The best time to visit is during what Shetlanders call the . We strongly recommend that you have travel insurance in place for your trip to Scotland, especially if you are visiting from overseas. 9 miles (14km) with 1,060 feet (320m) of ascent. BSpoke's cycling experts can tailor-make your perfect cycling holiday where you can travel at your own pace or in a group of like-minded individuals. P&O took over the routes from the long-established North of Scotland, Orkney & Shetland Steam Navigation Company in 1971. AccommodationThe price of this tour includes hotel accommodation/ferry cabin with en-suite bathroom. Go Scotland Tours is offering a private guided tour combining the Western Isles of Skye, Harris and Lewis with Orkney. The holiday ideas on our website are just examples of the amazing trips we offer. Enjoy 3 days (3 nights) in Orkney. Uncover hidden gems and holiday inspiration from our team of travel specialists. With a maximum of 15 passengers per group, you can be sure of . We then rejoin our transport for the scenic transfer to Busta House. Scattered off the northeast coast of Scotland, Orkney and the Shetland Islands are staggeringly beautiful. We can book package holidays including flights from the UK, hotel accommodation and car hire. Orkney, an ancient cluster of 70 islands brimming with history and dramatic coastlines, lie off the north west coast of Scotland. Free time will let you explore Kirkwall and St Magnus Cathedral before setting sail for the mainland. Our first visits are to the Ring of Brodgar and the Standing Stones of Stenness. Below is a list of some tour operators that organise regular trips to the islands. Guide Lorraine gives an insight into this ancient archipelago. You will travel aboard a state of the art motorcoach with air-conditioning, reclining seats, oversized windows and emergency washroom. Duration 6 Days. During the hour-long sailing look out for porpoises, dolphins and minke whales that can often be seen. Only a 20 minute drive from Lerwick, you can discover the ruins of Scalloway Castle, visit Scalloway Museum, or enjoy a stroll through the picturesque harbour. Embark on an all-inclusive cruise to Scotland in 2023 to visit Invergordon, gateway to the Highlands, Urquhart Castle and Loch Ness, and the fishing town of Scrabster, set close to the famous village of John O'Groats. Shetland and the Tall Ships | British Isles & Ireland | Saga Cruising Tour Departs: TBA hrs Some cruises also incorporate the Faroe Isles. Enchanting Orkney is a smorgasbord of must-see sites and cultural attractions scattered across70 islands. All sorts of nature abound here, from seals and otters to ponies and hundreds of birds, making it a wildlife lover's paradise. All sorts of nature abound here, from seals and otters to ponies and hundreds of birds, making it a wildlife lover's paradise. The card payment providers above are used for taking your payments by operators featured on our site. Outer two berth cabins included on the Orkney to Shetland and Shetland to Aberdeen crossings. Florida; Las Vegas & The West . This elevated viewpoint affords extensive views over Shetland and of Fair Isle to the south. Their warm hospitality is sure to be a highlight of your Scottish experience. Supplements may apply. Warner Bros. This will ensure that we can improve the experience for all our future guests. Keep an eye on everyone in your party and do not go off with people you do not know. These mysterious stone circles are amongst the most significant in Europe and are some 5,000 years old. menu. Any additional charge for the single supplement will be confirmed at the point of final payment and bookings are accepted on this understanding. The only medieval chronicle to have Orkney as the central place of action, it tells of an era when the islands were still part of the Viking world, beginning with their conquest by the . The drive north covers wonderful coastal scenery and normally takes around 3-4 hours including photo stops and a brief visit to the historic town of Dornoch. Orkney and Shetland, off the north coast of Scotland. Where Scotland meets Scandinavia, this wild and remote corner of northern Britain is truly remarkable. The UK has a famously unpredictable climate so it's best to be prepared for weather thats sunny one minute and raining the next. Further south on Mainland is Sumburgh Head, an ideal spot for twitchers