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. During our time here will visit the RSPB reserve which is home to many species of seabirds including puffins, guillemots and razorbills. Arrive on Orkney and settle in to the Merkister Hotel. Includes 9 nights accommodation (2 of which will be on the ferry to and from Shetland) and ferry costs. For group bookings of 10+ people click here. On many tours youll have the chance to personalise your touring experience by participating in some carefully planned optional excursions. 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. In certain locations youll may be joined by a local guide who will provide local insight and show you the highlights. Continue to the rugged Shetland archipelago to visit Lerwick as it hosts the annual Tall Ships Races. From jagged cliffs to unspoilt beaches and stone . Studio Tour London - Harry Potter, Peaky Blinders Filming Location Tours 2023. 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. Day 5. Discover your ideal travel experience. 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. And as more than fifth of our guests cruise solo, youll always be in good company. The Ayre Hotel. 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 . Think of this itinerary as a starting point which can be tailored into something completely unique to you by our award-winning specialists. Read more, Need something more tailored? 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. Calls cost 7p per minute plus your phone companys access charge. 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. Situated just off the north-eastern tip of Scotland on the near-edge of Europe, Shetland, Orkney and the Hebrides are a wilderness in which to shake off the cobwebs. This mysterious tomb was built from huge sandstone blocks over 5,000 years ago and aligns perfectly with the winter solstice testament to an advanced knowledge of astronomy by its architects. The capital, Lerwick, is home to Shetlands main museum and local art centre by the harbour, as well as various locations used in the filming of the Shetland TV series. Each one is all inclusive, and youll have your own private balcony to enjoy every destination in style. The Shetland Islands are the UNBELIEVABLE Hidden Treasure of Scotland, the northernmost point of the United Kingdom and formerly part of Norway. The islands are also blessed with an extraordinary natural beauty. 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. Sign up today and start discovering. There will be a stop where can enjoy time off the coach and buy refreshments. Outstanding scenery, exceptional wildlife, ancient history, traditional crafts and world-class diving. Departing by Coach. 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. If, like us, you cant get enough of the archeological discoveries, head over to Rousay with its Midhowe Broch and Cairn. 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. Tour Departs: TBA hrs Thoroughly recommend this as an enjoyable way to experience Shetland and Orkney. . 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. In each case, it is not necessarily added to the bill. 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. You could visit the mighty Cathedral of St Mangus, which was begun in 1137. Wildlife watching here is superb. 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. A collection of quality 4* Guest Houses and 3* Hotels often located in beautiful locations which provide an excellent standard of accommodation. Overnight Orkney. They constitute the Shetland Islands council area and the historic county of Shetland. Their warm hospitality is sure to be a highlight of your Scottish experience. Built in 1600, this castle was once the home of the Earl of Orkney. Getting to Orkney via public transport is simple. 7 miles (12km) with 1,360 feet (420m) of ascent. 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. The innovative Shetland Museum and Archives tells the fascinating story of these islands and is well worth visiting. However, some airlines will insist you show a passport so check before you travel.If you are travelling to Scotland from Australia, Canada or the USA, you must have a valid passport for at least three months beyond the length of your stay. Its just six miles from Skara Brae and has an award-winning restaurant overlooking the loch, serving outstanding Scottish seafood and Aberdeen Angus beef. 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. The Tower has been restored over the past century, however not all of the original structure still remains. 8.4/5 (52 reviews) Great place! Enjoy a fascinating talk from historian Nick Card on the Orkney Islands' Neolithic past. This holiday can be arranged from March to October. If you fancy sampling the local water of life, why not take a tour at the Highland Park Distillery the most northerly whisky distillery in the entire world. Spirit of Discovery departing Dover. The unspoilt landscape of Shetland has a rugged beauty shaped by the sea at the end of the last Ice Age. 