saga holidays orkney and shetland

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. Discover squawking seabird colonies, staggering scenery, and some of the best-preserved Neolithic ruins in Europe as you island hop between Mainland . Spirit of Discovery departing Dover. During the summer it is still light when you arrive. (Read 1 review) Late availability on these dates: 15 Apr, 13 May. 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. Later you could take a 10 minute ferry journey to the Isle of Bressay to explore the rich natural heritage and incredible wildlife. Stretching off Scotlands north coast are Shetland and Orkney, two very special archipelagos where Scotland meets Scandinavia. Group transfer to Sumburgh airport for your return flight. From 799pp. 638 ratings70 reviews. Wildflowers bloom throughout the summer, covering the green cliffs with colour and the exquisite . The thousands of prehistoric Neolithic sites which have survived to tell their tale at the Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO world heritage site are both spectacular and mysterious. Its the most southerly point of mainland Shetland and where thousands of species of seabird come ashore to nest on the cliffs. 18 Hours of Midsummer Sun. Sign up for our newsletter and be the first to hear about trip news, blogs and offers. Uncover hidden gems and holiday inspiration from our team of travel specialists. We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA's Code of Conduct. 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. 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. Our Premium category includes a unique collection of luxurious and stylish boutique Guest Houses and small 4* Hotels. 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. 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. Youre also sure to come across plenty of roaming Shetland ponies on your travels. If you only require a specific response to this enquiry and have no interest in receiving occasional information, news or offers from McKinlay Kidd in future, please email unsubscribe at mckinlaykidd dot com. . More likely we will be sailing for part of a night or a very early/late start and a long day. USA. Also includes hotels in Alderney, Sark and Herm, plus the Isle of Wight, Isles of Scilly, Isle of Man and Shetland & Orkney Islands. From jagged cliffs to unspoilt beaches and stone . 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. 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. Experience the unique islands of Shetland and Orkney, with mysterious prehistoric sites, natural wonders and breathtaking scenery waiting around every corner. Fred Olsen. But forget the . Youll board your ferry to Orkney in the afternoon and arrive in Kirkwall, the historic capital of Orkney, later this evening. These departure dates can be booked with flights or as land only holiday options. They left carvings behind which are considered to be some of the finest examples of runic inscriptions in the World. The Orkney Islands were the Orcades of ancient classical literature. Outstanding scenery, exceptional wildlife, ancient history, traditional crafts and world-class diving. Shetland Isles wildlife holiday. Orkney and Shetland Isles Holidays. Wilderness England creates incredible journeys to the wild and magical outdoor spaces across Yorkshire, the Lake District, Northumberland, the Cotswolds and the Peak District. 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. Here you can see evidence of many different eras dating as far back as Neolithic times. We sail with Serco Northlink Ferries and their modern, purpose-built vessels, the Hrossey and the Hjaltland, from Aberdeen overnight to Lerwick. Island hop the wild Scottish Northern Isles on this week's holiday to Orkney and Shetland From 895 to 1015 7 days ex flights. View our Full Privacy Notice, Read independent reviews from ourcustomers. And as more than fifth of our guests cruise solo, youll always be in good company. Once we make landfall expect day sailing among the islands and skerries. Join us on a stunning journey to the unforgettable Orkney Islands, a little-visited archipelago of some 70 small islands and skerries due north of the Scottish mainland. The holiday ideas on our website are just examples of the amazing trips we offer. The largest town, Lerwick, is closer to Norway than to Edinburgh, and culturally and geographically they feel more Norse than Scottish. This picturesque spring Orkney & Shetland Mini Cruise combines coastal scenery with fascinating history. Registered office 11 Bridge Street, Kirkwall, Orkney, KW151 HR. Call and speak to one of our travel experts who have experienced Shetland & Orkney Islands personally. Our discerning team has a wealth of experience, and we extensively research and regularly review all of the accommodation we select for our clients. This expanse of water has played witness to some monumental events. All included in the price. For anyone easily seduced by big skies, sea views, and wide-open spaces, Orkney is always a good idea. Cycling for Softies is a luxury cycling tour operator providing gourmet cycling adventures in France and Italy. Historic and Cultural Tours. Come explor. 