638 ratings70 reviews. Enchanting Orkney is a smorgasbord of must-see sites and cultural attractions scattered across70 islands. Double room - this is a room for two people sharing one large bed. The Ski Solutions team are all skiing experts, and their wealth of knowledge and passion for the mountains will ensure you experience a truly memorable ski holiday. The Ayre Hotel. 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. From Glasgow and Edinburgh, we travel northwards through the Kingdom of Fife to reach Dundee, which sits overlooking the River Tay. If you fancy sampling the local water of life, why not take a tour at the. Regional departures and/or connections to London, if available, can be requested. 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. 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. 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. Today visitors can see eight dwellings, each connected by a series of low passageways. The card payment providers above are used for taking your payments by operators featured on our site. The landscape is wild and remote and, outside of the . To help us reduce spam, please tick the reCAPTCHA field. 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. 8 miles (13.5km) with 850 feet (260m) of ascent. How do I get there? All packages that include flights are ATOL protected. Excellent array of hotels and self-catering options across Jersey and Guernsey. Arrive into Lerwick, Shetland early this morning. 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. 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. Well also visit the impressive archaeological site of Jarlshof. 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. Day 9. Excellent, informative, enjoyable tour. 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. Continue to the rugged Shetland archipelago to visit Lerwick as it hosts the annual Tall Ships Races. 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. On many tours youll have the chance to personalise your touring experience by participating in some carefully planned optional excursions. Our journey continues through the fertile farmland of Angus to reach the granite city of Aberdeen by late afternoon. Some of them are: Skara BraeThought to be one of Orkney's most visited tourist spots, Skara Brae is an ancient site which is older than Stonehenge. Only a short distance away is Sumburgh Head Nature Reserve with its famous lighthouse overlooking the cliffs. Photo: Lis Burke, CC BY-SA 2.0. If you plan to bring your own vehicle, we are also able to offer this itinerary without a rental car. The South Mainland awaits today home to some of Shetlands most jaw-drapping scenery and best archeological sites, including the Isle of Mousa where you will encounter the best preserved Broch anywhere in the world. Wherever you cruise on Spirit of Adventure and Spirit of Discovery, youll always step aboard here in the UK. Where Scotland meets Scandinavia, this wild and remote corner of northern Britain is truly remarkable. Meet Shetland ponies in their natural habitat. Look out for the lighthouse, opened in 1929 its powerful light can be seen from 46 km away. All included in the price. . "The staff was xtrenely king and helpful! Outside these hours you can email one of our team atreservations@hfholidays.co.uk, or make a booking online. 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. the west of Scotland and Ireland in 795. The unspoilt landscape of Shetland has a rugged beauty shaped by the sea at the end of the last Ice Age. The coach will continue on to Glasgow, for passengers wishing to end their tour there. Scattered off the northeast coast of Scotland, Orkney and the Shetland Islands are staggeringly beautiful. Discover more at the visitor centre which provides touch-screen presentations and a wide range of artefacts that have excavated from the site. 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. Later we travel to the dramatic sea cliffs at Eshaness which have been created by the constant pounding of the Atlantic waves. Modern Slavery & Human Trafficking Statement. Just a short flight from mainland UK and accessible from a wide range of regional airports. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking and breakfast. With 70 magical islands its difficult to know where to begin. 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. Borealis. Please choose from one of our accommodation categories below. Calls cost 7p per minute plus your phone companys access charge. Discover your ideal travel experience. 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. Youll board your ferry to Orkney in the afternoon and arrive in Kirkwall, the historic capital of Orkney, later this evening. Many coaches are equipped with WiFi too. Overnight: Busta House Hotel/Brae Hotel, Shetland (or similar). CrimeMost destinations are generally trouble-free, however as with all places that you are not familiar with, keep an eye on your belongings and if necessary lock them away somewhere safe back at your hotel if possible. Enjoy 4 days (3 nights) in Shetland. . UNESCO World Heritage Site. On Mainland . 