From getting to know you by name to remembering your favourite drink at the bar, youll always receive personal, attentive service. North Hanover Street Bus Stance, Glasgow, G1 2BP. With Orkney in his hands, Sigurd had the means to expand his territory and, according to the saga, soon took Caithness, Sutherland and sections of Argyll on the Scottish . It's a favourite with twitchers, who flock here to enjoy sensational seabird colonies and rare species. There are so many reasons why Saga stands out from other cruise lines. The islanders themselves feel a strong local identity and you can be guaranteed a warm island welcome and some fantastic local fresh food. Be the first to hear about all things HF Holidays. Modern Slavery & Human Trafficking Statement. 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). Thoroughly recommend this as an enjoyable way to experience Shetland and Orkney. [1] 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 . 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. Guided wildlife tour of Shetland Isles. In nearby Scalloway an excellent museum tells the story of the top-secret WWII Shetland Bus operation. 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. The Vikings left their mark, such as the beautifully proportioned round church at Orphir as well as their grafitti which we now admire as works of art! Sign up today and start discovering. Look out for the lighthouse, opened in 1929 its powerful light can be seen from 46 km away. 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. Florida; Las Vegas & The West . Among the settlements on Mainland, the largest island, is Scalloway, a fishing port. The event is taking place on Saturday 6 May, with the additional bank holiday on 8 May. This afternoon we tour through the island, and as we make our journey hopefully, we will see some native Shetland ponies grazing in their fields. Many people have landed there before you . 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. Jna Sparey has been organising and conducting tours to Iceland - her Mother's homeland - and to many other places around the world since 1985. 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. Ayre Road, Kirkwall, Scotland, KW15 1QX. Take the strain off holiday planning with a bespoke package holiday or group trip to Shetland. Our Premium category includes a unique collection of luxurious and stylish boutique Guest Houses and small 4* Hotels. If you go above this allowance you may have to pay tax or duty. Visitors can climb up the tower of the Castle and visit the Scalloway Museum which is located next door. The Stones were erected around 3000BC and it is thought that they were some kind of astronomical calendar associated with the moon. Once we make landfall expect day sailing among the islands and skerries. 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. Experience a unique blend of Scandinavian and Scottish culture, as the Norse history and heritage still shapes these islands today. Shetland's other great Viking site is over on the northern island of Unst, reached by a succession of roll-on, roll-off car ferries from Mainland, the largest island in the group. Days 5-8 Orkney. (Read 1 review) Late availability on these dates: 15 Apr, 13 May. 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. 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. 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. We arrive in Lerwick around 07:30 hrs. 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. All itineraries and room types are presented subject to availability at specific hotels. Go Scotland Tours is offering a private guided tour combining the Western Isles of Skye, Harris and Lewis with Orkney. It took 300 years to complete and is one of the finest examples of Norman architecture in Europe. We depart Aberdeen at 19:00 hrs, and a short time later, dinner will be served in the ship's restaurant. 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. They branded their services "P&O Ferries" from 1975 to 1989 and "P&O Scottish Ferries" thereafter. Built in 1600, this castle was once the home of the Earl of Orkney. However the earldom began, by the time of Earl Sigurd we are heading into more reliable territory - although still laced with myth and folklore. 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. Meet Shetland ponies in their natural habitat. Finally, a laird's house was constructed on the site in the 1600s. We then rejoin our transport for the scenic transfer to Busta House. Discover the Castle of Mey and its magnificent gardens. Scalloway CastleWhen visiting the Shetland Isles, why not visit Scalloway Castle? The Old Man of Hoy. In West Mainland, dont miss the hauntingly beautiful Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO World Heritage Site. Overnight Shetland. Orkney and Shetland, off the north coast of Scotland. Stay at this 3-star hotel in Kirkwall. Book your holiday today with Planet Cruise! From jagged cliffs to unspoilt beaches and stone . Specialists in offering a range of adventure holidays, tours and incredible wilderness experiences. Overnight: Busta House Hotel/Brae Hotel, Shetland (or similar). Free time will let you explore Kirkwall and St Magnus Cathedral before setting sail for the mainland. Take the opportunity to visit one of Orkneys smaller isles. It also comprises larger 4* Hotels selected for their high standard of accommodation, exceptional service, and great location. Depart Lerwick at the end of the afternoon for the overnight journey on the cruise class Northlink Ferries service to Aberdeen. Book a package holiday. Welcome to life in the easy lane. Toggle navigation. 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. This mysterious place of long days and colourful night skies is home to a wealth of sea life and sea birds, not . Call for options 01904 521 936. The nearby seaport of Stromness is famed for the Pier Arts Centre which showcases the work of artists and sculptors from Orkney and beyond. Shetland - South Mainland. Its the most southerly point of mainland Shetland and where thousands of species of seabird come ashore to nest on the cliffs. 