Located off Scotland’s north coast and first inhabited some 6000 years ago, the Orkneys offer an unspoilt experience blending history old and new with 570 miles of dramatic coastline. With the services of a local guide, discover ancient civilisations, world famous archaeology and bountiful wildlife from our base in the island capital, Kirkwall. Only a one-hour ferry crossing lies between the mainland and a hub of historic delight.
HOLIDAY ITINERARY
Day 1: Your holiday starts with a journey to the top of Scotland for an overnight in Thurso at either the Station or St Clair Hotel. En-route we will pass Aviemore, Inverness and Dornoch.
Day 2: Morning entry into the Castle of Mey, the Queen Mothers homely castle with beautiful gardens. Since 1952 she spent many happy summers here and is still used annually by the Royal Family. Board the afternoon ferry with your coach across the Pentland Firth - a graveyard to sunken ships, arriving in St Margaret’s hope one-hour later. The day concludes with a drive along the shoreline of Scapa Flow – famous as the naval refuge during both world wars. Next we head to the capital - Kirkwall, with its 12th century St Magnus Cathedral. You will stay for two-nights at the Kirkwall Hotel.
Day 3: Your local guide joins your coach for a tour of the Orkney Isles, a memorable day out. As the day unfolds, the islands Neolithic ancestry is evident as many ancient monuments, stone circles, settlements and tombs are visited - a testament to its UNESCO World Heritage status. The tour includes a scenic circular our of the island visiting most of the main sites including 5000 year-old Scara Brae, Churchill Barriers, Ring of Brodgar, Stennes Standing Stones & Italian Chapel. Along the way, listen to the tales of Viking intruders, wartime exploits and immerse yourself in Orkney’s rich maritime heritage.
Day 4: Catch the morning ferry back to the mainland, southwards bound on the coastal drive to Inverness. Free time in Aviemore, before arriving for your final nights’ stay in the Highlands.
Day 5: After breakfast we set off on our journey home.
Price includes: Dinner, B&B | Coach & ferry travel throughout | Excursions | Door to Door Collection*
*conditions apply
Kirkwall Hotel - Kirkwall
The Kirkwall Hotel is situated in the heart of the historic town of Kirkwall and is one of Orkney’s finest Victorian buildings. Located on the picturesque harbour front,. the hotel is only a hop, skip and a jump away from the marina and the main shopping centre, as well as many must-see historic landscapes and buildings.
Our free Door to Door service is available to customers within 15 miles of Dunfermline / Edinburgh / Bathgate / Glasgow / Bothwell Services.
For customers living further afield, Door to Door may be available for a supplement.
Please note: You may travel with other customers in the people carrier, taxi or minibus taking you to your holiday coach. Not all members of your party may be in the same car if getting picked up at different addresses.