Sailing Type - Mostly Coastal Day Sailing but the passage to Fair Isle is an open-water sea passage and there is a chance of an overnight passage on this voyage where you would be part of the watch system. Then trace . Scattered off the northeast coast of Scotland, Orkney and the Shetland Islands are staggeringly beautiful. Take the opportunity to visit one of Orkneys smaller isles. Spirit of Adventure departing Dover. 18 Hours of Midsummer Sun. 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. The Ring of Brodgar in the Heart of Neolithic Orkney. Thousands of seabirds including gannets, guillemots and kittiwakes nest and feed in the Noss Nature Reserve. Walking is a wonderful way to discover the Orkney Islands. Find out everything you need to know about planning a trip to Scotland's incredible Northern Isles. Shetland & Orkney Island Holidays . Trade Login Contact 08444 937 531 Destinations UK & Channel Islands. Registered in England, number 5713R. 8 nights from. From Glasgow and Edinburgh, we travel northwards through the Kingdom of Fife to reach Dundee, which sits overlooking the River Tay. Although a remote wilderness, there is a lot to do in Shetland, Orkney and the Hebrides. Buses and trains to Orkney. Dinner will be served on board and we will arrive in Kirkwall around 23:00 hrs. Recently hailed as one of Lonely Planet's Best in Europe for 2019, the ruggedly handsome Shetland Islands comprise around 100 different islands with just 15 inhabited. Double room - this is a room for two people sharing one large bed. Shetland and Orkney Islands Tour from Inverness - The Hebridean Explorer Scotland's Northern Isles by Motorhome. On arrival, we visit Sumburgh Head RSPB reserve. We can book package holidays including flights from the UK, hotel . 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. After rejoining the ship for an evening sailing to Kirkwall, we have a further two full days touring Orkney, before our short crossing back to the mainland. Our journey continues through the fertile farmland of Angus to reach the granite city of Aberdeen by late afternoon. Outstanding scenery, exceptional wildlife, ancient history, traditional crafts and world-class diving. The Old Man of Hoy. 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. Finally, a laird's house was constructed on the site in the 1600s. 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. 2 miles (3km) with 200 feet (60m) of ascent. Orkney is a land of opportunity forged by 5,000 years of unique history. While most tour operators use hotels around the capital, Lerwick, we choose to stay somewhere you can really appreciate Shetlands remote beauty. We then rejoin our transport for the scenic transfer to Busta House. If you're flying here, public bus services connect with all the main airports in Scotland too. Known as the Churchill Barriers, we will use these causeways to reach the little island of Lamb Holm. On many tours youll have the chance to personalise your touring experience by participating in some carefully planned optional excursions. Explore the islands' Norse heritage on a coach holiday, where the sound of fiddles can still be heard drifting through the fresh air. HF Holidays LimitedUnit 1, First FloorImperial PlaceMaxwell RoadBorehamwoodHertfordshire WD6 1JNUnited Kingdom, Monday to Friday: 9.00am - 5.30pmSaturday: 9.00am - 1.00pmSunday: ClosedBank Holidays: 9.00am - 1.00pm. Please note that a family room is normally a standard double or twin room with either a sofa bed or a rollaway bed. Please contact us for more details. Overnight Orkney. Calls cost 7p per minute plus your phone companys access charge. This elevated viewpoint affords extensive views over Shetland and of Fair Isle to the south. Please choose from one of our accommodation categories below. Another day you might head for South Ronaldsay now connected by the famous Churchill Barriers to the Mainland. Sailing Fair Isle | Orkney to Shetland | Shetland To Orkney In each case, it is not necessarily added to the bill. On Mainland, is the capital Kirkwall whose sights include St Magnus Cathedral, the Bishops and Earls palaces and the Orkney Museum. 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. UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spot dolphins and porpoises in the coastal waters, or breeding seabirds such as puffins and guillemots at Hermaness Nature Reserve. Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly Revealed. Spend some time exploring this fascinating seaport where you could visit Shetland Museum to gain an invaluable introduction to the islands history, or explore Fort Charlotte originally built in 1665 to protect Shetland from Dutch warships. The strong historical and cultural influence of Norway upon these islands is clear in their timber-framed and brightly coloured architecture. Check-in: TBA hrs However the earldom began, by the time of Earl Sigurd we are heading into more reliable territory - although still laced with myth and folklore. Shetland is home to a world-class diversity of wildlife, from puffins and seals to purpoises and even whales. These cliffs are bursting with an extraordinary range of wildlife, such as seals, puffins, gannets and whales. Thoroughly recommend this as an enjoyable way to experience Shetland and Orkney. From area guides to interesting articles and event guides, NorthLink Ferries have everything you'll need to enjoy a fantastic holiday in the unique and memorable Orkney and Shetland islands. To make it easier, heres a list of items you should consider packing. The islands are a birdwatchers' paradise and one of the major seabird breeding and feeding areas in the North Atlantic. The natural beauty of Orkneys landscape boasts a rich variety of scenery. In some cases, due to ferry or other travel connections, the tour may depart earlier or arrive later your tour director will advise you if this will be happening on your tour. Today visitors can see eight dwellings, each connected by a series of low passageways. In the afternoon well visit Maes Howe, one of the most treasured Neolithic sites in Europe. It is a wonderful way to get a real feel for both the culture and the wildlife of these islands, with knowledgeable guides on hand to inform. While we make every effort to adhere to the described itinerary, we may take an alternative route, or vary the running order for weather and/or operational reasons. 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. And as more than fifth of our guests cruise solo, youll always be in good company. Many coaches are equipped with WiFi too. We arrive in Lerwick around 07:30 hrs. These unique islands are home to some of the most breathtaking coastal scenery to be found anywhere in Britain. If you wish to combine these categories or perhaps upgrade for a special occasion let us know in your enquiry. These are wonderfully charming and intimate and run with great flair by their owners. The largest town, Lerwick, is closer to Norway than to Edinburgh, and culturally and geographically they feel more Norse than Scottish. You will also find no end of delicious local produce to tempt you and a busy programme of annual festivals. Our latest all-balcony boutique ship launched in the summer of 2021. Single cabins now available on all January to March 2023 cruises. But forget the . Todays walk takes us to the famous sea stack known as the Old Man of Hoy and will have bird watchers twitching with excitement at the prospect of spotting arctic and great skuas. Book a package holiday. Orkney and the Shetland Isles | Great Rail Journeys 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. From 799pp. UK: +44 (0)1479 420 020 US: 1-866-740-3890 [emailprotected], Wilderness Scotland Dalfaber Drive Aviemore Highland Scotland PH22 1ST, 2022 Wilderness Group Ltd | Registered in Scotland SC211011, Cookies & Privacy | Terms & Conditions | Sitemap | Site Credits. Both Shetland and Orkney offer a good chance of spotting the Northern Lights, particularly in autumn and winter. Our smaller ships are the perfect choice if youre cruising solo. Overlooking Skaill Bay, we'll discover a settlement of Stone Age houses complete with chairs, beds and dressers all made from stone. From jagged cliffs to unspoilt beaches and stone circles left by settlers some 4,000 years ago, the region is steeped in age-old history. British Isles Cruises 2023 | Cruising Holidays 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. Copyright 2016 - 2023 Scapa Travel. Orkney boasts inspirational landscapes where verdant fields stretch down to pristine beaches and dramatic seas crash against towering cliffs. 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. We depart Aberdeen at 19:00 hrs, and a short time later, dinner will be served in the ship's restaurant. Later we travel to the dramatic sea cliffs at Eshaness which have been created by the constant pounding of the Atlantic waves. Inspiring options. 8 miles (13.5km) with 850 feet (260m) of ascent. If you enjoy the art of first-class travel whilst enjoying amazing value then an Escorted Tour is just for you. The islands geographic location makes it a crossroad for wildlife. 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. 9 miles (14km) with 1,060 feet (320m) of ascent. 