique service offers a style of journey experienced by very few. We take pride in our understanding of both the destination and you and your family's expectations and, from these, creating the perfect journey.

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Opening times

Our office is open Monday to Friday from 9AM to 6PM Wir sprechen auch Deutsch / We also speak German

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Scotland Tours from Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness and London

Book today reserve your seats by paying a non-refundable deposit of just £175 per person., for details click here.

• Scotland Tours
• Archaeological Treas...

• Standing Stones of Stenness
• Shetland Ferry
• Broch of Mousa
• St Magnus Cathedral
• St Ninian's Isle

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Warning - Accommodation NOT included

Please note that accommodation is NOT included. Passengers are responsible for booking their own accommodation?

Archaeological Treasures of Orkney and Shetland - 6 day tour

Archaeological Treasures of Orkney and Shetland 6 day/5 night

Follow in Stone Age and Viking footsteps at Skara Brae, Jarlshof and the Stones of Stenness and experience ancient wonders at Maeshowe and Mousa. Learn the fascinating folklore behind the Italian Chapel, St Ninian's Church and "the Light in the North". Explore the ruins of Scalloway and Dunotter Castles as you unearth the many secrets of Orkney and Shetland.  

Mousa - visit this rugged little island to see its famous seabird colonies and explore a 2,000-year-old broch 

Jarlshof - step back to the stone age to discover this prehistoric and Norse settlement, one of Scotland's most significant sites 

St Magnus Cathedral - explore this architectural masterpiece built by the legendary Viking, Earl Rognvald 

Maeshowe - visit this impressive neolithic burial chamber that Vikings used as a winter shelter   

Movie locations - Shetland (TV series), The Edge of the World and The Spy in Black

Hotel accommodation included

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Full Tour Itinerary

Select Day:

Day 1 - Edinburgh/Glasgow - Aberdeen - Shetland Ferry

Our odyssey begins in either of Scotland's two largest cities, from where we wind our way northwards through the Kingdom of Fife into Dundee, on the banks of the famous silvery River Tay .

We push on through the lush Angus countryside until we spy our first stop – the dramatic and unmistakable ruins of Dunottar Castle . Balanced precariously on the cliffs outside Stonehaven, this fearsome fortress dates back to the Middle Ages and was once the home of the powerful Earls Marischal family . As the mighty waves pound the rocks on three sides beneath, you'll have time to marvel at a site that still echoes with centuries of mystery and bloodshed involving Vikings, William Wallace and Mary Queen of Scots.

With our imaginations well and truly fired, we continue northwards until we reach the imposing buildings of  Aberdeen  and see for ourselves why it's known as 'The Granite City.' Here, we hop aboard our  Northlink ferry  for the overnight crossing to  Shetland .

Departing at 7pm, you'll enjoy dinner in the restaurant before retiring to your comfy twin-berth cabin and being rocked to sleep by the ebb and flow of the waves.    

Overnight: MV Hrossey or Hjaltland

Day 2 - Exploring the Shetland Islands

Stretching our sea legs, we'll enjoy a hearty breakfast before arriving in the bustling harbour of Lerwick , where our adventure begins in earnest.

First stop is the tiny uninhabited island of  Mousa , famous for its beautifully preserved 40ft-high iron age roundhouse. The broch of Mousa has gazed impassively out to sea for more than 2,000 years and even appears in Norse mythology. While admiring its winding staircase, keep an ear out for the plentiful birdlife, including skuas and storm petrels. If you're in luck, you may spot a seal lounging beneath – or even dolphins and Orcas frolicking in the icy waters.

Back on the mainland, we'll stop for lunch at Hoswick Visitor Centre before travelling back in time at the fascinating settlement of Jarlshof . Wander the ruins and soak up 4,000 years of history amid ancient buildings from the Stone, Bronze and Iron Ages. Learn how Viking settlers landed here and built their distinctive longhouses to shelter from the elements.

More spectacular sights await at nearby  Sumburgh Head , with its lonely lighthouse marking the point where the North Sea crashes into the Atlantic Ocean. 

