saga holidays orkney and shetland

From Glasgow and Edinburgh, we travel northwards through the Kingdom of Fife to reach Dundee, which sits overlooking the River Tay. We know that after a busy day of sightseeing an exceptional place to stay makes all the difference. A quick introduction. AccommodationThe price of this tour includes hotel accommodation/ferry cabin with en-suite bathroom. Orkney played a vital role during both World Wars, and this afternoon we will travel to see Scapa Flow which provided a sheltered anchorage for the British naval fleet. Our destination is Lerwick, the island's attractive capital. 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. The expedition starts in Oban and we sail, via the scenic and bird-rich island of Handa, to the enchanting Orkney Islands. Booking holidays since 1939, ATOL Protected. UK: +44 (0)1479 420 020 US: 1-866-740-3890 [emailprotected], Wilderness Scotland Dalfaber Drive Aviemore Highland Scotland PH22 1ST, 2022 Wilderness Group Ltd | Registered in Scotland SC211011, Cookies & Privacy | Terms & Conditions | Sitemap | Site Credits. Both Shetland and Orkney offer a good chance of spotting the Northern Lights, particularly in autumn and winter. Make sure you visit Jarlshof, another incredible prehistoric site exposed in violent storms in the last couple of centuries. Specialists in offering a range of adventure holidays, tours and incredible wilderness experiences. 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. This picturesque spring Orkney & Shetland Mini Cruise combines coastal scenery with fascinating history. Youll board your ferry to Orkney in the afternoon and arrive in Kirkwall, the historic capital of Orkney, later this evening. As a British citizen you will be entitled to free emergency health care on the NHS.If you are visiting Scotland from outside the United Kingdom and fall ill or are involved in an accident and are from any member of the European Economic Area or Switzerland, you can obtain free or reduced cost treatment with The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Twin room - this is a room for two people sleeping in two separate beds. Read 20 . Take the strain off holiday planning with a bespoke package holiday or group trip to Shetland. If you're flying here, public bus services connect with all the main airports in Scotland too. Outside these hours you can email one of our team atreservations@hfholidays.co.uk, or make a booking online. If you enjoy the art of first-class travel whilst enjoying amazing value then an Escorted Tour is just for you. 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. 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. 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. (Read 1 review) Late availability on these dates: 15 Apr, 13 May. Please click below to find the trip notes for your departure date. 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. Spend two days exploring some of the many island treasures, including Scalloway Castle and Jarlshof, an outstanding example of a prehistoric and Norse settlement. Scapa Travel is a trading name of Scapa Travel Limited who are registered in Scotland with company number SC438791, and VAT number 115719224. Discover squawking seabird colonies, staggering scenery, and some of the best-preserved Neolithic ruins in Europe as you island hop between Mainland . We use cookies to provide you with the best online experience. This is a customizable tour and can be tailor-made to your preference. Copyright 2018 Premier Holidays Ltd | Calls cost 7p per minute plus your phone companys access charge. 2,268. 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. 7 miles (12km) with 1,360 feet (420m) of ascent. The breadth of history to be discovered here is without parallel in Scotland and is sure to amaze you. Let us know if we can tailor-make it for you to link with a self-drive tour of the Scottish Highlands. 18 Hours of Midsummer Sun. In no time youll be sailing away to one unforgettable destination after another. 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. The UK has a famously unpredictable climate so it's best to be prepared for weather thats sunny one minute and raining the next. In the afternoon well visit Maes Howe, one of the most treasured Neolithic sites in Europe. A fitting finale to the holiday, this walk along the magnificent granite coastline around Muckle Roe offers a chance to admire the windswept isolation and remote beauty of Shetland. Highlights of Orkney & Shetland. This morning you will enjoy a real treat a wildlife boat trip. 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. Once checked-in onboard head to your comfortable twin-berth cabin with en-suite bathroom or enjoy time exploring the ship's many facilities. Look out for the gargoyles which a former owner rescued from the Houses of Parliament in London. And as more than fifth of our guests cruise solo, youll always be in good company. We depart Aberdeen at 19:00 hrs, and a short time later, dinner will be served in the ship's restaurant. Travel by overnight ferry to Lerwick, the capital of Shetland, arriving at 0730 and enjoy a leisurely breakfast on board before disembarking. You do not have any pinned holidays. 