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. Advertised flight prices are based on UK flights departing from London. Accept. Visit the Bishops and Earls Palaces where you can learn of a time when Orkney was part of the Norse-held kingdom of Nordreyjar. 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. In a land that's been largely tamed, they remain rare unspoiled outposts of rugged coastline and remote beauty. Shes the beautiful sister to Spirit of Discovery, but has a whole host of surprises of her own, including exciting new restaurants. 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. These treasures are of such importance that UNESCO has designated them a World Heritage site. While most tour operators use hotels around the capital, Lerwick, we choose to stay somewhere you can really appreciate Shetlands remote beauty. It also comprises larger 4* Hotels selected for their high standard of accommodation, exceptional service, and great location. 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. Last month I was in Orkney for the first time. How does the Care Funding Advice Service work? For group bookings of 10+ people click here. At Aberdeen Harbour, we join the Northlink ferry for the overnight crossing to Shetland. 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. Tour Details. Shetland: The northernmost part of the UK, Shetland is wild, rugged and beautiful. If you wish to combine these categories or perhaps upgrade for a special occasion let us know in your enquiry. We arrive in Lerwick around 07:30 hrs. Look out for the gargoyles which a former owner rescued from the Houses of Parliament in London. As you sail below, the screeching is deafening, and youll feel very outnumbered, a stranger invading their territory. Non-member fee: 30 per person. 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. Welcome to life in the easy lane. We sail with Serco Northlink Ferries and their modern, purpose-built vessels, the Hrossey and the Hjaltland, from Aberdeen overnight to Lerwick. The expedition starts in Oban and we sail, via the scenic and bird-rich island of Handa, to the enchanting Orkney Islands. Jersey; Guernsey; Herm, Sark & Alderney; Isles of Scilly; Isle of Wight ; Isle of Man ; Shetland & Orkney Islands ; North America. 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. It took 300 years to complete and is one of the finest examples of Norman architecture in Europe. 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. Discover squawking seabird colonies, staggering scenery, and some of the best-preserved Neolithic ruins in Europe as you island hop between Mainland . Pop into the Shetland Crofthouse Museum in Dunrossness, a restored 19th century Shetland croft which was inhabited until the 1960s. You do not have any pinned holidays. Overnight Orkney. Family room - this is a room for three people sleeping in one large bed (2 people) and one single bed (1 person). Enjoy a relaxing break over the May Day Bank Holiday; Join ORCA on deck of Bolette to spot whales ; 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. 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. During the hour-long sailing look out for porpoises, dolphins and minke whales that can often be seen. Its a great way to make new friends! The nearby seaport of Stromness is famed for the Pier Arts Centre which showcases the work of artists and sculptors from Orkney and beyond. 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 . Some cruises also incorporate the Faroe Isles. Arrive into Lerwick, Shetland early this morning. A BSpoke Tour is all about being as restful or as adventurous as you desire. These are at additional expense and, if available, details will be provided with your tour documentation. Experience the unique islands of Shetland and Orkney, with mysterious prehistoric sites, natural wonders and breathtaking scenery waiting around every corner. Registered in England, number 5713R. Rated 4.88 out of 5 based on 5,609 reviews. Our discerning team has a wealth of experience, and we extensively research and regularly review all of the accommodation we select for our clients. 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. The Orkney Mainland is just Getting to Orkney can be easier and quicker than you may think. 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 . Prepare for cool windy weather so that you can take time to enjoy the amazing archeology you visit. Beautiful beaches, stunning cliffs, ancient settlements and wonderful wildlife-spotting opportunities - Shetland has a lot to offer. Soak up the history and imagine life in eras gone by! Inspiring options. 8 nights from. Today you'll be heading south to experience remarkable heritage sites. Our destination is Lerwick, the island's attractive capital. Overnight Orkney. Single cabins now available on all January to March 2023 cruises. Experience the unique islands of Shetland and Orkney, with mysterious prehistoric sites, natural wonders and breathtaking scenery waiting around every corner. 