10 Day Shetland and Orkney Tour (self drive) Stay at this 3-star hotel in Kirkwall. The Tower has been restored over the past century, however not all of the original structure still remains. Here you can see evidence of many different eras dating as far back as Neolithic times. Accommodation on board in a double/twin en-suite outer cabin is included in the price. "The staff was xtrenely king and helpful! Available Until September 2023. Language: EnglishCurrency: Pound SterlingTime Zone: GMTTipping: 10 to 12% is usual for hotels with 10 to 15% being usual for restaurants. In the Shetlands, its all about Busta House. We suggest an early start today - there's a lot to fit in! Today we leave Orkney and head north to Shetland. 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. A BSpoke Tour is all about being as restful or as adventurous as you desire. Tastefully decorated rooms provide a comfortable place to sleep and on a clear night you can gaze up at the starry skies and search for the swirling ribbons of neon green, pink, and purple known as the northern lights. VAT Number 125 4899 87. Time to return home. Fair Isle | Shetland.org and 'why?'. Saga Cruises; Disney Cruises; Cruise Ships. P&O Scottish Ferries - Wikipedia Citylink buses run to Aberdeen, Gills Bay and Scrabster so you can catch your ferry to the islands. Written in the early 13 th century when Shetland and Orkney were Norse possessions it really centers on Orkney which was undoubtedly the richer and more important of the two island groups. Also includes hotels in Alderney, Sark and Herm, plus the Isle of Wight, Isles of Scilly, Isle of Man and Shetland & Orkney Islands. Please contact us for information on child prices. Orkney and Shetland, being the nearest western land to Norway, would be first visited. We'll make a visit to view the remarkable paintings that can be found inside the simple corrugated metal exterior. 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. Shetland & Orkney Holiday - Hart Holidays Scottish Holiday Specialist The History of the Orkney and Shetland Isles Stretching off Scotlands north coast are Shetland and Orkney, two very special archipelagos where Scotland meets Scandinavia. Clicking on the link below will redirect you to the Wilderness England website. If you are happy with the details you have provided above then click Submit Form to send us your enquiry. Cabin upgrades may also be available on request. Designed with our guests in mind, our modern sister ships offer small-ship luxury with a private balcony for every guest. Stretching off Scotland's north coast are Shetland and Orkney, two very special archipelagos where Scotland meets Scandinavia. 10 Favourite Books about Shetland - Shetland Wool Adventures How do I get there? There are so many reasons why Saga stands out from other cruise lines. Let Scapa Travel use their extensive local knowledge to create a memorable holiday, tailored specifically for you. If you only require a specific response to this enquiry and have no interest in receiving occasional information, news or offers from McKinlay Kidd in future, please email unsubscribe at mckinlaykidd dot com. Topped by a prehistoric chambered burial cairn, the summit offers a breathtaking panorama across this ice-carved landscape. The card payment providers above are used for taking your payments by operators featured on our site. Your hotel is a short drive away from the ferry port, in the islands capital, Kirkwall. 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. If you are planning to bring alcohol, tobacco or souvenirs into the country, you need to be familiar with the UK's custom laws. Outer two berth cabins included on the Orkney to Shetland and Shetland to Aberdeen crossings. Our full season of 2023 cruises and early 2024 cruises are on sale now. Spend some time exploring this fascinating seaport where you could visit. Read 20 . All Rights Reserved. Explore Shetland & Orkney by Motorhome Go Scotland Tours is offering a private guided tour combining the Western Isles of Skye, Harris and Lewis with Orkney. Wed also suggest a day of further island hopping by ferry, perhaps across to nearby Shapinsay for a good stretch of the legs or a visit to more mountainous Hoy for an alternative perspective on the Old Man sea stack. Built in 1600, this castle was once the home of the Earl of Orkney. This iconic sea stack is only a few hundred years old. If you're looking to visit the islands north of Scotland, Orkney and Shetland are connected to the mainland and each other by NorthLink Ferries. 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. See the Tall Ships in Lerwick. Your Holiday in Shetland and Orkney | NorthLink Ferries This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. The unspoilt landscape of Shetland has a rugged beauty shaped by the sea at the end of the last Ice Age. Topped by a prehistoric chambered burial cairn, the summit offers a breathtaking panorama across this ice-carved landscape. On Mainland . It is worth checking the HM Revenues and Customs website before you travel. 