Fabulous trip, if too rushed at the beginning. If we could set off on day 1 from Inverness earlier in the day it would be preferable. Days were a bit rushed, too, leaving hardly any time to explore/do anything in Kirkwall, since they rool up tge sidewalk at 4:30 or 5pm. Marco did great job of altering itinerary to accommodate those who wanted time in town. An additional day, however unwieldy for the tour operator, could easily solve it. On last day, the later departure from Kirkwall helped too. The walks and Neolithic sites were great, made incredible by the fantastic sunny weather we were lucky enough to have. The guides providing dinner reservations for the group was helpful too, as the place seemed quite busy.
Walking tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
This was my first trip with Explore but I hope it will not be my last. The trip was great, the food and accommodations were better than expected, and the guides were exceptional.
City sightseeingWalking
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
This tour provided an interesting overview of and insights into the culture/people of England and Scotland. The small group format made for a more intimate experience and the opportunity to get to know our fellow travelers. Good job.
A quite varied walk with spectacular scenery every day. The path takes you through several interesting small towns and villages, and across a mix of farmland, woods, and moorlands on high ridges which made every day an adventure of discovery. The logistics of bookings and baggage transfers worked without a hitch and the guidebook & maps, route notes and GPX files were all very helpful.
Walking tours
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Guest House
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Chepstow, Knighton, Redbrook, Lo
Chepstow, Knighton, Redbrook, Longtown, Hay On Wye, Kington
Great Trip, well thought out and planned, very professional guide and driver. We saw a lot during our trip which included historic and cultural attractions. I would highly recommend for history buffs or anyone looking for a good overview of the UK and Ireland.
Great walk with changing country. Really clear signposting. The high point was fort Augustus to invermoriston on the high route even with the steep down.
Walking tours
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Guest House, Hotel
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Fort William, Inverness, Gairloc
Fort William, Inverness, Gairlochy, South Laggan, Fort Augustus, Invermoriston, Drumnadrochit
Interesting stops but a bit too much on WW I.
Tour of Quarry too long & too much standing. No place for a break.
Enjoyed Normandy & Minen Gate very much.
Our tour director was awesome! He listened to us & adjusted as he could to accommodate everyone.
Loved the very small group size!
Enjoyed the trip 100%. People services were well organized and thoughtful. The scenery was gorgeous. Only one criticism was lack of a outdoor toilets which may have lessened the disturbing litter of toilet paper occasionally spotted.
Walking tours
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Guest House, Hotel, Sleeper Train
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Fort William, Drymen, Rowardenna
Fort William, Drymen, Rowardennan, Ardlui, Inveroran, Kings House Hotel, Kinlochleven