Youll find our Escorted Tours to be memorable - for all the right reasons! Spirit of Adventure departing Dover. Overnight Shetland. Be aware of your surroundings and don't venture off on your own. Tour Departs: TBA hrs Let us know if we can tailor-make it for you to link with a self-drive tour of the Scottish Highlands. 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 . AccommodationThe price of this tour includes hotel accommodation/ferry cabin with en-suite bathroom. 01273 823 700 . Travel to Orkney by ferry from Caithness, on the north coast of Scotland, with the crossing taking just under an hour. It's a favourite with twitchers, who flock here to enjoy sensational seabird colonies and rare species. Tour Details. Overnight: Busta House Hotel/Brae Hotel, Shetland (or similar). Cycling for Softies is a luxury cycling tour operator providing gourmet cycling adventures in France and Italy. All holidays are subject to availability. Although a remote wilderness, there is a lot to do in Shetland, Orkney and the Hebrides. ABTA and ABTA Members help holidaymakers to get the most from their travel and assist them when things do not go according to plan. 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. 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. There will be a stop where can enjoy time off the coach and buy refreshments. Read more, Need something more tailored? Topped by a prehistoric chambered burial cairn, the summit offers a breathtaking panorama across this ice-carved landscape. Connections are available from other airports in the UK, Europ Book with Scapa Travel to get your 50% discount on eligible Scottish routes.The discount applies to residents of Orkney, Shetland, Caithness, NorthWest Sutherland, the Western Isles,Colonsay, Islay and Jura, with a valid Air Discount Scheme card and PIN number. Tallest Sea Cliffs in Britain. Tour Returns: TBA hrs, Outside Reception at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Edinburgh111 Glasgow Road Edinburgh EH12 8NF, Check-in: TBA hrs The Shetlands were pawned for a further 8,000 florins. 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 . Enchanting Orkney is a smorgasbord of must-see sites and cultural attractions scattered across70 islands. 2,268. Prices are based on two people sharing a room for this six night holiday and includes breakfast in both hotels, ferry crossings from Caithness to Orkney, from Orkney to Shetland and from Lerwick to Aberdeen. Our ships are smaller, but wonderfully spacious. Weve had a long love affair with Orkneys family-run Merkister Hotel, not least for its enviable setting on the shores of Harray Loch. Borealis. Experience the unique islands of Shetland and Orkney, with mysterious prehistoric sites, natural wonders and breathtaking scenery waiting around every corner. 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. Thousands of seabirds including gannets, guillemots and kittiwakes nest and feed in the Noss Nature Reserve. It makes everything so easy, especially when youre chauffeur driven from your own front door. We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA's Code of Conduct. Toggle navigation. All packages that include flights are ATOL protected. This trip is operated by our England team. With 70 magical islands its difficult to know where to begin. 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. 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. 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. 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. This 16th century lairds manor has bags of historic charm, as well as a roaring fireplace for chilly days, and a well-stocked whisky selection. Book your holiday today with Planet Cruise! 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. 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. From getting to know you by name to remembering your favourite drink at the bar, youll always receive personal, attentive service. To prevent further attacks, a series of four barriers were constructed using Italian prisoners of war. Book your tailor-made holiday to Offers with Premier Holidays. The Shetland Islands are the most northerly part of the United Kingdom, a group of islands 100 miles / 160 km north of mainland Scotland. We depart Aberdeen at 19:00 hrs, and a short time later, dinner will be served in the ship's restaurant. If you plan to bring your own vehicle, we are also able to offer this itinerary without a rental car. Island hop the wild Scottish Northern Isles on this week's holiday to Orkney and Shetland From 895 to 1015 7 days ex flights. Scalloway CastleWhen visiting the Shetland Isles, why not visit Scalloway Castle? These mysterious stone circles are amongst the most significant in Europe and are some 5,000 years old. Enjoy 3 days (3 nights) in Orkney. We also include a Boat trip around Noss during your time on Shetland (please note this only runs between May and mid-September). 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. Please contact us for information on child prices. With their northerly location, the best time to visit is between March and November, with the long days of summer a particularly appealing time. We then rejoin our transport for the scenic transfer to Busta House. View our Full Privacy Notice, Read independent reviews from ourcustomers. Orkney and Shetland, off the north coast of Scotland. Shetland and the Tall Ships. 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. We then have two full days to tour Shetland. Visitors can climb up the tower of the Castle and visit the Scalloway Museum which is located next door. Archaeological Treasures of Orkney and Shetland, Location:Northlink Ferry (1); Busta, Shetland Islands (1) and Kirkwall, Orkney islands (3), Admission to Scalloway Castle, Jarlshof, Ring of Brodgar, Stenness Standing Stones, Maeshowe, Skara Brae and Italian Chapel, Touring by luxury air-conditioned coach with reclining seats, All baggage handling and hotel tips are included, Services throughout the tour of a professional Tour Director. 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 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! 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. If you are keen to take more ferry trips, then island hop through Yell to Unst in the far north. Find out more in our Shetland travel guide. 