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). The islanders themselves feel a strong local identity and you can be guaranteed a warm island welcome and some fantastic local fresh food. 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. Shetland Isles wildlife holiday. We suggest an early start today - there's a lot to fit in! Spirit of Adventure departing Dover. Tour Departs: TBA hrs Walking is a wonderful way to discover the Orkney Islands. Contact usEmail: info@scapatravel.co.ukTelephone: 01856 889040, Our opening hours are:Monday to Friday 10am to 4pmSaturday 11am to 3pm. 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. As well as having full board accommodation in your choice of cabin, the services of a professional crew and on-board entertainment are also included. 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. The Italian Prisoners constructed a chapel out of a pair of Nissen Huts. Toggle navigation. We love the opportunity to use our first-hand knowledge and experience to design and deliver the perfect, bespoke holiday experience for you. USA. and a self-drive holiday of Shetland and Orkney guarantees memories to last a . Discover what makes the perfect boutique cruise experience, every time. Discover the Castle of Mey and its magnificent gardens. 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. 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 . 895 per person for March, 945 per person for April & October, 985 per person for May & September and 1015 per person for June to August. To prevent further attacks, a series of four barriers were constructed using Italian prisoners of war. Your hotel is a short drive away from the ferry port, in the islands capital, Kirkwall. Uncover hidden gems and holiday inspiration from our team of travel specialists. 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. 8.4/5 (52 reviews) Great place! Available from April to October. 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. A quick introduction. Its the most southerly point of mainland Shetland and where thousands of species of seabird come ashore to nest on the cliffs. 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. Spend two days exploring some of the many island treasures, including Scalloway Castle and Jarlshof, an outstanding example of . 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. Dine on fresh seafood in cosmopolitan Kirkwall and Lerwick, and enjoy an extensive local craft culture. Experience a unique blend of Scandinavian and Scottish culture, as the Norse history and heritage still shapes these islands today. The largest town, Lerwick, is closer to Norway than to Edinburgh, and culturally and geographically they feel more Norse than Scottish. It's a favourite with twitchers, who flock here to enjoy sensational seabird colonies and rare species. Later, in medieval times, farmsteads were also built here. The nature reserve is the perfect place to spot seabirds such as puffins, guillemots and kittiwakes. Rooms are simple but homely and all come with TV and tea and coffee making facilities. We will communicate with you from time to time about our products and services, similar to those currently featured on our website. Orkney & Shetland Start your journey by travelling from Orkney from Scrabster near Thurso, where you will find your hotel which is . These tours are inclusive of superior tourist class accommodation, transportation, selected admission fees and many meals. We only share data with business partners where it is necessary to fulfil our service. 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. The holiday ideas on our website are just examples of the amazing trips we offer. Overnight Shetland. If you enjoy the art of first-class travel whilst enjoying amazing value then an Escorted Tour is just for you. Our packages include car rental and comprehensive insurance for the duration of your holiday. 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. 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. All holidays are subject to availability. Our Premium category includes a unique collection of luxurious and stylish boutique Guest Houses and small 4* Hotels. It is a wild and dramatic place. 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. Cruising is another great way of accessing this remote Scottish wilderness, allowing you to explore in comfort. In nearby Scalloway an excellent museum tells the story of the top-secret WWII Shetland Bus operation. 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. With a maximum of 15 passengers per group, you can be sure of . Many people have landed there before you . 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. Our journey south takes us through Mavis Grind, an isthmus so narrow it is said to be possible to throw a stone from the North Sea to the Atlantic Ocean. [1] 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. 