, Duration: 9 Days / 8 Nights. Consequently, bedrooms and bathrooms come in varying shapes and sizes. For anyone easily seduced by big skies, sea views, and wide-open spaces, Orkney is always a good idea. The Stones were erected around 3000BC and it is thought that they were some kind of astronomical calendar associated with the moon. A genuine feel pervades this small family owned hotel, located on the edge of Kirkwall. Be inspired by local artisans from jewellery-making to storytelling, the creative spirit on these islands has thrived for thousands of years. 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. 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. In the afternoon well visit Maes Howe, one of the most treasured Neolithic sites in Europe. 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. Both have featured recently on the BBC, yet in very contrasting ways: Orkney is hailed for its rich folklore, prehistoric sites and abundance of wildlife, while Shetland owes its ever increasing . Outside these hours you can email one of our team atreservations@hfholidays.co.uk, or make a booking online. The services were taken over by NorthLink Orkney and Shetland Ferries in 2002. Your accommodation is great for the little personal touches. Our packages include car rental and comprehensive insurance for the duration of your holiday. Relaxing hotel-based holidays in the sun, with a Saga host on hand. The Norsmen left their mark on the islands and some of the Norse legends and customs are still kept alive during festivals . Day 5. Today visitors can see eight dwellings, each connected by a series of low passageways. Borealis. Be the first to hear about all things HF Holidays. USA. They constitute the Shetland Islands council area and the historic county of Shetland. Here we will have some free time to explore this charming town with its stone-paved alleys, granite houses and independent shops. 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. Please ensure you tick the reCAPTCHA checkbox to show you're not a spam bot! The Ayre Hotel. These are wonderfully charming and intimate and run with great flair by their owners. We use your data to prepare holiday proposals and to make bookings for you if you choose to go ahead. Our sociable ships have been designed with more than 100 single balcony cabins, the widest selection on the ocean wave. From 799pp. Our local guide will help you to discover ancient civilisations, archaeological delights and bountiful wildlife from our base in the island capital of Kirkwall. It's a short drive to our hotel for the next three nights. Sign up for our newsletter and unlock exclusive tips and inspiration from our team of travel specialists. Our latest all-balcony boutique ship launched in the summer of 2021. 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. At Aberdeen Harbour, we join the Northlink ferry for the overnight crossing to Shetland. ABTA and ABTA Members help holidaymakers to get the most from their travel and assist them when things do not go according to plan. Spirit of Adventure departing Dover. 999 pp. Explore archaeological wonders such as Skara Brae, Jarlshof, the Ring of Brodgar, and the Standing Stones of Stenness. Find out more in our Shetland travel guide. Watch for dolphins which sometimes play in the bow waves. Spirit of Discovery departing Dover. The UKs bestselling monthly subscription magazine. Contact us via email: If you would like to spend an extra night or two on either Orkney or Shetland, wed be delighted to assist. Another day you might head for South Ronaldsay now connected by the famous Churchill Barriers to the Mainland. Registered Office: Enbrook Park, Folkestone, Kent, CT20 3SE. Wherever you cruise on Spirit of Adventure and Spirit of Discovery, youll always step aboard here in the UK. With over 100 islands contributing to over 1,500 miles of coastline, there is something to discover around every corner, from the entrancing blend of Scottish and Scandinavian culture to the dramatic . Tour Returns: TBA hrs. A collection of 3* B&Bs and Guest Houses offering comfortable accommodation close to local attractions. We suggest an early start today - there's a lot to fit in! Their warm hospitality is sure to be a highlight of your Scottish experience. Visit the Orkneyinga Viking history interpretation centre to learn more. 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. Some cruises also incorporate the Faroe Isles. Scapa Travel is a trading name of Scapa Travel Limited who are registered in Scotland with company number SC438791, and VAT number 115719224. A chat with your warm and friendly hosts and fellow guests over breakfast will arm you with local knowledge and tips for the day ahead. Written around AD 1200 by an unnamed Icelandic author, the Orkneyinga Saga is an intriguing fusion of myth, legend and history. 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. The UK has a famously unpredictable climate so it's best to be prepared for weather thats sunny one minute and raining the next. Meanwhile, the rich ancient history and numerous archaeological sites offer a fascinating glimpse into the past, with many details of life preserved. Enjoy a complimentary chauffeur service, wines, premium spirits, speciality dining, gratuities, Wi-Fi and travel insurance. Do take a walk in the gardens which stretch down to the water. Starts from: Edinburgh. Does equity release affect inheritance tax. 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. Nowhere else in Britain, and hardly anywhere else in Europe, can you get so close, so easily, to so many seabirds. Buses and trains to Orkney. This iconic sea stack is only a few hundred years old. 18 Hours of Midsummer Sun. In 1850 a fierce storm hit the Orkney Isles and the site of Skara Brae was uncovered; previously it was hidden beneath a grass mound. Inspiring options. A stunning island destination closer to home, the Shetland Isles are one of Scotland's most popular and it is not hard to see why. How do I get there? 