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. Historic and Cultural Tours. View our privacy policy. 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. 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. 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. 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. It is a wild and dramatic place. Registered office 11 Bridge Street, Kirkwall, Orkney, KW151 HR. [1] Language: EnglishCurrency: Pound SterlingTime Zone: GMTTipping: 10 to 12% is usual for hotels with 10 to 15% being usual for restaurants. Spirit of Discovery departing Dover. Shetland Isles wildlife holiday. Later you could take a 10 minute ferry journey to the Isle of Bressay to explore the rich natural heritage and incredible wildlife. (Read 1 review) Late availability on these dates: 15 Apr, 13 May. Wilderness England creates incredible journeys to the wild and magical outdoor spaces across Yorkshire, the Lake District, Northumberland, the Cotswolds and the Peak District. Several of the prisoners have returned to Orkney over the years to assist with the restoration of the building. Highlights of Orkney and Shetland6 day/5 night. Sign up for our newsletter and be the first to hear about trip news, blogs and offers. Prepare for cool windy weather so that you can take time to enjoy the amazing archeology you visit. Make the most of your time on the islands on this carefully-curated itinerary accessible by flight from central Scotland. Shetland - South Mainland. Go Scotland Tours is offering a private guided tour combining the Western Isles of Skye, Harris and Lewis with Orkney. Clicking on the link below will redirect you to the Wilderness England website. Scapa Travel sells travel services on behalf of Hays Travel Limited and benefits from Hays Travel's membership of ABTA with membership number P8418. Uncover hidden gems and holiday inspiration from our team of travel specialists. Between the rugged cliffs at Yesnaby in the west and the sandy beaches of Deerness in the east, lie rolling green hills and wild heather moors. 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. Explore the islands' Norse heritage on a coach holiday, where the sound of fiddles can still be heard drifting through the fresh air. 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. 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. Many coaches are equipped with WiFi too. Day 5. Shetland Islands, also called Zetland or Shetland, group of about 100 islands, fewer than 20 of them inhabited, in Scotland, 130 miles (210 km) north of the Scottish mainland, at the northern extremity of the United Kingdom. Thats why all of the accommodation we select is hand-picked using our first-hand knowledge of the best places to stay. These departure dates can be booked with flights or as land only holiday options. Selecting the right sleeping arrangements can be a little bit confusing, so here is a description of what you can expect from the hotel accommodation offered as part of your tour: Single room - this is a room for one person sleeping in a single bed. A holiday to the islands of Orkney and Shetland has it all. ARE YOU A SOLO TRAVELLER WILLING TO SHARE? Orkney is a land of opportunity forged by 5,000 years of unique history. Excellent array of hotels and self-catering options across Jersey and Guernsey. Its a great way to make new friends! Among the settlements on Mainland, the largest island, is Scalloway, a fishing port. Orkney boasts inspirational landscapes where verdant fields stretch down to pristine beaches and dramatic seas crash against towering cliffs. Youll board your ferry to Orkney in the afternoon and arrive in Kirkwall, the historic capital of Orkney, later this evening. 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. Last month I was in Orkney for the first time. Spend two days exploring some of the many island treasures, including Scalloway Castle and Jarlshof, an outstanding example of . North Hanover Street Bus Stance, Glasgow, G1 2BP. To make it easier, heres a list of items you should consider packing. Buy your own drinks and keep sight of them at all times. All sorts of nature abound here, from seals and otters to ponies and hundreds of birds, making it a wildlife lover's paradise. 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. The islands are a birdwatchers' paradise and one of the major seabird breeding and feeding areas in the North Atlantic. Walking is a wonderful way to discover the Orkney Islands. Popular attractions Orkney Wireless Museum and St. Magnus Cathedral are located . Inspiring options. 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. Florida; Las Vegas & The West . The drive north covers wonderful coastal scenery and normally takes around 3-4 hours including photo stops and a brief visit to the historic town of Dornoch. A holiday to the islands of Orkney and Shetland has it all. 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. Photo: juvlai, CC BY-SA 2.0. 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. Take the opportunity to visit one of Orkneys smaller isles. On Mainland . There are so many reasons why Saga stands out from other cruise lines. Make sure you visit Jarlshof, another incredible prehistoric site exposed in violent storms in the last couple of centuries. A BSpoke Tour is all about being as restful or as adventurous as you desire. For all their differences, these islands share a similar feel: weather-beaten archipelagos with more in common with the Faroes than mainland Scotland. These treasures are of such importance that UNESCO has designated them a World Heritage site. 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. Pop into the Shetland Crofthouse Museum in Dunrossness, a restored 19th century Shetland croft which was inhabited until the 1960s. Built in 1600, this castle was once the home of the Earl of Orkney. 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. In a land thats been largely tamed, they remain rare unspoiled outposts of rugged coastline and remote beauty. A quick introduction. 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. add an extra night or two on each island group to explore in depth? 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.