with unobstructed views of the seabird colonies; Old Scatness, a recently excavated Iron Age village; and the Jarlshof Prehistoric and Norse settlements, with archaeological treasures from over 4,000 years. Half way between Orkney and Shetland is Fair Isle, a jewel of an island owned by the National Trust for Scotland and famous for its birds, knitwear and historic shipwrecks. The rest of this evening is free to relax and, perhaps, enjoy a wee night-cap in the bar or get some fresh sea air before retiring for the night. For all their differences, these islands share a similar feel: weather-beaten archipelagos with more in common with the Faroes than mainland Scotland. Orkney & Shetland Guided Island Hopping Holiday, Hebridean Hopscotch Guided Island Hopping Holiday, Lewis & Harris Guided Island Hopping Holiday, Experience wild and windswept natural landscapes, Spot wildlife on these relatively untouched islands, Comfortable en-suite rooms in our partner accommodation(s), Cooked or continental breakfast every morning, Full-board or half-board (please refer to trip notes), Three-course evening meals, plus tea & coffee, Guided walks with an experienced HF Holidays Leader, All transport to and from walks where necessary, Suitable footwear such as waterproof walking boots that provide ankle support and good grip, Waterproof and windproof jacket, preferably insulated, Comfortable clothing (jeans & waterproof capes are not suitable), Several base layers (long-sleeve or short-sleeve), Cushioned walking socks to avoid blisters, First aid kit, including plasters and insect repellent, Rubbish bag (remember to always leave no trace). In the Shetlands, its all about Busta House. Today you'll be heading south to experience remarkable heritage sites. Nearby sits the Bishop's Palace and Earl's Palace, which was reputedly built using forced labour. You will start your journey in the cosmopolitan city of Aberdeen where you will board the well-equipped Northlink Ferry and sail overnight in your modern and comfortable twin-berth cabin. Meanwhile, the rich ancient history and numerous archaeological sites offer a fascinating glimpse into the past, with many details of life preserved. Registered Office: Enbrook Park, Folkestone, Kent, CT20 3SE. Travel to the spectacular Eshaness Cliffs or hike up to the top of Ronas Hill, Shetlands highest peak, to experience breathtaking views of this dramatic scenery. Think of this itinerary as a starting point which can be tailored into something completely unique to you by our award-winning specialists. 2,268. King Charles coronation holiday rejected by Shetland councillors Your leader will be in reception at 18:30 to give you a quick introduction to the holiday before dinner. 638 ratings70 reviews. Shetland Isles wildlife holiday. View our Full Privacy Notice, Read independent reviews from ourcustomers. How do I get there? A stunning island destination closer to home, the Shetland Isles are one of Scotland's most popular and it is not hard to see why. 2023 HF Holidays Limited. These are leisurely cycling tours winding through vineyards and staying in high end accommodation where the emphasis is as much on the food and wine as the cycling. We'll make a visit to view the remarkable paintings that can be found inside the simple corrugated metal exterior. Where Scotland meets Scandinavia, this wild and remote corner of northern Britain is truly remarkable. A wonderful car tour of the stunning Shetland and Orkney Isles off the far north coast of Scotland, plus some of Scotland's finest castles and gardens on the way. From jagged cliffs to unspoilt beaches and stone . Here you can see evidence of many different eras dating as far back as Neolithic times. add an extra night or two on each island group to explore in depth? Explore Shetland & Orkney by Motorhome Clicking on the link below will redirect you to the Wilderness England website. Please contact us for information on child prices. Today is your final day in Shetland, but as the ferry does not leave until late afternoon you could take the opportunity to explore Shetlands ancient capital Scalloway. Scalloway CastleWhen visiting the Shetland Isles, why not visit Scalloway Castle? Please choose from one of our accommodation categories below. Orkney Islands, group of more than 70 islands and isletsonly about 20 of which are inhabitedin Scotland, lying about 20 miles (32 km) north of the Scottish mainland, across the strait known as the Pentland Firth. The island's attractions include . 