The North Coast 500 & Orkney road trip
11 nights from £1,375 per person based on 2 sharing
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The North Coast 500 is known for its varied scenery and quiet, winding roads. One day might bring white sands and clear water at Achmelvich Beach, while another takes you over the steep, twisting mountain pass of Bealach na Bà on the way to the remote Applecross peninsula. Small fishing harbours, crofting communities, and roadside farm stalls make it easy to stop and take your time along the route.
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A few days are spent exploring Orkney, where island life has a distinct rhythm. In Kirkwall, the sandstone St Magnus Cathedral dominates the town centre, surrounded by independent shops and cafés. The islands are also home to remarkable ancient sites, including Skara Brae, a 5,000-year-old stone village preserved beneath the sand, and the nearby Ring of Brodgar stone circle.
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One of the standout moments for many is reaching the cliffs at Duncansby Head. Just beyond John O'Groats, tall sea stacks rise from the water and seabirds gather along the cliffs. It’s a quiet, striking place where the North Sea stretches out in every direction.
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Accommodation along the route is in handpicked guesthouses and small hotels, with comfortable twin or double rooms and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Mornings start with generous Scottish breakfasts - often featuring local produce such as smoked salmon, eggs, and fresh bread - before heading back out to explore the coastline, islands, and Highland landscapes.
Inverness | Wester Ross | North | Ross-shire | The North Coast | Caithness | Orkney | Royal Dornoch
What’s included:
• 11-night self-drive tour of Scotland
• Various accommodations in small hotels and guest houses; bed and breakfast basis
• Personalised holiday information, including full directions, recommended routes, and suggestions on places to visit depending on your interests.
• Return ferry crossings from Orkney for a car and 2 passengers
• Departure dates between March – October
Terms and Conditions
Subject to availability. Local charges and T&Cs apply. Please give me a call for further details. Price based on 2 people sharing. Prices correct at time of posting. Offers are subject to change. I can advise on travel insurance at the time of booking.
11 nights from £1,375 per person based on 2 sharing
The Small Print
These offers are brought to you by Travel Counsellors Ltd and all are ATOL protected by the Civil Aviation Authority. Where we have created the package ourselves, the holiday offer will be covered under our own ATOL. Our ATOL number is 6751. Where the offer has been sourced through another tour operator, it will be protected under that tour operator's ATOL. Full details on the individual ATOL protection that applies to each holiday offer will be given at time of booking. Prices and information contained in this page are correct at the time of distribution, are subject to availability and can be withdrawn or amended at any time without notice to you. Prices shown may be subject to departure tax, ticket on departure or a passenger APC charge. Please ask your Travel Counsellor at the time of booking.
