10 Day Shetland & Orkney Car Tour. The holiday described is based on taking your own car, but ask us if you would like a fly-drive proposal, flying to and between the islands andhiring a car on each island. Holidays In The UK For Over 50s - 2022/23 l Saga Travel Visitors can climb up the tower of the Castle and visit the Scalloway Museum which is located next door. Youre also sure to come across plenty of roaming Shetland ponies on your travels. Take the strain off holiday planning with a bespoke package holiday or group trip to Shetland. Earl Sigurd takes control. This expanse of water has played witness to some monumental events. We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA's Code of Conduct. Join us on a magnificent expedition cruise to the Orkney, Shetland and Faroe Islands on board Le Boreal. These unassuming islands have a truly magical quality, and civilisation has thrived here for millennia. Discover squawking seabird colonies, staggering scenery, and some of the best-preserved Neolithic ruins in Europe as you island hop between Mainland . The Shetlands were pawned for a further 8,000 florins. This picturesque spring Orkney & Shetland Mini Cruise combines coastal scenery with fascinating history. , Duration: 9 Days / 8 Nights. The breadth of history to be discovered here is without parallel in Scotland and is sure to amaze you. 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. 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. Sailing Fair Isle | Orkney to Shetland | Shetland To Orkney In Shetland, inter-island ferry travel is operated by the council , while Orkney Ferries connect the archipelago's 13 island destinations. If you are keen to take more ferry trips, then island hop through Yell to Unst in the far north. We use cookies to provide you with the best online experience. 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. These treasures are of such importance that UNESCO has designated them a World Heritage site. 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 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. 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. You will start your journey in the cosmopolitan city of Aberdeen where you will board the well-equipped Northlink Ferry and sail overnight in your modern and comfortable twin-berth cabin. The Shetland Islands are the most northerly part of the United Kingdom, a group of islands 100 miles / 160 km north of mainland Scotland. Please click below to find the trip notes for your departure date. 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. Group transfer to Sumburgh airport for your return flight. 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. Your accommodation is great for the little personal touches. Shetland Isles wildlife holiday. Meanwhile, the rich ancient history and numerous archaeological sites offer a fascinating glimpse into the past, with many details of life preserved. 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. Well also visit the impressive archaeological site of Jarlshof. They are home to a vast array of seabirds and unusual Scottish fauna, such as the rare Scottish Primrose, which means that the natural environment plays a starring role in any trip to these islands. Call and speak to one of our travel experts who have experienced Shetland & Orkney Islands personally. We use your data to prepare holiday proposals and to make bookings for you if you choose to go ahead. There will be a stop where can enjoy time off the coach and buy refreshments. Saga Cruises; Disney Cruises; Cruise Ships. Non-member fee: 30 per person. Accommodation on board in a double/twin en-suite outer cabin is included in the price. Orkney and the Shetland Isles | Great Rail Journeys On Mainland, is the capital Kirkwall whose sights include St Magnus Cathedral, the Bishops and Earls palaces and the Orkney Museum. 10 Day Shetland and Orkney Tour (self drive) The restaurant prides itself on local produce, prepared to make the most of the fresh flavours. 01273 823 700 . UNESCO World Heritage Site. 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 . Faroe Islands Cruise Tour: Shetland & Orkney Islands | National 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. This is a far cry in both style and location from a chain hotel and all rooms are individually decorated. This holiday can be arranged from March to October. Many coaches are equipped with WiFi too. FAQsPlease see the FAQ section for more information on this tour. The UKs bestselling monthly subscription magazine. Then trace . 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. Orkney & Shetland Mini Cruise - DC Thomson Travel 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. 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. 9 miles (14km) with 1,060 feet (320m) of ascent. All Rights Reserved. Discover our last-minute, luxury, all-inclusive, and many other incredible cruise deals. Now it forms part of the World Heritage Site in the centre of the Orkney Mainland, along with the tomb of Maes Howe, the Ring of Brodgar and the mighty Standing Stones of Stenness. 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. 8 nights from. The Old Man of Hoy. With a maximum of 15 passengers per group, you can be sure of . 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. 