Private 7-Day Orkney Tour from Edinburgh | Explore UNESCO Sites & Ancient History

The Broch of Gurness, an ancient Iron Age stone tower in Orkney, Scotland.
The Ring of Brodgar standing stones in Orkney with the Loch of Harray in the background

Embark on the ultimate private 7-day tour to Orkney from Edinburgh, expertly crafted by Kilted Piper Tours, one of Scotland’s most highly rated and trusted private tour providers. Experience the magic and mystery of the illustrious, Orkney Islands, where Neolithic history, archaeological wonders, and stunning landscapes await you.  
 
On this bespoke Orkney journey, we will explore iconic attractions such as the iconic 5,000-year-old stone village of Skara Brae, the mysterious Ring of Brodgar (a 4,000-year-old stone circle), and the ancient Broch of Gurness, one of the best-preserved Iron Age sites in the UK. 
 
As you journey through the wild Scottish Highlands, picturesque Stirlingshire, and enchanting Perthshire (Big Tree Country), your tour will take you on scenic drives past historic castles, centuries-old whisky distilleries, and eerie glens. It’s a perfect blend of Scotland’s enviable landscapes, rich heritage, and timeless beauty. 
 
This tailored Orkney Islands tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, photographers, nature lovers, families, or indeed anyone seeking a deeply immersive Scottish experience. Whether you are passionate about Neolithic history, Scottish culture, or simply the breathtaking landscapes, we will craft an unforgettable private tour that caters to your needs. 
 
Read on to discover the highlights of your upcoming adventure, an exploration of Orkney’s ancient sites and Scotland’s stunning landscapes, all crafted just for you and your group. 

Explore the Best of Orkney and Scotland: 7-Day Tour Itinerary Highlights from Edinburgh, at a glance 

Day 1: Visit the Historic Stirling Castle, enjoy lunch at the Lion and Unicorn inn, and enjoy a scenic walk through The Hermitage Forest. 

Overnight:  Nairn  

Day 2: Experience the atmospheric, Culloden Battlefield, visit the prehistoric burial cairns at Clava Cairns, and tour the imposing, medieval, Cawdor Castle. 

Overnight: Nairn

Day 3: A leisurely drive along Scotland’s North Coast, where we then take a ferry from the fishing port, Scrabster to Stromness in the Orkney Islands, visiting St. Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall. 

Overnight: Kirkwall 

Day 4: Enjoy a full-day tour of Orkney. You’ will visit significant sites, including the remarkable Skara Brae, the Ring of Brodgar, the Stenness Stones, the Broch of Gurness, and Maes Howe. 

Overnight: Kirkwall 

Day 5: Travel from Orkney to Inverness, visiting the most northernly and largest of Scotland’s great houses, Dunrobin Castle. 

Overnight: Inverness  

Day 6: Explore the legendary, Loch Ness, the Great Glen, the evocative Glencoe, and Glasgow. 

Overnight: Glasgow 

Day 7: Experience a whisky tour at Auchentoshan Whisky Distillery, visit Loch Lomond, feed the Hairy Coos at Kilmahog, and explore the National Wallace Monument.  

Our Orkney Tour from Edinburgh is flexible, allowing you to add extra days to your itinerary for a longer stay in Orkney. Previous visitors have extended their private tour to include the outer Hebridean islands of Lewis and Harris and the Isle of Skye as additional stops on their journey. We can also streamline the tour to a five-day experience if you are short on time. 

Your Journey to Orkney: 7-Day Orkney Tour from Edinburgh itinerary 

Day 1: The Heart of Scotland and the Scottish Highlands – Journey from Edinburgh to Nairn 

Wide-angle view of Stirling Castle with Queen Anne Gardens in the foreground, showcasing the scenic beauty of the historic landmark.
Leanach Cottage at Culloden Battlefield, with the historic structure set against the surrounding battlefield. The cottage now serves as a museum and exhibition space.

Your 7-day Orkney Tour begins in Edinburgh, where you will be welcomed by your guide, Graeme, at your chosen accommodation in Scotland’s vibrant capital. From here, you’ll embark on a scenic journey that takes you through the heart of Scotland’s rich history and stunning landscapes. 

