Are you sure you would like to continue with this room size? 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. Known as the Churchill Barriers, we will use these causeways to reach the little island of Lamb Holm. Stay at this 3-star hotel in Kirkwall. 2,599. 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. Registered Office: Enbrook Park, Folkestone, Kent, CT20 3SE. You are able to walk in and out and around them, just imagining how people used to survive here. The unspoilt landscape of Shetland has a rugged beauty shaped by the sea at the end of the last Ice Age. 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 . Let us know if we can tailor-make it for you to link with a self-drive tour of the Scottish Highlands. Weather permitting, enjoy a welcome drink on the small terrace, which overlooks the distinctive pagoda-roof of the neighbours: the Highland Park distillery. Our destination is Lerwick, the island's attractive capital. the west of Scotland and Ireland in 795. 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. The last part of the journey takes us through the Kingdom of Fife and across the Forth Estuary into Edinburgh. Tour Departs: TBA hrs A selection of cruises incorporating the islands are available, with ports of call including Stornoway (Isle of Lewis) and Kirkwall (Isle of Orkney), as well as Edinburgh. See the landscapes of Shetland and Orkney; Visit Trshavn, with its Viking heritage; Itinerary From. Average salary for Saga Group Mi Analyst in Seaham, England: [salary]. 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. But forget the . All itineraries and room types are presented subject to availability at specific hotels. Overnight Orkney, Take the opportunity to visit one of Orkneys smaller isles. I flew from Glasgow to Kirkwall, the main town, instead of tak Reg No: 250017 | VAT No: 817 0144 57 | Copyright McKinlay Kidd Ltd 2023. . Thousands of seabirds including gannets, guillemots and kittiwakes nest and feed in the Noss Nature Reserve. Outstanding scenery, exceptional wildlife, ancient history, traditional crafts and world-class diving. We then rejoin our transport for the scenic transfer to Busta House. Travel to the wild and glorious peninsula of Northmavine. 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. If you go above this allowance you may have to pay tax or duty. Take the opportunity to visit one of Orkneys smaller isles. 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. Our last visit of the day is to Skara Brae. Please choose from one of our accommodation categories below. Photo: Lis Burke, CC BY-SA 2.0. Excellent array of hotels and self-catering options across Jersey and Guernsey. Make the most of your time on the islands on this carefully-curated itinerary accessible by flight from central Scotland. Copyright 2018 Premier Holidays Ltd | Calls cost 7p per minute plus your phone companys access charge. Lake District, Yorkshire & Hadrians Wall, Classic Yorkshire: Whitby, York & The Dales, East of England: Cambridge, Norfolk & Suffolk. Both Shetland and Orkney offer a good chance of spotting the Northern Lights, particularly in autumn and winter. Please note that a family room is normally a standard double or twin room with either a sofa bed or a rollaway bed. Overnight Orkney. The landscape is wild and remote and, outside of the . At this fascinating site, we will discover the remains of oval houses from the Bronze Age, an Iron Age broch and Viking longhouses. 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 thats been largely tamed, they remain rare unspoiled outposts of rugged coastline and remote beauty. A BSpoke Tour is all about being as restful or as adventurous as you desire. 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. 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. More than a million birds breed in very large colonies. 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. Cabin upgrades may also be available on request. Do take a walk in the gardens which stretch down to the water. Scattered off the northeast coast of Scotland, Orkney and the Shetland Islands are staggeringly beautiful. 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. The breadth of history to be discovered here is without parallel in Scotland and is sure to amaze you. Days 5-8 Orkney. 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. Simply pop your details in the box below for the latest news, travel advice, destination inspiration, and special offers delivered straight to your inbox. Our first walk on Orkney follows a clifftop coastal path from Marwick Bay to the Brough of Birsay, overlooking RSPB Marwick Head reserve. Guided wildlife tour of Shetland Isles. 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. 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. At 1,475 feet (450m) this is Shetlands highest peak. Orkney and Shetland Isles Holidays. Includes 9 nights accommodation (2 of which will be on the ferry to and from Shetland) and ferry costs. We can book package holidays including flights from the UK, hotel accommodation and car hire. 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. To help us reduce spam, please tick the reCAPTCHA field. These stones have continued to mystify and amaze visitors with questions such as 'who built them?' 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. Outer two berth cabins included on the Orkney to Shetland and Shetland to Aberdeen crossings. Scattered off the northeast coast of Scotland, Orkney and the Shetland Islands are staggeringly beautiful. 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. Modern Slavery & Human Trafficking Statement. Arrive into Lerwick, Shetland early this morning. A stunning six day private tour from Inverness through the Highlands to the Northern Isles of Orkney and Shetland. Then trace . During our time here will visit the RSPB reserve which is home to many species of seabirds including puffins, guillemots and razorbills. (Read 1 review) Late availability on these dates: 15 Apr, 13 May. The Shetland Islands are the UNBELIEVABLE Hidden Treasure of Scotland, the northernmost point of the United Kingdom and formerly part of Norway. These tours are carefully researched and combine quality hotels, luxury travel, informative visits and leisure time. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking and breakfast. and a self-drive holiday of Shetland and Orkney guarantees memories to last a . The Orkney Mainland is just Getting to Orkney can be easier and quicker than you may think. Experience the unique islands of Shetland and Orkney, with mysterious prehistoric sites, natural wonders and breathtaking scenery waiting around every corner. Enjoy free time in Kirkwall this morning. This holiday is based on ferry crossings, starting from the north coast of Scotland near Thurso and returning to Aberdeen. 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. Over 4,000 years old, discoveries here include everything from Stone Age settlements and Bronze Age dwellings to Norse longhouses and medieval farms. While most tour operators use hotels around the capital, Lerwick, we choose to stay somewhere you can really appreciate Shetlands remote beauty. The nature reserve is the perfect place to spot seabirds such as puffins, guillemots and kittiwakes. Meet Shetland ponies in their natural habitat. . Relaxing hotel-based holidays in the sun, with a Saga host on hand. Take in the breathtaking Old Man of Hoy a 450 foot sea stack and perhaps Orkneys most famous landmark. Please click below to find the trip notes for your departure date. A quick introduction. Later return to Kirkwall where dinner is served in our hotel. menu. It also comprises larger 4* Hotels selected for their high standard of accommodation, exceptional service, and great location. 3.91. Photo: juvlai, CC BY-SA 2.0. These cliffs are bursting with an extraordinary range of wildlife, such as seals, puffins, gannets and whales. Their warm hospitality is sure to be a highlight of your Scottish experience. Tour departure and return times will be advised in your tour documentation. A holiday to the islands of Orkney and Shetland has it all. "The staff was xtrenely king and helpful! The services were taken over by NorthLink Orkney and Shetland Ferries in 2002. Borealis. Time to return home. The Orkneyinga saga (Old Norse: [orknyje s]; also called the History of the Earls of Orkney and Jarls' Saga) is a narrative of the history of the Orkney and Shetland islands and their relationship with other local polities, particularly Norway and Scotland.The saga has "no parallel in the social and literary record of Scotland" and is "the only medieval chronicle to have . How do I get there? With a maximum of 15 passengers per group, you can be sure of . From getting to know you by name to remembering your favourite drink at the bar, youll always receive personal, attentive service. The UK has a famously unpredictable climate so it's best to be prepared for weather thats sunny one minute and raining the next. Clicking on the link below will redirect you to the Wilderness England website. 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. 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. Single cabins now available on 2023 winter cruises, Interest rates and costs of equity release. A key event in the global calendar, the annual Up Helly Aa Winter Fire . We use your data to prepare holiday proposals and to make bookings for you if you choose to go ahead. 8 nights from. We will never share your data with third parties for marketing purposes. Its difficult not to be inspired by sweeping panoramic views as you stroll along deserted white sandy beaches or gaze up at dramatic sea cliffs created by fierce volcanic eruptions and the ravages of the North Sea. The nearby seaport of Stromness is famed for the Pier Arts Centre which showcases the work of artists and sculptors from Orkney and beyond. Guide Lorraine gives an insight into this ancient archipelago. Shetland is home to a world-class diversity of wildlife, from puffins and seals to purpoises and even whales. Discover our last-minute, luxury, all-inclusive, and many other incredible cruise deals. Does equity release affect inheritance tax. 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. Supplements may apply. It makes everything so easy, especially when youre chauffeur driven from your own front door. 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. 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. A holiday to the islands of Orkney and Shetland has it all. Orphir has a Viking museum, the Orkneyinga Saga Centre, and the remains of Scotland's only . 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. How does the Care Funding Advice Service work? 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. 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. 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 . Shes the beautiful sister to Spirit of Discovery, but has a whole host of surprises of her own, including exciting new restaurants. Our Premium category includes a unique collection of luxurious and stylish boutique Guest Houses and small 4* Hotels. Its the most southerly point of mainland Shetland and where thousands of species of seabird come ashore to nest on the cliffs. If you would like to spend an extra night or two on either Orkney or Shetland, wed be delighted to assist. Spend two days exploring some of the many island treasures, including Scalloway Castle and Jarlshof, an outstanding example of . Last month I was in Orkney for the first time. Watch for dolphins which sometimes play in the bow waves. Here we will have some free time to explore this charming town with its stone-paved alleys, granite houses and independent shops. These tours are immensely popular so expect to be travelling in the company of like-minded travellers from around the world. 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. Our latest all-balcony boutique ship launched in the summer of 2021. 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.