Made hungry by the sea air, we return to our cosy hotel where traditional Scottish fare awaits.

Note: If weather issues arise, we will visit Scatness Broch on the mainland instead of Mousa.

Overnight: Scalloway Hotel, Shetland (or similar)

Day 3 - St Ninian's Isle - Scalloway - Orkney

A splendid breakfast is essential to prepare us for the day ahead before we snake our way south to the beautiful St Ninian's Isle , named after Shetland's patron saint. Here we'll stop to explore its famous 6th-century church and burial ground , perched high on the windswept cliffs. It was here in 1958 that a local schoolboy found a cache of 9th-century silver and jewellery under a crossed floor slab, hidden from prying Viking raiders.

Further treasures await as we return to the village of Scalloway , which is nestled around a traditional Scottish harbour. Once the ancient capital of Shetland, we'll wander the 600-year-old walls of Scalloway Castle  and learn about its most infamous inhabitant, 'Black Patie', AKA Earl Patrick Stewart.

After a break for lunch, our journey sees us meander through the site of the old Norse parliament, the  Tingwall Valley , which means "a field or place where courts or assemblies are held".

After some time exploring the streets of Lerwick, we set sail for Orkney and enjoy another delicious dinner on the high seas. Once on dry land, it's a short journey to our hotel in Kirkwall, where we can settle into our comfy en-suite room for the evening. 

Overnight: Ayre Hotel, Kirkwall (or similar) (3 nights)

Day 4 - Exploring Orkney

The many delights of Orkney are on our agenda today, so after breakfast we head southwards across this wild and untamed landscape.

Our first item of interest comes as we approach the four Churchill Barriers , built on the orders of the wartime leader in 1939 to foil attacks on the resting British fleet by German U-boats.

Crossing the famous concrete causeways, we set our sights on another landmark shaped by the same conflict – Orkney's celebrated Italian Chapel . This unique building saw two Nissen huts transformed into a beautiful place of worship by Domenico Chiocchetti and his fellow Italian prisoners of war.

We'll have time to wander the grounds and admire Domenico's paintings above the altar before returning to Kirkwall for some further sightseeing. 

No visit would be complete without a pilgrimage to the soaring sandstone ceilings of Britain's most northerly cathedral, St Magnus , founded in 1137 by Viking Earl Rognvald and dubbed the "Light in the North". Our paths cross with 'Black Patie' once again in the ruins of the nearby Earl's Palace , built by the notorious nobleman in the 1600s, before we return to our hotel for dinner as the sun sets on a day of history and heritage.

Day 5 - UNESCO Orkney

The western shores of Orkney await us today, resplendent with a host of priceless treasures and unique landmarks at their many celebrated World Heritage Sites.

Once breakfast is finished, we journey to the Heart of Neolithic Orkney with a visit to the ancient burial site at  Maeshowe . Built in around 2800 BC, this 24ft-high tomb stands proudly overlooking the Lock of Harray, with its passages, chambers and huge collection of runic inscriptions among the finest in Europe.

Nearby are the brooding  Stones of Stenness , whose weather-beaten faces have stood strong against the elements for 5,000 years.

Beside the revered ceremonial circle is the Neolithic village of Barnhouse , where we will learn about our ancestors among the remains of 15 Stone Age dwellings.

This fascinating glimpse into the past is the perfect preparation for one of the highlights of our trip – the world-famous and perfectly preserved settlement of  Skara Brae , where you can follow in the footsteps of Neolithic farmers, hunters and fishermen. A more modern home can be found at our final stop of the day,  Skaill House , where we'll explore the delights of this historic 17th-century manor house before returning for the final time to our welcoming hotel.

Day 6 - Orkney - Gills Bay - Edinburgh/Glasgow

As dawn breaks on our final day in the islands, there is still plenty to discover.

