Scotland: Undiscovered Orkney28th Jul 2025
From:£1,695
Summary
Orkney is an archipelago of 70 islands, each with their own distinctive charm, history and natural beauty. Over the years Brightwater Holidays has explored almost every nook and cranny of Orkney, yet these beautiful islands contain many more secrets and hidden gems that need to be discovered. Based on Mainland, we will have an opportunity to visit previously unexplored areas as we discover the historic landmarks and captivating landscapes of the North and South Isles.
On the island of Westray we will relive Orkney’s Viking past as we sail the Old Norse sea routes. We will also sail across Scapa Flow to Hoy – an island of dramatic mountain scenery and seascapes that inspired the Orcadian symphonies of former resident Sir Peter Maxwell-Davies. Finally, we will explore Mainland and the sites that are collectively known as the ‘Heart of Neolithic Orkney’ – Maeshowe, the Stones of Stenness and Skara Brae.
NC500: Please note that this itinerary features part of the North Coast 500, the highly scenic coastal route around the north of Scotland which begins and ends in Inverness.
What to Expect
- Day trip to Westray, the 'Queen of the Orkney Isles'
- Views of the Old Man of Hoy
- Discover Orkney’s Naval history at the Scapa Flow Museum
- The UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Maeshowe, Stones of Stenness and Skara Brae
Departure Routes
| Location | Pickup Time | Dropoff Time |
|---|---|---|
| To be advised | 00:00 | 00:00 |
| Glasgow - Bus stop on North Hanover Street, opposite Queen Street Station | 07:00 | 21:30 |
| Edinburgh - outside reception of the Delta by Marriott Hotel, Glasgow Road | 08:15 | 20:15 |
| Dunfermline - Halbeath Park & Ride, Jct 3, M90 | 09:00 | 19:45 |
| Kinross - Moto Services on M90 | 09:20 | 19:30 |
| Perth - Broxden Park & Ride, A93 | 09:50 | 19:00 |
| Inverness - outside the Leonardo Hotel (formerly Jurys Inn), Millburn Road | 15:00 | 16:30 |
** Please note that all timings are approximate and subject to change. Final timings and pick-up points will be confirmed with your joining instructions approximately 10 days prior to departure. **
Day by Day Itinerary
We depart by coach from our local departure points this morning and travel north, stopping en route at the Timespan Museum and Arts Centre in Helmsdale, which is described as a meeting place between past, present and future.
We then continue to Scrabster in time to catch the 19.00hrs Northlink ferry to Stromness. Dinner will be served in the restaurant on board. On arrival in Orkney we will transfer the short distance to Kirkwall and our accommodation at the Kirkwall Hotel.
Meals includedDinner
