It's a similar story by rail, with trains available to both Aberdeen . Please click below to find the trip notes for your departure date. 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. 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. Photo: Lis Burke, CC BY-SA 2.0. Sign up for latest offers and top sellers. Sign up for latest offers and top sellers. 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. The Shetlands were pawned for a further 8,000 florins. We depart Aberdeen at 19:00 hrs, and a short time later, dinner will be served in the ship's restaurant. This iconic sea stack is only a few hundred years old. Uncover hidden gems and holiday inspiration from our team of travel specialists. Registered office: Gilbridge House, Keel Square, Sunderland SR1 3HA. All Rights Reserved. The ultimate collection of European cycling holidays. Indulge in a delicious fish and chip lunch overlooking the sea in Brae. Shetland Isles wildlife holiday. Go Scotland Tours is offering a private guided tour combining the Western Isles of Skye, Harris and Lewis with Orkney. Youll find our Escorted Tours to be memorable - for all the right reasons! Enjoy a fascinating talk from historian Nick Card on the Orkney Islands' Neolithic past. 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. 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. If you fancy some retail therapy, Kirkwall has a wealth of independent shops and craftworkers studios to be explored. 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. A fitting finale to the holiday, this walk along the magnificent granite coastline around Muckle Roe offers a chance to admire the windswept isolation and remote beauty of Shetland. A quick introduction. Getting to Orkney via public transport is simple. Later you could take a 10 minute ferry journey to the Isle of Bressay to explore the rich natural heritage and incredible wildlife. Copyright 2016 - 2023 Scapa Travel. Modern Slavery & Human Trafficking Statement. Borealis. Wherever you cruise on Spirit of Adventure and Spirit of Discovery, youll always step aboard here in the UK. Today is your final day in Shetland, but as the ferry does not leave until late afternoon you could take the opportunity to explore Shetlands ancient capital Scalloway. A collection of 3* B&Bs and Guest Houses offering comfortable accommodation close to local attractions. The Orkney Mainland is just Getting to Orkney can be easier and quicker than you may think. Orkney and Shetland, off the north coast of Scotland. To help us reduce spam, please tick the reCAPTCHA field. Twin room - this is a room for two people sleeping in two separate beds. Cycling for Softies is a luxury cycling tour operator providing gourmet cycling adventures in France and Italy. Well also visit the Ring of Brodgar and the Standing Stones of Stenness, which together with Skara Brae and Maes How, form the Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO World Heritage Site. Excellent and Friendly Staff!! It also comprises larger 4* Hotels selected for their high standard of accommodation, exceptional service, and great location. 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. To make it easier, heres a list of items you should consider packing. The holiday ideas on our website are just examples of the amazing trips we offer. 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. Welcome to life in the easy lane. 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. See the Tall Ships in Lerwick. The islands geographic location makes it a crossroad for wildlife. Walking is a wonderful way to discover the Orkney Islands. Absolute Escapes has an excellent relationship with a number of car hire operators and we are able to offer quality vehicles and great value for money. Shetland Islands, also called Zetland or Shetland, group of about 100 islands, fewer than 20 of them inhabited, in Scotland, 130 miles (210 km) north of the Scottish mainland, at the northern extremity of the United Kingdom. Welcome to the incredible archipelago of Orkney! Well also visit the impressive archaeological site of Jarlshof. Please note that a family room is normally a standard double or twin room with either a sofa bed or a rollaway bed. Youre also sure to come across plenty of roaming Shetland ponies on your travels. Today we leave Orkney and head north to Shetland. Prepare for cool windy weather so that you can take time to enjoy the amazing archeology you visit. For all their differences, these islands share a similar feel: weather-beaten archipelagos with more in common with the Faroes than mainland Scotland. Look out for the gargoyles which a former owner rescued from the Houses of Parliament in London. Are you sure you would like to continue with this room size? ABTA and ABTA Members help holidaymakers to get the most from their travel and assist them when things do not go according to plan. Arrive into Lerwick, Shetland early this morning. These stones have continued to mystify and amaze visitors with questions such as 'who built them?' This picturesque spring Orkney & Shetland Mini Cruise combines coastal scenery with fascinating history. Highlights of Orkney & Shetland. It was raided by Norsemen in the 12th Century. We guarantee to refund this service charge if you believe that arranging your holiday through McKinlay Kidd has not met your expectations for value. Consequently, bedrooms and bathrooms come in varying shapes and sizes. Travel to Orkney by ferry from Caithness, on the north coast of Scotland, with the crossing taking just under an hour. Free time will let you explore Kirkwall and St Magnus Cathedral before setting sail for the mainland. 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. Outside these hours you can email one of our team atreservations@hfholidays.co.uk, or make a booking online. 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. 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. At Aberdeen Harbour, we join the Northlink ferry for the overnight crossing to Shetland. Some cruises also incorporate the Faroe Isles. 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. . 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. The Orkney Islands were the Orcades of ancient classical literature. Enjoy 4 days (3 nights) in Shetland. All we ask is that you write to us within 7 days of your return and explain your reason for claiming the refund. Among the settlements on Mainland, the largest island, is Scalloway, a fishing port. Overnight Shetland. and 'why?'