First stop: Stirling Castle, a magnificent royal residence that played a pivotal role in Scotland’s history for nearly three centuries. As one of the most important castles in the country, you’ll step back in time to explore the legacy of the Stewart Dynasty. 

Following on from this, you can expect to experience genuine Scottish hospitality and splendid fayre at the Lion & Unicorn, a family-owned pub and restaurant in the charming village of Thornhill. With its history dating back to 1635, this traditional establishment serves delicious food and a warm welcome, making it the perfect place to enjoy lunch. 

As we travel north through Perthshire, known as “Big Tree Country,” we will then make a stop at the Hermitage. Here, you’ll be immersed in the natural beauty of towering Douglas Firs (or Oregon Pine). Take a short hike through the forest, leading you to the roaring Black Linn Falls along the River Bran. 

Fun Fact: Did you know that the majestic Douglas Fir was named after the botanist David Douglas, who brought the first seeds from North America to Britain in 1827? This towering tree can live for over 1,000 years and reach heights of up to 55 metres! 

Your journey continues through the Cairngorms National Park, one of Scotland’s most breathtaking regions. Finally, you’ll arrive in Nairn, an historic town on the Moray Coast, where you will spend the night. 

Overnight: Nairn 

Day 2: Clava Cairns, Culloden Battlefield, and Cawdor Castle – Exploring Scottish History

Clava Cairns, an ancient burial site near Inverness, showcasing prehistoric stone structures and burial mounds dating back over 4,000 years.Clava Cairns is an ancient burial site near Inverness, featuring prehistoric stone structures and burial mounds that date back over 4,000 years.
View of Cawdor Castle surrounded by its lush gardens, showcasing the iconic Scottish landmark known for its Shakespearean connections.

Before embarking on your journey to the Orkney Isles, we delve deeper into Scotland’s rich history by visiting some of the most iconic attractions in the Scottish Highlands. 
 
During the morning, we will step back in time at the Clava Cairns, a remarkable site of prehistoric burial cairns and standing stones. These are said to date back approximately 4,000 years, and are an outstanding example of Bronze Age engineering, consisting of four cairns and three stone circles. Located near Balnuaran, this well-preserved historic site offers a glimpse into Scotland’s ancient past. 
 
We will then continue our journey to Culloden Battlefield, the site of the last pitched battle on British soil, fought on April 16, 1746. Here, the Jacobite Rising of 1745 came to a tragic end, as Bonnie Prince Charlie’s army was decisively defeated in less than an hour by the forces of the Duke of Cumberland. This battle is one of Scotland’s most poignant moments, and the site is considered by many as deeply atmospheric, with a visitor centre that endeavours to bring the story to life. 
 
In the afternoon, we visit Cawdor Castle, a beautiful and historic fortress that has served as the home of the Thanes of Cawdor for over 600 years. Legend has it that the Thane of Cawdor, guided by a dream, loaded a chest of gold onto his donkey, allowing it to wander. The place where the donkey lay down became the site of the new castle, and this charming story adds to the castle’s mystique.

Cawdor Castle features stunning gardens, inviting cafés, and a well-curated gift shop, making it a perfect place to relax and reflect on the day’s adventures. 
 
Overnight: Nairn 

Day 3: Our Voyage to Orkney – Nairn to Kirkwall in Orkney

View of Stromness harbor as seen from the ferry, with the picturesque town and hills in the background as the ferry approaches the port.
St. Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall, Orkney, showcasing its impressive red sandstone architecture and historic significance.

We begin our journey from Nairn, heading through the scenic Inverness-shire and the breathtaking Scottish Highlands on our way to the Orkney Isles. Our route takes us across the iconic Kessock Bridge, spanning the Beauly Firth, before venturing onto the Black Isle, a charming peninsula in the Scottish Highlands, part of the picturesque Ross and Cromarty region. 
 
As we continue north, we cross the Cromarty Firth, arriving in Scrabster, where we board the Northlink Ferry for a 90-minute scenic crossing to Stromness, Orkney. During the ferry ride, be sure to enjoy spectacular views of the Old Man of Hoy, a towering 449-foot sea stack on Hoy, part of the Orkney Archipelago. 
 
