At Aberdeen Harbour, we join the Northlink ferry for the overnight crossing to Shetland. This morning you will enjoy a real treat a wildlife boat trip. Its difficult not to be inspired by sweeping panoramic views as you stroll along deserted white sandy beaches or gaze up at dramatic sea cliffs created by fierce volcanic eruptions and the ravages of the North Sea. Shes the beautiful sister to Spirit of Discovery, but has a whole host of surprises of her own, including exciting new restaurants. Later you could take a 10 minute ferry journey to the Isle of Bressay to explore the rich natural heritage and incredible wildlife. Discover more at the visitor centre which provides touch-screen presentations and a wide range of artefacts that have excavated from the site. Guided wildlife tour of Shetland Isles. Orkney is a land of opportunity forged by 5,000 years of unique history. 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. 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. The island's attractions include . 10 Day Shetland and Orkney Tour (self drive) Walking is a wonderful way to discover the Orkney Islands. We love the opportunity to use our first-hand knowledge and experience to design and deliver the perfect, bespoke holiday experience for you. 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 beautiful Cairngorms National Park will bring us to the Pass of Drumocher and Highland Perthshire beyond. Arrive into Lerwick, Shetland early this morning. Accommodation on board in a double/twin en-suite outer cabin is included in the price. All room types, other than twin rooms, are subject to availability. Explore Shetland & Orkney by Motorhome 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. 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. Topped by a prehistoric chambered burial cairn, the summit offers a breathtaking panorama across this ice-carved landscape. Accept. As you sail below, the screeching is deafening, and youll feel very outnumbered, a stranger invading their territory. But the surrounding dwellings and outbuildings date from thousands of years earlier. Keep an eye on everyone in your party and do not go off with people you do not know. 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. Explore prehistoric sites and experience a very different way of life. 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. Offers - Premier Holidays Borealis. Your hotel is a short drive away from the ferry port, in the islands capital, Kirkwall. This will ensure that we can improve the experience for all our future guests. Starts from: Edinburgh. Are you sure you would like to continue with this room size? 8 nights from. These tours are carefully researched and combine quality hotels, luxury travel, informative visits and leisure time. Iona AbbeyOne of Scotland's most sacred and historic sites, the Abbey was founded in 563AD and it still retains its spiritual atmosphere today. If you fancy some retail therapy, Kirkwall has a wealth of independent shops and craftworkers studios to be explored. The services were taken over by NorthLink Orkney and Shetland Ferries in 2002. The nature reserve is the perfect place to spot seabirds such as puffins, guillemots and kittiwakes. In each case, it is not necessarily added to the bill. Overnight Orkney, Take the opportunity to visit one of Orkneys smaller isles. With 70 magical islands its difficult to know where to begin. An experienced tour manager will lead the tour and your coach will be expertly driven by a professional driver. 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. In the Shetlands, its all about Busta House. The card payment providers above are used for taking your payments by operators featured on our site. We arrive in Lerwick around 07:30 hrs. Its a great way to make new friends! Several of the prisoners have returned to Orkney over the years to assist with the restoration of the building. Regional departures and/or connections to London, if available, can be requested. In 1468, the impoverished Christian I, King of Denmark, Norway and Sweden, pawned the Orkney Isles to James III of Scotland in lieu of a royal dowry for 50,000 florins. We suggest an early start today - there's a lot to fit in! 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. At 1,475 feet (450m) this is Shetlands highest peak. Orkney and Shetland Tour | Brightwater Holidays There are so many reasons why Saga stands out from other cruise lines. We then have two full days to tour Shetland. More likely we will be sailing for part of a night or a very early/late start and a long day. All Rights Reserved. The restaurant prides itself on local produce, prepared to make the most of the fresh flavours. Norway To Orkney Sailing In The Wake Of The Vikings - SchoonerSail Youll find comfortable public areas with free Wi-Fi, as well as a cosy bar, and handy drying facilities, too. Fair Isle | Shetland.org Call and speak to one of our travel experts who have experienced Shetland & Orkney Islands personally. It's a convenient crossing point for otters too, who, in these islands, are sea-dwelling. All we ask is that you write to us within 7 days of your return and explain your reason for claiming the refund. 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. Outside these hours you can email one of our team atreservations@hfholidays.co.uk, or make a booking online. Studio Tour London - Harry Potter, Peaky Blinders Filming Location Tours 2023. 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. The coach will continue on to Glasgow, for passengers wishing to end their tour there. In nearby Scalloway an excellent museum tells the story of the top-secret WWII Shetland Bus operation. 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. 