Everything's taken care of on a Saga escorted tour, so you can see and do more. This area of great archaeological significance includes Skara Brae, Europes best-preserved Stone Age village; the Ring of Brodgar; the Stones of Stenness and the Maeshowe chambered tomb. On Mainland . The Norsmen left their mark on the islands and some of the Norse legends and customs are still kept alive during festivals . During the hour-long sailing look out for porpoises, dolphins and minke whales that can often be seen. The coach will continue on to Glasgow, for passengers wishing to end their tour there. Outstanding scenery, exceptional wildlife, ancient history, traditional crafts and world-class diving. Arrive into Lerwick, Shetland early this morning. We'll make a visit to view the remarkable paintings that can be found inside the simple corrugated metal exterior. Spirit of Discovery departing Tilbury. Where Scotland meets Scandinavia, this wild and remote corner of northern Britain is truly remarkable. Highlights of Orkney and Shetland6 day/5 night. Easy to download as a PDF, our trip notes provide detailed information for every holiday. Well also visit the impressive archaeological site of Jarlshof. 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. These tours are immensely popular so expect to be travelling in the company of like-minded travellers from around the world. Stop at Weisdale to see artists at work at Shetland Jewellery, before arriving at Northmavine where you could travel to the spectacular Eshaness Cliffs with their imposing lighthouse, or hike up to the top of Ronas Hill. Scapa Travel is a trading name of Scapa Travel Limited who are registered in Scotland with company number SC438791, and VAT number 115719224. EU nationals need to have either a valid passport or identity card.Visas for the UK are not required by those travelling from Australia, Canada, USA or EU for stays of up to six months.Any other nationality looking to visit the UK must contact the local embassy to check visa requirements. Available Until September 2023. In Kirkwall you will find a bustling and friendly town with a great selection of restaurants, pubs, and local art shops, as well as the most northerly cathedral in Britain dating back to the 12th century. This island adventure starts with a tour to Aberdeen to catch the overnight ferry service bound for Lerwick in the Shetlands, Britain's most northerly island archipelago. Overnight Shetland. If you would like to spend an extra night or two on either Orkney or Shetland, wed be delighted to assist. The thousands of prehistoric Neolithic sites which have survived to tell their tale at the Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO world heritage site are both spectacular and mysterious. Photo: juvlai, CC BY-SA 2.0. Let Scapa Travel use their extensive local knowledge to create a memorable holiday, tailored specifically for you. Next, we make for Maeshowe, a magnificent chambered tomb that dates from around 2,500 BC. Search. On arrival at Gills Bay, we join the famous North Coast 500 route as we make the coastal drive southwards across the Dornoch and Cromarty Firths towards Inverness. Usually the coach will arrive at the overnight stop between 16:30 and 17:00 hrs each day. A short drive to the western side of the Shetland mainland brings us to the old fishing port of Scalloway, which sits overlooking a sheltered bay. We can book package holidays including flights from the UK, hotel . Prepare for cool windy weather so that you can take time to enjoy the amazing archeology you visit. Scattered off the northeast coast of Scotland, Orkney and the Shetland Islands are staggeringly beautiful. All rights reserved. We depart Aberdeen at 19:00 hrs, and a short time later, dinner will be served in the ship's restaurant. Our home for tonight is in the delightful village of Bray which overlooks Busta Voe. Spirit of Adventure departing Dover. But forget the . Experience the unique islands of Shetland and Orkney, with mysterious prehistoric sites, natural wonders and breathtaking scenery waiting around every corner. Recently hailed as one of Lonely Planets Best in Europe for 2019, the ruggedly handsome Shetland Islands comprise around 100 different islands with just 15 inhabited. It's a convenient crossing point for otters too, who, in these islands, are sea-dwelling. The island's attractions include . Look out for the gargoyles which a former owner rescued from the Houses of Parliament in London. For all their differences, these islands share a similar feel: weather-beaten archipelagos with more in common with the Faroes than mainland Scotland. Highlights of Orkney & Shetland. Lake District, Yorkshire & Hadrians Wall, Classic Yorkshire: Whitby, York & The Dales, East of England: Cambridge, Norfolk & Suffolk. Overnight Orkney, Take the opportunity to visit one of Orkneys smaller isles. Departing by Coach. Explore archaeological wonders such as Skara Brae, Jarlshof, the Ring of Brodgar, and the Standing Stones of Stenness. Spend two days exploring some of the many island treasures, including Scalloway Castle and Jarlshof, an