Upon arriving in Stromness, a town once renowned for its bustling herring industry, you’ll step into a maze of narrow, cobbled streets lined with quirky boutique shops, delightful tearooms, and traditional pubs. It is a wonderful spot for an early afternoon stroll, soaking up the atmosphere before we head to Kirkwall, the capital of Orkney. 
 
Kirkwall, with just under 9,000 residents, is Orkney’s largest town, and home to nearly a third of the island’s population. In the afternoon, we will make a visit to the ancient, St. Magnus Cathedral, an architectural gem that stands as a testament to Orkney’s Viking past. Built from striking red sandstone in 1137, this nearly 900-year-old cathedral is known as the “Light in the North” due to its towering spire, that rises 160 feet above the town. It has withstood centuries of history, including the turbulent Reformation. St. Magnus was dedicated to the Viking Earl Magnus, one of Orkney’s most revered rulers, making it one of Orkney’s most beloved landmarks. 
 
Overnight: Kirkwall 

Day 4: Discovering the Heart of Neolithic Orkney: UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Skara Brae with the sandy Bay of Skaill beach below it, a popular spot for walking and enjoying the natural beauty of Mainland Orkney.
Graeme, the tour guide, and a visitor standing by the Stenness Stones on their private Orkney tour, with the ancient stone circle in the background.

Meeting early morning, we journey into the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These ancient monuments reveal some of Scotland’s most impressive and enduring prehistoric heritage, as we delve into the mysteries that have captivated archaeologists and visitors alike for centuries. 

Skara Brae and Skaill House 

Our adventure begins at Skara Brae, a village frozen in time, offering unparalleled insights into 5,000-year-old domestic life. This Neolithic village was uncovered in 1850 after a powerful storm, exposing the remarkably well-preserved homes made of stone slabs, each fitted so tightly that no mortar was needed. As you walk through the stone corridors and see the clay beds and ancient furniture, it feels as though the residents might return at any moment. Skara Brae has earned the nickname “Scotland’s Pompeii” due to its extraordinary preservation. 

Included in your ticket is a visit to Skaill House, a 17th-century mansion where fascinating finds from the Neolithic period were uncovered, including 15 skeletons near the porch. The house is also reputedly haunted—whether you believe in ghosts or not, it is easy to imagine that the echoes of ancient times still linger in the walls. 

The Ring of Brodgar 

Moving on we will find ourselves standing before the Ring of Brodgar, a monumental stone circle, the third largest in Britain, whose origins date back to around 2,500 BCE. Surrounded by the tranquil waters of Harray Loch and Stenness Loch, the stones themselves stand tall, imposing, and mysterious. Their purpose remains the subject of much speculation. Some believe it was an astronomical observatory; others a spiritual site where early Orcadians gathered for rituals. 

One of the most enchanting stories attached to the Ring of Brodgar is that of a giant fiddler who, according to local folklore, played for the giants of the circle. They danced so wildly that the fiddler and his dancers turned to stone, just as the Ring stands today. 

The site evokes a sense of wonderment, and when standing among these stones, it is not too difficult to imagine the rituals that may have taken place here thousands of years before. 

The Standing Stones of Stenness 

Afterwards, we journey on to visit the Standing Stones of Stenness, another ancient monument shrouded in mystery. Originally, there were likely eleven or twelve stones arranged in a circle, but today only four remain standing. As one of the earliest stone circles in Britain (dating back to 3000 BCE), the Stenness Circle likely served as a ceremonial space where the people of Orkney honoured the passage of time, the dead, and their connection to the natural world. 

Recent excavations revealed burnt bones, possibly from feasts or offerings, reinforcing the theory that this site was used for communal and spiritual gatherings. The island of Orkney was a place where people celebrated life, death, and the changing seasons. 

Maeshowe 

Arguably, the jewel of our day’s adventure, is Maeshowe, a 5,000-year-old tomb that still stands as one of the most awe-inspiring feats of Neolithic architecture. Perched on a high mound, this chambered cairn is aligned with the midwinter sun, which pours into the inner chamber on the winter solstice, casting its light on the Barnhouse Stone. This event underscores the remarkable astronomical knowledge of Orkney’s ancient inhabitants and their profound connection to the celestial rhythms. 

