Written around AD 1200 by an unnamed Icelandic author, the Orkneyinga Saga is an intriguing fusion of myth, legend and history. 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. The Norsmen left their mark on the islands and some of the Norse legends and customs are still kept alive during festivals . It was raided by Norsemen in the 12th Century. Shetland Isles wildlife holiday. But forget the . Guided wildlife tour of Shetland Isles. Thousands of seabirds including gannets, guillemots and kittiwakes nest and feed in the Noss Nature Reserve. The islands geographic location makes it a crossroad for wildlife. 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. 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. Simply pop your details in the box below for the latest news, travel advice, destination inspiration, and special offers delivered straight to your inbox. Please contact us for more details. 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. We will make it easy for you to opt-out of receiving communications, to check what data we hold on you or to request us to delete your data altogether. These tours are carefully researched and combine quality hotels, luxury travel, informative visits and leisure time. 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. These departure dates can be booked with flights or as land only holiday options. Entry RequirementsWhen travelling between the UK, Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man in most cases an official form of identification such as a Driver's License will be ok. All included in the price. Spend two days exploring some of the many island treasures, including Scalloway Castle and Jarlshof, an outstanding example of . Prepare for cool windy weather so that you can take time to enjoy the amazing archeology you visit. 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. Stretching off Scotland's north coast are Shetland and Orkney, two very special archipelagos where Scotland meets Scandinavia. 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 . Arrive in Aberdeen at 0700 and enjoy breakfast on board before disembarking and continuing your onward journey. 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. The UKs bestselling monthly subscription magazine. Honest and easy 2 minute travel guide including what makes Shetland Islands so special as well as map and highlights. In a land that's been largely tamed, they remain rare unspoiled outposts of rugged coastline and remote beauty. 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. 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. Family room - this is a room for three people sleeping in one large bed (2 people) and one single bed (1 person). Spend some time exploring this fascinating seaport where you could visit Shetland Museum to gain an invaluable introduction to the islands history, or explore Fort Charlotte originally built in 1665 to protect Shetland from Dutch warships. The largest town, Lerwick, is closer to Norway than to Edinburgh, and culturally and geographically they feel more Norse than Scottish. However the earldom began, by the time of Earl Sigurd we are heading into more reliable territory - although still laced with myth and folklore. Travel to Orkney by ferry from Caithness, on the north coast of Scotland, with the crossing taking just under an hour. 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. Buy your own drinks and keep sight of them at all times. These mysterious stone circles are amongst the most significant in Europe and are some 5,000 years old. Youll be in good company if you choose to take dinner at your hotel, a popular destination for locals as well as visitors. High levels of cover from an award winning provider, 3-year fixed price with no tie-ins - T&Cs apply. Free time will let you explore Kirkwall and St Magnus Cathedral before setting sail for the mainland. Providing inspiring active experiences, immerse yourself in the unique landscapes, history, culture and wildlife on a Wilderness England adventure. Spend some time exploring this fascinating seaport where you could visit. To prevent further attacks, a series of four barriers were constructed using Italian prisoners of war. Iona AbbeyOne of Scotland's most sacred and historic sites, the Abbey was founded in 563AD and it still retains its spiritual atmosphere today. We then rejoin our transport for the scenic transfer to Busta House. Travel to the wild and glorious peninsula of Northmavine. We will communicate with you from time to time about our products and services, similar to those currently featured on our website. With 70 magical islands its difficult to know where to begin. Other notable islands include Hoy for the dramatic Old Man of Hoy sea stack and Scapa Flow Visitor Centre and Museum; the Brough of Birsay with its Norse ruins; Rousay for over 100 archaeological sites; and North Ronaldsay which has a unique heritage and history. 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. Here you can see evidence of many different eras dating as far back as Neolithic times. Outstanding scenery, exceptional wildlife, ancient history, traditional crafts and world-class diving. An experienced tour manager will lead the tour and your coach will be expertly driven by a professional driver. The Shetland Islands are the most northerly part of the United Kingdom, a group of islands 100 miles / 160 km north of mainland Scotland. From getting to know you by name to remembering your favourite drink at the bar, youll always receive personal, attentive service. A genuine feel pervades this small family owned hotel, located on the edge of Kirkwall. We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA's Code of Conduct. Where Scotland meets Scandinavia, this wild and remote corner of northern Britain is truly remarkable. 