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. Non-member fee: 30 per person. We have the application forms in our office at 11 Bridge Street.For more information see www.airdiscountscheme.com, Sign-up to our mailing list for Exclusive Offers. It's a short drive to our hotel for the next three nights. Dinner will be served on board and we will arrive in Kirkwall around 23:00 hrs. Rooms are simple but homely and all come with TV and tea and coffee making facilities. Cruising is another great way of accessing this remote Scottish wilderness, allowing you to explore in comfort. Make sure you visit Jarlshof, another incredible prehistoric site exposed in violent storms in the last couple of centuries. If you are happy with the details you have provided above then click Submit Form to send us your enquiry. A holiday to the islands of Orkney and Shetland has it all. Jersey; Guernsey; Herm, Sark & Alderney; Isles of Scilly; Isle of Wight ; Isle of Man ; Shetland & Orkney Islands ; North America. These tours are carefully researched and combine quality hotels, luxury travel, informative visits and leisure time. Read more, Need something more tailored? 9 miles (14km) with 1,060 feet (320m) 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. and a self-drive holiday of Shetland and Orkney guarantees memories to last a . Day 9. Wildlife watching here is superb. 2,599. When's the best time to visit? Orkney & Shetland Start your journey by travelling from Orkney from Scrabster near Thurso, where you will find your hotel which is . All sorts of nature abound here, from seals and otters to ponies and hundreds of birds, making it a wildlife lover's paradise. 8.4/5 (52 reviews) Great place! Tallest Sea Cliffs in Britain. Our home for tonight is in the delightful village of Bray which overlooks Busta Voe. Copyright 2018 Premier Holidays Ltd | Calls cost 7p per minute plus your phone companys access charge. Consequently, bedrooms and bathrooms come in varying shapes and sizes. Later you could take a 10 minute ferry journey to the Isle of Bressay to explore the rich natural heritage and incredible wildlife. Theres an opportunity to learn about Shetlands heritage at the Tangwick Haa museum today as we circumnavigate the beautiful Eshaness peninsula. 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. Where Scotland meets Scandinavia, this wild and remote corner of northern Britain is truly remarkable. The Norsmen left their mark on the islands and some of the Norse legends and customs are still kept alive during festivals . Historic and Cultural Tours. Designed with our guests in mind, our modern sister ships offer small-ship luxury with a private balcony for every guest. 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. Recently hailed as one of Lonely Planets Best in Europe for 2019, the ruggedly handsome Shetland Islands comprise around 100 different islands with just 15 inhabited. While most tour operators use hotels around the capital, Lerwick, we choose to stay somewhere you can really appreciate Shetlands remote beauty. Some cruises also incorporate the Faroe Isles. P&O Iona; Anthem of the Seas; Regal Princess; MSC Virtuosa; Queen Mary 2 . Providing inspiring active experiences, immerse yourself in the unique landscapes, history, culture and wildlife on a Wilderness England adventure. Travel by overnight ferry to Lerwick, the capital of Shetland, arriving at 0730 and enjoy a leisurely breakfast on board before disembarking. 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. Do take a walk in the gardens which stretch down to the water. If you enjoy the art of first-class travel whilst enjoying amazing value then an Escorted Tour is just for you. 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. Experience the unique islands of Shetland and Orkney, with mysterious prehistoric sites, natural wonders and breathtaking scenery waiting around every corner. 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. Later we travel to the dramatic sea cliffs at Eshaness which have been created by the constant pounding of the Atlantic waves. 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. Over 4,000 years old, discoveries here include everything from Stone Age settlements and Bronze Age dwellings to Norse longhouses and medieval farms. Meanwhile seals laze on rocks beneath the cliffs or nose around the boat. Spirit of Discovery departing Dover. Pop into the Shetland Crofthouse Museum in Dunrossness, a restored 19th century Shetland croft which was inhabited until the 1960s. If a service charge has already been added, no further tip is required. The expedition starts in Oban and we sail, via the scenic and bird-rich island of Handa, to the enchanting Orkney Islands. 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. Beautiful beaches, stunning cliffs, ancient settlements and wonderful wildlife-spotting opportunities - Shetland has a lot to offer. The coach will continue on to Glasgow, for passengers wishing to end their tour there. 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. Take the ferry from Stromness to Scrabster on the Scottish mainland, where your self-drive tour of Orkney and Shetland will come to an end. 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. 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. Available Until September 2023. From 2,345 7 days ex flights. VAT Number 125 4899 87. Our local guide will help you to discover ancient civilisations, archaeological delights and bountiful wildlife from our base in the island capital of Kirkwall. In 1850 a fierce storm hit the Orkney Isles and the site of Skara Brae was uncovered; previously it was hidden beneath a grass mound. 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 this fascinating site, we will discover the remains of oval houses from the Bronze Age, an Iron Age broch and Viking longhouses. Earl Sigurd takes control. Our sociable ships have been designed with more than 100 single balcony cabins, the widest selection on the ocean wave. This expanse of water has played witness to some monumental events. Spend some time exploring this fascinating seaport where you could visit. The Orkney Mainland is just Getting to Orkney can be easier and quicker than you may think. Be aware of your surroundings and don't venture off on your own. They left carvings behind which are considered to be some of the finest examples of runic inscriptions in the World. Later we make the short drive to Sumburgh Head, where the waters of the North Sea meet the waves of the Atlantic Ocean. Popular attractions Orkney Wireless Museum and St. Magnus Cathedral are located . This picturesque spring Orkney & Shetland Mini Cruise combines coastal scenery with fascinating history. Available May 2023. It is a wild and dramatic place. An interesting tour, with lots of great historical commentary and beautiful landscapes. Nowhere else in Britain, and hardly anywhere else in Europe, can you get so close, so easily, to so many seabirds. Both Shetland and Orkney offer a good chance of spotting the Northern Lights, particularly in autumn and winter. 01273 823 700 . Next, we make for Maeshowe, a magnificent chambered tomb that dates from around 2,500 BC. 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).

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