- Overview
- Trip Includes
- Itinerary
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Discover Orkney's breathtaking archaeology, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes on this incredible journey to the Northern Isles. Nowhere else in northern Europe boasts such a remarkable concentration of extraordinary archaeological sites. From stone circles and burial mounds to a Stone Age village and Iron Age forts, traces of our early ancestors are found at every turn. We will visit Skara Brae, the best-preserved Neolithic settlement in Western Europe, the Iron Age broch village, Broch of Gurness, and the beautiful Italian Chapel. Additionally, we will explore the unique island of Hoy, known for its towering cliffs, expansive wilderness, and rich wildlife. Join us as we uncover the magic of this enchanting place.
Please Note: This is a demanding holiday. Please decide if this tour is suitable for you before booking.
Your Holiday Package Includes:
- 6 nights dinner, bed, and breakfast
- Services of experienced tour driver
- Luxury coach with onboard toilet & facilities
- Ferry travel
- Services of a local guide for 2½ days
- EXCURSIONS – entry to Italian Chapel, Broch of Gurness & Skara Brae
Your Holiday Accommodation:
The *** BEN WYVIS HOTEL is a grand Victorian hotel full of character and charm. All bedrooms are en suite with TV, telephone, tea making facilities, hairdryer, and Wi-Fi. The hotel has a lift.
The *** AYRE HOTEL overlooks the picturesque Kirkwall harbour, where the ferries to the North Isles dock. All bedrooms are en suite with TV, telephone, tea making facilities, hairdryer, and Wi-Fi. There is a lift to all floors.
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Itineraries
Sunday
Date : 9 August, 2026
Depart for Strathpeffer
We journey north via the main roads and motorways to the Victorian spa town of Strathpeffer for overnight half board accommodation at the Ben Wyvis Hotel.
Monday
Date : 10 August, 2026
Ferry to Orkney, Italian Chapel & Kirkwall
We continue north to Gills Bay for our early afternoon ferry sailing to St Margaret’s Hope on Orkney (sailing time approximately 1hr). We disembark and include a visit to the interesting Italian Chapel, a beautiful Roman Catholic chapel in Lamb Holm which was constructed by Italian POW’s during the Second World War. Later we transfer to Kirkwall and check in for 4 nights half board accommodation at the Ayre Hotel.
Tuesday
Date : 11 August, 2026
Island of Hoy
Today we visit the Island of Hoy. We take the ferry from Houton to Lyness, where we are joined by a qualified guide who will bring this fascinating island to life. Hoy is unique, and very different from the Orkney mainland and other isles. The vertical cliffs are the highest in the British Isles, there are vast swathes of wilderness, an abundance of wildlife, with a history stretching from the Neolithic era to modern day. At approximately 16.40 hrs we board the return ferry.
Wednesday
Date : 12 August, 2026
Guided Tour of Orkney
Once again we are joined by a local guide who will take us on a ‘Heart of Neolithic Orkney Tour’. In the afternoon he will bring to life the ‘Scenic South Isles Tour’.
Thursday
Date : 13 August, 2026
Free Time in Kirkwall & Guided Walking Tour
A free morning to enjoy your base of Kirkwall, the principal town of Orkney. A visit to the stunning cathedral of St Magnus is a must for those who wish to. Early afternoon we will be joined by a local guide who will take us on a walking tour of Kirkwall, exploring the old town, telling tales about the people, customs and events that shaped the towns history.
Friday
Date : 14 August, 2026
Ferry to Gills Bay & Strathpeffer
We make the short journey to St Margaret's Hope for our late morning ferry crossing to Gill's Bay (sailing time 1hr). We disembark and return to Strathpeffer for overnight half board accommodation at the Ben Wyvis Hotel.
Saturday
Date : 15 August, 2026
Return Home
After breakfast we journey home making suitable stops along the way, arriving back into our local area early evening.
Supplements
Single supplement – £320.00
TRAVEL INSURANCE: Strongly recommended
Deposit
£60.00 per person
Coach Seating Plan