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. We strongly recommend that you have travel insurance in place for your trip to Scotland, especially if you are visiting from overseas. Take the strain off holiday planning with a bespoke package holiday or group trip to Shetland. Meet Shetland ponies in their natural habitat. The island's attractions include . If a service charge has already been added, no further tip is required. Call and speak to one of our travel experts who have experienced Shetland & Orkney Islands personally. Think of this itinerary as a starting point which can be tailored into something completely unique to you by our award-winning specialists. Wildlife watching here is superb. Our newsletter features exciting new itineraries, blog posts from the team, and fabulous competitions. All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. Let Scapa Travel use their extensive local knowledge to create a memorable holiday, tailored specifically for you. 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. You will not be able to use this site without JavaScript. 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. The Stones were erected around 3000BC and it is thought that they were some kind of astronomical calendar associated with the moon. 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. Excellent and Friendly Staff!! The islanders themselves feel a strong local identity and you can be guaranteed a warm island welcome and some fantastic local fresh food. 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. Shetland's council workers will not get the extra bank holiday on the Monday after King Charles's coronation. These are at additional expense and, if available, details will be provided with your tour documentation. This trip is operated by our England team. The Shetlands were pawned for a further 8,000 florins. The innovative Shetland Museum and Archives tells the fascinating story of these islands and is well worth visiting. 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. This iconic sea stack is only a few hundred years old. All itineraries and room types are presented subject to availability at specific hotels. Later we make the short drive to Sumburgh Head, where the waters of the North Sea meet the waves of the Atlantic Ocean. It took 300 years to complete and is one of the finest examples of Norman architecture in Europe. Usually the coach will arrive at the overnight stop between 16:30 and 17:00 hrs each day. 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. On Mainland . Its the most southerly point of mainland Shetland and where thousands of species of seabird come ashore to nest on the cliffs. Stretching off Scotlands north coast are Shetland and Orkney, two very special archipelagos where Scotland meets Scandinavia. Thoroughly recommend this as an enjoyable way to experience Shetland and Orkney. 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. Our Premium category includes a unique collection of luxurious and stylish boutique Guest Houses and small 4* Hotels. Small group travel: 2023: 15 Apr, 13 May. 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. AccommodationThe price of this tour includes hotel accommodation/ferry cabin with en-suite bathroom. Welcome to the incredible archipelago of Orkney! Are you sure you would like to continue with this room size? Overlooking Skaill Bay, we'll discover a settlement of Stone Age houses complete with chairs, beds and dressers all made from stone. These unassuming islands have a truly magical quality, and civilisation has thrived here for millennia. This elevated viewpoint affords extensive views over Shetland and of Fair Isle to the south. Orkney & Shetland Guided Island Hopping Holiday, Hebridean Hopscotch Guided Island Hopping Holiday, Lewis & Harris Guided Island Hopping Holiday, Experience wild and windswept natural landscapes, Spot wildlife on these relatively untouched islands, Comfortable en-suite rooms in our partner accommodation(s), Cooked or continental breakfast every morning, Full-board or half-board (please refer to trip notes), Three-course evening meals, plus tea & coffee, Guided walks with an experienced HF Holidays Leader, All transport to and from walks where necessary, Suitable footwear such as waterproof walking boots that provide ankle support and good grip, Waterproof and windproof jacket, preferably insulated, Comfortable clothing (jeans & waterproof capes are not suitable), Several base layers (long-sleeve or short-sleeve), Cushioned walking socks to avoid blisters, First aid kit, including plasters and insect repellent, Rubbish bag (remember to always leave no trace). If you're flying here, public bus services connect with all the main airports in Scotland too. 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. Overnight Shetland. Double room - this is a room for two people sharing one large bed. The ultimate collection of European cycling holidays. Take in the breathtaking Old Man of Hoy a 450 foot sea stack and perhaps Orkneys most famous landmark. 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. Exciting destinations. Registered Office: Enbrook Park, Folkestone, Kent, CT20 3SE. These stones have continued to mystify and amaze visitors with questions such as 'who built them?' In West Mainland, dont miss the hauntingly beautiful Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO World Heritage Site. Earl Sigurd takes control. At Aberdeen Harbour, we join the Northlink ferry for the overnight crossing to Shetland. Then trace . Britain's original ski travel agency and tailor-made ski tour operator, Ski Solutions has been arranging ski holidays for over 30 years across Europe and North America. All sorts of nature abound here, from seals and otters to ponies and hundreds of birds, making it a wildlife lover's paradise. If you are planning to bring alcohol, tobacco or souvenirs into the country, you need to be familiar with the UK's custom laws. Excellent array of hotels and self-catering options across Jersey and Guernsey. 