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. Where Scotland meets Scandinavia, this wild and remote corner of northern Britain is truly remarkable. At this fascinating site, we will discover the remains of oval houses from the Bronze Age, an Iron Age broch and Viking longhouses. Topped by a prehistoric chambered burial cairn, the summit offers a breathtaking panorama across this ice-carved landscape. Shetland is home to a world-class diversity of wildlife, from puffins and seals to purpoises and even whales. 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. It also comprises larger 4* Hotels selected for their high standard of accommodation, exceptional service, and great location. To purchase a policy speak to your insurance broker or undertake a search on-line. 8.4/5 (52 reviews) Great place! 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. 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. We will never share your data with third parties for marketing purposes. 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 then have two full days to tour Shetland. Step back into the Stone Age in the Orkney and Shetland Islands, and come face-to-face with the legacy of the Vikings amid the turf-roofed cottages and ancient sites of the Faroes. Experience the unique islands of Shetland and Orkney, with mysterious prehistoric sites, natural wonders and breathtaking scenery waiting around every corner. 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. VAT Number 125 4899 87. 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! Tour Returns: TBA hrs, Outside Reception at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Edinburgh111 Glasgow Road Edinburgh EH12 8NF, Check-in: TBA hrs In a land that's been largely tamed, they remain rare unspoiled outposts of rugged coastline and remote beauty. The holiday ideas on our website are just examples of the amazing trips we offer. We then rejoin our transport for the scenic transfer to Busta House. Small group travel: 2023: 15 Apr, 13 May. Look out for the gargoyles which a former owner rescued from the Houses of Parliament in London. The ultimate collection of European cycling holidays. 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 . Enjoy a relaxing break over the May Day Bank Holiday; Join ORCA on deck of Bolette to spot whales ; Day 5. If you would like to spend an extra night or two on either Orkney or Shetland, wed be delighted to assist. 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. 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. The Tower has been restored over the past century, however not all of the original structure still remains. However the earldom began, by the time of Earl Sigurd we are heading into more reliable territory - although still laced with myth and folklore. At Aberdeen Harbour, we join the Northlink ferry for the overnight crossing to Shetland. Visit the Bishops and Earls Palaces where you can learn of a time when Orkney was part of the Norse-held kingdom of Nordreyjar. 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. add an extra night or two on each island group to explore in depth? 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 more details. Non-member fee: 30 per person. Finally, a laird's house was constructed on the site in the 1600s. Guide Lorraine gives an insight into this ancient archipelago. Island hop the wild Scottish Northern Isles on this week's holiday to Orkney and Shetland From 895 to 1015 7 days ex flights. During our time here will visit the RSPB reserve which is home to many species of seabirds including puffins, guillemots and razorbills. At 1,475 feet (450m) this is Shetlands highest peak. The Shetlands were pawned for a further 8,000 florins. Welcome to the incredible archipelago of Orkney! If a service charge has already been added, no further tip is required. ARE YOU A SOLO TRAVELLER WILLING TO SHARE? This trip is operated by our England team. I have never been that far north before. Arrive in Aberdeen at 0700 and enjoy breakfast on board before disembarking and continuing your onward journey. Time to return home. Inspiring options. Youll find comfortable public areas with free Wi-Fi, as well as a cosy bar, and handy drying facilities, too. We guarantee to refund this service charge if you believe that arranging your holiday through McKinlay Kidd has not met your expectations for value. Shes the beautiful sister to Spirit of Discovery, but has a whole host of surprises of her own, including exciting new restaurants. 