10 Day Shetland & Orkney Car Tour. Shetland Islands | History, Climate, Population, & Facts Cruising is another great way of accessing this remote Scottish wilderness, allowing you to explore in comfort. Here we will have some free time to explore this charming town with its stone-paved alleys, granite houses and independent shops. For some magnificent coastal drama of a different kind, take a trip to Eshaness and watch the waves crashing around the sea stacks and pounding the cliffs. [1] Spirit of Discovery departing Dover. The largest town, Lerwick, is closer to Norway than to Edinburgh, and culturally and geographically they feel more Norse than Scottish. Orkney and Shetland are a haven for wildlife. Among the settlements on Mainland, the largest island, is Scalloway, a fishing port. To purchase a policy speak to your insurance broker or undertake a search on-line. 3.91. The event is taking place on Saturday 6 May, with the additional bank holiday on 8 May. P&O Scottish Ferries - Wikipedia They branded their services "P&O Ferries" from 1975 to 1989 and "P&O Scottish Ferries" thereafter. Aberdeen and Caithness, the Scottish Mainland are where the ferries sail from are also covered, and you'll find business listings also to help you plan . Your accommodation is great for the little personal touches. Our discerning team has a wealth of experience, and we extensively research and regularly review all of the accommodation we select for our clients. Each one is all inclusive, and youll have your own private balcony to enjoy every destination in style. This is a customizable tour and can be tailor-made to your preference. All rights reserved. Later you could take a 10 minute ferry journey to the Isle of Bressay to explore the rich natural heritage and incredible wildlife. The Italian Prisoners constructed a chapel out of a pair of Nissen Huts. Specialists in offering a range of adventure holidays, tours and incredible wilderness experiences. Getting to Orkney via public transport is simple. Spirit of Adventure departing Dover. Watch for dolphins which sometimes play in the bow waves. Although a remote wilderness, there is a lot to do in Shetland, Orkney and the Hebrides. Discover more at the visitor centre which provides touch-screen presentations and a wide range of artefacts that have excavated from the site. Written around AD 1200 by an unnamed Icelandic author, the Orkneyinga Saga is an intriguing fusion of myth, legend and history. Topped by a prehistoric chambered burial cairn, the summit offers a breathtaking panorama across this ice-carved landscape. Exciting destinations. From getting to know you by name to remembering your favourite drink at the bar, youll always receive personal, attentive service. Spirit of Discovery departing Tilbury. Orkney and Shetland Archaeology Tours | Andante Travels Our self-drive touring holiday of Orkney & Shetland gives you the opportunity to experience the landscapes, wildlife and archaeological heritage of these magical, and very different, parts of the UK. During our time here will visit the RSPB reserve which is home to many species of seabirds including puffins, guillemots and razorbills. Sign up for our newsletter and unlock exclusive tips and inspiration from our team of travel specialists. Shetland - South Mainland. Please note the narcotic plant Khat/Qat is legal in the UK, but is not in a majority of other countries so never try to export this when leaving the UK.If you are visiting from outside of the United Kingdom, it is wise to check customs requirements before you travel. We will hold your data securely within our organisation, McKinlay Kidd Limited. The Old Man of Hoy. The islands are a birdwatchers' paradise and one of the major seabird breeding and feeding areas in the North Atlantic. 