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. See the landscapes of Shetland and Orkney; Visit Trshavn, with its Viking heritage; Itinerary From. To purchase a policy speak to your insurance broker or undertake a search on-line. Search. 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. In Shetland, inter-island ferry travel is operated by the council , while Orkney Ferries connect the archipelago's 13 island destinations. Discover their all-balcony cabins, huge choice of included speciality restaurants and bars, and an outdoor lido with a full wraparound deck. Book your tailor-made holiday to Offers with Premier Holidays. Single cabins now available on 2023 winter cruises, Interest rates and costs of equity release. Tastefully decorated rooms provide a comfortable place to sleep and on a clear night you can gaze up at the starry skies and search for the swirling ribbons of neon green, pink, and purple known as the northern lights. 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. Once checked-in onboard head to your comfortable twin-berth cabin with en-suite bathroom or enjoy time exploring the ship's many facilities. Weve had a long love affair with Orkneys family-run Merkister Hotel, not least for its enviable setting on the shores of Harray Loch. 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. add an extra night or two on each island group to explore in depth? Tour Returns: TBA hrs, Outside Reception at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Edinburgh111 Glasgow Road Edinburgh EH12 8NF, Check-in: TBA hrs Our full season of 2023 cruises and early 2024 cruises are on sale now. 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. 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. Discover squawking seabird colonies, staggering scenery, and some of the best-preserved Neolithic ruins in Europe as you island hop between Mainland . Our journey continues through the fertile farmland of Angus to reach the granite city of Aberdeen by late afternoon. Enjoy 4 days (3 nights) in Shetland. The nearby seaport of Stromness is famed for the Pier Arts Centre which showcases the work of artists and sculptors from Orkney and beyond. Trade Login Contact 08444 937 531 Destinations UK & Channel Islands. 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. 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. 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. 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. Registered office: Gilbridge House, Keel Square, Sunderland SR1 3HA. 2,599. Jna Sparey has been organising and conducting tours to Iceland - her Mother's homeland - and to many other places around the world since 1985. On many tours youll have the chance to personalise your touring experience by participating in some carefully planned optional excursions. Later this afternoon we travel to the port to join the ferry bound for the Orkney Islands. Scattered off Scotland's northeast coast, this wild windswept archipelago offers a far-from-it-all feel just a skip away from the mainland. 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). You are able to walk in and out and around them, just imagining how people used to survive here. Youll board your ferry to Orkney in the afternoon and arrive in Kirkwall, the historic capital of Orkney, later this evening. How do I get there? Our first visits are to the Ring of Brodgar and the Standing Stones of Stenness. Please note: All fields marked * are required, Please select a date or 1-2 months if flexible. Warner Bros. To make it easier, heres a list of items you should consider packing. North Hanover Street Bus Stance, Glasgow, G1 2BP. This means one or two nights at sea followed by sailing in Shetland and Orkney. 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. 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. These tours are inclusive of superior tourist class accommodation, transportation, selected admission fees and many meals. Visit the Bishops and Earls Palaces where you can learn of a time when Orkney was part of the Norse-held kingdom of Nordreyjar. 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. 01273 823 700 . Overnight Orkney. For anyone easily seduced by big skies, sea views, and wide-open spaces, Orkney is always a good idea. Explore prehistoric sites and experience a very different way of life. 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. All room types, other than twin rooms, are subject to availability. We'll always treat your personal details with the utmost care. If you enjoy the art of first-class travel whilst enjoying amazing value then an Escorted Tour is just for you. In certain locations youll may be joined by a local guide who will provide local insight and show you the highlights. View our Full Privacy Notice, Read independent reviews from ourcustomers. Standing guard to warn the passing ships is the Sumburgh Lighthouse, designed by the grandfather of the famous author Robert Louis Stevenson. Arrive into Lerwick, Shetland early this morning. Contact us via email: Experience the unique islands of Shetland and Orkney, with mysterious prehistoric sites, natural wonders and breathtaking scenery waiting around every corner. The drive north covers wonderful coastal scenery and normally takes around 3-4 hours including photo stops and a brief visit to the historic town of Dornoch. This holiday can be arranged from March to October. Over 4,000 years old, discoveries here include everything from Stone Age settlements and Bronze Age dwellings to Norse longhouses and medieval farms. Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly Revealed. From 799pp. They constitute the Shetland Islands council area and the historic county of Shetland. Citylink buses run to Aberdeen, Gills Bay and Scrabster so you can catch your ferry to the islands. 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.

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