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. 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. Honest and easy 2 minute travel guide including what makes Shetland Islands so special as well as map and highlights. We then have two full days to tour Shetland. Youll find our Escorted Tours to be memorable - for all the right reasons! Clicking on the link below will redirect you to the Wilderness England website. Age-wise its really difficult for us to give an accurate figure for any given tour departure, but experience has taught us to expect the median age to be between 45 and 50. We sail with Serco Northlink Ferries and their modern, purpose-built vessels, the Hrossey and the Hjaltland, from Aberdeen overnight to Lerwick. The last part of the journey takes us through the Kingdom of Fife and across the Forth Estuary into Edinburgh. Citylink buses run to Aberdeen, Gills Bay and Scrabster so you can catch your ferry to the islands. However the earldom began, by the time of Earl Sigurd we are heading into more reliable territory - although still laced with myth and folklore. We also offer a fly-drive holiday as an alternative way to visit Orkney & Shetland. Shetland's council workers will not get the extra bank holiday on the Monday after King Charles's coronation. 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. Experience a unique blend of Scandinavian and Scottish culture, as the Norse history and heritage still shapes these islands today. Judi Florence Self Guided - The West Highland Way Reviewed on 08/10/2018. Make sure you visit Jarlshof, another incredible prehistoric site exposed in violent storms in the last couple of centuries. Orkney boasts inspirational landscapes where verdant fields stretch down to pristine beaches and dramatic seas crash against towering cliffs. Read 20 . If you wish to combine these categories or perhaps upgrade for a special occasion let us know in your enquiry. Relaxing hotel-based holidays in the sun, with a Saga host on hand. Discover your ideal travel experience. Search. 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. Please choose from one of our accommodation categories below. Outstanding scenery, exceptional wildlife, ancient history, traditional crafts and world-class diving. Nearby sits the Bishop's Palace and Earl's Palace, which was reputedly built using forced labour. 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. The Old Man of Hoy. 2,268. The Italian Prisoners constructed a chapel out of a pair of Nissen Huts. At this fascinating site, we will discover the remains of oval houses from the Bronze Age, an Iron Age broch and Viking longhouses. Many people have landed there before you . Weather permitting, enjoy a welcome drink on the small terrace, which overlooks the distinctive pagoda-roof of the neighbours: the Highland Park distillery. Does equity release affect inheritance tax. A genuine feel pervades this small family owned hotel, located on the edge of Kirkwall. This mysterious place of long days and colourful night skies is home to a wealth of sea life and sea birds, not . At Aberdeen Harbour, we join the Northlink ferry for the overnight crossing to Shetland. Visit the Bishops and Earls Palaces where you can learn of a time when Orkney was part of the Norse-held kingdom of Nordreyjar. Scattered off the northeast coast of Scotland, Orkney and the Shetland Islands are staggeringly beautiful. Today you'll be heading south to experience remarkable heritage sites. 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. In Shetland, inter-island ferry travel is operated by the council , while Orkney Ferries connect the archipelago's 13 island destinations. High levels of cover from an award winning provider, 3-year fixed price with no tie-ins - T&Cs apply. Saga Cruises; Disney Cruises; Cruise Ships. 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. Popular attractions Orkney Wireless Museum and St. Magnus Cathedral are located . Toggle navigation. 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. Nowhere in Shetland is more than 3 miles from the sea and along the 1,697 miles of coastline you will find some of Britains highest cliffs, s Sumburgh airport, 25 miles south of Lerwick, is open 7 days a week, and direct flights operate from Aberdeen (1hr), Inverness (1hr), Edinburgh and Glasgow(both 1hr 30 mins) with Loganair. enquiries@absoluteescapes.com. Take the opportunity to visit one of Orkneys smaller isles. 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. If you enjoy the art of first-class travel whilst enjoying amazing value then an Escorted Tour is just for you. 9 miles (15.5 km) with 1,280 feet (380m) of ascent. 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. Stop off to admire the ornate Italian Chapel, crafted from scraps by prisoners of war, and look out for the many wrecked ships poking their remains out of the water around Scapa Flow. Trade Login Contact 08444 937 531 Destinations UK & Channel Islands. 