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! Further south on Mainland is Sumburgh Head, an ideal spot for twitchers with unobstructed views of the seabird colonies; Old Scatness, a recently excavated Iron Age village; and the Jarlshof Prehistoric and Norse settlements, with archaeological treasures from over 4,000 years. 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. If you wish to combine these categories or perhaps upgrade for a special occasion let us know in your enquiry. 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. Overnight Orkney. Take in the breathtaking Old Man of Hoy a 450 foot sea stack and perhaps Orkneys most famous landmark. Tallest Sea Cliffs in Britain. 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. 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. Saga Cruises; Disney Cruises; Cruise Ships. This iconic sea stack is only a few hundred years old. Spot dolphins and porpoises in the coastal waters, or breeding seabirds such as puffins and guillemots at Hermaness Nature Reserve. 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. The Orkney Islands were the Orcades of ancient classical literature. Our first visits are to the Ring of Brodgar and the Standing Stones of Stenness. During the summer it is still light when you arrive. The card payment providers above are used for taking your payments by operators featured on our site. Discover their all-balcony cabins, huge choice of included speciality restaurants and bars, and an outdoor lido with a full wraparound deck. These are leisurely cycling tours winding through vineyards and staying in high end accommodation where the emphasis is as much on the food and wine as the cycling. In each case, it is not necessarily added to the bill. Spirit of Discovery departing Dover. 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. A holiday to the islands of Orkney and Shetland has it all. ARE YOU A SOLO TRAVELLER WILLING TO SHARE? Seabirds flock to this rocky outcrop in their thousands during breeding season and colonies of common and grey seal spend autumn in the waters of the bay. Once we make landfall expect day sailing among the islands and skerries. 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. Spend two days exploring some of the many island treasures, including Scalloway Castle and Jarlshof, an outstanding example of . Language: EnglishCurrency: Pound SterlingTime Zone: GMTTipping: 10 to 12% is usual for hotels with 10 to 15% being usual for restaurants. Small group travel: 2023: 15 Apr, 13 May. 2023 HF Holidays Limited. Check-in: TBA hrs The UKs bestselling monthly subscription magazine. Single cabins now available on all January to March 2023 cruises. (Do find time to pop in for a tour of the traditional whisky making process.) Time to return home. Lake District, Yorkshire & Hadrians Wall, Classic Yorkshire: Whitby, York & The Dales, East of England: Cambridge, Norfolk & Suffolk. We suggest an early start today - there's a lot to fit in! For all their differences, these islands share a similar feel: weather-beaten archipelagos with more in common with the Faroes than mainland Scotland. 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. To purchase a policy speak to your insurance broker or undertake a search on-line. Registered office 11 Bridge Street, Kirkwall, Orkney, KW151 HR. How does the Care Funding Advice Service work? 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. A collection of quality 4* Guest Houses and 3* Hotels often located in beautiful locations which provide an excellent standard of accommodation. 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 . 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. Before your departure, you will receive personalised holiday information including full directions, recommended routes, and suggestions on places to visit depending on your interests and our local knowledge to help you get the most from your holiday. Contact us via email: 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. 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 . Iona AbbeyOne of Scotland's most sacred and historic sites, the Abbey was founded in 563AD and it still retains its spiritual atmosphere today. add an extra night or two on each island group to explore in depth? The Shetland Islands are the UNBELIEVABLE Hidden Treasure of Scotland, the northernmost point of the United Kingdom and formerly part of Norway. 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. It's a similar story by rail, with trains available to both Aberdeen . Be the first to hear about all things HF Holidays. From jagged cliffs to unspoilt beaches and stone . We also include a Boat trip around Noss during your time on Shetland (please note this only runs between May and mid-September). Shetland is home to a world-class diversity of wildlife, from puffins and seals to purpoises and even whales. Welcome to life in the easy lane. With 70 magical islands its difficult to know where to begin. This mysterious place of long days and colourful night skies is home to a wealth of sea life and sea birds, not . 9 miles (15.5 km) with 1,280 feet (380m) of ascent. 