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. Tallest Sea Cliffs in Britain. All sorts of nature abound here, from seals and otters to ponies and hundreds of birds, making it a wildlife lover's paradise. Shetland and the Tall Ships | British Isles & Ireland | Saga Cruising The restaurant prides itself on local produce, prepared to make the most of the fresh flavours. Florida; Las Vegas & The West . 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. Our destination is Lerwick, the island's attractive capital. 01273 823 700 . We will make it easy for you to opt-out of receiving communications, to check what data we hold on you or to request us to delete your data altogether. Orkneyjar - Viking Orkney - The Beginning of the Earldom Norway To Orkney Sailing In The Wake Of The Vikings - SchoonerSail Shetland and the Tall Ships. Enchanting Orkney is a smorgasbord of must-see sites and cultural attractions scattered across70 islands. Click the heart icon on the search or holiday pages to pin a holiday. British Isles Cruises 2023 & 2024 | Fred. Olsen Cruises The Stones were erected around 3000BC and it is thought that they were some kind of astronomical calendar associated with the moon. 3.91. Both have featured recently on the BBC, yet in very contrasting ways: Orkney is hailed for its rich folklore, prehistoric sitesand abundance of wildlife, while Shetland owes its ever increasing popularity to thehit TV series Shetland based on Ann Cleeves gritty and fictional crime stories. After breakfast, we travel to the very south of the mainland to visit Jarlshof, where waves of settlers lived for more than 4,000 years. The landscape is wild and remote and, outside of the . Entry RequirementsWhen travelling between the UK, Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man in most cases an official form of identification such as a Driver's License will be ok. These departure dates can be booked with flights or as land only holiday options. When people think of Scotland's islands, it's usually the Hebrides they have in mind. Ayre Road, Kirkwall, Scotland, KW15 1QX. Youll be in good company if you choose to take dinner at your hotel, a popular destination for locals as well as visitors. Small group travel: 2023: 15 Apr, 13 May. All itineraries and room types are presented subject to availability at specific hotels. ARE YOU A SOLO TRAVELLER WILLING TO SHARE? 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. The islands are also blessed with an extraordinary natural beauty. 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. Our discerning team has a wealth of experience, and we extensively research and regularly review all of the accommodation we select for our clients. Make sure you visit Jarlshof, another incredible prehistoric site exposed in violent storms in the last couple of centuries. Arrive on Orkney and settle in to the Merkister Hotel. 2,268. Modern Slavery & Human Trafficking Statement. A collection of quality 4* Guest Houses and 3* Hotels often located in beautiful locations which provide an excellent standard of accommodation. Contact usEmail: info@scapatravel.co.ukTelephone: 01856 889040, Our opening hours are:Monday to Friday 10am to 4pmSaturday 11am to 3pm. If you go above this allowance you may have to pay tax or duty. Discover the Castle of Mey and its magnificent gardens. Jarlshof - explore this historic site, where people lived for more than 4,000 years, to see outstanding examples of Bronze Age and Viking houses, Scalloway - tour through this attractive fishing port that was once the island capital to visit the imposing ruins of 17th Century Scalloway Castle, Maeshowe - investigate this impressive chambered tomb and see the Viking graffiti left 1,000 years ago, Skara Brae - discover how early man lived at this amazingly well-preserved Stone Age settlement of dwelling houses complete with beds and chairs, Kirkwall - enjoy a three-night stay in this bustling port dominated by 12th Century St Magnus Cathedral, Movie locations Moondogs, The Long Hope and The Spy in Black. Rated 4.88 out of 5 based on 5,609 reviews. 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. Uncover Orkney's Ancient Secrets. More than a million birds breed in very large colonies. Overnight: Busta House Hotel/Brae Hotel, Shetland (or similar). Consequently, bedrooms and bathrooms come in varying shapes and sizes. Judi Florence Self Guided - The West Highland Way Reviewed on 08/10/2018. Make the most of your time on the islands on this carefully-curated itinerary accessible by flight from central Scotland. Days 5-8 Orkney. In a land that's been largely tamed, they remain rare unspoiled outposts of rugged coastline and remote beauty. The Vikings left their mark, such as the beautifully proportioned round church at Orphir as well as their grafitti which we now admire as works of art! You will not be able to use this site without JavaScript. Discover more at the visitor centre which provides touch-screen presentations and a wide range of artefacts that have excavated from the site. 