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. Trade Login Contact 08444 937 531 Destinations UK & Channel Islands. The coach will continue on to Glasgow, for passengers wishing to end their tour there. We then have two full days to tour Shetland. Its a great way to make new friends! 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. Visit the Bishops and Earls Palaces where you can learn of a time when Orkney was part of the Norse-held kingdom of Nordreyjar. This trip is operated by our England team. It lay covered for centuries, if not millennia, before a sandstorm in the 1920s revealed the amazing ruins. Rooms are simple but homely and all come with TV and tea and coffee making facilities. Nearby sits the Bishop's Palace and Earl's Palace, which was reputedly built using forced labour. Your leader will be in reception at 18:30 to give you a quick introduction to the holiday before dinner. Take the strain off holiday planning with a bespoke package holiday or group trip to Shetland. , Duration: 9 Days / 8 Nights. Later this afternoon we travel to the port to join the ferry bound for the Orkney Islands. 2,599. Visit the Orkneyinga Viking history interpretation centre to learn more. Orkney & Shetland Start your journey by travelling from Orkney from Scrabster near Thurso, where you will find your hotel which is . The ultimate collection of European cycling holidays. 01273 823 700 . Please choose from one of our accommodation categories below. 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. The natural beauty of Orkneys landscape boasts a rich variety of scenery. During the course of the day youll normally be travelling for no more than 2 hours at a time before making a stop to enjoy a visit to an attraction or for a comfort break/meal stop. (Do find time to pop in for a tour of the traditional whisky making process.) We sail with Serco Northlink Ferries and their modern, purpose-built vessels, the Hrossey and the Hjaltland, from Aberdeen overnight to Lerwick. 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. P&O Iona; Anthem of the Seas; Regal Princess; MSC Virtuosa; Queen Mary 2 . Popular attractions Orkney Wireless Museum and St. Magnus Cathedral are located . Our packages include car rental and comprehensive insurance for the duration of your holiday. In no time youll be sailing away to one unforgettable destination after another. Availability is individually checked for a hand-picked selection of smaller hotels, guest houses and other independent businesses, so please bear with us and we will respond in 1-2 working days. Consequently, bedrooms and bathrooms come in varying shapes and sizes. However the earldom began, by the time of Earl Sigurd we are heading into more reliable territory - although still laced with myth and folklore. Contact usEmail: info@scapatravel.co.ukTelephone: 01856 889040, Our opening hours are:Monday to Friday 10am to 4pmSaturday 11am to 3pm. However it has an account of Mousa Broch being used as part of an elopement (the same episode is mentioned in Egil's Saga too) and is an excellent place to . Book your tailor-made holiday to Offers with Premier Holidays. 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. Be aware of your surroundings and don't venture off on your own. Spirit of Adventure departing Dover. Shetland's council workers will not get the extra bank holiday on the Monday after King Charles's coronation. To help us reduce spam, please tick the reCAPTCHA field. 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. UNESCO World Heritage Site. The expedition starts in Oban and we sail, via the scenic and bird-rich island of Handa, to the enchanting Orkney Islands. Meanwhile, the rich ancient history and numerous archaeological sites offer a fascinating glimpse into the past, with many details of life preserved. VAT Number 125 4899 87. 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. Later you could take a 10 minute ferry journey to the Isle of Bressay to explore the rich natural heritage and incredible wildlife. To help you have an enjoyable holiday in Shetland, Orkney and the Outer Hebrides, take a look at these useful tips and advice provided by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO): Health and Travel InsuranceBritish Citizens are advised by some of our tour operators to have travel insurance before going on a tour or holiday, even if it happens to be in your country of residence. Sign up for our newsletter and unlock exclusive tips and inspiration from our team of travel specialists. 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. Enjoy a relaxing break over the May Day Bank Holiday; Join ORCA on deck of Bolette to spot whales ; Twin room - this is a room for two people sleeping in two separate beds. The UK has a famously unpredictable climate so it's best to be prepared for weather thats sunny one minute and raining the next. 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. Lake District, Yorkshire & Hadrians Wall, Classic Yorkshire: Whitby, York & The Dales, East of England: Cambridge, Norfolk & Suffolk. The diversity of these islands is astounding, a distinctive mixture of Scandinavian history scattered across a rugged Scottish landscape, and a self-drive holiday of Shetland and Orkney guarantees memories to last a lifetime. 