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. If you're flying here, public bus services connect with all the main airports in Scotland too. Designed with our guests in mind, our modern sister ships offer small-ship luxury with a private balcony for every guest. But the surrounding dwellings and outbuildings date from thousands of years earlier. Sign up for our newsletter and unlock exclusive tips and inspiration from our team of travel specialists. The islanders themselves feel a strong local identity and you can be guaranteed a warm island welcome and some fantastic local fresh food. We will never share your data with third parties for marketing purposes. 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. 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. Keep an eye on everyone in your party and do not go off with people you do not know. In West Mainland, dont miss the hauntingly beautiful Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walking is a wonderful way to discover the Orkney Islands. 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 . Many coaches are equipped with WiFi too. 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). Orkney & Shetland Start your journey by travelling from Orkney from Scrabster near Thurso, where you will find your hotel which is . Later this afternoon we travel to the port to join the ferry bound for the Orkney Islands. You will travel aboard a state of the art motorcoach with air-conditioning, reclining seats, oversized windows and emergency washroom. From 2,345 7 days ex flights. HF Holidays LimitedUnit 1, First FloorImperial PlaceMaxwell RoadBorehamwoodHertfordshire WD6 1JNUnited Kingdom, Monday to Friday: 9.00am - 5.30pmSaturday: 9.00am - 1.00pmSunday: ClosedBank Holidays: 9.00am - 1.00pm. Please contact us for information on child prices. Providing inspiring active experiences, immerse yourself in the unique landscapes, history, culture and wildlife on a Wilderness England adventure. Days 5-8 Orkney. For those people coming to the UK from the EU, you are allowed to bring an unlimited amount of most goods for your own use without paying tax or duty.However, if you are travelling to the UK from outside of the EU, you are given an allowance of how much alcohol, tobacco, perfume, souvenirs and other goods. The nearby seaport of Stromness is famed for the Pier Arts Centre which showcases the work of artists and sculptors from Orkney and beyond. With a strong norse influence, these island groups provide a surprisingly contrasting cultural experience when compared to the Hebrides. Tour departure and return times will be advised in your tour documentation. Look out for the gargoyles which a former owner rescued from the Houses of Parliament in London. Meanwhile, the rich ancient history and numerous archaeological sites offer a fascinating glimpse into the past, with many details of life preserved. Spend two days exploring some of the many island treasures, including Scalloway Castle and Jarlshof, an outstanding example of . The expedition starts in Oban and we sail, via the scenic and bird-rich island of Handa, to the enchanting Orkney Islands. Day 5. You do not have any pinned holidays. Arrive into Lerwick, Shetland early this morning. Sign up for our newsletter and be the first to hear about trip news, blogs and offers. Our Premium category includes a unique collection of luxurious and stylish boutique Guest Houses and small 4* Hotels. 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. We would also suggest checking your home policy or credit card contract as many suppliers include travel insurance as part of their offering. 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. It lay covered for centuries, if not millennia, before a sandstorm in the 1920s revealed the amazing ruins. Wildflowers bloom throughout the summer, covering the green cliffs with colour and the exquisite . A BSpoke Tour is all about being as restful or as adventurous as you desire. Our latest all-balcony boutique ship launched in the summer of 2021. For all their differences, these islands share a similar feel: weather-beaten archipelagos with more in common with the Faroes than mainland Scotland. Please click below to find the trip notes for your departure date. 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. Departing by Coach. Go Scotland Tours is offering a private guided tour combining the Western Isles of Skye, Harris and Lewis with Orkney. More details & Book Bank Holiday Escape to Scenic Scotland . Duration 6 Days. The Shetland Islands are the most northerly part of the United Kingdom, a group of islands 100 miles / 160 km north of mainland Scotland. On Mainland, is the capital Kirkwall whose sights include St Magnus Cathedral, the Bishops and Earls palaces and the Orkney Museum. We only share data with business partners where it is necessary to fulfil our service. Dinner will be served on board and we will arrive in Kirkwall around 23:00 hrs. 