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. Travel to the wild and glorious peninsula of Northmavine. It is a wild and dramatic place. 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. The holiday described is based on taking your own car, but ask us if you would like a fly-drive proposal, flying to and between the islands andhiring a car on each island. Travel to Orkney by ferry from Caithness, on the north coast of Scotland, with the crossing taking just under an hour. Orkney and Shetland Archaeology Tours | Andante Travels Our last visit of the day is to Skara Brae. ABTA and ABTA Members help holidaymakers to get the most from their travel and assist them when things do not go according to plan. Orkney, an ancient cluster of 70 islands brimming with history and dramatic coastlines, lie off the north west coast of Scotland. At Aberdeen Harbour, we join the Northlink ferry for the overnight crossing to Shetland. Shetland - South Mainland. Once we make landfall expect day sailing among the islands and skerries. 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. Many people have landed there before you . We will discover more about this rather unpleasant character and his tyrannical ways during our visit. They constitute the Shetland Islands council area and the historic county of Shetland. Overnight Shetland. We also offer a fly-drive holiday as an alternative way to visit Orkney & Shetland. Beautiful beaches, stunning cliffs, ancient settlements and wonderful wildlife-spotting opportunities - Shetland has a lot to offer. Come explor. Highlights of Orkney & Shetland. Think of this itinerary as a starting point which can be tailored into something completely unique to you by our award-winning specialists. Take the ferry from Stromness to Scrabster on the Scottish mainland, where your self-drive tour of Orkney and Shetland will come to an end. . 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. View our Full Privacy Notice, Read independent reviews from ourcustomers. A fitting finale to the holiday, this walk along the magnificent granite coastline around Muckle Roe offers a chance to admire the windswept isolation and remote beauty of Shetland. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking and breakfast. The holiday ideas on our website are just examples of the amazing trips we offer. Theres an opportunity to learn about Shetlands heritage at the Tangwick Haa museum today as we circumnavigate the beautiful Eshaness peninsula. Scottish Islands & Island Hopping | VisitScotland It lay covered for centuries, if not millennia, before a sandstorm in the 1920s revealed the amazing ruins. During the summer it is still light when you arrive. 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 11 Bridge Street, Kirkwall, Orkney, KW151 HR. Later you could take a 10 minute ferry journey to the Isle of Bressay to explore the rich natural heritage and incredible wildlife. Visit Orkney & Shetland | Orkney & Shetland Holidays - McKinlay Kidd Each one is all inclusive, and youll have your own private balcony to enjoy every destination in style. King Charles coronation holiday rejected by Shetland councillors 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. Tourist officesFor further information about the Scottish Isles you can visit their official tourist board websites at: The Shetland Isles: shetland.orgThe Orkney Isles:visitorkney.comThe Outer Hebrides:visithebrides.com. This morning you will enjoy a real treat a wildlife boat trip. Discover some of the most important Neolithic sites in Europe and uncover the mysteries of a 5,000 year old civilisation at a UNESCO world heritage site. Nowhere else in Britain, and hardly anywhere else in Europe, can you get so close, so easily, to so many seabirds. These tours are immensely popular so expect to be travelling in the company of like-minded travellers from around the world. Fiercely independent and sprinkled with Scandinavian tradition, this pair of wild windswept archipelagos offer an island-hopping holiday that ticks-off squawking seabird . Discover squawking seabird colonies, staggering scenery, and some of the best-preserved Neolithic ruins in Europe as you island hop between Mainland . At 1,475 feet (450m) this is Shetlands highest peak. 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. 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. 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. At this fascinating site, we will discover the remains of oval houses from the Bronze Age, an Iron Age broch and Viking longhouses. Orkney Islands Walking Holidays | Wilderness Scotland
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