• Meet your guide in Inverness (train station or airport) at 10am, where the adventure begins! Travel north through the rugged Scottish Highlands, passing stunning landscapes on the way to Thurso. Keep an eye out for red deer and soaring golden eagles as we make our way to the coast.
• Board the ferry to Stromness for a scenic 90-minute crossing, where you might spot seals or even a pod of dolphins. As we approach Orkney, take in the first views of the archipelago’s dramatic coastline.
• After arriving in Stromness, pitch tents at a welcoming campsite, then set off to explore the charming, historic town. Wander along narrow flagstone streets, browse local craft shops, and visit the Pier Arts Centre. End the day with a hearty meal at a cosy local pub, enjoying traditional Orcadian hospitality.

Distance: 10 km
Ascent/Descent: 150m
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

• Rise early for a ferry ride to Hoy, the wildest and most mountainous of the Orkney Islands. Begin an exhilarating hike through the Glens of Kinnaird, surrounded by heather-clad hills and breathtaking scenery. A detour to Ward Hill, Orkney’s highest point at 479m, offers rewarding panoramic views across the islands.
• Descend towards the remote beauty of Rackwick Bay, a secluded sandy beach framed by towering cliffs. Set up your wild camp with a spectacular view of the North Sea. Relax and soak in the serene atmosphere as the sun sets over the waves, with the sound of seabirds echoing across the bay.

Distance: 12 km
Ascent/Descent: 350m
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

• Prepare for an unforgettable hike to one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks, the Old Man of Hoy. This 137m sea stack rises dramatically from the ocean, defying gravity with its towering sandstone cliffs. If you’re lucky, you might witness rock climbers scaling its vertical face!
• Enjoy a picnic lunch with awe-inspiring sea views before trekking back over the hills. Along the way, look out for puffins, fulmars and other seabirds nesting in the cliffs. Return to camp at Rackwick Bay for a second night wild camping under the stars, with the rhythmic sound of the waves as your backdrop.

Distance: 16 km
Ascent/Descent: 550m
Hiking Time: 7-8 hours

• Hike back through the glen and catch the ferry to Stromness. Stock up on supplies before setting off on an epic trek along Orkney’s rugged west coast.
• Marvel at the towering sea cliffs and the dramatic Yesnaby sea stacks, sculpted by centuries of wind and waves. The landscape here is wild and untamed, offering countless photo opportunities. Finally, arrive at the picturesque Skaill Bay, where we’ll wild camp beside the beach, falling asleep to the soothing sound of the surf.
• For those interested, there’s an optional visit to Skara Brae, a remarkably well-preserved Neolithic settlement over 5,000 years old. Wander through ancient stone dwellings and imagine the lives of Orkney’s prehistoric inhabitants.

Distance: 18 km
Ascent/Descent: 350m
Hiking Time: 6-7 hours

• Continue trekking along the west coast towards Birsay, passing windswept cliffs and open moorland. Arriving at the Brough of Birsay, a tidal island steeped in history, we’ll cross the causeway (tide permitting) to explore Viking ruins, a medieval monastery and a striking lighthouse.
• This is also one of the best places in Orkney for wildlife spotting. Scan the waves for orcas, seals, and diving seabirds as we set up wild camp for the night with sweeping coastal views.

Distance: 12 km
Ascent/Descent: 240m
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours

• Join the historic St Magnus Way pilgrimage route, following in the footsteps of Viking-era travelers. Hike via Costa Head, one of Orkney’s highest sea cliffs, with views stretching across the North Atlantic. Arrive at the Iron Age Broch of Gurness, an impressive circular stone fort that once housed ancient islanders.
• After a day of exploration, transfer to Kirkwall, where a warm hostel awaits. Enjoy a well-earned shower before heading to a lively local pub for a delicious meal and a toast to our adventure so far.

Enjoy a relaxed day exploring Kirkwall, Orkney’s vibrant capital. Options include:

• Visiting the majestic St Magnus Cathedral, a stunning red sandstone church founded in 1137.
• Exploring the Bishop’s and Earl’s Palaces, rich in medieval and Renaissance history.
• Discovering Orkney’s Viking and wartime past at local museums.
• Strolling through charming shops and cafes, picking up unique souvenirs and tasting local delicacies.

For those eager for more adventure, take a road trip to Scapa Bay, The Ring of Brodgar (a dramatic Neolithic stone circle), or The Gloup, a dramatic sea cave. Alternatively, hike up Wideford Hill for panoramic views over Kirkwall and beyond.

• In the evening, we’ll gather for a group dinner and a second night in the Kirkwall hostel.

• This day has been added as contingency in case of weather disruptions. However, if there are no disruptions, it will be used as a free day for you to explore, or there will be an option for more adventure, this includes visiting:
  • The historic Churchill Barriers, causeways built during WWII.
  • The Italian Chapel, a beautifully decorated chapel built by Italian prisoners of war, a poignant reminder of Orkney’s wartime history.
  • A coastal walk to try and spot Orcas one last time
  • A day trip to another Orkney Island: Rousay, with plenty more broths to explore before leaving Orkney
• Spend your final night in Kirkwall

• An early start to transfer to St Margaret’s Hope for a ferry back to the Scottish mainland
• Enjoy the final scenic drive as you are transferred back to Inverness, where your adventure comes to an end (expect to arrive in Inverness around 4pm)
• Say your goodbyes and depart with incredible memories, new friendships and a deep appreciation for the wild beauty of Orkney
• Optional: Board The Caledonian Sleeper train at 7pm for a relaxing journey to London/Birmingham/Crewe. The train is scheduled to arrive at London Euston around 8am on Monday