outstanding example of a prehistoric and Norse settlement. Before your departure, you will receive personalised holiday information including full directions, recommended routes, and suggestions on places to visit depending on your interests and our local knowledge to help you get the most from your holiday. In each case, it is not necessarily added to the bill. With a strong norse influence, these island groups provide a surprisingly contrasting cultural experience when compared to the Hebrides. The breadth of history to be discovered here is without parallel in Scotland and is sure to amaze you. Many people have landed there before you . Built in 1600, this castle was once the home of the Earl of Orkney. Our newsletter features exciting new itineraries, blog posts from the team, and fabulous competitions. All sorts of nature abound here, from seals and otters to ponies and hundreds of birds, making it a wildlife lover's paradise. Find out everything you need to know about planning a trip to Scotland's incredible Northern Isles. Visit the Orkneyinga Viking history interpretation centre to learn more. Our discerning team has a wealth of experience, and we extensively research and regularly review all of the accommodation we select for our clients. Historic and Cultural Tours. If, like us, you cant get enough of the archeological discoveries, head over to Rousay with its Midhowe Broch and Cairn. 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. 10 Day Shetland & Orkney Car Tour. A genuine feel pervades this small family owned hotel, located on the edge of Kirkwall. Rooms are simple but homely and all come with TV and tea and coffee making facilities. Overnight Orkney. 9 miles (14km) with 1,060 feet (320m) of ascent. With Orkney in his hands, Sigurd had the means to expand his territory and, according to the saga, soon took Caithness, Sutherland and sections of Argyll on the Scottish . Individually, the sites are masterpieces of Neolithic design and construction, and collectively they represent one of the richest surviving Neolithic landscapes in Western Europe, giving us an incredible insight into the society, skills and spiritual beliefs of the people who constructed them. P&O took over the routes from the long-established North of Scotland, Orkney & Shetland Steam Navigation Company in 1971. add an extra night or two on each island group to explore in depth? In no time youll be sailing away to one unforgettable destination after another. The UKs bestselling monthly subscription magazine. Fiercely independent and sprinkled with Scandinavian tradition, this pair of wild windswept archipelagos offer an island-hopping holiday that ticks-off squawking seabird colonies, staggering scenery, and some of the best-preserved Neolithic ruins in Europe. 2 miles (3km) with 200 feet (60m) of ascent. You will also find no end of delicious local produce to tempt you and a busy programme of annual festivals. From wildlife and wool tours to walking holidays and fire festival fun, each celebrate a different aspect of Shetland, so you can choose a trip . Today we bid farewell to island life and make the journey to St Margaret's Hope where the fast Pentland Ferries catamaran waits to transport us across the Pentland Firth. To help us reduce spam, please tick the reCAPTCHA field. These stones have continued to mystify and amaze visitors with questions such as 'who built them?' 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. They branded their services "P&O Ferries" from 1975 to 1989 and "P&O Scottish Ferries" thereafter. Be aware of your surroundings and don't venture off on your own. Please click here to see full flight schedules to Shetland & Orkney Island. A holiday to the islands of Orkney and Shetland has it all. Tallest Sea Cliffs in Britain. Depart Lerwick at the end of the afternoon for the overnight journey on the cruise class Northlink Ferries service to Aberdeen. They are home to a vast array of seabirds and unusual Scottish fauna, such as the rare Scottish Primrose, which means that the natural environment plays a starring role in any trip to these islands. 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. 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. 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. Check-in: TBA hrs
If you're flying here, public bus services connect with all the main airports in Scotland too. Ferry: Sail from Shetland to Orkney on the evening sailing on a Monday, Wednesday & Friday, depart Lerwick at 1730 and arrive in Kirkwall at 2300. This elevated viewpoint affords extensive views over Shetland and of Fair Isle to the south. Its name, meaning Earls House, was bestowed by Sir Walter Scott when he used the ruins of the sixteenth century lairds house as a fictional setting. Trade Login Contact 08444 937 531 Destinations UK & Channel Islands. All included in the price. . Orkney To Shetland Via Fair Isle & Shetland To Orkney Via Fair Isle. Contact us via email: Call and speak to one of our travel experts who have experienced Shetland & Orkney Islands personally. Day 9. 