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. Travel back in time to the Stone Age and discover an ancient civilisation at The Heart of Neolithic Orkney a UNESCO World Heritage Site which includes the four awe-inspiring sites of the Ring of Brodgar, the Stones of Stenness, the Maeshowe tomb and Skara Brae. Well also visit the impressive archaeological site of Jarlshof. Join us on a magnificent expedition cruise to the Orkney, Shetland and Faroe Islands on board Le Boreal. On arrival, we visit Sumburgh Head RSPB reserve. 8.4/5 (52 reviews) Great place! Breakfast is served onboard from 07:15 hrs after which we board the coach and disembark to begin our island tour. Days 5-8 Orkney. Call and speak to one of our travel experts who have experienced Shetland & Orkney Islands personally. Usually the coach will arrive at the overnight stop between 16:30 and 17:00 hrs each day. The diversity of these islands is astounding, a distinctive mixture of Scandinavian history scattered across a rugged Scottish landscape, and a self-drive holiday of Shetland and Orkney guarantees memories to last a lifetime. The Tower has been restored over the past century, however not all of the original structure still remains. We'll always treat your personal details with the utmost care. Scotland's Northern Isles by Motorhome. We love the opportunity to use our first-hand knowledge and experience to design and deliver the perfect, bespoke holiday experience for you. 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. Excellent and Friendly Staff!! 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. Where Scotland meets Scandinavia, this wild and remote corner of northern Britain is truly remarkable. It makes everything so easy, especially when youre chauffeur driven from your own front door. Topped by a prehistoric chambered burial cairn, the summit offers a breathtaking panorama across this ice-carved landscape. Enjoy a relaxing break over the May Day Bank Holiday; Join ORCA on deck of Bolette to spot whales ; A stunning six day private tour from Inverness through the Highlands to the Northern Isles of Orkney and Shetland. Tastefully decorated rooms provide a comfortable place to sleep and on a clear night you can gaze up at the starry skies and search for the swirling ribbons of neon green, pink, and purple known as the northern lights. A BSpoke Tour is all about being as restful or as adventurous as you desire. We use your data to prepare holiday proposals and to make bookings for you if you choose to go ahead. Regional departures and/or connections to London, if available, can be requested. Please contact us for information on child prices. Later we make the short drive to Sumburgh Head, where the waters of the North Sea meet the waves of the Atlantic Ocean. A collection of 3* B&Bs and Guest Houses offering comfortable accommodation close to local attractions. 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. Consequently, bedrooms and bathrooms come in varying shapes and sizes. Copyright 2016 - 2023 Scapa Travel. 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. The strong historical and cultural influence of Norway upon these islands is clear in their timber-framed and brightly coloured architecture. Getting to Orkney via public transport is simple. During the hour-long sailing look out for porpoises, dolphins and minke whales that can often be seen. The last part of the journey takes us through the Kingdom of Fife and across the Forth Estuary into Edinburgh. The Old Man of Hoy. Our newsletter features exciting new itineraries, blog posts from the team, and fabulous competitions. Todays walk takes us to the famous sea stack known as the Old Man of Hoy and will have bird watchers twitching with excitement at the prospect of spotting arctic and great skuas. An interesting tour, with lots of great historical commentary and beautiful landscapes. We will communicate with you from time to time about our products and services, similar to those currently featured on our website. 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 . 10 Day Shetland & Orkney Car Tour. 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. Our last visit of the day is to Skara Brae. Everything's taken care of on a Saga escorted tour, so you can see and do more. 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. This holiday can be arranged from March to October. Thoroughly recommend this as an enjoyable way to experience Shetland and Orkney. Visitors can climb up the tower of the Castle and visit the Scalloway Museum which is located next door. 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. Here you can see evidence of many different eras dating as far back as Neolithic times. 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. This island adventure starts with a tour to Aberdeen to catch the overnight ferry service bound for Lerwick in the Shetlands, Britain's most northerly island archipelago. Tour departure and return times will be advised in your tour documentation. and a self-drive holiday of Shetland and Orkney guarantees memories to last a . If you are keen to take more ferry trips, then island hop through Yell to Unst in the far north. Later return to Kirkwall where dinner is served in our hotel. A key event in the global calendar, the annual Up Helly Aa Winter Fire . Simply pop your details in the box below for the latest news, travel advice, destination inspiration, and special offers delivered straight to your inbox. 