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 . Stretching off Scotlands north coast are Shetland and Orkney, two very special archipelagos where Scotland meets Scandinavia. Designed with our guests in mind, our modern sister ships offer small-ship luxury with a private balcony for every guest. In the Shetlands, its all about Busta House. One of the most beautiful and rugged of the Orkney Islands, Hoy is much more akin to the Scottish Highlands than the rolling countryside and crofts found across the archipelago. These cliffs are bursting with an extraordinary range of wildlife, such as seals, puffins, gannets and whales. This mysterious place of long days and colourful night skies is home to a wealth of sea life and sea birds, not . Providing inspiring active experiences, immerse yourself in the unique landscapes, history, culture and wildlife on a Wilderness England adventure. Relaxing hotel-based holidays in the sun, with a Saga host on hand. Continue to the rugged Shetland archipelago to visit Lerwick as it hosts the annual Tall Ships Races. Tour Details. Over 4,000 years old, discoveries here include everything from Stone Age settlements and Bronze Age dwellings to Norse longhouses and medieval farms. Shetland Isles wildlife holiday. Next, sail southwards to reach the Orkney Islands, where we'll discover the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a UNESCO World Heritage site that includes Skara Brae, Maeshowe and the Ring of Brodgar Stone Circle. 9 miles (14km) with 760 feet (230m) of ascent. 999 pp. A BSpoke Tour is all about being as restful or as adventurous as you desire. In the afternoon well visit Maes Howe, one of the most treasured Neolithic sites in Europe. Youll be in good company if you choose to take dinner at your hotel, a popular destination for locals as well as visitors. Be inspired by local artisans from jewellery-making to storytelling, the creative spirit on these islands has thrived for thousands of years. Look out for the lighthouse, opened in 1929 its powerful light can be seen from 46 km away. 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. Experience the unique islands of Shetland and Orkney, with mysterious prehistoric sites, natural wonders and breathtaking scenery waiting around every corner. We will communicate with you from time to time about our products and services, similar to those currently featured on our website. More than a million birds breed in very large colonies. Soak up the history and imagine life in eras gone by! During the Neolithic and Early Bronze Age, the people of Orkney and Shetland were among the first in Britain to begin building Megalithic chamber tombs and later henge monuments. Shetland & Orkney Island Holidays . Be the first to hear about all things HF Holidays. Scapa Travel is a trading name of Scapa Travel Limited who are registered in Scotland with company number SC438791, and VAT number 115719224. Arrive on Orkney and settle in to the Merkister Hotel. 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. Do take a walk in the gardens which stretch down to the water. In a land thats been largely tamed, they remain rare unspoiled outposts of rugged coastline and remote beauty. Photo: juvlai, CC BY-SA 2.0. 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. With a maximum of 15 passengers per group, you can be sure of . 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. Meanwhile seals laze on rocks beneath the cliffs or nose around the boat. Regional departures and/or connections to London, if available, can be requested. Orkney is a land of opportunity forged by 5,000 years of unique history. Overnight Orkney, Take the opportunity to visit one of Orkneys smaller isles. 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. Language: EnglishCurrency: Pound SterlingTime Zone: GMTTipping: 10 to 12% is usual for hotels with 10 to 15% being usual for restaurants. A genuine feel pervades this small family owned hotel, located on the edge of Kirkwall. Travel to the wild and glorious peninsula of Northmavine. Many coaches are equipped with WiFi too. 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. 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. 638 ratings70 reviews. They branded their services "P&O Ferries" from 1975 to 1989 and "P&O Scottish Ferries" thereafter. As a British citizen you will be entitled to free emergency health care on the NHS.If you are visiting Scotland from outside the United Kingdom and fall ill or are involved in an accident and are from any member of the European Economic Area or Switzerland, you can obtain free or reduced cost treatment with The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Registered office 11 Bridge Street, Kirkwall, Orkney, KW151 HR. Some cruises also incorporate the Faroe Isles. From getting to know you by name to remembering your favourite drink at the bar, youll always receive personal, attentive service. Local Laws and CustomsQueuing is a British Institution - jump a queue at your own risk!Drug offences will carry penalties in the UK, so avoid getting involved with anything whilst in Scotland. From 565, the time when Orkney and Shetland were Christianised, three generations, or ninety-nine years, would be ample time to account for the Pictish ecclesiastical monuments of which the remains have been found. Our local guide will help you to discover ancient civilisations, archaeological delights and bountiful wildlife from our base in the island capital of Kirkwall. The island's attractions include . To make it easier, heres a list of items you should consider packing. Shetland's other great Viking site is over on the northern island of Unst, reached by a succession of roll-on, roll-off car ferries from Mainland, the largest island in the group. This is a far cry in both style and location from a chain hotel and all rooms are individually decorated. 