Scapa Travel sells travel services on behalf of Hays Travel Limited and benefits from Hays Travel's membership of ABTA with membership number P8418. Go Scotland Tours is offering a private guided tour combining the Western Isles of Skye, Harris and Lewis with Orkney. We guarantee to refund this service charge if you believe that arranging your holiday through McKinlay Kidd has not met your expectations for value. All sorts of nature abound here, from seals and otters to ponies and hundreds of birds, making it a wildlife lover's paradise. 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. Dinner will be served on board and we will arrive in Kirkwall around 23:00 hrs. Earl Sigurd takes control. There are so many reasons why Saga stands out from other cruise lines. Overnight Orkney. Time to return home. Island hop the wild Scottish Northern Isles on this week's holiday to Orkney and Shetland From 895 to 1015 7 days ex flights. View our Full Privacy Notice, Read independent reviews from ourcustomers. Wildflowers bloom throughout the summer, covering the green cliffs with colour and the exquisite . It's a favourite with twitchers, who flock here to enjoy sensational seabird colonies and rare species. The Italian Prisoners constructed a chapel out of a pair of Nissen Huts. Callanish Standing StonesLocated in the Outer Hebrides on the west coast of Lewis, the Callanish Standing Stones are a must-see attraction for all visitors to the Western Isles. Our last visit of the day is to Skara Brae. At the ancient settlement of Jarlshof you can explore 4,000 years of human history. Fair Isle is the southernmost Shetland island and lies 24 miles from the Shetland Mainland and 27 miles from North Ronaldsay, the most northerly island in Orkney. 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. View our privacy policy. Explore the islands' Norse heritage on a coach holiday, where the sound of fiddles can still be heard drifting through the fresh air. Warner Bros. Discover the Castle of Mey and its magnificent gardens. Written in the early 13 th century when Shetland and Orkney were Norse possessions it really centers on Orkney which was undoubtedly the richer and more important of the two island groups. Historic and Cultural Tours. 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. Let Scapa Travel use their extensive local knowledge to create a memorable holiday, tailored specifically for you. However the earldom began, by the time of Earl Sigurd we are heading into more reliable territory - although still laced with myth and folklore. Everything's taken care of on a Saga escorted tour, so you can see and do more. Explore prehistoric sites and experience a very different way of life. A superb coastal trailalongthe spectacular sea cliffs from Yesnaby to the impressive ancient settlement of Skara Brae a remarkable feat of ancient engineering predates the pyramids of Egypt and even Stonehenge. Shetland: The northernmost part of the UK, Shetland is wild, rugged and beautiful. Join us on a magnificent expedition cruise to the Orkney, Shetland and Faroe Islands on board Le Boreal. Shetland - South 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. Where Scotland meets Scandinavia, this wild and remote corner of northern Britain is truly remarkable. 9 miles (15.5 km) with 1,280 feet (380m) of ascent. Although a remote wilderness, there is a lot to do in Shetland, Orkney and the Hebrides. 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. Cycling for Softies is a luxury cycling tour operator providing gourmet cycling adventures in France and Italy. 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. 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. Your hotel is an historic building, complete with nooks and crannies, winding corridors, steep steps, creaky floorboards and supposedly a resident ghost. These tours are carefully researched and combine quality hotels, luxury travel, informative visits and leisure time. . 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. 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. At 1,475 feet (450m) this is Shetlands highest peak. Discover our last-minute, luxury, all-inclusive, and many other incredible cruise deals. 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. 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 . Enjoy free time in Kirkwall this morning. Jersey; Guernsey; Herm, Sark & Alderney; Isles of Scilly; Isle of Wight ; Isle of Man ; Shetland & Orkney Islands ; North America. Check-in: TBA hrs The innovative Shetland Museum and Archives tells the fascinating story of these islands and is well worth visiting. 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 Orkney. P&O Iona; Anthem of the Seas; Regal Princess; MSC Virtuosa; Queen Mary 2 . From here you can gaze out to the Muckle Flugga lighthouse. 