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. More details & Book Bank Holiday Escape to Scenic Scotland . Known as the Churchill Barriers, we will use these causeways to reach the little island of Lamb Holm. 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. Sign up for our newsletter and unlock exclusive tips and inspiration from our team of travel specialists. You will also find no end of delicious local produce to tempt you and a busy programme of annual festivals. Specialists in offering a range of adventure holidays, tours and incredible wilderness experiences. Registered Office: Enbrook Park, Folkestone, Kent, CT20 3SE. 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. Shetland: The northernmost part of the UK, Shetland is wild, rugged and beautiful. Spot dolphins and porpoises in the coastal waters, or breeding seabirds such as puffins and guillemots at Hermaness Nature Reserve. These treasures are of such importance that UNESCO has designated them a World Heritage site. These tours are immensely popular so expect to be travelling in the company of like-minded travellers from around the world. Discover their all-balcony cabins, huge choice of included speciality restaurants and bars, and an outdoor lido with a full wraparound deck. The Shetland Islands are the UNBELIEVABLE Hidden Treasure of Scotland, the northernmost point of the United Kingdom and formerly part of Norway. Your accommodation is great for the little personal touches. Departing by Coach. This 16th century lairds manor has bags of historic charm, as well as a roaring fireplace for chilly days, and a well-stocked whisky selection. Make sure you visit Jarlshof, another incredible prehistoric site exposed in violent storms in the last couple of centuries. 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. It was raided by Norsemen in the 12th Century. 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. Overnight Orkney, Take the opportunity to visit one of Orkneys smaller isles. Find out more in our Shetland travel guide. Please contact us for more details. Buses and trains to Orkney. Our newsletter features exciting new itineraries, blog posts from the team, and fabulous competitions. Be inspired by local artisans from jewellery-making to storytelling, the creative spirit on these islands has thrived for thousands of years. Join us on a magnificent expedition cruise to the Orkney, Shetland and Faroe Islands on board Le Boreal. The islanders themselves feel a strong local identity and you can be guaranteed a warm island welcome and some fantastic local fresh food. Weve had a long love affair with Orkneys family-run Merkister Hotel, not least for its enviable setting on the shores of Harray Loch. Discover the Castle of Mey and its magnificent gardens. Walking is a wonderful way to discover the Orkney Islands. 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. Judi Florence Self Guided - The West Highland Way Reviewed on 08/10/2018. With a maximum of 15 passengers per group, you can be sure of . Our journey continues through the fertile farmland of Angus to reach the granite city of Aberdeen by late afternoon. 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. The strong historical and cultural influence of Norway upon these islands is clear in their timber-framed and brightly coloured architecture. Advertised flight prices are based on UK flights departing from London. Stretching off Scotland's north coast are Shetland and Orkney, two very special archipelagos where Scotland meets Scandinavia. In Shetland, inter-island ferry travel is operated by the council , while Orkney Ferries connect the archipelago's 13 island destinations. Tour departure and return times will be advised in your tour documentation. Jersey; Guernsey; Herm, Sark & Alderney; Isles of Scilly; Isle of Wight ; Isle of Man ; Shetland & Orkney Islands ; North America. Dine on fresh seafood in cosmopolitan Kirkwall and Lerwick, and enjoy an extensive local craft culture. When's the best time to visit? 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. Each one is all inclusive, and youll have your own private balcony to enjoy every destination in style. Tour Departs: TBA hrs 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. 999 pp. Enjoy a fascinating talk from historian Nick Card on the Orkney Islands' Neolithic past. During the course of the day youll normally be travelling for no more than 2 hours at a time before making a stop to enjoy a visit to an attraction or for a comfort break/meal stop. Our first visits are to the Ring of Brodgar and the Standing Stones of Stenness. Our packages include car rental and comprehensive insurance for the duration of your holiday. VAT Number 125 4899 87. Look out for the gargoyles which a former owner rescued from the Houses of Parliament in London. Orkney To Shetland Via Fair Isle & Shetland To Orkney Via Fair Isle. Soak up the history and imagine life in eras gone by! 8 miles (13.5km) with 850 feet (260m) of ascent. 