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. Spend two days exploring some of the many island treasures, including Scalloway Castle and Jarlshof, an outstanding example of . All our holiday prices include a service charge of 9 per person per night towards the costs we incur in researching, planning and designing your holiday. VAT Number 125 4899 87. Topped by a prehistoric chambered burial cairn, the summit offers a breathtaking panorama across this ice-carved landscape. This picturesque spring Orkney & Shetland Mini Cruise combines coastal scenery with fascinating history. 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. and a self-drive holiday of Shetland and Orkney guarantees memories to last a . Any additional charge for the single supplement will be confirmed at the point of final payment and bookings are accepted on this understanding. 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. For all their differences, these islands share a similar feel: weather-beaten archipelagos with more in common with the Faroes than mainland Scotland. 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 . From jagged cliffs to unspoilt beaches and stone . Travel to the wild and glorious peninsula of Northmavine. A quick introduction. UNESCO World Heritage Site. 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. 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. Guided wildlife tour of Shetland Isles. Outstanding scenery, exceptional wildlife, ancient history, traditional crafts and world-class diving. 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. More details & Book Bank Holiday Escape to Scenic Scotland . Excellent and Friendly Staff!! 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 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! Overnight Orkney. Well also visit the impressive archaeological site of Jarlshof. Sign up for latest offers and top sellers. 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. We can book package holidays including flights from the UK, hotel . Finally, a laird's house was constructed on the site in the 1600s. Once checked-in onboard head to your comfortable twin-berth cabin with en-suite bathroom or enjoy time exploring the ship's many facilities. Be aware of your surroundings and don't venture off on your own. Language: EnglishCurrency: Pound SterlingTime Zone: GMTTipping: 10 to 12% is usual for hotels with 10 to 15% being usual for restaurants. 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. Orkney To Shetland Via Fair Isle & Shetland To Orkney Via Fair Isle. Think of this itinerary as a starting point which can be tailored into something completely unique to you by our award-winning specialists. But forget the . 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. With 70 magical islands its difficult to know where to begin. Jna Sparey has been organising and conducting tours to Iceland - her Mother's homeland - and to many other places around the world since 1985. Our first walk on Orkney follows a clifftop coastal path from Marwick Bay to the Brough of Birsay, overlooking RSPB Marwick Head reserve. 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. 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. Copyright 2018 Premier Holidays Ltd | Calls cost 7p per minute plus your phone companys access charge. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking and breakfast. At 1,475 feet (450m) this is Shetlands highest peak. 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. Many people have landed there before you . 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. 2,268. You could visit the mighty Cathedral of St Mangus, which was begun in 1137. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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 . Day 9. 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. Call for options 01904 521 936. 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. The islanders themselves feel a strong local identity and you can be guaranteed a warm island welcome and some fantastic local fresh food. 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. Shetland Isles wildlife holiday. Later, in medieval times, farmsteads were also built here. 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. Although a remote wilderness, there is a lot to do in Shetland, Orkney and the Hebrides. The natural beauty of Orkneys landscape boasts a rich variety of scenery. Thousands of seabirds including gannets, guillemots and kittiwakes nest and feed in the Noss Nature Reserve. 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. 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. You do not have any pinned holidays. The Orkneyinga saga (Old Norse: [orknyje s]; also called the History of the Earls of Orkney and Jarls' Saga) is a narrative of the history of the Orkney and Shetland islands and their relationship with other local polities, particularly Norway and Scotland.The saga has "no parallel in the social and literary record of Scotland" and is "the only medieval chronicle to have . We also include a Boat trip around Noss during your time on Shetland (please note this only runs between May and mid-September). Visitors can climb up the tower of the Castle and visit the Scalloway Museum which is located next door. Built in 1600, this castle was once the home of the Earl of Orkney. 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. 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. Available Until September 2023. 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. Later return to Kirkwall where dinner is served in our hotel. Warner Bros. These stones have continued to mystify and amaze visitors with questions such as 'who built them?' Book a package holiday. Cruising is another great way of accessing this remote Scottish wilderness, allowing you to explore in comfort. Depart Lerwick at the end of the afternoon for the overnight journey on the cruise class Northlink Ferries service to Aberdeen. Enjoy a fascinating talk from historian Nick Card on the Orkney Islands' Neolithic past. Make the most of your time on the islands on this carefully-curated itinerary accessible by flight from central Scotland. There are so many reasons why Saga stands out from other cruise lines. 