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. Thoroughly recommend this as an enjoyable way to experience Shetland and Orkney. Scattered off Scotland's northeast coast, this wild windswept archipelago offers a far-from-it-all feel just a skip away from the mainland. It is worth checking the HM Revenues and Customs website before you travel. 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. 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). Sign up for latest offers and top sellers. AccommodationThe price of this tour includes hotel accommodation/ferry cabin with en-suite bathroom. It's a similar story by rail, with trains available to both Aberdeen . 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. 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. The Orkney Islands were the Orcades of ancient classical literature. If you enjoy the art of first-class travel whilst enjoying amazing value then an Escorted Tour is just for you. It is a wild and dramatic place. Their warm hospitality is sure to be a highlight of your Scottish experience. Theres an opportunity to learn about Shetlands heritage at the Tangwick Haa museum today as we circumnavigate the beautiful Eshaness peninsula. Outstanding scenery, exceptional wildlife, ancient history, traditional crafts and world-class diving. How does the Care Funding Advice Service work? Shetland Isles wildlife holiday. 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. Please note that a family room is normally a standard double or twin room with either a sofa bed or a rollaway bed. See the Tall Ships in Lerwick. In the Shetlands, its all about Busta House. If you're looking to visit the islands north of Scotland, Orkney and Shetland are connected to the mainland and each other by NorthLink Ferries. 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. In a land thats been largely tamed, they remain rare unspoiled outposts of rugged coastline and remote beauty. To prevent further attacks, a series of four barriers were constructed using Italian prisoners of war. Nowhere else in Britain, and hardly anywhere else in Europe, can you get so close, so easily, to so many seabirds. 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. 8.4/5 (52 reviews) Great place! 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 coach will continue on to Glasgow, for passengers wishing to end their tour there. Rated 4.88 out of 5 based on 5,609 reviews. Overnight: Kirkwall Hotel/Lynnfield Hotel, Kirkwall (or similar) (3 nights). Later, in medieval times, farmsteads were also built here. Modern Slavery & Human Trafficking Statement. 3.91. These are wonderfully charming and intimate and run with great flair by their owners. Rated 4.88 out of 5 based on 5,609 reviews. Exciting destinations. Arrive on Orkney and settle in to the Merkister Hotel. Available Until September 2023. A holiday to the islands of Orkney and Shetland has it all. Accept. Buses and trains to Orkney. the west of Scotland and Ireland in 795. Enchanting Orkney is a smorgasbord of must-see sites and cultural attractions scattered across70 islands. Book a package holiday. 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. In Kirkwall you will find a bustling and friendly town with a great selection of restaurants, pubs, and local art shops, as well as the most northerly cathedral in Britain dating back to the 12th century. North Hanover Street Bus Stance, Glasgow, G1 2BP. Think of this itinerary as a starting point which can be tailored into something completely unique to you by our award-winning specialists. The Abbey was restored at the start of the 20thcentury and the Abbey now welcomes visitors from around the world who flock to enjoy its peaceful atmosphere. Excellent and Friendly Staff!! If you fancy some retail therapy, Kirkwall has a wealth of independent shops and craftworkers studios to be explored. In certain locations youll may be joined by a local guide who will provide local insight and show you the highlights. Usually the tour will depart the hotel between 08:00 hrs and 08:30 hrs in the morning. 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 . (Read 1 review) Late availability on these dates: 15 Apr, 13 May. Overnight Orkney. 2023 HF Holidays Limited. 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. 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. Make sure you visit Jarlshof, another incredible prehistoric site exposed in violent storms in the last couple of centuries. A genuine feel pervades this small family owned hotel, located on the edge of Kirkwall. Our full season of 2023 cruises and early 2024 cruises are on sale now. To purchase a policy speak to your insurance broker or undertake a search on-line. Also includes hotels in Alderney, Sark and Herm, plus the Isle of Wight, Isles of Scilly, Isle of Man and Shetland & Orkney Islands. These unique islands are home to some of the most breathtaking coastal scenery to be found anywhere in Britain. 8 miles (13.5km) with 850 feet (260m) of ascent. This holiday can be arranged from March to October. 