The breadth of history to be discovered here is without parallel in Scotland and is sure to amaze you. 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. The Old Man of Hoy. 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 . 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. Prepare for cool windy weather so that you can take time to enjoy the amazing archeology you visit. the west of Scotland and Ireland in 795. 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. This picturesque spring Orkney & Shetland Mini Cruise combines coastal scenery with fascinating history. Tour Departs: TBA hrs Depart Lerwick at the end of the afternoon for the overnight journey on the cruise class Northlink Ferries service to Aberdeen. Local Laws and CustomsQueuing is a British Institution - jump a queue at your own risk!Drug offences will carry penalties in the UK, so avoid getting involved with anything whilst in Scotland. The beautiful Cairngorms National Park will bring us to the Pass of Drumocher and Highland Perthshire beyond. It is worth checking the HM Revenues and Customs website before you travel. 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 . Wed also suggest a day of further island hopping by ferry, perhaps across to nearby Shapinsay for a good stretch of the legs or a visit to more mountainous Hoy for an alternative perspective on the Old Man sea stack. It is a wild and dramatic place. 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. Standing guard to warn the passing ships is the Sumburgh Lighthouse, designed by the grandfather of the famous author Robert Louis Stevenson. 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. 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. Do take a walk in the gardens which stretch down to the water. Their warm hospitality is sure to be a highlight of your Scottish experience. 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. Weather permitting, enjoy a welcome drink on the small terrace, which overlooks the distinctive pagoda-roof of the neighbours: the Highland Park distillery. 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. [1] The Orkney Mainland is just Getting to Orkney can be easier and quicker than you may think. Welcome to life in the easy lane. The largest town, Lerwick, is closer to Norway than to Edinburgh, and culturally and geographically they feel more Norse than Scottish. Let Scapa Travel use their extensive local knowledge to create a memorable holiday, tailored specifically for you. View our privacy policy. The ultimate collection of European cycling holidays. ARE YOU A SOLO TRAVELLER WILLING TO SHARE? 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. 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 . Our sociable ships have been designed with more than 100 single balcony cabins, the widest selection on the ocean wave. The Italian Prisoners constructed a chapel out of a pair of Nissen Huts. Regional departures and/or connections to London, if available, can be requested. An experienced tour manager will lead the tour and your coach will be expertly driven by a professional driver. We use cookies to provide you with the best online experience. , Duration: 9 Days / 8 Nights. This expanse of water has played witness to some monumental events. On Mainland, is the capital Kirkwall whose sights include St Magnus Cathedral, the Bishops and Earls palaces and the Orkney Museum. North Hanover Street Bus Stance, Glasgow, G1 2BP. If you're flying here, public bus services connect with all the main airports in Scotland too. 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. 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. Ayre Road, Kirkwall, Scotland, KW15 1QX. For group bookings of 10+ people click here. Known as the Churchill Barriers, we will use these causeways to reach the little island of Lamb Holm. 638 ratings70 reviews. This holiday is based on ferry crossings, starting from the north coast of Scotland near Thurso and returning to Aberdeen. This will ensure that we can improve the experience for all our future guests. All sorts of nature abound here, from seals and otters to ponies and hundreds of birds, making it a wildlife lover's paradise. Later you could take a 10 minute ferry journey to the Isle of Bressay to explore the rich natural heritage and incredible wildlife. UNESCO World Heritage Site. If a service charge has already been added, no further tip is required. Inspiring options. High levels of cover from an award winning provider, 3-year fixed price with no tie-ins - T&Cs apply. It also comprises larger 4* Hotels selected for their high standard of accommodation, exceptional service, and great location. Jersey; Guernsey; Herm, Sark & Alderney; Isles of Scilly; Isle of Wight ; Isle of Man ; Shetland & Orkney Islands ; North America. Scapa Travel is a trading name of Scapa Travel Limited who are registered in Scotland with company number SC438791, and VAT number 115719224. Although a remote wilderness, there is a lot to do in Shetland, Orkney and the Hebrides. You could visit the mighty Cathedral of St Mangus, which was begun in 1137. Please contact us for more details. Youll board your ferry to Orkney in the afternoon and arrive in Kirkwall, the historic capital of Orkney, later this evening. 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 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. 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. Outstanding scenery, exceptional wildlife, ancient history, traditional crafts and world-class diving. Buy your own drinks and keep sight of them at all times. Tallest Sea Cliffs in Britain. How does the Care Funding Advice Service work? Archaeological Treasures of Orkney and Shetland, Location:Northlink Ferry (1); Busta, Shetland Islands (1) and Kirkwall, Orkney islands (3), Admission to Scalloway Castle, Jarlshof, Ring of Brodgar, Stenness Standing Stones, Maeshowe, Skara Brae and Italian Chapel, Touring by luxury air-conditioned coach with reclining seats, All baggage handling and hotel tips are included, Services throughout the tour of a professional Tour Director. Tour Details. Does equity release affect inheritance tax. 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. In a land that's been largely tamed, they remain rare unspoiled outposts of rugged coastline and remote beauty. Registered office 11 Bridge Street, Kirkwall, Orkney, KW151 HR. 