Setting our compass for all points south, we cross to the picturesque town of St Margaret's Hope , where our trusty catamaran awaits. Hopping aboard, we'll embark on an hour-long sailing across the Pentland Firth , waving farewell to the islands as they disappear on the horizon. The waters between Orkney and the mainland are famed for their wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled for the porpoises and minke whales that often accompany seagoers.

Gills Bay is our destination, from where we change tack and head towards Inverness on the scenic  North Coast 500 . Along the way we'll pass through delightful coastal towns and villages as we leisurely cross the Firths of Dornoch and Cromarty .

The rugged coast gives way to rolling hills and lush landscape, heralding our arrival in the stunning Cairngorms National Park . Passing through the dramatic peaks of the Pass of Drumochter , we have time to soak up the sights of glorious Highland Perthshire, with a stop on the way for refreshments.

Finally, we return to the Kingdom of Fife, from where you can end your archaeological adventure in either Glasgow or Edinburgh.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can i expect on this escorted tour.

If you enjoy the art of first-class travel whilst enjoying amazing value then an Escorted Tour is just for you. These tours are carefully researched and combine quality hotels, luxury travel, informative visits and leisure time. You’ll find our Escorted Tours to be memorable - for all the right reasons!

You will travel aboard a state of the art motorcoach with air-conditioning, reclining seats, oversized windows and emergency washroom. Many coaches are equipped with WiFi too.

An experienced tour manager will lead the tour and your coach will be expertly driven by a professional driver. In certain locations you’ll may be joined by a local guide who will provide local insight and show you the highlights.

These tours are inclusive of superior tourist class accommodation, transportation, selected admission fees and many meals.

On many tours you’ll have the chance to personalise your touring experience by participating in some carefully planned optional excursions. These are at additional expense and, if available, details will be provided with your tour documentation.

What type of room should I choose?

Selecting the right sleeping arrangements can be a little bit confusing, so here is a description of what you can expect from the hotel accommodation offered as part of your tour:

Single room - this is a room for one person sleeping in a single bed. 

Twin room - this is a room for two people sleeping in two separate beds.

Double room - this is a room for two people sharing one large bed. 

Family room - this is a room for three people sleeping in one large bed (2 people) and one single bed (1 person).

Please note that a family room  is normally a standard double or twin room with either a sofa bed or a rollaway bed.

All room types, other than twin rooms, are subject to availability. 

Where can I purchase travel insurance?

We strongly recommend that you have travel insurance in place for your trip to Scotland, especially if you are visiting from overseas. To purchase a policy speak to your insurance broker or undertake a search on-line.

We would also suggest checking your home policy or credit card contract as many suppliers include travel insurance as part of their offering. 

Can you cater for special dietary needs?

Yes, it is possible to cater for passengers who are vegetarian or have medically-recommended diets. Please advise any special dietary requirements that you may have at time of booking.

Unfortunately it is not possible to arrange meals in accordance with strict religious requirements.

Can you check availability for me?

If you need to check that there are seats available for your party then please contact us by email or by telephone. Please note that availability may change and we are unable to “hold seats' without payment.

View all Frequently Asked Questions...

Accommodation

• 5 nights hotel accommodation
• Location: Northlink Ferry (1); Scalloway, Shetland Islands (1) and Kirkwall, Orkney Islands (3)
• Cooked/Continental breakfast (5)
• Table d' hote dinners (5)

Visits, Admissions and Experiences

• Admission to Jarlshof, Scalloway Castle, Italian Chapel, Maeshowe, Stenness Standing Stones, Skara Brae and Skaill House 
• Excursion to Mousa 

Tour Essentials

• Touring by luxury air-conditioned coach with reclining seats 
• All ferry fares and reservations
• All baggage handling and hotel tips are included
• Services throughout the tour of a professional Tour Director
• Service charges and taxes 

Departure information

From Glasgow

North Hanover Street Bus Stance, Glasgow, G1 2BP

Tour departure and return times will be advised in tour documentation.