A fascinating twist in Maeshowe’s story comes from the Vikings who, centuries later, broke into the tomb and left behind the most extensive collection of runic graffiti in Britain. These inscriptions, dating from around 1150 CE, offer a glimpse into the lives of Norsemen and how they viewed their ancestors. The runes, such as “Arnfithr Matr carved these runes with this axe,” make Maeshowe a bridge between Orkney’s Neolithic and Viking timelines. 

The Broch of Gurness 

Finally, we head to the Broch of Gurness, a well-preserved Iron Age broch situated on the shores of Eynhallow Sound. With its strategic position, the Broch of Gurness commands sweeping views of Rousay and Eynhallow Islands, giving you a sense of the isolation and defence required to live in this fortified roundhouse. 

The site also offers a fascinating glimpse into the Iron Age way of life, including residential structures, storage rooms, and defensive walls. The Broch served not only as a home but as a symbol of power and security in an age marked by frequent conflict. It is a place where the windswept vistas of Orkney’s coastline blend with the ancient pulse of its people.

Day 5: Orkney to Inverness, Visiting Dunrobin Castle and Glenmorangie Whisky Distillery

Dunrobin Castle in the Scottish Highlands, surrounded by lush gardens
A guest stands outside the Glenmorangie Whisky Distillery’s tasting building, which features a vibrant mural of giraffes and trees, showcasing the unique character of the site.

We say our farewells to these magnificent isles to head back to the mainland. After a morning sail from Stromness on Orkney back to Scrabster  we will begin our journey south through the stunning Scottish Highlands. Our route take us through Sutherland, an area renowned for its wild beauty, rolling hills, quiet lochs, and expansive views of the rugged landscape. 

Our first stop is Dunrobin Castle, a striking Scottish Baronial-style castle that rises majestically above the Dornoch Firth. This remarkable building has been the ancestral home of the Earl of Sutherland for centuries, dating back to the early 1300s. As you explore the grand rooms and halls of the castle, you feel transported back in time, with exhibits on the castle’s storied past. The beautifully designed gardens provide a peaceful escape, and depending on the day, we may even be treated to a captivating falconry display in the grounds, weather permitting. 

After enjoying Dunrobin’s history and beauty, we continue our travels south to the village of Tain, home to the world-famous Glenmorangie Whisky Distillery, nestled in the serene Valley of Tranquillity. Here, you can dive into the craftsmanship behind one of Scotland’s most iconic single malts. If time allows and subject to availability, we can take a guided tour of the distillery to explore the whisky-making process, from the careful selection of ingredients to the unique ageing techniques that give Glenmorangie its signature smoothness. Of course, the tour ends with the opportunity of sampling a “wee dram” of their renowned whisky. Please note that the distillery tour is subject to availability, so we will confirm bookings beforehand. 

After our whisky experience, we make our way to Inverness, the charming capital of the Scottish Highlands. Situated on the banks of the River Ness, Inverness is a delightful blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it the perfect location to unwind after an eventful day. 

 

Day 6: Inverness to Glasgow – Exploring the Scottish Highlands, Loch Ness, The Great Glen, Glencoe, and Loch Lomond

The Three Sisters of Glencoe are towering peaks in the Scottish Highlands, framed by dramatic skies and rugged landscapes.

We begin our journey in Inverness, setting off to Dores Beach, located at the northern tip of Loch Ness. This beautiful spot is renowned for its breathtaking views of the loch and is also one of the prime spots for spotting Nessie, the legendary Loch Ness Monster. Whether you’re a true believer or just intrigued by the myth, Dores offers the perfect place to start your day with some monster-hunting or simply take in the serene landscape. 

From there, we’ll head south through Scotland’s picturesque Great Glen, passing through Fort William and venturing into the dramatic Glencoe Mountain Range. Along the way, we will listen to the haunting tale of the Glencoe Massacre, a piece of history that adds a poignant layer to this stunning and very atmospheric landscape. 