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. Other Shetland highlights include Unst, boasting a plethora of fabulous walks and golden beaches; Foula, designated as a Special Protection Area for birds; Fetlar, known as the Garden of Shetland while beguiling Whalsay inspired some of Hugh McDiarmids poetry. Shetland Islands Map - Scotland, United Kingdom - Mapcarta Specialists in offering a range of adventure holidays, tours and incredible wilderness experiences. Orkneyjar - Viking Orkney - The Beginning of the Earldom Only a short distance away is Sumburgh Head Nature Reserve with its famous lighthouse overlooking the cliffs. This was once the Shetland capital and is the site of Scalloway Castle which was built for the notorious Earl Patrick Stewart in the early 17th Century. 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 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. Take in the breathtaking Old Man of Hoy a 450 foot sea stack and perhaps Orkneys most famous landmark. Available from April to October. Twin room - this is a room for two people sleeping in two separate beds. 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. Inspiring options. All sorts of nature abound here, from seals and otters to ponies and hundreds of birds, making it a wildlife lover's paradise. Stay at this 3-star hotel in Kirkwall. 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. Overnight Orkney. The Old Man of Hoy. Modern Slavery & Human Trafficking Statement. Day 9. Nearby sits the Bishop's Palace and Earl's Palace, which was reputedly built using forced labour. Meet Shetland ponies in their natural habitat. Registered office: Gilbridge House, Keel Square, Sunderland SR1 3HA. 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. Overnight: Kirkwall Hotel/Lynnfield Hotel, Kirkwall (or similar) (3 nights). Explore archaeological wonders such as Skara Brae, Jarlshof, the Ring of Brodgar, and the Standing Stones of Stenness. Outer two berth cabins included on the Orkney to Shetland and Shetland to Aberdeen crossings. 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. Scattered off the northeast coast of Scotland, Orkney and the Shetland Islands are staggeringly beautiful. Overnight Orkney. The Shetland Islands are the most northerly part of the United Kingdom, a group of islands 100 miles / 160 km north of mainland Scotland. Our packages include car rental and comprehensive insurance for the duration of your holiday. 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. 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. The best time to visit is during what Shetlanders call the . 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. Tour Returns: TBA hrs. The unspoilt landscape of Shetland has a rugged beauty shaped by the sea at the end of the last Ice Age. Among the settlements on Mainland, the largest island, is Scalloway, a fishing port. Travel to the wild and glorious peninsula of Northmavine. The natural beauty of Orkneys landscape boasts a rich variety of scenery. Enjoy 4 days (3 nights) in Shetland. If you are happy with the details you have provided above then click Submit Form to send us your enquiry. Shetland and Orkney Islands Tour from Inverness - The Hebridean Explorer 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 . On arrival at Gills Bay, we join the famous North Coast 500 route as we make the coastal drive southwards across the Dornoch and Cromarty Firths towards Inverness. Orkney & Shetland Islands - Responsible Travel We strongly recommend that you have travel insurance in place for your trip to Scotland, especially if you are visiting from overseas. Orkney boasts inspirational landscapes where verdant fields stretch down to pristine beaches and dramatic seas crash against towering cliffs. Calls cost 7p per minute plus your phone companys access charge. Our journey continues through the fertile farmland of Angus to reach the granite city of Aberdeen by late afternoon. Some cruises also incorporate the Faroe Isles. Also includes hotels in Alderney, Sark and Herm, plus the Isle of Wight, Isles of Scilly, Isle of Man and Shetland & Orkney Islands. Later this afternoon we travel to the port to join the ferry bound for the Orkney Islands. 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. Click the heart icon on the search or holiday pages to pin a holiday. King Charles coronation holiday rejected by Shetland councillors Saga Group Mi Analyst Salaries in Seaham, England | Glassdoor Sign up for our newsletter and be the first to hear about trip news, blogs and offers. 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. 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. 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. Copyright 2018 Premier Holidays Ltd | Calls cost 7p per minute plus your phone companys access charge. For anyone easily seduced by big skies, sea views, and wide-open spaces, Orkney is always a good idea. Non-member fee: 30 per person. They branded their services "P&O Ferries" from 1975 to 1989 and "P&O Scottish Ferries" thereafter. When people think of Scotland's islands, it's usually the Hebrides they have in mind. Orkney Holidays 2023 - Expedia Where Scotland meets Scandinavia, this wild and remote corner of northern Britain is truly remarkable. But forget the . 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. Fiercely independent and sprinkled with Scandinavian tradition, this pair of wild windswept archipelagos offer an island-hopping holiday that ticks-off squawking seabird colonies, staggering scenery, and some of the best-preserved Neolithic ruins in Europe. Experience a unique blend of Scandinavian and Scottish culture, as the Norse history and heritage still shapes these islands today. For group bookings of 10+ people click here. Youll be in good company if you choose to take dinner at your hotel, a popular destination for locals as well as visitors. ORKNEY AND SHETLAND HISTORICAL - JSTOR Home 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. I have never been that far north before. These tours are immensely popular so expect to be travelling in the company of like-minded travellers from around the world. These range from traditional luxury to contemporary Hotels. The Orkney Islands constitute a council area and belong to the historic county of Orkney. This holiday is based