Check-in: TBA hrs Tour Departs: TBA hrs Tour Returns: TBA hrs

From Edinburgh

Outside Delta by Marriott Hotel, Glasgow Road, Edinburgh, EH12 8NF

Child details

Please contact us for information on child prices. 

Price Notes

Accommodation The price of this tour includes hotel accommodation/ferry cabin with en-suite bathroom. 

Departure and Return Times Final timings and pick-up points will be confirmed with your joining instructions approximately 10 days before departure.

FAQs Please see the FAQ section for more information on this tour.

Product code BW 03002

Blogs and Guides - discover insider tips and ideas

Customer reviews overall rating:.

This tour of the archeology of the Shetlands and Orkneys far exceeded my expectations. The guide could not have been better. The coach was luxurious. The accommodation was as good as you'd expect for the price.

This was a superb way to experience what truly are archaeological treasures of Shetland and Orkney.

6 day tour from £ 1795.00

5 day tour from £ 950.00

5 day tour from £ 995.00

Orkney & Shetland

From standing stones to chambered cairns

The islands beyond the northernmost tip of Scotland glory in some of the most beautiful and rugged landscapes in the world. For more than five thousand years they have been home to farmers and fishermen, who left monuments so impressive that this has been called an archaeologists’ paradise. During the Neolithic and Early Bronze Age, the people of Orkney and Shetland were among the first in Britain to begin building Megalithic chamber tombs and later henge monuments. The islands are also blessed with an extraordinary natural beauty. Wildflowers bloom throughout the summer, covering the green cliffs with colour and the exquisite scent of heather. This tour was recently named as one of  The Times’ Best Cultural Holidays for 2022 . 

• Save $350 on this tour with our current offers.

What to Expect

• Marvel at the Neolithic dwellings at Skara Brae
• Visit Maeshowe, one of Europe’s finest Neolithic chambered cairns
• Admire the megalithic Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar
• Discover Jarlshof with its remarkably well-preserved wheelhouses

Related Tours

Andante Travels is part of Specialist Journeys, an award winning UK-based tour operator.

Tour Enquiry

The team is available Monday to Friday from 8am – 6pm (GMT)

Call us: 646 802 1528

Scotland: Shetland and Orkney Islands – 11 days

4 - 14 May 2024 ( Now Fully Booked)

11 - 21 July 2024 ( Now Fully Booked)

31 August - 10 September 2024 ( Now Fully Booked)

Now Booking

1 - 11 May 2025

19 - 29 June 2025

6 - 16 September 2025

Maximum 20 people per tour

Experience an exclusive 11-day discovery tour of the fascinating Scottish Islands

This all-inclusive island-hopping adventure offers an in-depth look at the history, archaeology, bird and plant life, customs, and traditions of these beautiful islands. Enjoy breathtaking landscapes and coastal vistas along the way.

The Shetland Isles, situated in the North Atlantic and equidistant from Norway and Aberdeen, comprise 100 islands with 900 miles of coastline and a population of around 23,000. The Orkney Islands, located six miles north of the Scottish mainland, consist of 70 islands, 17 of which are inhabited.

Both Orkney and Shetland are unique within Great Britain, preserving many of their original customs and traditions. Discover Fair Isle's renowned multi-coloured knitting designs, said to be inspired by the attire of shipwrecked Spanish sailors from the Armada.

Explore Shetland and Orkney’s pivotal wartime roles. At Scapa Flow, a local historian will share captivating tales of WWI and WWII, including the exploits of the Shetland Bus. Visit the Churchill Barriers and the Italian Chapel, crafted from two Nissen huts by WWII prisoners.

On Shetland, visit Sumburgh Head, where the North Sea meets the Atlantic, and explore Jarlshof’s 4,000-year-old settlement and the undisturbed Old Scatness. In Orkney, explore the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, including Maeshowe, Ness of Brodgar, Ring of Brodgar, Stenness Standing Stones, Barnhouse Village, and Skara Brae.

