Drive sections of the NC500, cross to Orkney by ferry and stand inside 5,000-year-old tombs on this five-day small-group tour from Glasgow. Expect coastal cliffs, whisky tastings and concentrated visits to Skara Brae, Ring of Brodgar and Culloden.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You climb into a minibus in Glasgow before dawn and watch the city shrink into green, the road unspooling through the Cairngorms. By late afternoon you are standing where stone and sea have been arguing for five millennia — a circle of vertical rocks at Ring of Brodgar, wind cutting across the flat tombs as if brushing away time.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5 days
Fitness Level
Moderately fit: able to handle several hours of standing or short walks each day and tolerate long transfer times in a vehicle.
Wildlife
History
Orkney’s Neolithic complexes (Skara Brae, Maeshowe, Ring of Brodgar) predate written history in Britain and represent some of Europe’s best-preserved prehistoric villages and ritual landscapes.
Conservation
These sites are ecologically and archaeologically fragile; stay on paths, avoid touching carved stones and support local conservation by following guide instructions.
Reserve your spot on the 5 Days Orkney Islands & NC500 Tour from Glasgow today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Layer up for variable weather
Highland and island weather can change hourly; pack breathable base layers and a waterproof shell to stay comfortable during walks and ferry crossings.
Sturdy footwear matters
Sites like Skara Brae and the Ring of Brodgar sit on uneven, often boggy ground — wear gripping hiking shoes rather than trainers.
Prepare for ferry timings
Orkney crossings are included but subject to schedule; keep medication and essentials in your daypack in case of short delays.
Respect archaeological sites
Follow guide instructions and stay on marked paths around cairns and stone circles to protect fragile remains.
Waterproof shell jacket
Keeps you dry and blocks wind on exposed coastal headlands and during ferry transfers.
fall
Sturdy hiking shoes
Provides traction on wet, uneven ground at archaeological sites and coastal paths.
Daypack with dry bag
Holds layers, snacks, documents and protects electronics on wet days or boat crossings.
summer
Travel adapter and spare batteries
Power for cameras and devices during multi-day travel through towns with variable charging access.