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. Studio Tour London - Harry Potter, Peaky Blinders Filming Location Tours 2023. For group bookings of 10+ people click here. Built in 1600, this castle was once the home of the Earl of Orkney. FAQsPlease see the FAQ section for more information on this tour. More likely we will be sailing for part of a night or a very early/late start and a long day. Fiercely independent and sprinkled with Scandinavian tradition, this pair of wild windswept archipelagos offer an island-hopping holiday that ticks-off squawking seabird . Florida; Las Vegas & The West . 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. Enjoy a fascinating talk from historian Nick Card on the Orkney Islands' Neolithic past. Discover their all-balcony cabins, huge choice of included speciality restaurants and bars, and an outdoor lido with a full wraparound deck. From Glasgow and Edinburgh, we travel northwards through the Kingdom of Fife to reach Dundee, which sits overlooking the River Tay. 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. 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. Outstanding scenery, exceptional wildlife, ancient history, traditional crafts and world-class diving. View our Full Privacy Notice, Read independent reviews from ourcustomers. Duration 6 Days. Its a great way to make new friends! How do I get there? Experience a unique blend of Scandinavian and Scottish culture, as the Norse history and heritage still shapes these islands today. Family room - this is a room for three people sleeping in one large bed (2 people) and one single bed (1 person). Group transfer to Sumburgh airport for your return flight. 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. If you are happy with the details you have provided above then click Submit Form to send us your enquiry. View our privacy policy. If you enjoy the art of first-class travel whilst enjoying amazing value then an Escorted Tour is just for you. Once we make landfall expect day sailing among the islands and skerries. 2,599. 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. Standing guard to warn the passing ships is the Sumburgh Lighthouse, designed by the grandfather of the famous author Robert Louis Stevenson. Lake District, Yorkshire & Hadrians Wall, Classic Yorkshire: Whitby, York & The Dales, East of England: Cambridge, Norfolk & Suffolk. Take the strain off holiday planning with a bespoke package holiday or group trip to Shetland. Its just six miles from Skara Brae and has an award-winning restaurant overlooking the loch, serving outstanding Scottish seafood and Aberdeen Angus beef. Each one is all inclusive, and youll have your own private balcony to enjoy every destination in style. 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. In no time youll be sailing away to one unforgettable destination after another. A collection of quality 4* Guest Houses and 3* Hotels often located in beautiful locations which provide an excellent standard of accommodation. Orkney, an ancient cluster of 70 islands brimming with history and dramatic coastlines, lie off the north west coast of Scotland. Scapa Travel sells travel services on behalf of Hays Travel Limited and benefits from Hays Travel's membership of ABTA with membership number P8418. enquiries@absoluteescapes.com. Overnight Orkney. Spirit of Discovery departing Dover. 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 innovative Shetland Museum and Archives tells the fascinating story of these islands and is well worth visiting. 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. 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. Departing by Coach. 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. Discover what makes the perfect boutique cruise experience, every time. Sign up for latest offers and top sellers. Britain's original ski travel agency and tailor-made ski tour operator, Ski Solutions has been arranging ski holidays for over 30 years across Europe and North America. Does equity release affect inheritance tax. Discover squawking seabird colonies, staggering scenery, and some of the best-preserved Neolithic ruins in Europe as you island hop between Mainland . We love the opportunity to use our first-hand knowledge and experience to design and deliver the perfect, bespoke holiday experience for you. 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. Another day you might head for South Ronaldsay now connected by the famous Churchill Barriers to the Mainland. More details & Book Bank Holiday Escape to Scenic Scotland . Thousands of seabirds including gannets, guillemots and kittiwakes nest and feed in the Noss Nature Reserve.
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