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. Experience the unique islands of Shetland and Orkney, with mysterious prehistoric sites, natural wonders and breathtaking scenery waiting around every corner. We use cookies to provide you with the best online experience. Judi Florence Self Guided - The West Highland Way Reviewed on 08/10/2018. Travel to the wild and glorious peninsula of Northmavine. The Orkney Islands constitute a council area and belong to the historic county of Orkney. The nearby seaport of Stromness is famed for the Pier Arts Centre which showcases the work of artists and sculptors from Orkney and beyond. 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 . Highlights of Orkney and Shetland6 day/5 night. Please click below to find the trip notes for your departure date. It is a wild and dramatic place. This expanse of water has played witness to some monumental events. Wilderness Ireland take their clients to the most remote and beautiful regions of Ireland, all while staying at the most welcoming accommodations and delivering outstanding customer service. Days 5-8 Orkney. How does the Care Funding Advice Service work? Another day you might head for South Ronaldsay now connected by the famous Churchill Barriers to the Mainland. 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. Spot dolphins and porpoises in the coastal waters, or breeding seabirds such as puffins and guillemots at Hermaness Nature Reserve. Age-wise its really difficult for us to give an accurate figure for any given tour departure, but experience has taught us to expect the median age to be between 45 and 50. In West Mainland, dont miss the hauntingly beautiful Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO World Heritage Site. Now it forms part of the World Heritage Site in the centre of the Orkney Mainland, along with the tomb of Maes Howe, the Ring of Brodgar and the mighty Standing Stones of Stenness. 3.91. Some of them are: Skara BraeThought to be one of Orkney's most visited tourist spots, Skara Brae is an ancient site which is older than Stonehenge. We arrive in Lerwick around 07:30 hrs. FAQsPlease see the FAQ section for more information on this tour. The expedition starts in Oban and we sail, via the scenic and bird-rich island of Handa, to the enchanting Orkney Islands. Florida; Las Vegas & The West . Orkney & Shetland Start your journey by travelling from Orkney from Scrabster near Thurso, where you will find your hotel which is . Discover our last-minute, luxury, all-inclusive, and many other incredible cruise deals. On Mainland the capital, Lerwick, has a good range of shops, restaurants and pubs as well as the outstanding Shetland Museum and Archives and a thriving music scene. The Ayre Hotel. Visit the Bishops and Earls Palaces where you can learn of a time when Orkney was part of the Norse-held kingdom of Nordreyjar. If you are planning to bring alcohol, tobacco or souvenirs into the country, you need to be familiar with the UK's custom laws. Seabirds flock to this rocky outcrop in their thousands during breeding season and colonies of common and grey seal spend autumn in the waters of the bay. Enjoy free time in Kirkwall this morning. How do I get there? Wilderness England creates incredible journeys to the wild and magical outdoor spaces across Yorkshire, the Lake District, Northumberland, the Cotswolds and the Peak District. 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. Already a firm favourite since her launch in 2019, step aboard Spirit of Discovery and discover the ships selection of grand public rooms, restaurants, balcony cabins and outside spaces. 9 miles (15.5 km) with 1,280 feet (380m) of ascent. If you go above this allowance you may have to pay tax or duty. A collection of quality 4* Guest Houses and 3* Hotels often located in beautiful locations which provide an excellent standard of accommodation. Covid-19 Travel Requirements Covid-19 Travel Updates and FAQs Cruise Deals; Cruise Lines; . Be the first to hear about all things HF Holidays. But the surrounding dwellings and outbuildings date from thousands of years earlier. 8 miles (13.5km) with 850 feet (260m) of ascent. We then have two full days to tour Shetland. In the Shetlands, its all about Busta House. Advertised flight prices are based on UK flights departing from London. Shes the beautiful sister to Spirit of Discovery, but has a whole host of surprises of her own, including exciting new restaurants. 