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. See the Tall Ships in Lerwick. Callanish Standing StonesLocated in the Outer Hebrides on the west coast of Lewis, the Callanish Standing Stones are a must-see attraction for all visitors to the Western Isles. Any additional charge for the single supplement will be confirmed at the point of final payment and bookings are accepted on this understanding. If you enjoy the art of first-class travel whilst enjoying amazing value then an Escorted Tour is just for you. But the surrounding dwellings and outbuildings date from thousands of years earlier. Enjoy 3 days (3 nights) in Orkney. Supplements may apply. 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. Find out more in our Shetland travel guide. Orkney boasts inspirational landscapes where verdant fields stretch down to pristine beaches and dramatic seas crash against towering cliffs. 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. The Orkney Islands were the Orcades of ancient classical literature. Let Scapa Travel use their extensive local knowledge to create a memorable holiday, tailored specifically for you. If you are keen to take more ferry trips, then island hop through Yell to Unst in the far north. Wild Atlantic Way Discover Cork & Kerry, North Highlands & Orkney Guided Rail Tour, Loch Ness, The Jacobite & Skye Guided Rail Tour, Don't just take our word for it, read independent reviews, Exploring ancient civilisations in Orkney, The Best of Scotlands Highlands & Islands. Experience a unique blend of Scandinavian and Scottish culture, as the Norse history and heritage still shapes these islands today. The nature reserve is the perfect place to spot seabirds such as puffins, guillemots and kittiwakes. Go Scotland Tours is offering a private guided tour combining the Western Isles of Skye, Harris and Lewis with Orkney. The islands geographic location makes it a crossroad for wildlife. Simply pop your details in the box below for the latest news, travel advice, destination inspiration, and special offers delivered straight to your inbox. Exciting destinations. Beautiful beaches, stunning cliffs, ancient settlements and wonderful wildlife-spotting opportunities - Shetland has a lot to offer. Orkney and Shetland, being the nearest western land to Norway, would be first visited. Search. If you go above this allowance you may have to pay tax or duty. Spot dolphins and porpoises in the coastal waters, or breeding seabirds such as puffins and guillemots at Hermaness Nature Reserve. Over 4,000 years old, discoveries here include everything from Stone Age settlements and Bronze Age dwellings to Norse longhouses and medieval farms. It also comprises larger 4* Hotels selected for their high standard of accommodation, exceptional service, and great location. Dine on fresh seafood in cosmopolitan Kirkwall and Lerwick, and enjoy an extensive local craft culture. Be inspired by local artisans from jewellery-making to storytelling, the creative spirit on these islands has thrived for thousands of years. add an extra night or two on each island group to explore in depth? 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. 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. Cruising is another great way of accessing this remote Scottish wilderness, allowing you to explore in comfort. Our local guide will help you to discover ancient civilisations, archaeological delights and bountiful wildlife from our base in the island capital of Kirkwall. All Rights Reserved. Orkney, an ancient cluster of 70 islands brimming with history and dramatic coastlines, lie off the north west coast of Scotland. At the ancient settlement of Jarlshof you can explore 4,000 years of human history. These unassuming islands have a truly magical quality, and civilisation has thrived here for millennia. Available Until September 2023. 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. 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. Family room - this is a room for three people sleeping in one large bed (2 people) and one single bed (1 person). The Shetland Islands are the most northerly part of the United Kingdom, a group of islands 100 miles / 160 km north of mainland Scotland. 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. Non-member fee: 30 per person. Uncover hidden gems and holiday inspiration from our team of travel specialists. NB these cruise details have been updated - Please see the new trip page - Orkney, Shetland, Faroe Islands and St Kilda cruise.. Once your unforgettable excursion comes to an end, make your way to your next base. Although a remote wilderness, there is a lot to do in Shetland, Orkney and the Hebrides. At this fascinating site, we will discover the remains of oval houses from the Bronze Age, an Iron Age broch and Viking longhouses. We strongly recommend that you have travel insurance in place for your trip to Scotland, especially if you are visiting from overseas. 