Jona’s Tours offer a fully guided experience with an expert, combining exploration, education, adventure, enjoyment, and congenial company. All meals are included

2025 TOUR PRICE

£3,655 Per person  Single Supplement – £485

To book this tour please complete the following two steps:

Step 1: Fill in and submit the booking form below

Step 2: Make your deposit payment online £250 per person, or see alternative payment options by clicking the following link here

Step 2: Make payment online here:

To book the 2025 tour, please pay a deposit of £250 per person. Deposits are fully refundable if you cancel for any reason, up to 3 months before departure date.

Alternative payment methods:

BANK TRANSFER : Make a deposit payment of £250 per person to the following bank details referencing with your name and selected tour.

Bank:HSBC Sort code:40-09-10 Account Name: Jona Tours Account number: 61539566

CHEQUE: Make cheques payable to Jona Tours of £250 per person and send to our UK office at: 14 Naylor Road, London, N20 0HN

TOUR PRICE INCLUDES:

Travel (flights or train) to and from Aberdeen.

Ferry from Lerwick to Kirkwall. Dinner on board.

An internal flight from Kirkwall to Aberdeen.

Private airport transfers

Accommodation in 4 star hotels.

Day 2, 3 and 4 at Busta House Hotel on Shetland.

Day 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 at Kirkwall Hotel on Orkney.

Last night at Crowne Plaza at Aberdeen airport.

Full board, 10 breakfasts, 10 lunches and 10 three course dinners.

Private coach and driver.

Private guide, Maggie McLeod or John White for the whole tour.

Included in the tour price are all excursions, visits and entrance fees : Plus Ferries to: Kirkwall, Orkney, Island of Hoy, return ferry trip, Tingwall, Yell and Unst.

Clickimin Broch

Sumburgh Head RSPB

Light lunch at Sumburgh Hotel

St Ninian’s Isle

Hoswick Visitor Centre

Old Scatness

Ferry to Isle of Bressay, visit to a working croft with native and heritage breeds

Scalloway for a light lunch

Shetland Bus Museum

Beswick Community Centre Arts and Crafts

Lerwick Museum

Lunch at Hay’s Dock Cafe

Maes Howe and Ness of Brodgar burial tombs.

Ring of Brodgar

Stenness Standing Stones

Barnhouse Village

Churchill Barriers

Italian Chapel

Hoxa Tapestry Studio

Wartime talk on Scapa Flow

Dwarfie Stane

Scapa Flow War Museum with lunch

Midhowe stalled burial cairn and Midhowe Broch

“ I wanted to thank you for the most wonderful trip, in fact the trip of a lifetime. I was totally captivated by the stark beauty of Shetland. The trip to Yell and Unst was great fun and certainly a good addition. As for Orkney; well what can I say. I had seen a documentary about the Ring of Brodgar some months ago but nothing prepared me for seeing it for real. A very profound, moving and emotional experience. John did a first rate job as our guide, he was knowledgeable and easy going and kept us in order with a very light rein! Robert, our driver, was so kind and always smiling and showed us some quirky sights that we would have missed on other trips. ”

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Shetland & Orkneys Car Tour

Your chance to explore the magical northerly isles of scotland.

• 10 Day Shetland & Orkney Car Tour

10 Day Shetland & Orkney Car Tour

A wonderful car tour of the stunning Shetland and Orkney Isles off the far north coast of Scotland, plus some of Scotland's finest castles and gardens on the way. Includes 9 nights accommodation (2 of which will be on the ferry to and from Shetland) and ferry costs. Available from April to October.

St Andrews – Perthshire - Speyside – Aberdeen – Shetland - Orkney – Edinburgh

Day 1 Arrival – Edinburgh Area

Arrive at Edinburgh/Glasgow Airport and pick up your car. Today you can visit Edinburgh Castle or do a short city tour. Overnight in the Edinburgh area.

Day 2 St Andrews – Perth

Today you will visit St Andrews, (1) the home of the oldest university in Scotland and capital of golf with its famous and prestigious Old Course . The remains of the 12th century cathedral, the largest in Scotland and the medieval layout of the town are still visible.

