Royal Scottish Tours - Northern Scotland & Orkney Adventure Northern Scotland & Orkney Adventure - Royal Scottish Tours
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Explore the rugged beauty and rich history of northern Scotland on this unforgettable self-drive adventure. From the mystical waters of Loch Ness to the dramatic cliffs of Dunnet Head, the ancient wonders of Orkney, and the cultural charm of Inverness, each day brings new discoveries. Savour fine dining, historic pubs, and local hospitality as you journey through some of Scotland’s most breathtaking landscapes and timeless treasures.

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Itinerary

Inverness

Upon arrival, collect your rental car and begin your journey north. Stop in the charming town of Pitlochry, where you can visit the renowned Edradour Distillery, Scotland’s smallest traditional distillery, for a tour and tasting. Continue through the breathtaking Cairngorms National Park, where mountains, lochs, and forests create a perfect Highland introduction. Arrive in Inverness and check in at the Inverness Palace Hotel, an elegant base for exploring the north. Enjoy a refined dinner at Rocpool Restaurant, known for its modern Scottish cuisine, or a cozy Highland pub experience at Hootananny, with traditional music and local flavours.

Overnight Inverness Palace Hotel, Inverness View All

Inverness

Spend the day exploring Scotland’s most famous landmarks. Choose a scenic Loch Ness cruise, where you might spot the elusive Nessie, or venture east to Dunrobin Castle, a stunning stately home with sweeping gardens and falconry displays. Return to Inverness for your second night at the Inverness Palace Hotel. Dine in style at Contrast Brasserie, offering seasonal Scottish dishes, or enjoy hearty pub fare and local whisky at The Mustard Seed, set along the banks of the River Ness.

Included Meals Breakfast

Overnight Inverness Palace Hotel, Inverness View All

Wick

Today, drive northeast toward Wick, stopping at Castle of Mey, the former home of the Queen Mother, or at Dunnet Head, the northernmost point of mainland Britain, where dramatic cliffs meet the sea. Upon arrival, check in at Mackays Hotel. For dinner, savour fresh seafood and local produce at The Caberfeidh, a Wick favourite, or enjoy classic Highland pub fare at The North Coast Pub, where locals and travellers mingle over pints of fine ale.

Included Meals Breakfast

Overnight MacKays Hotel, Wick View All

Orkney

Take the ferry to the Orkney Islands and explore their unique heritage. Visit the extraordinary Italian Chapel, built by wartime prisoners, and wander the atmospheric streets of Kirkwall, the island’s historic capital. Check in at the Ayre Hotel Kirkwall and relax in its comfortable setting. This evening, indulge in modern Scottish cuisine at Foveran Restaurant, or enjoy local seafood and a cosy atmosphere at The Reel, a traditional Orkney pub.

Included Meals Breakfast

Overnight Ayre Hotel, Kirkwall View All

Orkney

Spend a full day discovering Orkney’s prehistoric treasures. Walk among the standing stones of the Ring of Brodgar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore Skara Brae, a remarkably preserved Neolithic village. Return to Kirkwall for another night at the Ayre Hotel. Dine at Kharis Restaurant, renowned for fresh island produce, or relax with a whisky or local beer at The Ship Inn, one of Orkney’s most atmospheric pubs.

Included Meals Breakfast

Overnight Ayre Hotel, Kirkwall View All

Inverness

Travel south to Inverness, stopping at the historic Culloden Battlefield, where the Jacobite uprising came to its dramatic end. Spend the afternoon exploring the city’s charming streets or relaxing by the River Ness. Overnight at the Inverness Palace Hotel. Enjoy a celebratory farewell dinner at The Kitchen, featuring innovative Scottish cuisine, or soak in local tradition and music at The Glen Mhor, a classic Highland pub.

Included Meals Breakfast

Overnight Inverness Palace Hotel, Inverness View All

Edinburgh

After breakfast, return your car at Edinburgh Airport for your departure. Depart with memories of rugged coastlines, ancient castles, dramatic landscapes, and the warmth of Highland hospitality — a journey through the very best of northern Scotland.

Included Meals Breakfast

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