If time permits, and the weather is on our side, we can take an optional ride on the unique Aonach Mor Mountain Gondola in the Nevis Range. The gondola is the only one of its kind in Britain, whisking you to an impressive height of 650 meters. On clear days, the views of Ben Nevis, Lochaber, and the Great Glen are truly spectacular. 

As we continue through the wild expanse of Rannoch Moor, we pause for a late lunch at the Drovers Inn in Inverarnan. This historic inn, dating back to 1705, is renowned not only for its hearty meals but also for its ghostly tales, adding to the charm and mystery of the area. 

After lunch, we travel alongside the Bonny Banks of Loch Lomond, before rounding off our journey with a visit to the conservation village of Luss. This picturesque village offers a tranquil and scenic retreat, perfect for a final stroll before heading into Glasgow for an overnight stay. 

Day 7: Travel from Glasgow to Edinburgh, Visiting Auchentoshan Whisky Distillery, Loch Lomond, National Trossachs Park, and The National Wallace Monument 

Visitors exploring the Auchentoshan Whisky Distillery, known for its triple-distilled whisky, with the distillery buildings and tasting areas in the background
A visitor feeding a friendly Highland cow at Kilmahog in the Trossachs, with the scenic landscape of the Scottish Highlands in the background.

On the final day of our Orkney adventure, we visit the Auchentoshan Whisky Distillery, where we will embark on a guided tour to discover the craftsmanship behind their renowned triple-distilled malt whisky. You will have the opportunity to sample their exquisite selection of single malts, each with its own distinctive character, set against the backdrop of the distillery’s serene surroundings. 

From there, we next journey through the breathtaking National Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. As we meander through lush forests, tranquil lochs, and rolling hills, our next stop takes us to Kilmahog, where you will meet the famously friendly, Hairy Heilan’ Coos (Highland cows). These charming creatures are a true icon of the Scottish Highlands, and you will have the chance to feed and photograph these magnificent beasts up close. 

Continuing our journey, we will visit the National Wallace Monument, perched on Abbey Craig overlooking Stirling. This iconic tower, built to commemorate William Wallace, one of Scotland’s most legendary heroes, offers not only a fascinating historical insight into Wallace’s fight for Scotland’s freedom, but also panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Climbing the 246 steps to the top, you will be rewarded with stunning vistas over the Stirling Bridge Battlefield, where Wallace and Andrew De Moray triumphed in 1297 against the English forces led by Edward I, also known as Longshanks. 

Finally, after a day of discovery and exploration, we head back to Edinburgh, bringing our remarkable 7-day adventure through Scotland to a fitting close. You will depart with a deeper connection to the history, landscapes, and traditions of this incredible country. 

Important Information for Your Orkney Tour Departing from Edinburgh 

We offer convenient pick-up options from your preferred departure point in Edinburgh, including your hotel, bed and breakfast, Edinburgh Airport, or Edinburgh Railway Station. You can also request a different drop-off location upon our return from Orkney to suit your travel plans. 

Some visitor attractions in Orkney, such as Neolithic sites and the ferry crossings, require advance booking. To ensure you don’t miss out, we will handle all these bookings on your behalf. 

Whilst we can recommend accommodations that previous guests have enjoyed, feel free to explore other options if you prefer. If you would like assistance in selecting a place to stay, we are happy to help, though please note that we cannot process payments or handle tour packages for accommodation. 

Why not Extend your Orkney experience by adding an extra day on the Islands 

Our Orkney tours are fully customisable, meaning you can extend your time on the islands by adding an extra day, or even a few, if you wish. If you would prefer a shorter experience, we can also tailor the itinerary to fit your schedule. We are all about what works best for you. Your tour, your way! 

Ready to Explore Orkney’s Ancient Wonders? Book Your Tour Today! 

Are you ready to embark on a private 7-day Orkney tour from Edinburgh tailored to your interests? Whether you feel drawn to the stunning Neolithic sites, breathtaking landscapes, or Scotland’s rich cultural history, this unforgettable adventure awaits you. 

Reserve your personalised Orkney tour today or check the availability for your preferred dates. Our team will handle all the details, allowing you to relax and fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Scotland without any worries. 

Don’t miss out on this incredible experience, reserve your tour now and take the first step towards your dream Scottish getaway, where memories are made.