Meanwhile, the rich ancient history and numerous archaeological sites offer a fascinating glimpse into the past, with many details of life preserved. Cabin upgrades may also be available on request. The strong historical and cultural influence of Norway upon these islands is clear in their timber-framed and brightly coloured architecture. This iconic sea stack is only a few hundred years old. 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. 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. Orkney and Shetland are a haven for wildlife. If you are planning to bring alcohol, tobacco or souvenirs into the country, you need to be familiar with the UK's custom laws. Getting Here | Orkney.com Keep an eye on everyone in your party and do not go off with people you do not know. Over 4,000 years old, discoveries here include everything from Stone Age settlements and Bronze Age dwellings to Norse longhouses and medieval farms. These treasures are of such importance that UNESCO has designated them a World Heritage site. Usually the tour will depart the hotel between 08:00 hrs and 08:30 hrs in the morning. FAQsPlease see the FAQ section for more information on this tour. Prepare for cool windy weather so that you can take time to enjoy the amazing archeology you visit. These are at additional expense and, if available, details will be provided with your tour documentation. Today we explore the heart of Neolithic 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. 9 miles (14km) with 760 feet (230m) of ascent. Its the most southerly point of mainland Shetland and where thousands of species of seabird come ashore to nest on the cliffs. 2,599. 7 miles (12km) with 1,360 feet (420m) of ascent. Tour Details. Spirit of Discovery departing Dover. Later you could take a 10 minute ferry journey to the Isle of Bressay to explore the rich natural heritage and incredible wildlife. Day 9. 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. Excellent array of hotels and self-catering options across Jersey and Guernsey. Our full season of 2023 cruises and early 2024 cruises are on sale now. More likely we will be sailing for part of a night or a very early/late start and a long day. These mysterious stone circles are amongst the most significant in Europe and are some 5,000 years old. Weve had a long love affair with Orkneys family-run Merkister Hotel, not least for its enviable setting on the shores of Harray Loch. 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. Inspiring options. Our discerning team has a wealth of experience, and we extensively research and regularly review all of the accommodation we select for our clients. 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. Book a package holiday. Are you sure you would like to continue with this room size? 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. An interesting tour, with lots of great historical commentary and beautiful landscapes. The ultimate collection of European cycling holidays. Guide Lorraine gives an insight into this ancient archipelago. 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. Take the ferry from Stromness to Scrabster on the Scottish mainland, where your self-drive tour of Orkney and Shetland will come to an end. Overnight Shetland. However the earldom began, by the time of Earl Sigurd we are heading into more reliable territory - although still laced with myth and folklore. Indulge in a delicious fish and chip lunch overlooking the sea in Brae. The Old Man of Hoy. This is a customizable tour and can be tailor-made to your preference. Our first walk on Orkney follows a clifftop coastal path from Marwick Bay to the Brough of Birsay, overlooking RSPB Marwick Head reserve. Overnight Orkney. Take the strain off holiday planning with a bespoke package holiday or group trip to Shetland. Highlights of Orkney and Shetland6 day/5 night. 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. We will discover more about this rather unpleasant character and his tyrannical ways during our visit. We suggest an early start today - there's a lot to fit in! 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. 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. There are so many reasons why Saga stands out from other cruise lines. 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. You will also find no end of delicious local produce to tempt you and a busy programme of annual festivals. Enjoy free time in Kirkwall this morning. Tallest Sea Cliffs in Britain. 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. Wildlife watching here is superb. P&O Iona; Anthem of the Seas; Regal Princess; MSC Virtuosa; Queen Mary 2 . Overnight Ferry. Orkney and Shetland Isles Holidays. Only a short distance away is Sumburgh Head Nature Reserve with its famous lighthouse overlooking the cliffs. Take the opportunity to visit one of Orkneys smaller isles. 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. Offers - Premier Holidays We can book package holidays including flights from the UK, hotel . 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. Let Scapa Travel use their extensive local knowledge to create a memorable holiday, tailored specifically for you. 