8.4/5 (52 reviews) Great place! Shetland and Orkney Islands Tour from Inverness - The Hebridean Explorer Selecting the right sleeping arrangements can be a little bit confusing, so here is a description of what you can expect from the hotel accommodation offered as part of your tour: Single room - this is a room for one person sleeping in a single bed. Youll find pre-history at almost every turn across the Orkney islands: from neolithic chambered cairns, stone circles and standing stones through to the fascinating Stone Age village at Skara Brae. Carefully selected en-suite accommodation for 8 nights including traditional Scottish breakfast, Comprehensive information pack and local visitor guidebooks, Personalised itinerary with our recommendations for the best places to eat and drink and sightseeing suggestions, Map of Scotland with our recommended driving route, 9 days rental of an Economy car (other vehicle categories available) including comprehensive insurance, All ferry crossings (as per your itinerary), Transport: Rental car included (optional). Standing guard to warn the passing ships is the Sumburgh Lighthouse, designed by the grandfather of the famous author Robert Louis Stevenson. These stones have continued to mystify and amaze visitors with questions such as 'who built them?' Visitors can climb up the tower of the Castle and visit the Scalloway Museum which is located next door. We use your data to prepare holiday proposals and to make bookings for you if you choose to go ahead. In Shetland, inter-island ferry travel is operated by the council , while Orkney Ferries connect the archipelago's 13 island destinations. 5 Nights No Fly Cruise from 799pp Liverpool, Cruising past Duart Castle, Cruising Sound of Mull, Cruising Loch Hourn, Cruising by The Small Isles, Portree, Isle of Skye, Kirkwall, Orkney Islands, Cruising by Dutchman's Cap (Bac Mr), Cruising Fingal's Cave, Cruise by Iona, Liverpool. However the earldom began, by the time of Earl Sigurd we are heading into more reliable territory - although still laced with myth and folklore. Overnight Shetland. Walking is a wonderful way to discover the Orkney Islands. Guided wildlife tour of Shetland Isles. Sign up for latest offers and top sellers. In nearby Scalloway an excellent museum tells the story of the top-secret WWII Shetland Bus operation. Excellent and Friendly Staff!! Thoroughly recommend this as an enjoyable way to experience Shetland and Orkney. Copyright 2016 - 2023 Scapa Travel. We can book package holidays including flights from the UK, hotel . Currently on offer are holidays to Iceland in winter and summer, plus fantastic trips to The Shetland Isles, Southern Ireland, Hidden France and Romandy Switzerland and the Dordogne. Our journey south takes us through Mavis Grind, an isthmus so narrow it is said to be possible to throw a stone from the North Sea to the Atlantic Ocean. The sea route from the coast of Norway due west to the remotest parts of the British Isles is a classic offshore voyage of around 200 miles. Its just six miles from Skara Brae and has an award-winning restaurant overlooking the loch, serving outstanding Scottish seafood and Aberdeen Angus beef. Later this afternoon we travel to the port to join the ferry bound for the Orkney Islands. I flew from Glasgow to Kirkwall, the main town, instead of tak Reg No: 250017 | VAT No: 817 0144 57 | Copyright McKinlay Kidd Ltd 2023. Your hotel is a short drive away from the ferry port, in the islands capital, Kirkwall. On Mainland, is the capital Kirkwall whose sights include St Magnus Cathedral, the Bishops and Earls palaces and the Orkney Museum. More details & Book Bank Holiday Escape to Scenic Scotland . Make the most of your time on the islands on this carefully-curated itinerary accessible by flight from central Scotland. We then have two full days to tour Shetland. The Shetland Islands | The Unbelievable Hidden Treasure of Scotland High levels of cover from an award winning provider, 3-year fixed price with no tie-ins - T&Cs apply. While most tour operators use hotels around the capital, Lerwick, we choose to stay somewhere you can really appreciate Shetlands remote beauty. If you are planning to bring alcohol, tobacco or souvenirs into the country, you need to be familiar with the UK's custom laws. Norway To Orkney Sailing In The Wake Of The Vikings - SchoonerSail Let us know if we can tailor-make it for you to link with a self-drive tour of the Scottish Highlands. Weather permitting, enjoy a welcome drink on the small terrace, which overlooks the distinctive pagoda-roof of the neighbours: the Highland Park distillery. As well as having full board accommodation in your choice of cabin, the services of a professional crew and on-board entertainment are also included. Take the opportunity to visit one of Orkneys smaller isles. The Shetland Islands are the UNBELIEVABLE