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. Meanwhile seals laze on rocks beneath the cliffs or nose around the boat. 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). We then rejoin our transport for the scenic transfer to Busta House. Excellent, informative, enjoyable tour. 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. Some cruises also incorporate the Faroe Isles. This amazingly well-preserved village was built 5,000 years ago. These range from traditional luxury to contemporary Hotels. AccommodationThe price of this tour includes hotel accommodation/ferry cabin with en-suite bathroom. 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. Earl Sigurd takes control. An interesting tour, with lots of great historical commentary and beautiful landscapes. Later this afternoon we travel to the port to join the ferry bound for the Orkney Islands. Contact usEmail: info@scapatravel.co.ukTelephone: 01856 889040, Our opening hours are:Monday to Friday 10am to 4pmSaturday 11am to 3pm. Our last visit of the day is to Skara Brae. 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. 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. In nearby Scalloway an excellent museum tells the story of the top-secret WWII Shetland Bus operation. Overnight Orkney. Scotland's Northern Isles by Motorhome. Please contact us for information on child prices. The restaurant prides itself on local produce, prepared to make the most of the fresh flavours. Enjoy a complimentary chauffeur service, wines, premium spirits, speciality dining, gratuities, Wi-Fi and travel insurance. 01273 823 700 . All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. 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. Clicking on the link below will redirect you to the Wilderness England website. Excellent and Friendly Staff!! 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. Your leader will be in reception at 18:30 to give you a quick introduction to the holiday before dinner. Book your holiday today with Planet Cruise! 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. Honest and easy 2 minute travel guide including what makes Shetland Islands so special as well as map and highlights. This iconic sea stack is only a few hundred years old. At Aberdeen Harbour, we join the Northlink ferry for the overnight crossing to Shetland. Day 1 - Departing Inverness with a morning drive to the far North of Scotland and the ferry port of Scrabster, near Thurso. 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. Our destination is Lerwick, the island's attractive capital. This elevated viewpoint affords extensive views over Shetland and of Fair Isle to the south. 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. Spend some time exploring this fascinating seaport where you could visit. Spend two days exploring some of the many island treasures, including Scalloway Castle and Jarlshof, an outstanding example of a prehistoric and Norse settlement. 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. 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. 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. Discover your ideal travel experience. At this fascinating site, we will discover the remains of oval houses from the Bronze Age, an Iron Age broch and Viking longhouses. Step back into the Stone Age in the Orkney and Shetland Islands, and come face-to-face with the legacy of the Vikings amid the turf-roofed cottages and ancient sites of the Faroes. Beautiful beaches, stunning cliffs, ancient settlements and wonderful wildlife-spotting opportunities - Shetland has a lot to offer. If you go above this allowance you may have to pay tax or duty. If, like us, you cant get enough of the archeological discoveries, head over to Rousay with its Midhowe Broch and Cairn. This morning you will enjoy a real treat a wildlife boat trip. You will travel aboard a state of the art motorcoach with air-conditioning, reclining seats, oversized windows and emergency washroom. Savour your chance to try lamb with its distinctive flavour due to the seaweed diet of the sheep, or sample local seafood including mouth-watering prawns and delicious stir-fried squid. The island's attractions include . This holiday is based on ferry crossings, starting from the north coast of Scotland near Thurso and returning to Aberdeen. See the landscapes of Shetland and Orkney; Visit Trshavn, with its Viking heritage; Itinerary From. 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. Tour Returns: TBA hrs, Outside Reception at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Edinburgh111 Glasgow Road Edinburgh EH12 8NF, Check-in: TBA hrs To make it easier, heres a list of items you should consider packing. Fiercely independent and sprinkled with Scandinavian tradition, this pair of wild windswept archipelagos offer an island-hopping holiday that ticks-off squawking seabird . The landscape is wild and remote and, outside of the . In each case, it is not necessarily added to the bill. Let Scapa Travel use their extensive local knowledge to create a memorable holiday, tailored specifically for you. NB these cruise details have been updated - Please see the new trip page - Orkney, Shetland, Faroe Islands and St Kilda cruise.. 