8 nights from. How do I get there? Outer two berth cabins included on the Orkney to Shetland and Shetland to Aberdeen crossings. Some cruises also incorporate the Faroe Isles. You will also find no end of delicious local produce to tempt you and a busy programme of annual festivals. Orkney and Shetland Isles Holidays. 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. Highlights of Orkney and Shetland6 day/5 night. 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. At this fascinating site, we will discover the remains of oval houses from the Bronze Age, an Iron Age broch and Viking longhouses. High levels of cover from an award winning provider, 3-year fixed price with no tie-ins - T&Cs apply. As you sail below, the screeching is deafening, and youll feel very outnumbered, a stranger invading their territory. These tours are inclusive of superior tourist class accommodation, transportation, selected admission fees and many meals. Nearby sits the Bishop's Palace and Earl's Palace, which was reputedly built using forced labour. These mysterious stone circles are amongst the most significant in Europe and are some 5,000 years old. 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. Dine on fresh seafood in cosmopolitan Kirkwall and Lerwick, and enjoy an extensive local craft culture. It's a short drive to our hotel for the next three nights. Does equity release affect inheritance tax. Spend some time exploring this fascinating seaport where you could visit Shetland Museum to gain an invaluable introduction to the islands history, or explore Fort Charlotte originally built in 1665 to protect Shetland from Dutch warships. Orkney, an ancient cluster of 70 islands brimming with history and dramatic coastlines, lie off the north west coast of Scotland. 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. Many coaches are equipped with WiFi too. 8 nights from. Florida; Las Vegas & The West . Then trace . Here we will have some free time to explore this charming town with its stone-paved alleys, granite houses and independent shops. Advertised flight prices are based on UK flights departing from London. Weather permitting, enjoy a welcome drink on the small terrace, which overlooks the distinctive pagoda-roof of the neighbours: the Highland Park distillery. 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. 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. 999 pp. The nature reserve is the perfect place to spot seabirds such as puffins, guillemots and kittiwakes. Registered Office: Enbrook Park, Folkestone, Kent, CT20 3SE. 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. These tours are immensely popular so expect to be travelling in the company of like-minded travellers from around the world. The beautiful Cairngorms National Park will bring us to the Pass of Drumocher and Highland Perthshire beyond. Orkney To Shetland Via Fair Isle & Shetland To Orkney Via Fair Isle. Inspiring options. Another day you might head for South Ronaldsay now connected by the famous Churchill Barriers to the Mainland. 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. All included in the price. Call for options 01904 521 936. You could visit the mighty Cathedral of St Mangus, which was begun in 1137. We can book package holidays including flights from the UK, hotel . 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. Topped by a prehistoric chambered burial cairn, the summit offers a breathtaking panorama across this ice-carved landscape. 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 . Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly Revealed. Shetland & Orkney Island Holidays . . Indulge in a delicious fish and chip lunch overlooking the sea in Brae. Toggle navigation. Starts from: Edinburgh. Outstanding scenery, exceptional wildlife, ancient history, traditional crafts and world-class diving. Shetland Isles wildlife holiday. Judi Florence Self Guided - The West Highland Way Reviewed on 08/10/2018. These tours are carefully researched and combine quality hotels, luxury travel, informative visits and leisure time. Please see Terms and Conditions for further details. Tour Returns: TBA hrs. Orphir has a Viking museum, the Orkneyinga Saga Centre, and the remains of Scotland's only . Absolute Escapes has an excellent relationship with a number of car hire operators and we are able to offer quality vehicles and great value for money. Today visitors can see eight dwellings, each connected by a series of low passageways. The islanders themselves feel a strong local identity and you can be guaranteed a warm island welcome and some fantastic local fresh food. [1] The holiday ideas on our website are just examples of the amazing trips we offer. Historic and Cultural Tours. Experience the unique islands of Shetland and Orkney, with mysterious prehistoric sites, natural wonders and breathtaking scenery waiting around every corner. The largest town, Lerwick, is closer to Norway than to Edinburgh, and culturally and geographically they feel more Norse than Scottish. Warner Bros. 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. More likely we will be sailing for part of a night or a very early/late start and a long day.

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