6 Day Neolithic Orkney & North Coast 500 Tour

Day 1 begins with a scenic trip to Wester Ross and over the “Bealach Na Ba” to the remote Applecross Peninsula; a beautiful and tranquil place on the rugged coast with stunning scenery. Later, we head north taking in beautiful Loch Maree with its links to ancient Scottish druids. Overnight Aultbea

Day 2 we head out for the fishing port of Ullapool. This is a very old landscape which is well known for its mountain scenery, and we spend the afternoon visiting the ruins of Ardvreck Castle and enjoying the fine views over The Minch to the Outer Hebrides. Overnight Scourie.

Day 3 we explore the most remote north-west coast with views to Handa Island - this area is a photographers dream. We travel through Durness, the most northwesterly village on the Scottish mainland, stopping at Smoo Cave to view the largest sea cave entrance in Britain. Later. we learn of the tragic story of the Highland Clearances, the Clan Mackay and the story of crofting life at the Strathnaver Museum. The ancient Pictish Farr Stone is situated nearby. Overnight nr Thurso.

Day 4 we cross the Pentland Firth to Orkney. This archipelago of 70 islands and skerries has beautiful beaches, heritage, culture and wonderful wildlife. We cross the Churchill Barriers to visit the Italian Chapel, St. Magnus Cathedral and Highland Park Distillery. Overnight Orkney

Day 5 we head out to the Neolithic settlement of Skara Brae and the Broch of Gurness, one of the most outstanding examples of a prehistoric settlement. On the way, we visit Maes Howe, the Ring of Brodgar, Stones of Stenness, and later the Brough of Birsay. Overnight Orkney

Day 6 we head back to the mainland of Scotland and Caithness where we visit Wick Heritage Museum in the historic east coast fishing town, which has a strong focus on the herring-boom era of Wick's history. Later, we explore the ancient harbour of Whaligoe Haven, view the ruins of Keiss Castle, and enjoy some free-time at the quaint village of Dornoch. End in Inverness