Hidden Treasure of Scotland, the northernmost point of the United Kingdom and formerly part of Norway. Shes the beautiful sister to Spirit of Discovery, but has a whole host of surprises of her own, including exciting new restaurants. Citylink buses run to Aberdeen, Gills Bay and Scrabster so you can catch your ferry to the islands. See the landscapes of Shetland and Orkney; Visit Trshavn, with its Viking heritage; Itinerary From. Stay at this 3-star hotel in Kirkwall. Borealis. It is worth checking the HM Revenues and Customs website before you travel. The last part of the journey takes us through the Kingdom of Fife and across the Forth Estuary into Edinburgh. Please click here to see full flight schedules to Shetland & Orkney Island. Search. At 1,475 feet (450m) this is Shetlands highest peak. The Stones were erected around 3000BC and it is thought that they were some kind of astronomical calendar associated with the moon. Although parts date back to the 1500s, most of the building was completed in the eighteenth century by a wealthy landowning family as their own home. Call and speak to one of our travel experts who have experienced Shetland & Orkney Islands personally. The Orkneyinga saga (Old Norse: [orknyje s]; also called the History of the Earls of Orkney and Jarls' Saga) is a narrative of the history of the Orkney and Shetland islands and their relationship with other local polities, particularly Norway and Scotland.The saga has "no parallel in the social and literary record of Scotland" and is "the only medieval chronicle to have . We will communicate with you from time to time about our products and services, similar to those currently featured on our website. Iona AbbeyOne of Scotland's most sacred and historic sites, the Abbey was founded in 563AD and it still retains its spiritual atmosphere today. Stop off to admire the ornate Italian Chapel, crafted from scraps by prisoners of war, and look out for the many wrecked ships poking their remains out of the water around Scapa Flow. Saga Group Mi Analyst Salaries in Seaham, England | Glassdoor These unassuming islands have a truly magical quality, and civilisation has thrived here for millennia. the west of Scotland and Ireland in 795. This trip is operated by our England team. There are so many reasons why Saga stands out from other cruise lines. Indulge in a delicious fish and chip lunch overlooking the sea in Brae. Click the heart icon on the search or holiday pages to pin a holiday. We only share data with business partners where it is necessary to fulfil our service. Tours of Shetland and Orkney Islands - Scotland Tours Your Holiday in Shetland and Orkney | NorthLink Ferries Orkney and Shetland Islands holidays set out for two of the most northerly outposts in Britain. Our journey continues through the fertile farmland of Angus to reach the granite city of Aberdeen by late afternoon. Book your holiday today with Planet Cruise! The unspoilt landscape of Shetland has a rugged beauty shaped by the sea at the end of the last Ice Age. 10 Favourite Books about Shetland - Shetland Wool Adventures Between the rugged cliffs at Yesnaby in the west and the sandy beaches of Deerness in the east, lie rolling green hills and wild heather moors. Later you could take a 10 minute ferry journey to the Isle of Bressay to explore the rich natural heritage and incredible wildlife. Discover our last-minute, luxury, all-inclusive, and many other incredible cruise deals. Advertised flight prices are based on UK flights departing from London. Overnight Orkney. Covid-19 Travel Requirements Covid-19 Travel Updates and FAQs Cruise Deals; Cruise Lines; . Topped by a prehistoric chambered burial cairn, the summit offers a breathtaking panorama across this ice-carved landscape. At the Isle of Hoy you can visit Scapa Flow Visitor Centre and learn the fascinating story of this naval anchorage in the two world wars. Overnight Shetland. If you are happy with the details you have provided above then click Submit Form to send us your enquiry. Orkneyinga saga - Wikipedia This self drive holiday to Orkney and Shetland gives you the opportunity to experience the wonderful landscapes, fascinating wildlife and archaeological heritage of these magical, and very different parts of the UK. In a land that's been largely tamed, they remain rare unspoiled outposts of rugged coastline and remote beauty. The