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. The coach will continue on to Glasgow, for passengers wishing to end their tour there. Many people have landed there before you . 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. Where Scotland meets Scandinavia, this wild and remote corner of northern Britain is truly remarkable. Guide Lorraine gives an insight into this ancient archipelago. "The staff was xtrenely king and helpful! Overnight Orkney. Borealis. Highlights of Orkney & Shetland - DC Thomson Travel We only share data with business partners where it is necessary to fulfil our service. Take the opportunity to visit one of Orkneys smaller isles. Getting to Orkney via public transport is simple. It's a similar story by rail, with trains available to both Aberdeen . As you sail below, the screeching is deafening, and youll feel very outnumbered, a stranger invading their territory. P&O Scottish Ferries - Wikipedia The Shetland Islands | The Unbelievable Hidden Treasure of Scotland enquiries@absoluteescapes.com. Topped by a prehistoric chambered burial cairn, the summit offers a breathtaking panorama across this ice-carved landscape. Outstanding scenery, exceptional wildlife, ancient history, traditional crafts and world-class diving. The Stones were erected around 3000BC and it is thought that they were some kind of astronomical calendar associated with the moon. Modern Slavery & Human Trafficking Statement. Please see Terms and Conditions for further details. Shetland and the Tall Ships | British Isles & Ireland | Saga Cruising During the Neolithic and Early Bronze Age, the people of Orkney and Shetland were among the first in Britain to begin building Megalithic chamber tombs and later henge monuments. Available May 2023. Search. Iona AbbeyOne of Scotland's most sacred and historic sites, the Abbey was founded in 563AD and it still retains its spiritual atmosphere today. An interesting tour, with lots of great historical commentary and beautiful landscapes. Arrive in Aberdeen at 0700 and enjoy breakfast on board before disembarking and continuing your onward journey. Scattered off the northeast coast of Scotland, Orkney and the Shetland Islands are staggeringly beautiful. Double room - this is a room for two people sharing one large bed. The nature reserve is the perfect place to spot seabirds such as puffins, guillemots and kittiwakes. 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. Topped by a prehistoric chambered burial cairn, the summit offers a breathtaking panorama across this ice-carved landscape. Thats why all of the accommodation we select is hand-picked using our first-hand knowledge of the best places to stay. In a land that's been largely tamed, they remain rare unspoiled outposts of rugged coastline and remote beauty. 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. Calls cost 7p per minute plus your phone companys access charge. Shetland travel guide - Responsible Travel Fiercely independent and sprinkled with Scandinavian tradition, this pair of wild windswept archipelagos offer an island-hopping holiday that ticks-off squawking seabird . Its a great way to make new friends! 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 . British Isles Cruises 2023 & 2024 | Fred. Olsen Cruises It's a short drive to our hotel for the next three nights. Spend two days exploring some of the many island treasures, including Scalloway Castle and Jarlshof, an outstanding example of . It is a wild and dramatic place. Orkney and Shetland, being the nearest western land to Norway, would be first visited. When's the best time to visit? Book your holiday today with Planet Cruise! 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. Single cabins now available on all January to March 2023 cruises. 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. Highlights of Orkney and Shetland - 6 day tour - Scottish Tours 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. Fred Olsen. 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. 2,599. In certain locations youll may be joined by a local guide who will provide local insight and show you the highlights. 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. Look out for the lighthouse, opened in 1929 its powerful light can be seen from 46 km away. Cabin upgrades may also be available on request. Discover their all-balcony cabins, huge choice of included speciality restaurants and bars, and an outdoor lido with a full wraparound deck. Arrive into Lerwick, Shetland early this morning. These range from traditional luxury to contemporary Hotels. 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. Walking is a wonderful way to discover the Orkney Islands. The card payment providers above are used for taking your payments by operators featured on our site. Shetland Islands | History, Climate, Population, & Facts All holidays are subject to availability. Discover your ideal travel experience. We know that after a busy day of sightseeing an exceptional place to stay makes all the difference. 638 ratings70 reviews. Weather permitting, enjoy a welcome drink on the small terrace, which overlooks the distinctive pagoda-roof of the neighbours: the Highland Park distillery. But forget the . From 799pp. Shes the beautiful sister to Spirit of Discovery, but has a whole host of surprises of her own, including exciting new restaurants. We will discover more about this rather unpleasant character and his tyrannical ways during our visit.
saga holidays orkney and shetland