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. Orkney and Shetland, being the nearest western land to Norway, would be first visited. We'll always treat your personal details with the utmost care. 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. Arrive into Lerwick, Shetland early this morning. Its a great way to make new friends! Arrive on Orkney and settle in to the Merkister Hotel. ARE YOU A SOLO TRAVELLER WILLING TO SHARE? 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. BSpoke's cycling experts can tailor-make your perfect cycling holiday where you can travel at your own pace or in a group of like-minded individuals. Later we make the short drive to Sumburgh Head, where the waters of the North Sea meet the waves of the Atlantic Ocean. At 1,475 feet (450m) this is Shetlands highest peak. Orkney & Shetland Start your journey by travelling from Orkney from Scrabster near Thurso, where you will find your hotel which is . Once your unforgettable excursion comes to an end, make your way to your next base. If you go above this allowance you may have to pay tax or duty. Later you could take a 10 minute ferry journey to the Isle of Bressay to explore the rich natural heritage and incredible wildlife. Theres an opportunity to learn about Shetlands heritage at the Tangwick Haa museum today as we circumnavigate the beautiful Eshaness peninsula. With a maximum of 15 passengers per group, you can be sure of . At this fascinating site, we will discover the remains of oval houses from the Bronze Age, an Iron Age broch and Viking longhouses. You will travel aboard a state of the art motorcoach with air-conditioning, reclining seats, oversized windows and emergency washroom. Welcome to life in the easy lane. If you wish to combine these categories or perhaps upgrade for a special occasion let us know in your enquiry. All sorts of nature abound here, from seals and otters to ponies and hundreds of birds, making it a wildlife lover's paradise. You will not be able to use this site without JavaScript. Discover squawking seabird colonies, staggering scenery, and some of the best-preserved Neolithic ruins in Europe as you island hop between Mainland . Take the strain off holiday planning with a bespoke package holiday or group trip to Shetland. Youll board your ferry to Orkney in the afternoon and arrive in Kirkwall, the historic capital of Orkney, later this evening. 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. 9 miles (14km) with 760 feet (230m) of ascent. The best time to visit is during what Shetlanders call the . enquiries@absoluteescapes.com. The restaurant prides itself on local produce, prepared to make the most of the fresh flavours. As you sail below, the screeching is deafening, and youll feel very outnumbered, a stranger invading their territory. 2023 HF Holidays Limited. 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. Highlights of Orkney & Shetland. 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. These unassuming islands have a truly magical quality, and civilisation has thrived here for millennia. Orkney and Shetland, off the north coast of Scotland. Cycling for Softies is a luxury cycling tour operator providing gourmet cycling adventures in France and Italy. Join us on a stunning journey to the unforgettable Orkney Islands, a little-visited archipelago of some 70 small islands and skerries due north of the Scottish mainland. Departing by Coach. During the hour-long sailing look out for porpoises, dolphins and minke whales that can often be seen. Discover more at the visitor centre which provides touch-screen presentations and a wide range of artefacts that have excavated from the site. 10 Day Shetland & Orkney Car Tour. Highlights of Orkney and Shetland6 day/5 night. Easy to download as a PDF, our trip notes provide detailed information for every holiday. Photo: juvlai, CC BY-SA 2.0. Tour Returns: TBA hrs, Outside Reception at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Edinburgh111 Glasgow Road Edinburgh EH12 8NF, Check-in: TBA hrs The island's attractions include . Contact usEmail: info@scapatravel.co.ukTelephone: 01856 889040, Our opening hours are:Monday to Friday 10am to 4pmSaturday 11am to 3pm. 8 miles (13.5km) with 850 feet (260m) of ascent. Read 20 . 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 . Arrive into Lerwick, Shetland early this morning. Highlights of Orkney and Shetland6 day/5 night. We will never share your data with third parties for marketing purposes. Outstanding scenery, exceptional wildlife, ancient history, traditional crafts and world-class diving. Walking is a wonderful way to discover the Orkney Islands. Shetland - South Mainland. At the ancient settlement of Jarlshof you can explore 4,000 years of human history. 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. 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. When's the best time to visit? Judi Florence Self Guided - The West Highland Way Reviewed on 08/10/2018. Today you'll be heading south to experience remarkable heritage sites. 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 . Let Scapa Travel use their extensive local knowledge to create a memorable holiday, tailored specifically for you. During our time here will visit the RSPB reserve which is home to many species of seabirds including puffins, guillemots and razorbills. Call and speak to one of our travel experts who have experienced Shetland & Orkney Islands personally. 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. Enjoy 3 days (3 nights) in Orkney. Over 4,000 years old, discoveries here include everything from Stone Age settlements and Bronze Age dwellings to Norse longhouses and medieval farms. Cabin upgrades may also be available on request. Toggle navigation. This amazingly well-preserved village was built 5,000 years ago. Calls cost 7p per minute plus your phone companys access charge. 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. Spot dolphins and porpoises in the coastal waters, or breeding seabirds such as puffins and guillemots at Hermaness Nature Reserve. 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. 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.

Michigan State Police Captain Salary, Articles S