nearby seaport of Stromness is famed for the Pier Arts Centre which showcases the work of artists and sculptors from Orkney and beyond. Tastefully decorated and furnished, these properties are generally owned and operated by locals who have a genuine passion for their region which they are keen to share with you. Stretching off Scotlands north coast are Shetland and Orkney, two very special archipelagos where Scotland meets Scandinavia. The islands geographic location makes it a crossroad for wildlife. The wild landscapes featureintricate coastlines marked by towering cliffs, deep caves and giant rock stacks which make for an inspiring backdrop for various activities such as walking and sea kayaking. For group bookings of 10+ people click here. Continue to the rugged Shetland archipelago to visit Lerwick as it hosts the annual Tall Ships Races. Next, we make for Maeshowe, a magnificent chambered tomb that dates from around 2,500 BC. Comprehensive travel insurance is advised for all other nationals planning on visiting Scotland.If you need to contact the emergency services whilst in Scotland simply dial 999 or 112 to ask for an ambulance. British Isles Cruises 2023 & 2024 | Fred. Olsen Cruises Sail away to lands steeped in history, wildlife and stunning scenery, far from the jostling crowds, to the haunting beauty of the Orkney and Shetland Isles. During the summer it is still light when you arrive. Studio Tour London - Harry Potter, Peaky Blinders Filming Location Tours 2023. Fair Isle is the southernmost Shetland island and lies 24 miles from the Shetland Mainland and 27 miles from North Ronaldsay, the most northerly island in Orkney. A holiday to the islands of Orkney and Shetland has it all. All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. Shetland: an epic landscape with a Viking soul | Scotland holidays In 1850 a fierce storm hit the Orkney Isles and the site of Skara Brae was uncovered; previously it was hidden beneath a grass mound. From Glasgow and Edinburgh, we travel northwards through the Kingdom of Fife to reach Dundee, which sits overlooking the River Tay. The South Mainland awaits today home to some of Shetlands most jaw-drapping scenery and best archeological sites, including the Isle of Mousa where you will encounter the best preserved Broch anywhere in the world. Please note that if at ten weeks prior to the start of your holiday a sharing partner is unavailable, a single room will be allocated with a resulting single supplement charge outlined above. This week-long fully-escorted Orkney & Shetland tour is a new addition to the McKinlay Kidd programme, building on our extensive knowledge of the destinations. It's a short drive to our hotel for the next three nights. Arrive into Lerwick, Shetland early this morning. The islanders themselves feel a strong local identity and you can be guaranteed a warm island welcome and some fantastic local fresh food. Later we travel to the dramatic sea cliffs at Eshaness which have been created by the constant pounding of the Atlantic waves. It was raided by Norsemen in the 12th Century. The Abbey was restored at the start of the 20thcentury and the Abbey now welcomes visitors from around the world who flock to enjoy its peaceful atmosphere. Ayre Road, Kirkwall, Scotland, KW15 1QX. Later we make the short drive to Sumburgh Head, where the waters of the North Sea meet the waves of the Atlantic Ocean. The nature reserve is the perfect place to spot seabirds such as puffins, guillemots and kittiwakes. Let Scapa Travel use their extensive local knowledge to create a memorable holiday, tailored specifically for you. You do not have any pinned holidays. Enjoy free time in Kirkwall this morning. Scapa Travel is a trading name of Scapa Travel Limited who are registered in Scotland with company number SC438791, and VAT number 115719224. This means one or two nights at sea followed by sailing in Shetland and Orkney. 9 miles (14km) with 760 feet (230m) of ascent. Thats why all of the accommodation we select is hand-picked using our first-hand knowledge of the best places to stay. Consequently, bedrooms and bathrooms come in varying shapes and sizes. 2 miles (3km) with 200 feet (60m) of ascent. Inspiring options. The far-flung Orkney and Shetland Isles offer the active traveller an invigorating and rewarding holiday experience, with jaw-dropping natural scenery and wildlife spectacles.