. Overnight Orkney. Uncover Orkney's Ancient Secrets. Be inspired by local artisans from jewellery-making to storytelling, the creative spirit on these islands has thrived for thousands of years. Spot dolphins and porpoises in the coastal waters, or breeding seabirds such as puffins and guillemots at Hermaness Nature Reserve. It's a convenient crossing point for otters too, who, in these islands, are sea-dwelling. Spend some time exploring this fascinating seaport where you could visit. If you are planning to bring alcohol, tobacco or souvenirs into the country, you need to be familiar with the UK's custom laws. Shes the beautiful sister to Spirit of Discovery, but has a whole host of surprises of her own, including exciting new restaurants. The nearby seaport of Stromness is famed for the Pier Arts Centre which showcases the work of artists and sculptors from Orkney and beyond. See the landscapes of Shetland and Orkney; Visit Trshavn, with its Viking heritage; Itinerary From. We use cookies to provide you with the best online experience. Calls cost 7p per minute plus your phone companys access charge. You do not have any pinned holidays. Wildflowers bloom throughout the summer, covering the green cliffs with colour and the exquisite . Discover our last-minute, luxury, all-inclusive, and many other incredible cruise deals. The UK has a famously unpredictable climate so it's best to be prepared for weather thats sunny one minute and raining the next. 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. Shetland and the Tall Ships. Discover your ideal travel experience. After rejoining the ship for an evening sailing to Kirkwall, we have a further two full days touring Orkney, before our short crossing back to the mainland. Pop into the Shetland Crofthouse Museum in Dunrossness, a restored 19th century Shetland croft which was inhabited until the 1960s. Please contact us for more details. 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. Highlights of Orkney and Shetland6 day/5 night. In the afternoon well visit Maes Howe, one of the most treasured Neolithic sites in Europe. Experience the unique islands of Shetland and Orkney, with mysterious prehistoric sites, natural wonders and breathtaking scenery waiting around every corner. One of the most beautiful and rugged of the Orkney Islands, Hoy is much more akin to the Scottish Highlands than the rolling countryside and crofts found across the archipelago. 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. Here we will have some free time to explore this charming town with its stone-paved alleys, granite houses and independent shops. Scattered off Scotland's northeast coast, this wild windswept archipelago offers a far-from-it-all feel just a skip away from the mainland. Experience the unique islands of Shetland and Orkney, with mysterious prehistoric sites, natural wonders and breathtaking scenery waiting around every corner. Double room - this is a room for two people sharing one large bed. Youll board your ferry to Orkney in the afternoon and arrive in Kirkwall, the historic capital of Orkney, later this evening. 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. Accept. Outstanding scenery, exceptional wildlife, ancient history, traditional crafts and world-class diving. Historic and Cultural Tours. A BSpoke Tour is all about being as restful or as adventurous as you desire. Trade Login Contact 08444 937 531 Destinations UK & Channel Islands. It's a short drive to our hotel for the next three nights. On arrival, we visit Sumburgh Head RSPB reserve. If you are keen to take more ferry trips, then island hop through Yell to Unst in the far north. Time to return home. Half way between Orkney and Shetland is Fair Isle, a jewel of an island owned by the National Trust for Scotland and famous for its birds, knitwear and historic shipwrecks. 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. 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. Citylink buses run to Aberdeen, Gills Bay and Scrabster so you can catch your ferry to the islands. 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. Departing by Coach. Standing guard to warn the passing ships is the Sumburgh Lighthouse, designed by the grandfather of the famous author Robert Louis Stevenson. Continue to the rugged Shetland archipelago to visit Lerwick as it hosts the annual Tall Ships Races. 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. Overnight: Busta House Hotel/Brae Hotel, Shetland (or similar). 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. 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. These unique islands are home to some of the most breathtaking coastal scenery to be found anywhere 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. Scapa Travel is a trading name of Scapa Travel Limited who are registered in Scotland with company number SC438791, and VAT number 115719224. We sail with Serco Northlink Ferries and their modern, purpose-built vessels, the Hrossey and the Hjaltland, from Aberdeen overnight to Lerwick. Covid-19 Travel Requirements Covid-19 Travel Updates and FAQs Cruise Deals; Cruise Lines; . Available Until September 2023. Another day you might head for South Ronaldsay now connected by the famous Churchill Barriers to the Mainland. The Old Man of Hoy. Let us know if we can tailor-make it for you to link with a self-drive tour of the Scottish Highlands. Shetland - South Mainland. We arrive in Lerwick around 07:30 hrs. 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. Its just six miles from Skara Brae and has an award-winning restaurant overlooking the loch, serving outstanding Scottish seafood and Aberdeen Angus beef. 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. Where Scotland meets Scandinavia, this wild and remote corner of northern Britain is truly remarkable. 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. These unassuming islands have a truly magical quality, and civilisation has thrived here for millennia. This area of great archaeological significance includes Skara Brae, Europes best-preserved Stone Age village; the Ring of Brodgar; the Stones of Stenness and the Maeshowe chambered tomb. 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. The Italian Prisoners constructed a chapel out of a pair of Nissen Huts. From 799pp. We also analyse data in order to develop and improve our products and our service in the future. The only medieval chronicle to have Orkney as the central place of action, it tells of an era when the islands were still part of the Viking world, beginning with their conquest by the . 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