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 . 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 innovative Shetland Museum and Archives tells the fascinating story of these islands and is well worth visiting. 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. Rated 4.88 out of 5 based on 5,609 reviews. Youll be in good company if you choose to take dinner at your hotel, a popular destination for locals as well as visitors. 8 nights from. Are you sure you would like to continue with this room size? From here you can gaze out to the Muckle Flugga lighthouse. We then have two full days to tour Shetland. 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. In the afternoon well visit Maes Howe, one of the most treasured Neolithic sites in Europe. 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. 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. The Orkney Islands were the Orcades of ancient classical literature. The breadth of history to be discovered here is without parallel in Scotland and is sure to amaze you. 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. Our destination is Lerwick, the island's attractive capital. 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. Well also visit the impressive archaeological site of Jarlshof. 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 . Find out more in our Shetland travel guide. 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. 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. 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. If you fancy some retail therapy, Kirkwall has a wealth of independent shops and craftworkers studios to be explored. Known as the Churchill Barriers, we will use these causeways to reach the little island of Lamb Holm. 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 love the opportunity to use our first-hand knowledge and experience to design and deliver the perfect, bespoke holiday experience for you. 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. This mysterious tomb was built from huge sandstone blocks over 5,000 years ago and aligns perfectly with the winter solstice testament to an advanced knowledge of astronomy by its architects. Our Premium category includes a unique collection of luxurious and stylish boutique Guest Houses and small 4* Hotels. Our ships are smaller, but wonderfully spacious. Orkney and Shetland are a haven for wildlife. At 1,475 feet (450m) this is Shetlands highest peak. Their warm hospitality is sure to be a highlight of your Scottish experience. 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. We use cookies to provide you with the best online experience. Weve had a long love affair with Orkneys family-run Merkister Hotel, not least for its enviable setting on the shores of Harray Loch. Please note that a family room is normally a standard double or twin room with either a sofa bed or a rollaway bed. ARE YOU A SOLO TRAVELLER WILLING TO SHARE? 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. 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. Designed with our guests in mind, our modern sister ships offer small-ship luxury with a private balcony for every guest. 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. Our home for tonight is in the delightful village of Bray which overlooks Busta Voe. If you would like to spend an extra night or two on either Orkney or Shetland, wed be delighted to assist. Any additional charge for the single supplement will be confirmed at the point of final payment and bookings are accepted on this understanding. We only share data with business partners where it is necessary to fulfil our service. Later you could take a 10 minute ferry journey to the Isle of Bressay to explore the rich natural heritage and incredible wildlife. It's a favourite with twitchers, who flock here to enjoy sensational seabird colonies and rare species. Later you could take a 10 minute ferry journey to the Isle of Bressay to explore the rich natural heritage and incredible wildlife. Sign up for latest offers and top sellers. 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. You will not be able to use this site without JavaScript. 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. Wildflowers bloom throughout the summer, covering the green cliffs with colour and the exquisite . Booking holidays since 1939, ATOL Protected. 01273 823 700 . The islands geographic location makes it a crossroad for wildlife. Florida; Las Vegas & The West . Entry RequirementsWhen travelling between the UK, Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man in most cases an official form of identification such as a Driver's License will be ok. Also includes hotels in Alderney, Sark and Herm, plus the Isle of Wight, Isles of Scilly, Isle of Man and Shetland & Orkney Islands. Outstanding scenery, exceptional wildlife, ancient history, traditional crafts and world-class diving. To make it easier, heres a list of items you should consider packing. Shetland Isles wildlife holiday. Cabin upgrades may also be available on request. If you wish to combine these categories or perhaps upgrade for a special occasion let us know in your enquiry. Do take a walk in the gardens which stretch down to the water. Our newsletter features exciting new itineraries, blog posts from the team, and fabulous competitions. Day 1 - Departing Inverness with a morning drive to the far North of Scotland and the ferry port of Scrabster, near Thurso. You could visit the mighty Cathedral of St Mangus, which was begun in 1137. We will hold your data securely within our organisation, McKinlay Kidd Limited. 