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. All included in the price. All we ask is that you write to us within 7 days of your return and explain your reason for claiming the refund. In the Shetlands, its all about Busta House. Shetland - South Mainland. More details & Book Bank Holiday Escape to Scenic Scotland . We have the application forms in our office at 11 Bridge Street.For more information see www.airdiscountscheme.com, Sign-up to our mailing list for Exclusive Offers. Here we will have some free time to explore this charming town with its stone-paved alleys, granite houses and independent shops. Sign up for latest offers and top sellers. Highlights of Orkney & Shetland. Overnight Orkney, Take the opportunity to visit one of Orkneys smaller isles. The Norsmen left their mark on the islands and some of the Norse legends and customs are still kept alive during festivals . 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. This is a customizable tour and can be tailor-made to your preference. We also include a Boat trip around Noss during your time on Shetland (please note this only runs between May and mid-September). 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. Make sure you visit Jarlshof, another incredible prehistoric site exposed in violent storms in the last couple of centuries. Once checked-in onboard head to your comfortable twin-berth cabin with en-suite bathroom or enjoy time exploring the ship's many facilities. View our privacy policy. This is a far cry in both style and location from a chain hotel and all rooms are individually decorated. 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. I have never been that far north before. 9 miles (15.5 km) with 1,280 feet (380m) of ascent. These tours are immensely popular so expect to be travelling in the company of like-minded travellers from around the world. Orkney To Shetland Via Fair Isle & Shetland To Orkney Via Fair Isle. With their northerly location, the best time to visit is between March and November, with the long days of summer a particularly appealing time. Topped by a prehistoric chambered burial cairn, the summit offers a breathtaking panorama across this ice-carved landscape. Saga Cruises; Disney Cruises; Cruise Ships. 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. Other notable islands include Hoy for the dramatic Old Man of Hoy sea stack and Scapa Flow Visitor Centre and Museum; the Brough of Birsay with its Norse ruins; Rousay for over 100 archaeological sites; and North Ronaldsay which has a unique heritage and history. Weather permitting, enjoy a welcome drink on the small terrace, which overlooks the distinctive pagoda-roof of the neighbours: the Highland Park distillery. Almost but not quite a separate island, Northmavine is joined to the rest of the Shetland Mainland at Mavis Grind where the relentless Atlantic Ocean has nearly cut through to the North Sea. Our first visits are to the Ring of Brodgar and the Standing Stones of Stenness. Shetland Isles wildlife holiday. Spirit of Discovery departing Tilbury. This mysterious place of long days and colourful night skies is home to a wealth of sea life and sea birds, not . Depart Lerwick at the end of the afternoon for the overnight journey on the cruise class Northlink Ferries service to Aberdeen. Youll board your ferry to Orkney in the afternoon and arrive in Kirkwall, the historic capital of Orkney, later this evening. We also offer a fly-drive holiday as an alternative way to visit Orkney & Shetland. Group transfer to Sumburgh airport for your return flight. Rated 4.88 out of 5 based on 5,609 reviews. Earl Sigurd takes control. 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. In a land that's been largely tamed, they remain rare unspoiled outposts of rugged coastline and remote beauty. Orkney played a vital role during both World Wars, and this afternoon we will travel to see Scapa Flow which provided a sheltered anchorage for the British naval fleet. You will not be able to use this site without JavaScript. On arrival, we visit Sumburgh Head RSPB reserve. We depart Aberdeen at 19:00 hrs, and a short time later, dinner will be served in the ship's restaurant. All itineraries and room types are presented subject to availability at specific hotels. Topped by a prehistoric chambered burial cairn, the summit offers a breathtaking panorama across this ice-carved landscape. Find out everything you need to know about planning a trip to Scotland's incredible Northern Isles. The UKs bestselling monthly subscription magazine. It's a favourite with twitchers, who flock here to enjoy sensational seabird colonies and rare species. 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. Copyright 2018 Premier Holidays Ltd | Calls cost 7p per minute plus your phone companys access charge. Usually the coach will arrive at the overnight stop between 16:30 and 17:00 hrs each day. Accept. But forget the . Norse settlers named it Fridarey - 'the island of peace' - but this stepping stone in the sea was also vital in times of strife, when the Earls of Orkney, and . An experienced tour manager will lead the tour and your coach will be expertly driven by a professional driver. 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.