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. Indulge in a delicious fish and chip lunch overlooking the sea in Brae. Overlooking Skaill Bay, we'll discover a settlement of Stone Age houses complete with chairs, beds and dressers all made from stone. But there are two other, very distinctive, island groups off Scotland's north coast that are well worth the effort of reaching: Orkney and Shetland. Stay at this 3-star hotel in Kirkwall. Wilderness Walking The Knoydart Peninsula, Wilderness Walking England Coast to Coast, Wilderness Walking Arran: Scotland in Miniature, Wilderness Walking Northumberland and TheLakeDistrict, Wilderness Walking Outer Hebrides: Uists, Barra & Mingulay, Wilderness Walking High Points of the OuterHebrides, Wilderness Walking Glencoe and the Highlands, Wilderness Walking High Points of the Lake District, Wilderness Walking The Coast of Cornwall, Wilderness Walking Outer Hebrides and Skye, Wilderness Walking Cairngorms National Park & Royal Deeside, Wilderness Walking Autumn in Perthshire, Road Cycling TheNorthCoast500: Highlights, Wildlife Adventures Autumn Wildlife Islay, Wildlife Adventures The Scottish Highlands, Wildlife Adventures Mull, Staffa & Iona, Wildlife Adventures A Rewilding Journey in the Cairngorms, Photography Skye and the West Highlands, Sailing and Walking Knoydart, Skye and TheSmallIsles, Self Catering Family Adventure Outer Hebrides, The Great Family Adventure Treasure Highlands, Self Guided + Cycling Skye and the Inner Hebrides, Self Guided+ Cycling The Outer Hebrides, Self Drive Collection Highland Perthshire, Self Drive Collection Ben Nevis & The West, Self Drive Winter Highland Explorations, Self-Drive Winter Highland CosyCairngorms, Low Carbon Adventure Scottish Highlands, Road Cycling TheNorthCoast500: Classic, Guided In The Footsteps of RabbieBurns, Guided Scottish Highlands Multi-Activity Adventure, On an Orkney holiday you will experience the. Absolute Escapes has an excellent relationship with a number of car hire operators and we are able to offer quality vehicles and great value for money. We then rejoin our transport for the scenic transfer to Busta House. Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly Revealed. With their northerly location, the best time to visit is between March and November, with the long days of summer a particularly appealing time. Registered office: Gilbridge House, Keel Square, Sunderland SR1 3HA. 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 Shetland, inter-island ferry travel is operated by the council , while Orkney Ferries connect the archipelago's 13 island destinations. Travel back in time to the Stone Age and discover an ancient civilisation at The Heart of Neolithic Orkney a UNESCO World Heritage Site which includes the four awe-inspiring sites of the Ring of Brodgar, the Stones of Stenness, the Maeshowe tomb and Skara Brae. Its difficult not to be inspired by sweeping panoramic views as you stroll along deserted white sandy beaches or gaze up at dramatic sea cliffs created by fierce volcanic eruptions and the ravages of the North Sea. Scalloway CastleWhen visiting the Shetland Isles, why not visit Scalloway Castle? These tours are inclusive of superior tourist class accommodation, transportation, selected admission fees and many meals. 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. Specialists in offering a range of adventure holidays, tours and incredible wilderness experiences. We only share data with business partners where it is necessary to fulfil our service. Providing inspiring active experiences, immerse yourself in the unique landscapes, history, culture and wildlife on a Wilderness England adventure. Contact usEmail: info@scapatravel.co.ukTelephone: 01856 889040, Our opening hours are:Monday to Friday 10am to 4pmSaturday 11am to 3pm. Spend two days exploring some of the many island treasures, including Scalloway Castle and Jarlshof, an outstanding example of . Outstanding scenery, exceptional wildlife, ancient history, traditional crafts and world-class diving. For further information about ABTA, the Code of Conduct and the arbitration scheme available to you if you have a complaint, contact ABTA, 30 Park Street, London, SE1 9EQ, Tel: 020 3117 0599 or www.abta.com, Hays Travel Limited are registered in England and Wales with company number 1990682 and VAT number 193167195. In 1919 the German Navy scuttled itself as a grand act of defiance and, in 1939, HMS Royal Oak was sunk here by a U-boat. Once checked-in onboard head to your comfortable twin-berth cabin with en-suite bathroom or enjoy time exploring the ship's many facilities. These unassuming islands have a truly magical quality, and civilisation has thrived here for millennia. 2023 HF Holidays Limited. See the landscapes of Shetland and Orkney; Visit Trshavn, with its Viking heritage; Itinerary From. While these are some of the most impressive ancient sites in Europe, youll find other beguiling places of interest scattered across the whole island chain. Island hop the wild Scottish Northern Isles on this week's holiday to Orkney and Shetland From 895 to 1015 7 days ex flights. Savour your chance to try lamb with its distinctive flavour due to the seaweed diet of the sheep, or sample local seafood including mouth-watering prawns and delicious stir-fried squid. High levels of cover from an award winning provider, 3-year fixed price with no tie-ins - T&Cs apply. We also analyse data in order to develop and improve our products and our service in the future. These mysterious stone circles are amongst the most significant in Europe and are some 5,000 years old. Registered Office: Enbrook Park, Folkestone, Kent, CT20 3SE. If so, please follow the booking process for a twin room and we will do our best to find you another group member of the same gender to share with.