For those wishing to venture to the very north of Scotland and the chance to experience this remote and dramatic coastline. Included is a visit to the Castle of Mey, the much loved home of The Queen Mother, which is situated on the north coast of Caithness, standing on rising ground close to the seashore, overlooking the Pentland Firth and the Orkney Islands. Sample a taste of island life with an unmissable full day on Orkney.
Starting the adventure with an overnight stop in the Borders before proceeding north to Braemar and a wonderfully scenic route via Tomintoul and Grantown on Spey before passing Inverness and heading on to Wick. The 3* Norseman Hotel, overlooking the River Wick, welcomes us for three nights and it's just a few minutes walk from the town centre.
Then off to explore the Castle of Mey, which has been kept just as it was when the Queen Mother was alive. Meander through the gardens and relish the views over the Pentland Firth (closed end of July/beginning August). The remainder of the day is at leisure in Wick.
Board the ferry from Gill's Bay for a 90 minute crossing to St Margaret's Hope. Joined on arrival in Orkney by a guide for an excursion to include highlights such as Skara Brae and the renowned Italian Chapel. Venture around the islands hearing more about the Churchill Barriers, Scapa Flow and the Ring of Brodgar whilst watching out for the plethora of wildlife before your return via the same route, or via Stromness to Scrabster.
Time to head back through Scotland with a stop in the highland capital of Inverness and onwards to Perth for a two night stay at the 3* Salutation Hotel. Enjoy a day at leisure in Perth or we would be delighted to arrange a visit to the Black Watch Museum at Balhousie Castle which offers an insight into one of the British Army’s, if not the world’s, most famous fighting units or for garden lovers, why not enjoy the National Trust-owned Branklyn Gardens (admissions not included) before the journey homeward.
Your tour includes: 3 nights half board in Wick with full Scottish breakfast and three course choice dinner with tea and coffee. 1 glass of wine with dinner on the first night. Porter service and on site coach parking. Admission to the Castle of Mey. Full day excursion to Orkney. 2 nights half board in Perth with full Scottish breakfast and three course choice dinner with tea and coffee. Porter Service. Coach parking nearby.