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. Please contact us for more details. Spend some time exploring this fascinating seaport where you could visit. Enjoy 3 days (3 nights) in Orkney. Uncover Orkney's Ancient Secrets. VAT Number 125 4899 87. Fiercely independent and sprinkled with Scandinavian tradition, this pair of wild windswept archipelagos offer an island-hopping holiday that ticks-off squawking seabird . Consequently, bedrooms and bathrooms come in varying shapes and sizes. Age-wise its really difficult for us to give an accurate figure for any given tour departure, but experience has taught us to expect the median age to be between 45 and 50. We use your data to prepare holiday proposals and to make bookings for you if you choose to go ahead. The Orkney Mainland is just Getting to Orkney can be easier and quicker than you may think. Overnight Orkney. Earl Sigurd takes control. Orkney, an ancient cluster of 70 islands brimming with history and dramatic coastlines, lie off the north west coast of Scotland. We can book package holidays including flights from the UK, hotel . Overnight Orkney. For those people coming to the UK from the EU, you are allowed to bring an unlimited amount of most goods for your own use without paying tax or duty.However, if you are travelling to the UK from outside of the EU, you are given an allowance of how much alcohol, tobacco, perfume, souvenirs and other goods. Starts from: Edinburgh. 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 . 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. Scotland's Northern Isles by Motorhome. The islanders themselves feel a strong local identity and you can be guaranteed a warm island welcome and some fantastic local fresh food. Supplements may apply. 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. When's the best time to visit? 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. Historic and Cultural Tours. Highlights of Orkney and Shetland6 day/5 night. Thousands of seabirds including gannets, guillemots and kittiwakes nest and feed in the Noss Nature Reserve. Orkney and Shetland, being the nearest western land to Norway, would be first visited. 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. 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 Returns: TBA hrs. Shetland: The northernmost part of the UK, Shetland is wild, rugged and beautiful. It's a convenient crossing point for otters too, who, in these islands, are sea-dwelling. enquiries@absoluteescapes.com. Orkney is a land of opportunity forged by 5,000 years of unique history. 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. We also analyse data in order to develop and improve our products and our service in the future. Call and speak to one of our travel experts who have experienced Shetland & Orkney Islands personally. P&O Iona; Anthem of the Seas; Regal Princess; MSC Virtuosa; Queen Mary 2 . 9 miles (14km) with 760 feet (230m) of ascent. A collection of 3* B&Bs and Guest Houses offering comfortable accommodation close to local attractions. Day 9. On arrival, we visit Sumburgh Head RSPB reserve. Free time will let you explore Kirkwall and St Magnus Cathedral before setting sail for the mainland. . 7 miles (12km) with 1,360 feet (420m) of ascent. Find out everything you need to know about planning a trip to Scotland's incredible Northern Isles. Youre also sure to come across plenty of roaming Shetland ponies on your travels. USA. 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. Judi Florence Self Guided - The West Highland Way Reviewed on 08/10/2018. Over 4,000 years old, discoveries here include everything from Stone Age settlements and Bronze Age dwellings to Norse longhouses and medieval farms. 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. Shetland and the Tall Ships. Orkney and Shetland Isles Holidays. The expedition starts in Oban and we sail, via the scenic and bird-rich island of Handa, to the enchanting Orkney Islands. Average salary for Saga Group Mi Analyst in Seaham, England: [salary]. We then rejoin our transport for the scenic transfer to Busta House. Your hotel is a short drive away from the ferry port, in the islands capital, Kirkwall. More than a million birds breed in very large colonies. All Rights Reserved. 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 latest all-balcony boutique ship launched in the summer of 2021. Travel by overnight ferry to Lerwick, the capital of Shetland, arriving at 0730 and enjoy a leisurely breakfast on board before disembarking. 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. Clicking on the link below will redirect you to the Wilderness England website. The event is taking place on Saturday 6 May, with the additional bank holiday on 8 May. the west of Scotland and Ireland in 795. It's a short drive to our hotel for the next three nights. Your hotel is an historic building, complete with nooks and crannies, winding corridors, steep steps, creaky floorboards and supposedly a resident ghost. 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. Later return to Kirkwall where dinner is served in our hotel. All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. Spot dolphins and porpoises in the coastal waters, or breeding seabirds such as puffins and guillemots at Hermaness Nature Reserve. Rated 4.88 out of 5 based on 5,609 reviews. Scattered off Scotland's northeast coast, this wild windswept archipelago offers a far-from-it-all feel just a skip away from the mainland. 