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. We sail with Serco Northlink Ferries and their modern, purpose-built vessels, the Hrossey and the Hjaltland, from Aberdeen overnight to Lerwick. Among the settlements on Mainland, the largest island, is Scalloway, a fishing port. 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. These range from traditional luxury to contemporary Hotels. Cruising is another great way of accessing this remote Scottish wilderness, allowing you to explore in comfort. Inspiring options. We use your data to prepare holiday proposals and to make bookings for you if you choose to go ahead. Starts from: Edinburgh. From 799pp. In no time youll be sailing away to one unforgettable destination after another. 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. USA. 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. More than a million birds breed in very large colonies. 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. 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. Youre also sure to come across plenty of roaming Shetland ponies on your travels. The natural beauty of Orkneys landscape boasts a rich variety of scenery. On Mainland . At this fascinating site, we will discover the remains of oval houses from the Bronze Age, an Iron Age broch and Viking longhouses. Several of the prisoners have returned to Orkney over the years to assist with the restoration of the building. For all their differences, these islands share a similar feel: weather-beaten archipelagos with more in common with the Faroes than mainland Scotland. Orkney and Shetland, off the north coast of Scotland. The Tower has been restored over the past century, however not all of the original structure still remains. Single cabins now available on all January to March 2023 cruises. During our time here will visit the RSPB reserve which is home to many species of seabirds including puffins, guillemots and razorbills. 999 pp. All included in the price. Please note the narcotic plant Khat/Qat is legal in the UK, but is not in a majority of other countries so never try to export this when leaving the UK.If you are visiting from outside of the United Kingdom, it is wise to check customs requirements before you travel. 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. Call and speak to one of our travel experts who have experienced Shetland & Orkney Islands personally. This will ensure that we can improve the experience for all our future guests. The ultimate collection of European cycling holidays. With a strong norse influence, these island groups provide a surprisingly contrasting cultural experience when compared to the Hebrides. Each one is all inclusive, and youll have your own private balcony to enjoy every destination in style. Overnight Shetland. Stretching off Scotlands north coast are Shetland and Orkney, two very special archipelagos where Scotland meets Scandinavia. Read more, Need something more tailored? For group bookings of 10+ people click here. 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. Enjoy a relaxing break over the May Day Bank Holiday; Join ORCA on deck of Bolette to spot whales ; Depart Lerwick at the end of the afternoon for the overnight journey on the cruise class Northlink Ferries service to Aberdeen. 01273 823 700 . Saga Cruises; Disney Cruises; Cruise Ships. 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 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. When people think of Scotland's islands, it's usually the Hebrides they have in mind. and 'why?'. 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. Orkney is a land of opportunity forged by 5,000 years of unique history. Walking is a wonderful way to discover the Orkney Islands. Tour departure and return times will be advised in your tour documentation. More details & Book Bank Holiday Escape to Scenic Scotland . We depart Aberdeen at 19:00 hrs, and a short time later, dinner will be served in the ship's restaurant. Language: EnglishCurrency: Pound SterlingTime Zone: GMTTipping: 10 to 12% is usual for hotels with 10 to 15% being usual for restaurants. Cabin upgrades may also be available on request. Consequently, bedrooms and bathrooms come in varying shapes and sizes. 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. Be the first to hear about all things HF Holidays. Wilderness Ireland take their clients to the most remote and beautiful regions of Ireland, all while staying at the most welcoming accommodations and delivering outstanding customer service. 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 can book package holidays including flights from the UK, hotel . 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. Overnight Ferry. Orkney, an ancient cluster of 70 islands brimming with history and dramatic coastlines, lie off the north west coast of Scotland. 