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. Depart Lerwick at the end of the afternoon for the overnight journey on the cruise class Northlink Ferries service to Aberdeen. Please contact us for more details. This self drive holiday to Orkney and Shetland gives you the opportunity to experience the wonderful landscapes, fascinating wildlife and archaeological heritage of these magical, and very different parts of the UK. 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. Please ensure you tick the reCAPTCHA checkbox to show you're not a spam bot! 7 miles (12km) with 1,360 feet (420m) of ascent. 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. But forget the . Enjoy a fascinating talk from historian Nick Card on the Orkney Islands' Neolithic past. 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. Twin room - this is a room for two people sleeping in two separate beds. The islands are also blessed with an extraordinary natural beauty. Borealis. The largest town, Lerwick, is closer to Norway than to Edinburgh, and culturally and geographically they feel more Norse than Scottish. For further information about ABTA, the Code of Conduct and the arbitration scheme available to you if you have a complaint, contact ABTA, 30 Park Street, London, SE1 9EQ, Tel: 020 3117 0599 or www.abta.com, Hays Travel Limited are registered in England and Wales with company number 1990682 and VAT number 193167195. Enjoy 4 days (3 nights) in Shetland. 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. Modern Slavery & Human Trafficking Statement. With their northerly location, the best time to visit is between March and November, with the long days of summer a particularly appealing time. 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. Known as the Churchill Barriers, we will use these causeways to reach the little island of Lamb Holm. Arrive in Aberdeen at 0700 and enjoy breakfast on board before disembarking and continuing your onward journey. Arrive into Lerwick, Shetland early this morning. A collection of quality 4* Guest Houses and 3* Hotels often located in beautiful locations which provide an excellent standard of accommodation. 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. Book your tailor-made holiday to Offers with Premier Holidays. Guided wildlife tour of Shetland Isles. How do I get there? From Glasgow and Edinburgh, we travel northwards through the Kingdom of Fife to reach Dundee, which sits overlooking the River Tay. Only a short distance away is Sumburgh Head Nature Reserve with its famous lighthouse overlooking the cliffs. Among the settlements on Mainland, the largest island, is Scalloway, a fishing port. Here you can see evidence of many different eras dating as far back as Neolithic times. Our sociable ships have been designed with more than 100 single balcony cabins, the widest selection on the ocean wave. Tour Details. Once your unforgettable excursion comes to an end, make your way to your next base. The ultimate collection of European cycling holidays. Outstanding scenery, exceptional wildlife, ancient history, traditional crafts and world-class diving. Overnight Ferry. On Mainland . These unassuming islands have a truly magical quality, and civilisation has thrived here for millennia. Photo: juvlai, CC BY-SA 2.0. 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. Day 9. Tallest Sea Cliffs in Britain. Shetland: The northernmost part of the UK, Shetland is wild, rugged and beautiful. Once checked-in onboard head to your comfortable twin-berth cabin with en-suite bathroom or enjoy time exploring the ship's many facilities. We arrive in Lerwick around 07:30 hrs. FAQsPlease see the FAQ section for more information on this tour. Click the heart icon on the search or holiday pages to pin a holiday. Cruising is another great way of accessing this remote Scottish wilderness, allowing you to explore in comfort. We also include a Boat trip around Noss during your time on Shetland (please note this only runs between May and mid-September). 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. Our ships are smaller, but wonderfully spacious. the west of Scotland and Ireland in 795. If, like us, you cant get enough of the archeological discoveries, head over to Rousay with its Midhowe Broch and Cairn. 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. As you sail below, the screeching is deafening, and youll feel very outnumbered, a stranger invading their territory. 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. These departure dates can be booked with flights or as land only holiday options. Your accommodation is great for the little personal touches. Discover their all-balcony cabins, huge choice of included speciality restaurants and bars, and an outdoor lido with a full wraparound deck. Our smaller ships are the perfect choice if youre cruising solo. Our discerning team has a wealth of experience, and we extensively research and regularly review all of the accommodation we select for our clients. It took 300 years to complete and is one of the finest examples of Norman architecture in Europe. See the landscapes of Shetland and Orkney; Visit Trshavn, with its Viking heritage; Itinerary From. 