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. Discover squawking seabird colonies, staggering scenery, and some of the best-preserved Neolithic ruins in Europe as you island hop between Mainland . After rejoining the ship for an evening sailing to Kirkwall, we have a further two full days touring Orkney, before our short crossing back to the mainland. Think of this itinerary as a starting point which can be tailored into something completely unique to you by our award-winning specialists. Tour Returns: TBA hrs, Outside Reception at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Edinburgh111 Glasgow Road Edinburgh EH12 8NF, Check-in: TBA hrs These are at additional expense and, if available, details will be provided with your tour documentation. A BSpoke Tour is all about being as restful or as adventurous as you desire. To prevent further attacks, a series of four barriers were constructed using Italian prisoners of war. Meet Shetland ponies in their natural habitat. Please click here to see full flight schedules to Shetland & Orkney Island. 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. 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 last visit of the day is to Skara Brae. Join us on a magnificent expedition cruise to the Orkney, Shetland and Faroe Islands on board Le Boreal. We sail with Serco Northlink Ferries and their modern, purpose-built vessels, the Hrossey and the Hjaltland, from Aberdeen overnight to Lerwick. A holiday to the islands of Orkney and Shetland has it all. In certain locations youll may be joined by a local guide who will provide local insight and show you the highlights. 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. Available from April to October. Please see Terms and Conditions for further details. We will communicate with you from time to time about our products and services, similar to those currently featured on our website. If you are keen to take more ferry trips, then island hop through Yell to Unst in the far north. These departure dates can be booked with flights or as land only holiday options. 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. Archaeological Treasures of Orkney and Shetland, Location:Northlink Ferry (1); Busta, Shetland Islands (1) and Kirkwall, Orkney islands (3), Admission to Scalloway Castle, Jarlshof, Ring of Brodgar, Stenness Standing Stones, Maeshowe, Skara Brae and Italian Chapel, Touring by luxury air-conditioned coach with reclining seats, All baggage handling and hotel tips are included, Services throughout the tour of a professional Tour Director. Youll board your ferry to Orkney in the afternoon and arrive in Kirkwall, the historic capital of Orkney, later this evening. Enjoy 4 days (3 nights) in Shetland. Accept. We'll make a visit to view the remarkable paintings that can be found inside the simple corrugated metal exterior. 3.91. A key event in the global calendar, the annual Up Helly Aa Winter Fire . Scapa Travel sells travel services on behalf of Hays Travel Limited and benefits from Hays Travel's membership of ABTA with membership number P8418. Overnight: Kirkwall Hotel/Lynnfield Hotel, Kirkwall (or similar) (3 nights). Duration 6 Days. P&O took over the routes from the long-established North of Scotland, Orkney & Shetland Steam Navigation Company in 1971. 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. 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. 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. Scattered off the northeast coast of Scotland, Orkney and the Shetland Islands are staggeringly beautiful. Watch for dolphins which sometimes play in the bow waves. Getting to Orkney via public transport is simple. Wherever you cruise on Spirit of Adventure and Spirit of Discovery, youll always step aboard here in the UK. All sorts of nature abound here, from seals and otters to ponies and hundreds of birds, making it a wildlife lover's paradise. 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. On many tours youll have the chance to personalise your touring experience by participating in some carefully planned optional excursions. 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. Stretching off Scotlands north coast are Shetland and Orkney, two very special archipelagos where Scotland meets Scandinavia. It was raided by Norsemen in the 12th Century. Then trace . To purchase a policy speak to your insurance broker or undertake a search on-line. 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. 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. Experience the unique islands of Shetland and Orkney, with mysterious prehistoric sites, natural wonders and breathtaking scenery waiting around every corner. 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. Take the opportunity to visit one of Orkneys smaller isles. 2,268. However the earldom began, by the time of Earl Sigurd we are heading into more reliable territory - although still laced with myth and folklore. Advertised flight prices are based on UK flights departing from London. 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). 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. Last month I was in Orkney for the first time. Highlights of Orkney and Shetland6 day/5 night. From area guides to interesting articles and event guides, NorthLink Ferries have everything you'll need to enjoy a fantastic holiday in the unique and memorable Orkney and Shetland islands. 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. 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. 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.