You will also see the 13th century castle overlooking the North Sea, where, during the Reformation, many evil deeds took place in the “Bottle Dungeon”. You will enjoy the traditional small shops and the beautiful sea views.

In the afternoon you can visit Scone Palace , (2) the home of the Earl of Mansfield. Scone is a castellated palace, enlarged and embellished in 1803, incorporating the 16th century and earlier palaces. The Moot Hill at Scone, known in the 8th century and earlier, was the site of the famous Coronation Stone of Scone ( The Stone of Destiny ), brought there in the 9th century by Kenneth MacAlpine, Kings of Scots. In 1296, the Stone was seized by the English and taken to Westminster Abbey. In 1997 the Stone was returned to Scotland and is now in Edinburgh Castle.

Overnight in Perth Area.

Day 3 Speyside/Deeside – Aberdeen

As you continue your drive North, you will drive towards Aberdeen , through Speyside and Royal Deeside. You can visit Glamis Castle  (3) home of the Earl of Strathmore, famous for being the childhood home of Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother, and birthplace of Princess Margaret. The present castle was built in the 17th century. One of the oldest parts is Duncan’s Hall, legendary setting for Shakespeare’s Macbeth.

It is worthwhile to make a detour to see  Balmoral Castle , (4) the Highland family home of the Royal Family since 1852. Queen Victoria visited the earlier castle in 1848 and Prince Albert bought the estate in 1852. The new castle was designed by Prince Albert and William Smith and was completed in 1855. You will see a display of carriages, an exhibition of paintings, works of art and royal tartans in the Ballroom, and the grounds and gardens. 

You can also visit Crathie Church by Ballater , where the Royal Family attends services when they are staying at Balmoral Castle. And don't forget about Crathes Castle, a sixteenth century castle built on lands granted to the Burnett family in 1323 by King Robert the Bruce . You will see the remarkable original painted ceilings and a collection of Scottish furniture, some contemporary with the building of the castle. You will admire its famous walled garden containing eight separate gardens designed for colour combinations.

Overnight in Aberdeen or area. (A)

Day 4 Aberdeen and area – Lerwick

You will take a city tour of Aberdeen , known as the granite city. Aberdeen is a maritime city with a story going back to its foundations as a royal burgh in 1124. In olden times, the city had strong trading links with Scandinavia and the Low Countries across the North Sea. Today, Aberdeen’s harbour is a base for offshore oil and gas developments. Aberdeen has one of the most distinctive townscapes in Scotland, thanks to the use of silver granite, used from the 18th century onward. You will see Duthie Park and its Winter Gardens , the largest covered display of roses (1 hectare) in Europe and Aberdeen University, one of the oldest in Scotland.

Afternoon you can visit Stonehaven , a former fishing village with a picturesque harbour, and Dunnottar Castle , (5) a spectacular ruin 50 metres above the sea and an impregnable fortress to the Earls Marischals of Scotland. The castle was the site for the successful protection of the Scottish Crown Jewels against the might of Oliver Cromwell’s army. The castle was also the scene of Zeffirelli’s Hamlet. After a full day touring Royal Deeside or Speyside check into your private cabin on the ferry to Lerwick . Relax in one of the well-stocked bars and enjoy a delicious dinner in the restaurant.

Overnight on the ferry Aberdeen - Lerwick (17.00 or 19.00hrs).

Day 5 Shetland

On waking up in Lerwick , start your exploration of Shetland by travelling south where you will find the main tourist attractions. Visit Mousa Broch , (6) the finest surviving Iron Age broch tower on its own little island. Step into the life of a Shetland crofter at the Shetland Croft House Museum and, one of the highlights of Shetland, explore the Jarlshof Prehistoric and Norse Settlement . (7) Back in Lerwick learn some of the history of the islanders at the Shetland Museum, or drink some of the local ale in one of the pubs.

Overnight on Shetland.