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 . Covid-19 Travel Requirements Covid-19 Travel Updates and FAQs Cruise Deals; Cruise Lines; . 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. Scapa Travel is a trading name of Scapa Travel Limited who are registered in Scotland with company number SC438791, and VAT number 115719224. Later, in medieval times, farmsteads were also built here. Please note: All fields marked * are required, Please select a date or 1-2 months if flexible. 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. Shetland is home to a world-class diversity of wildlife, from puffins and seals to purpoises and even whales. Copyright 2016 - 2023 Scapa Travel. Let Scapa Travel use their extensive local knowledge to create a memorable holiday, tailored specifically for you. This holiday can be arranged from March to October. 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. 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 . All holidays are subject to availability. 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. How does the Care Funding Advice Service work? Getting to Orkney via public transport is simple. 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). 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. Finally, a laird's house was constructed on the site in the 1600s. To prevent further attacks, a series of four barriers were constructed using Italian prisoners of war. Overnight Shetland. The rest of this evening is free to relax and, perhaps, enjoy a wee night-cap in the bar or get some fresh sea air before retiring for the night. Before your departure, you will receive personalised holiday information including full directions, recommended routes, and suggestions on places to visit depending on your interests and our local knowledge to help you get the most from your holiday. Available May 2023. 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 . (Read 1 review) Late availability on these dates: 15 Apr, 13 May. Beautiful beaches, stunning cliffs, ancient settlements and wonderful wildlife-spotting opportunities - Shetland has a lot to offer. Our home for tonight is in the delightful village of Bray which overlooks Busta Voe. USA. 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. Orkney Islands, group of more than 70 islands and isletsonly about 20 of which are inhabitedin Scotland, lying about 20 miles (32 km) north of the Scottish mainland, across the strait known as the Pentland Firth. Sign up today and start discovering. All sorts of nature abound here, from seals and otters to ponies and hundreds of birds, making it a wildlife lover's paradise. This will ensure that we can improve the experience for all our future guests. Overnight Orkney. Some cruises also incorporate the Faroe Isles. Be the first to hear about all things HF Holidays. Book a package holiday. These treasures are of such importance that UNESCO has designated them a World Heritage site. 9 miles (14km) with 760 feet (230m) of ascent. Fiercely independent and sprinkled with Scandinavian tradition, this pair of wild windswept archipelagos offer an island-hopping holiday that ticks-off squawking seabird . Enjoy 3 days (3 nights) in Orkney. Explore archaeological wonders such as Skara Brae, Jarlshof, the Ring of Brodgar, and the Standing Stones of Stenness. 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. and 'why?'. The islands are a birdwatchers' paradise and one of the major seabird breeding and feeding areas in the North Atlantic. Discover what makes the perfect boutique cruise experience, every time. 9 miles (14km) with 1,060 feet (320m) of ascent. It is a wild and dramatic place. Warner Bros. 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. 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. 2,599. 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. Be inspired by local artisans from jewellery-making to storytelling, the creative spirit on these islands has thrived for thousands of years. Our last visit of the day is to Skara Brae. Highlights of Orkney and Shetland6 day/5 night. Topped by a prehistoric chambered burial cairn, the summit offers a breathtaking panorama across this ice-carved landscape. 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 . Supplements may apply. 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. A key event in the global calendar, the annual Up Helly Aa Winter Fire . Everything's taken care of on a Saga escorted tour, so you can see and do more. Non-member fee: 30 per person. 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. From here you can gaze out to the Muckle Flugga lighthouse. Built in 1600, this castle was once the home of the Earl of Orkney. 18 Hours of Midsummer Sun. All sorts of nature abound here, from seals and otters to ponies and hundreds of birds, making it a wildlife lover's paradise. 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. 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. 2023 HF Holidays Limited. Regional departures and/or connections to London, if available, can be requested.