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. 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. Regional departures and/or connections to London, if available, can be requested. Small group travel: 2023: 15 Apr, 13 May. 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. Overnight Ferry. For group bookings of 10+ people click here. Visitors can climb up the tower of the Castle and visit the Scalloway Museum which is located next door. 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. The capital, Lerwick, is home to Shetlands main museum and local art centre by the harbour, as well as various locations used in the filming of the Shetland TV series. At 1,475 feet (450m) this is Shetlands highest peak. We will discover more about this rather unpleasant character and his tyrannical ways during our visit. Travel to Orkney by ferry from Caithness, on the north coast of Scotland, with the crossing taking just under an hour. Next, we make for Maeshowe, a magnificent chambered tomb that dates from around 2,500 BC. The wild landscapes featureintricate coastlines marked by towering cliffs, deep caves and giant rock stacks which make for an inspiring backdrop for various activities such as walking and sea kayaking. Visit the Orkneyinga Viking history interpretation centre to learn more. The Ski Solutions team are all skiing experts, and their wealth of knowledge and passion for the mountains will ensure you experience a truly memorable ski holiday. Look out for the lighthouse, opened in 1929 its powerful light can be seen from 46 km away. Orkney boasts inspirational landscapes where verdant fields stretch down to pristine beaches and dramatic seas crash against towering cliffs. These are at additional expense and, if available, details will be provided with your tour documentation. The ultimate collection of European cycling holidays. 8 nights from. 3.91. Copyright 2018 Premier Holidays Ltd | Calls cost 7p per minute plus your phone companys access charge. Make the most of your time on the islands on this carefully-curated itinerary accessible by flight from central Scotland. While most tour operators use hotels around the capital, Lerwick, we choose to stay somewhere you can really appreciate Shetlands remote beauty. Sign up today and start discovering. Later we make the short drive to Sumburgh Head, where the waters of the North Sea meet the waves of the Atlantic Ocean. Theres an opportunity to learn about Shetlands heritage at the Tangwick Haa museum today as we circumnavigate the beautiful Eshaness peninsula. 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. Guided wildlife tour of Shetland Isles. Exciting destinations. This is a customizable tour and can be tailor-made to your preference. Read 20 . Trade Login Contact 08444 937 531 Destinations UK & Channel Islands. Meet Shetland ponies in their natural habitat. Scapa Travel is a trading name of Scapa Travel Limited who are registered in Scotland with company number SC438791, and VAT number 115719224. Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly Revealed. There will be a stop where can enjoy time off the coach and buy refreshments. 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. ARE YOU A SOLO TRAVELLER WILLING TO SHARE? 7 miles (12km) with 1,360 feet (420m) of ascent. Prices are based on two people sharing a room for this six night holiday and includes breakfast in both hotels, ferry crossings from Caithness to Orkney, from Orkney to Shetland and from Lerwick to Aberdeen. Nowhere else in Britain, and hardly anywhere else in Europe, can you get so close, so easily, to so many seabirds. Please note: All fields marked * are required, Please select a date or 1-2 months if flexible. The Italian Prisoners constructed a chapel out of a pair of Nissen Huts. Shetland - South Mainland. On Mainland, is the capital Kirkwall whose sights include St Magnus Cathedral, the Bishops and Earls palaces and the Orkney Museum. Does equity release affect inheritance tax. From getting to know you by name to remembering your favourite drink at the bar, youll always receive personal, attentive service. Iona AbbeyOne of Scotland's most sacred and historic sites, the Abbey was founded in 563AD and it still retains its spiritual atmosphere today. North Hanover Street Bus Stance, Glasgow, G1 2BP. The event is taking place on Saturday 6 May, with the additional bank holiday on 8 May. Average salary for Saga Group Mi Analyst in Seaham, England: [salary]. 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. Youll board your ferry to Orkney in the afternoon and arrive in Kirkwall, the historic capital of Orkney, later this evening. A holiday to the islands of Orkney and Shetland has it all. A collection of quality 4* Guest Houses and 3* Hotels often located in beautiful locations which provide an excellent standard of accommodation. Once your unforgettable excursion comes to an end, make your way to your next base. Experience the unique islands of Shetland and Orkney, with mysterious prehistoric sites, natural wonders and breathtaking scenery waiting around every corner.