10 Day Shetland & Orkney Car Tour. During the summer it is still light when you arrive. Scattered off Scotland's northeast coast, this wild windswept archipelago offers a far-from-it-all feel just a skip away from the mainland. NB these cruise details have been updated - Please see the new trip page - Orkney, Shetland, Faroe Islands and St Kilda cruise.. Enjoy free time in Kirkwall this morning. Youre also sure to come across plenty of roaming Shetland ponies on your travels. 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. See the landscapes of Shetland and Orkney; Visit Trshavn, with its Viking heritage; Itinerary From. Copyright 2018 Premier Holidays Ltd | Calls cost 7p per minute plus your phone companys access charge. 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. Historic and Cultural Tours. Registered Office: Enbrook Park, Folkestone, Kent, CT20 3SE. Usually the tour will depart the hotel between 08:00 hrs and 08:30 hrs in the morning. And as more than fifth of our guests cruise solo, youll always be in good company. Where Scotland meets Scandinavia, this wild and remote corner of northern Britain is truly remarkable. This holiday is based on ferry crossings, starting from the north coast of Scotland near Thurso and returning to Aberdeen. Language: EnglishCurrency: Pound SterlingTime Zone: GMTTipping: 10 to 12% is usual for hotels with 10 to 15% being usual for restaurants. 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. 9 miles (14km) with 760 feet (230m) of ascent. 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. Arrive on Orkney and settle in to the Merkister Hotel. The Shetland Islands are the UNBELIEVABLE Hidden Treasure of Scotland, the northernmost point of the United Kingdom and formerly part of Norway. During our time here will visit the RSPB reserve which is home to many species of seabirds including puffins, guillemots and razorbills. The Norsmen left their mark on the islands and some of the Norse legends and customs are still kept alive during festivals . We depart Aberdeen at 19:00 hrs, and a short time later, dinner will be served in the ship's restaurant. 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. Book a package holiday. Arrive in Aberdeen at 0700 and enjoy breakfast on board before disembarking and continuing your onward journey. This is a customizable tour and can be tailor-made to your preference. At the ancient settlement of Jarlshof you can explore 4,000 years of human history. Watch for dolphins which sometimes play in the bow waves. Thousands of seabirds including gannets, guillemots and kittiwakes nest and feed in the Noss Nature Reserve. Honest and easy 2 minute travel guide including what makes Shetland Islands so special as well as map and highlights. Buses and trains to Orkney. 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. Here you can see evidence of many different eras dating as far back as Neolithic times. A holiday to the islands of Orkney and Shetland has it all. Go Scotland Tours is offering a private guided tour combining the Western Isles of Skye, Harris and Lewis with Orkney. Weve had a long love affair with Orkneys family-run Merkister Hotel, not least for its enviable setting on the shores of Harray Loch. 18 Hours of Midsummer Sun. Earl Sigurd takes control. We'll make a visit to view the remarkable paintings that can be found inside the simple corrugated metal exterior. add an extra night or two on each island group to explore in depth? 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. We will never share your data with third parties for marketing purposes. Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly Revealed. If you are keen to take more ferry trips, then island hop through Yell to Unst in the far north. Our sociable ships have been designed with more than 100 single balcony cabins, the widest selection on the ocean wave. Once we make landfall expect day sailing among the islands and skerries. For anyone easily seduced by big skies, sea views, and wide-open spaces, Orkney is always a good idea. You will travel aboard a state of the art motorcoach with air-conditioning, reclining seats, oversized windows and emergency washroom. Highlights of Orkney & Shetland. Travel by overnight ferry to Lerwick, the capital of Shetland, arriving at 0730 and enjoy a leisurely breakfast on board before disembarking. The island's attractions include . Several of the prisoners have returned to Orkney over the years to assist with the restoration of the building. I have never been that far north before. 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. 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. It lay covered for centuries, if not millennia, before a sandstorm in the 1920s revealed the amazing ruins. Although a remote wilderness, there is a lot to do in Shetland, Orkney and the Hebrides. If you would like to spend an extra night or two on either Orkney or Shetland, wed be delighted to assist. P&O took over the routes from the long-established North of Scotland, Orkney & Shetland Steam Navigation Company in 1971.
Seat Arona Common Problems,
Glasgow Airport Covid,
Articles S