Day 6 Shetland - Orkney

A trip to Shetland would not be complete without looking at the wildlife. Its dramatic cliffs, sculpted by the sea are a perfect breeding ground for migrating birds, the most popular with the tourists being the Puffin. Seals are also plentiful and easily seen lazing on the rocks or the white sandy beaches, and a must is the famous Shetland pony, which always provide a good photo opportunity. Shetland is also known for its jewellery, which has a strong Viking influence, and you can visit the workshops and see the items being hand made.

Late in the afternoon it will be time to board the ferry again for the 5½-hour journey to Orkney (17.30 or 19.00).

Overnight on Orkney.

Day 7 Orkney

Today you will have the opportunity to tour much of Main Island and visit the key prehistoric sites of the Ring of Brodgar (8), Stones of Stenness (9), Maeshowe (C), and Skara Brae (D). Standing within the circle of the Stones of Stenness preferably on an early spring day it is easy to imagine prehistoric people gathering here. A few yards away at Barnhouse Neolithic Village, the entrance to the largest building was aligned to the setting of the midsummer day sun. One mile distant the burial chamber of Maeshowe is directly illuminated only at midwinter solstice and the Ring of Brodgar also part of this great ceremonial centre may have been used to track the movements of the moon, such is the magic of this place. Travelling to Skara Brae on the west of Main Island you step back 5,000 years. Here, preserved for millennia under sand dunes, the prehistoric village of Skara Brae remained undisturbed until 1850 where a great storm revealed the village for the first time. What is so surprising are the parallels with modern man, there are box beds, stone seats, dressers and cupboards and damp proofing.

Departing Skara Brae you return to the 21st Century continue onto your accommodation for overnight on Orkney.

Day 8 Orkney

Today you will have the opportunity to visit St Magnus Cathedral, the best example of Norman Architecture that has survived in Scotland. The cathedral dominates the town but only yards away are buildings of comparable significance in the ruins of the Bishop’s Palace and the Earl’s Palace. The Earl’s Palace has been described as “the most mature and accomplished piece of Renaissance architecture left in Scotland”. After visiting the historical sites in the centre of Kirkwall you can then enjoy a walk along the winding flagstoned main street, which is lined with houses dating from the 16th century. In this bustling thoroughfare you can shop for jewellery, pottery, amber, traditional knitwear, and a vast variety of Orkney food. Before departing Kirkwall no visit to the Orkneys would be complete without a visit to the island’s only whisky distillery, Highland Park, which was established over two hundred years ago and still uses the same traditional methods. Enjoy a tour of the distillery with a tasting of one of Scotland’s finest malt whiskies. Among the many attractions on Orkney is Scapa Flow, the scene of momentous events during both world wars. Visit the series of causeways known as the Churchill Barriers. Winston Churchill was responsible for the construction of the causeways between the islands and here the wrecks of a number of block ships can be seen as well as what is known as the “The miracle of Camp 60”, The Italian Chapel. (E) Among those who worked on the Churchill Barriers were Italian prisoners of war. Far from home, unhappy with the climate, they found religious consolation through the unlikely form of two Nissan huts. These were lined with plasterboard then painted with a beautiful fresco. With further embellishments the chapel became a moving monument to those lost in war. Late afternoon you reboard your ferry for the final leg of this extension back to Aberdeen .

Overnight on ferry (23.45).