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. FAQsPlease see the FAQ section for more information on this tour. The beautiful Cairngorms National Park will bring us to the Pass of Drumocher and Highland Perthshire beyond. Sign up for our newsletter and unlock exclusive tips and inspiration from our team of travel specialists. If you would like to spend an extra night or two on either Orkney or Shetland, wed be delighted to assist. In a land that's been largely tamed, they remain rare unspoiled outposts of rugged coastline and remote beauty. We know that after a busy day of sightseeing an exceptional place to stay makes all the difference. They branded their services "P&O Ferries" from 1975 to 1989 and "P&O Scottish Ferries" thereafter. 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. Later we travel to the dramatic sea cliffs at Eshaness which have been created by the constant pounding of the Atlantic waves. 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. Comprehensive travel insurance is advised for all other nationals planning on visiting Scotland.If you need to contact the emergency services whilst in Scotland simply dial 999 or 112 to ask for an ambulance. Look out for the gargoyles which a former owner rescued from the Houses of Parliament in London. On arrival, we visit Sumburgh Head RSPB reserve. Our home for tonight is in the delightful village of Bray which overlooks Busta Voe. 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 . Our destination is Lerwick, the island's attractive capital. Toggle navigation. Please see Terms and Conditions for further details. Explore archaeological wonders such as Skara Brae, Jarlshof, the Ring of Brodgar, and the Standing Stones of Stenness. 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. The island's attractions include . Scattered off the northeast coast of Scotland, Orkney and the Shetland Islands are staggeringly beautiful. 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. These mysterious stone circles are amongst the most significant in Europe and are some 5,000 years old. Shetland and the Tall Ships. Excellent, informative, enjoyable tour. Spend some time exploring this fascinating seaport where you could visit. Read 20 . Pop into the Shetland Crofthouse Museum in Dunrossness, a restored 19th century Shetland croft which was inhabited until the 1960s. Scapa Travel is a trading name of Scapa Travel Limited who are registered in Scotland with company number SC438791, and VAT number 115719224. Your hotel is a short drive away from the ferry port, in the islands capital, Kirkwall. Sign up for latest offers and top sellers. Welcome to life in the easy lane. Click the heart icon on the search or holiday pages to pin a holiday. 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. Take in the breathtaking Old Man of Hoy a 450 foot sea stack and perhaps Orkneys most famous landmark. Orkney and Shetland are a haven for wildlife. The islanders themselves feel a strong local identity and you can be guaranteed a warm island welcome and some fantastic local fresh food. 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. Discover squawking seabird colonies, staggering scenery, and some of the best-preserved Neolithic ruins in Europe as you island hop between Mainland . We'll always treat your personal details with the utmost care. 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. Sign up for our newsletter and be the first to hear about trip news, blogs and offers. Currently on offer are holidays to Iceland in winter and summer, plus fantastic trips to The Shetland Isles, Southern Ireland, Hidden France and Romandy Switzerland and the Dordogne. Photo: juvlai, CC BY-SA 2.0. Shetland & Orkney Island Holidays . We will hold your data securely within our organisation, McKinlay Kidd Limited. In West Mainland, dont miss the hauntingly beautiful Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO World Heritage Site. 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. 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. Double room - this is a room for two people sharing one large bed. We then rejoin our transport for the scenic transfer to Busta House. add an extra night or two on each island group to explore in depth? 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. Non-member fee: 30 per person. Enjoy 3 days (3 nights) in Orkney. Over 4,000 years old, discoveries here include everything from Stone Age settlements and Bronze Age dwellings to Norse longhouses and medieval farms. 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. Breakfast is served onboard from 07:15 hrs after which we board the coach and disembark to begin our island tour. 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 . 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. 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. Watch for dolphins which sometimes play in the bow waves. 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. Do take a walk in the gardens which stretch down to the water. Please click below to find the trip notes for your departure date. 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. 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.