on ferry crossings, starting from the north coast of Scotland near Thurso and returning to Aberdeen. Later we travel to the dramatic sea cliffs at Eshaness which have been created by the constant pounding of the Atlantic waves. Day 1 - Departing Inverness with a morning drive to the far North of Scotland and the ferry port of Scrabster, near Thurso. Visit the Bishops and Earls Palaces where you can learn of a time when Orkney was part of the Norse-held kingdom of Nordreyjar. Shetland Islands holidays in 2023 & 2024 | Responsible Travel From jagged cliffs to unspoilt beaches and stone . Spend some time exploring this fascinating seaport where you could visit. Well also visit the impressive archaeological site of Jarlshof. If you go above this allowance you may have to pay tax or duty. , Duration: 9 Days / 8 Nights. Carefully selected en-suite accommodation for 8 nights including traditional Scottish breakfast, Comprehensive information pack and local visitor guidebooks, Personalised itinerary with our recommendations for the best places to eat and drink and sightseeing suggestions, Map of Scotland with our recommended driving route, 9 days rental of an Economy car (other vehicle categories available) including comprehensive insurance, All ferry crossings (as per your itinerary), Transport: Rental car included (optional). 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. Our Premium category includes a unique collection of luxurious and stylish boutique Guest Houses and small 4* Hotels. This holiday can be arranged from March to October. Discover their all-balcony cabins, huge choice of included speciality restaurants and bars, and an outdoor lido with a full wraparound deck. Take the opportunity to visit one of Orkneys smaller isles. There will be a stop where can enjoy time off the coach and buy refreshments. View our Full Privacy Notice, Read independent reviews from ourcustomers. Spirit of Discovery departing Dover. Thousands of seabirds including gannets, guillemots and kittiwakes nest and feed in the Noss Nature Reserve. 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. It is worth checking the HM Revenues and Customs website before you travel. Last month I was in Orkney for the first time. Our home for tonight is in the delightful village of Bray which overlooks Busta Voe. During the hour-long sailing look out for porpoises, dolphins and minke whales that can often be seen. 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). Holidays In The UK For Over 50s - 2022/23 l Saga Travel Join us on a magnificent expedition cruise to the Orkney, Shetland and Faroe Islands on board Le Boreal. Orkneyinga Saga: The History of the Earls of Orkney - Goodreads Built in 1600, this castle was once the home of the Earl of Orkney. Tour departure and return times will be advised in your tour documentation. 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. Shetland, Orkney and the Hebrides coach holidays 2023 - Door2Tour 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. It's a similar story by rail, with trains available to both Aberdeen . 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. Group transfer to Sumburgh airport for your return flight. View our privacy policy. From Glasgow and Edinburgh, we travel northwards through the Kingdom of Fife to reach Dundee, which sits overlooking the River Tay. A collection of quality 4* Guest Houses and 3* Hotels often located in beautiful locations which provide an excellent standard of accommodation. Uncover Orkneys Ancient Secrets - Shearings Dinner will be served on board and we will arrive in Kirkwall around 23:00 hrs. The Italian Prisoners constructed a chapel out of a pair of Nissen Huts. Your hotel is an historic building, complete with nooks and crannies, winding corridors, steep steps, creaky floorboards and supposedly a resident ghost. 3.91. Citylink buses run to Aberdeen, Gills Bay and Scrabster so you can catch your ferry to the islands. Includes 9 nights accommodation (2 of which will be on the ferry to and from Shetland) and ferry costs. Search. A stunning six day private tour from Inverness through the Highlands to the Northern Isles of Orkney and Shetland. 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. We will never share your data with third parties for marketing purposes. 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. 10 Day Shetland & Orkney Car Tour. Many coaches are equipped with WiFi too. Once checked-in onboard head to your comfortable twin-berth cabin with en-suite bathroom or enjoy time exploring the ship's many facilities. This picturesque spring Orkney & Shetland Mini Cruise combines coastal scenery with fascinating history. Tours of Shetland and Orkney Islands - Scotland Tours Faroe Islands Cruise Tour: Shetland & Orkney Islands | National 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. On many tours youll have the chance to personalise your touring experience by participating in some carefully planned optional excursions. Orkney and Shetland Archaeology Tours | Andante Travels Our first walk on Orkney follows a clifftop coastal path from Marwick Bay to the Brough of Birsay, overlooking RSPB Marwick Head reserve. ARE YOU A SOLO TRAVELLER WILLING TO SHARE? Scotland's Northern Isles by Motorhome. Shetland & Orkney Multi-Centre Walking Holiday | 2023 & 2024 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. Spend two days exploring some of the many island treasures, including Scalloway Castle and Jarlshof, an outstanding example of a prehistoric and Norse settlement. Many people have landed there before you . If you plan to bring your own vehicle, we are also able to offer this itinerary without a rental car. Be aware of your surroundings and don't venture off on your own. 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 . You are able to walk in and out and around them, just imagining how people used to survive here. For all their differences, these islands share a similar feel: weather-beaten archipelagos with more in common with the Faroes than mainland Scotland.