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. P&O Iona; Anthem of the Seas; Regal Princess; MSC Virtuosa; Queen Mary 2 . A collection of 3* B&Bs and Guest Houses offering comfortable accommodation close to local attractions. Language: EnglishCurrency: Pound SterlingTime Zone: GMTTipping: 10 to 12% is usual for hotels with 10 to 15% being usual for restaurants. Saga Cruises; Disney Cruises; Cruise Ships. Wildlife watching here is superb. Among the settlements on Mainland, the largest island, is Scalloway, a fishing port. We strongly recommend that you have travel insurance in place for your trip to Scotland, especially if you are visiting from overseas. The services were taken over by NorthLink Orkney and Shetland Ferries in 2002. If, like us, you cant get enough of the archeological discoveries, head over to Rousay with its Midhowe Broch and Cairn. Departing by Coach. In the afternoon well visit Maes Howe, one of the most treasured Neolithic sites in Europe. Look out for the lighthouse, opened in 1929 its powerful light can be seen from 46 km away. Please choose from one of our accommodation categories below. You will not be able to use this site without JavaScript. These unassuming islands have a truly magical quality, and civilisation has thrived here for millennia. 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. Meanwhile seals laze on rocks beneath the cliffs or nose around the boat. You are able to walk in and out and around them, just imagining how people used to survive here. Orkney and Shetland Isles Holidays. Youll be in good company if you choose to take dinner at your hotel, a popular destination for locals as well as visitors. In West Mainland, dont miss the hauntingly beautiful Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO World Heritage Site. Recently hailed as one of Lonely Planet's Best in Europe for 2019, the ruggedly handsome Shetland Islands comprise around 100 different islands with just 15 inhabited. All we ask is that you write to us within 7 days of your return and explain your reason for claiming the refund. Spot dolphins and porpoises in the coastal waters, or breeding seabirds such as puffins and guillemots at Hermaness Nature Reserve. In nearby Scalloway an excellent museum tells the story of the top-secret WWII Shetland Bus operation. Contact usEmail: info@scapatravel.co.ukTelephone: 01856 889040, Our opening hours are:Monday to Friday 10am to 4pmSaturday 11am to 3pm. 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. 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. 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. More details & Book Bank Holiday Escape to Scenic Scotland . With over 100 islands contributing to over 1,500 miles of coastline, there is something to discover around every corner, from the entrancing blend of Scottish and Scandinavian culture to the dramatic . Time to return home. 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. 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. These mysterious stone circles are amongst the most significant in Europe and are some 5,000 years old. Later we make the short drive to Sumburgh Head, where the waters of the North Sea meet the waves of the Atlantic Ocean. 8 nights from. At this fascinating site, we will discover the remains of oval houses from the Bronze Age, an Iron Age broch and Viking longhouses. Warner Bros. Jna Sparey has been organising and conducting tours to Iceland - her Mother's homeland - and to many other places around the world since 1985. 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. To help us reduce spam, please tick the reCAPTCHA field. I have never been that far north before. This mysterious place of long days and colourful night skies is home to a wealth of sea life and sea birds, not . The nearby seaport of Stromness is famed for the Pier Arts Centre which showcases the work of artists and sculptors from Orkney and beyond. Relaxing hotel-based holidays in the sun, with a Saga host on hand. Many people have landed there before you . Only a short distance away is Sumburgh Head Nature Reserve with its famous lighthouse overlooking the cliffs. 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. 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. 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. 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. Please click here to see full flight schedules to Shetland & Orkney Island. A genuine feel pervades this small family owned hotel, located on the edge of Kirkwall. 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. Available Until September 2023. Each one is all inclusive, and youll have your own private balcony to enjoy every destination in style. 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. (Read 1 review) Late availability on these dates: 15 Apr, 13 May. There will be a stop where can enjoy time off the coach and buy refreshments. Supplements may apply. Other Shetland highlights include Unst, boasting a plethora of fabulous walks and golden beaches; Foula, designated as a Special Protection Area for birds; Fetlar, known as the Garden of Shetland while beguiling Whalsay inspired some of Hugh McDiarmids poetry. We depart Aberdeen at 19:00 hrs, and a short time later, dinner will be served in the ship's restaurant. 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. 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. Discover their all-balcony cabins, huge choice of included speciality restaurants and bars, and an outdoor lido with a full wraparound deck. Consequently, bedrooms and bathrooms come in varying shapes and sizes. All included in the price. Find out everything you need to know about planning a trip to Scotland's incredible Northern Isles. Scattered off the northeast coast of Scotland, Orkney and the Shetland Islands are staggeringly beautiful. We also include a Boat trip around Noss during your time on Shetland (please note this only runs between May and mid-September). We will hold your data securely within our organisation, McKinlay Kidd Limited. To prevent further attacks, a series of four barriers were constructed using Italian prisoners of war. Highlights of Orkney and Shetland6 day/5 night. During the summer it is still light when you arrive. The landscape is wild and remote and, outside of the . Days 5-8 Orkney. 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.
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