Day 9 Aberdeen – Edinburgh

You will wake up back in Aberdeen , refreshed and ready to carry on with your itinerary. Drive back to Edinburgh, where you can start off with a city tour of Edinburgh where you will appreciate the contrast between the 18th century Georgian "New Town" with its wide, tree lined streets and elegant squares and the medieval "Old Town". The Royal Mile is the backbone of the old quarter, running from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to Edinburgh Castle. You will visit Edinburgh Castle which dominates the city from its 400 foot rock where you will see the Scottish crown jewels and the Stone of Destiny, now back in Scotland where it belongs. You can also visit the private apartments of Mary Stuart and St Margaret's Chapel, the oldest building in the city which dates back to the 11th century. You will visit The Palace of Holyroodhouse the official residence of the Queen in Scotland. The oldest part is built against the monastic nave of Holyrood abbey, little of which remains. The rest of the Palace was reconstructed for Charles II. Here Mary, Queen of Scots lived for 6 years, here she met John Knox, and here Rizzio was murdered and here Prince Charles Edward Stewart held court in 1745. You will visit the State Apartments which house tapestries and paintings. You will enjoy a visit to the Scottish Parliament. Scotland's new Parliament sits at the foot of Edinburgh's famous Royal Mile in front of the spectacular Holyrood Park and Salisbury Crags. Constructed from a mixture of steel, oak, and granite, the complex building has been hailed as one of the most innovative designs in Britain today. The tours take you from the Main Hall to the floor of the Chamber to see where the MSPs meet to debate and decide on the issues that matter to the people of Scotland. You will also visit a Committee Room and explore further into the building, to allow views of the MSPs office block and historic Queensberry House.

Day 10 Departure

Sadly this is the last day in Scotland. Drop off your hired car at the airport and check in for your flight home.

• 7 nights in the your chosen style of accommodation (either hotel or B&B) sharing a twin/double room with facilities inclusive of Scottish breakfast.
• 2 nights accommodation in a 2 berth outside cabin (no breakfast or dinner included)
• Ferries as per itinerary, based on 1/2 people & 1 car (Aberdeen – Lerwick; Lerwick – Kirkwall; Kirkwall – Aberdeen)
• Welcome Pack
• Evening meals
• Personal expenses
• Entrances detailed in itinerary

The Little Details

• Min Age: NA
• Tour Vehicle Type: Self-Driven
• Months of Operation: April, May, June, July, August, September, October
• Duration of Tour: 10 days
• Departure Point: Edinburgh

Ask for a Quote

Rates & dates, tour prices per person for 2016 - 1st april to 31st october.

Simply choose the date you'd like to start the tour  between 1st April and 31st October and the type of accommodation you'd like, and we will book your accommodation and ferries for you.

Booking Notes

Click on the 'Book Now' button for our secure online booking form. Please be aware it can take several days to book the accommodation for you; we'll then take payment and email you the list of your accommodation.

Cancellation Charges

Please note that when a customer cancels any confirmed car tour, a standard charge of 10% of the booking price will be made to cover administration costs.

For cancellations more than 10 days prior to the start date, full refund less 10% admin fee.

For cancellations within 10 days of the start date - no refund will be made.

Some Places We Will Visit

Our Visitor guide to Aberdeen, Scotland's granite city. Isolated on Scotland's North East coast, Aberdeen is a city of contradictions, at times windswept and rain wet, in the sunlight it glistens and appeals. Includes what  to see and do, hotels and history...

• Continue Reading

The heritage of Perth is easy to trace owing to the number of interesting historical sites within walking distance of each other.

Orkney's capital is built around a wide sheltered bay and is the main departure point for ferries to the northern islands.

St Andrews is not just about the golf, the place has a medieval charm with beautiful sights and also an ancient university where the rich and the famous study.

Mousa Island

Island off Shetland facing Sandwick that is home to the famous Mousa Broch. Best visited on a boat trip. The whole island is an RSPB reserve.

Castle Visited

Edinburgh Castle

Iconic image of Edinburgh and one of the most perfectly located castles on the planet. 

Scone Palace

Original Palace to Scottish kings and now a baronial mansion with excellent gardens. Just north of Perth.

Glamis Castle

Family home to the Queen Mother and ancestral home to the Countess of Strathmore and family. It is open to the public throughout the summer. Won Best Attraction in the UK 2015!

Balmoral Castle

Eight miles west of Ballater is the area's main attraction, Balmoral Castle. You can visit the gardens and some of the castle between April and July during the year...

Crathes Castle

Details of Crathes Castle near Aberdeen

Dunnottar Castle

Striking position overlooking the sea near Stonehaven makes this one of the most inspiring and exciting castles to visit whatever the weather or season!

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