TOUR 4 NC 500 & Orkney Islands
TOUR 4 NC 500 & Orkney Islands
The North Coast 500 & Orkney Islands tour in the most northwesterly corner of Scotland is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in the UK.
Whether it’s tiny crumbling ancient castles, towering, giant remote peaks, secluded white sandy coves or beguiling natural wonders, the North Coast 500 & Orkney Islands route has it all.
NC 500 & Orkney Islands - Tour Overview
There are the remote and rugged mountain ranges of the north, with the famous peaks of Ben Hope, Stac Pollaidh, An Teallach and Suilven.
The epic surf and natural beauty of the pristine white sand beaches and coves of Achmelvich, Sandwood Bay and Balnakeil.
The natural wonders and ancient geology of Smoo Cave and the towering sea stacks of the Old Man of Stoer and Duncansby Head.
Ancient castles, Iron Age brochs and remote towering cliffs along a stunning rugged coastline, with rare seabirds and wildlife make complete a journey in one of the most beautiful corners of the British Isles.
This tour also now includes 3 nights on the Orkney Islands.
Trip Length
This tour is 6 nights and 7 days in duration.
The tour begins and finishes in Inverness.
Meeting point Saturday 9am Inverness.
Departure point Friday 1/2pm Inverness.
Included in Tour
All meals while on tour, including wine or beer with evening meals.
All accommodation while on tour with en-suite facilities (own bath).
Expert guides with you for the duration of the tour.
Private transportation throughout the tour, including domestic return flights to the islands.
Entrance fees and special events as noted in the itinerary.
Trip Grading / Activity Level
This is a stunning journey along Scotland’s rugged north and northwest coast and remote interior and will appeal to hikers of all abilities and inclinations. There are also alternative hikes available on days when a more strenuous hike is planned.
The walks will vary in length from 3 to 7 miles per day (5 to 11.5kms) or approximately 2 to 5 hours of walking with longer or shorter options available on most days.
Most walks involve some elevation and gain loss, although there are also many flat sections.
The walks are typically along white sand beaches and across open moorland, where you are never far from the ocean. Most of the trails are good underfoot, although some sections may become muddy after rainfall.
Good quality waterproof hiking boots are essential.
For the full itinerary or to discuss any aspects of the trip itself, please contact Stuart Hall at Hike Scotland.
NC 500 & Orkney Islands - Tour Dates 2025
Saturday 20 September – Friday 26 September 2025
(7 days)
Price
£3495 / $4495 per person
Single supplement; £360 / $495
Accommodation
Kylesku Hotel, Sutherland
Mackay's Rooms, Durness
Forss House Hotel, Thurso