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. Lake District, Yorkshire & Hadrians Wall, Classic Yorkshire: Whitby, York & The Dales, East of England: Cambridge, Norfolk & Suffolk. The Orkney Islands constitute a council area and belong to the historic county of Orkney. Twin room - this is a room for two people sleeping in two separate beds. Orkney and Shetland Island Hopping - Best of Scotland It is worth checking the HM Revenues and Customs website before you travel. 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. Be inspired by local artisans from jewellery-making to storytelling, the creative spirit on these islands has thrived for thousands of years. Orkney & Shetland Guided Small Group Tour - McKinlay Kidd Shetland & Orkney Island Holidays . Iona AbbeyOne of Scotland's most sacred and historic sites, the Abbey was founded in 563AD and it still retains its spiritual atmosphere today. 999 pp. During the hour-long sailing look out for porpoises, dolphins and minke whales that can often be seen. Our newsletter features exciting new itineraries, blog posts from the team, and fabulous competitions. Orkney boasts inspirational landscapes where verdant fields stretch down to pristine beaches and dramatic seas crash against towering cliffs. A quick introduction. Many coaches are equipped with WiFi too. Just a short flight from mainland UK and accessible from a wide range of regional airports. In 1919 the German Navy scuttled itself as a grand act of defiance and, in 1939, HMS Royal Oak was sunk here by a U-boat. The capital, Lerwick, is home to Shetlands main museum and local art centre by the harbour, as well as various locations used in the filming of the Shetland TV series. Your hotel is an historic building, complete with nooks and crannies, winding corridors, steep steps, creaky floorboards and supposedly a resident ghost. Shetland & Orkney Multi-Centre Walking Holiday | 2023 & 2024 Thoroughly recommend this as an enjoyable way to experience Shetland and Orkney. Later return to Kirkwall where dinner is served in our hotel. All room types, other than twin rooms, are subject to availability. At 1,475 feet (450m) this is Shetlands highest peak. Next, we make for Maeshowe, a magnificent chambered tomb that dates from around 2,500 BC. Island hop the wild Scottish Northern Isles on this week's holiday to Orkney and Shetland From 895 to 1015 7 days ex flights. On arrival, we visit Sumburgh Head RSPB reserve. P&O took over the routes from the long-established North of Scotland, Orkney & Shetland Steam Navigation Company in 1971. Orkney Guided Island Hopping Holiday - HF Holidays Contact usEmail: [email protected]: 01856 889040, Our opening hours are:Monday to Friday 10am to 4pmSaturday 11am to 3pm. In a land thats been largely tamed, they remain rare unspoiled outposts of rugged coastline and remote beauty. Beautiful beaches, stunning cliffs, ancient settlements and wonderful wildlife-spotting opportunities - Shetland has a lot to offer. Available Until September 2023. Orkney and Shetland Holidays | Wilderness Scotland Shetland: The northernmost part of the UK, Shetland is wild, rugged and beautiful. At 1,475 feet (450m) this is Shetlands highest peak. 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. All packages that include flights are ATOL protected. Orkney and Shetland, off the north coast of Scotland. Shetland, Orkney and the Hebrides coach holidays 2023 - Door2Tour If you're flying here, public bus services connect with all the main airports in Scotland too. A stunning six day private tour from Inverness through the Highlands to the Northern Isles of Orkney and Shetland. 10 Favourite Books about Shetland - Shetland Wool Adventures 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. The islanders themselves feel a strong local identity and you can be guaranteed a warm island welcome and some fantastic local fresh food. Explore Shetland & Orkney by Motorhome 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. Book your holiday today with Planet Cruise! 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. For all their differences, these islands share a similar feel: weather-beaten archipelagos with more in common with the Faroes than mainland Scotland. 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. 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. 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. Covid-19 Travel Requirements Covid-19 Travel Updates and FAQs Cruise Deals; Cruise Lines; . The last part of the journey takes us through the Kingdom of Fife and across the Forth Estuary into Edinburgh. At Aberdeen Harbour, we join the Northlink ferry for the overnight crossing to Shetland. Travel to the wild and glorious peninsula of Northmavine. 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. Shetland & Orkney Island - Premier Holidays These cliffs are bursting with an extraordinary range of wildlife, such as seals, puffins, gannets and whales. Exciting destinations. More than a million birds breed in very large colonies. 8 nights from. Youll board your ferry to Orkney in the afternoon and arrive in Kirkwall, the historic capital of Orkney, later this evening. Only a 20 minute drive from Lerwick, you can discover the ruins of Scalloway Castle, visit Scalloway Museum, or enjoy a stroll through the picturesque harbour. Orkney and the Shetland Isles | Great Rail Journeys In no time youll be sailing away to one unforgettable destination after another.

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