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Orkney Wild Explorer

Enjoy an Elite Door to Door holiday discovering the dramatic landscapes, ancient history and unique island culture of Orkney.

At a Glance

8 Days | 7 Nights | Ayre Hotel, Orkney and Pentland Hotel, Thurso | Half Board | Guided Orkney Exploration and Ferry Crossings | Door to Door Service

 

Why You’ll Love This Holiday

Discover one of Britain’s most fascinating island destinations on this unforgettable journey through the far north of Scotland and the magical Orkney Isles.

 

Steeped in ancient history and surrounded by dramatic coastal scenery, Orkney offers a unique blend of Scottish and Scandinavian heritage unlike anywhere else in the UK. Windswept landscapes, towering sea cliffs, peaceful harbours and prehistoric monuments create an unforgettable backdrop for this immersive island adventure.

 

Travelling through the spectacular Scottish Highlands and across the Pentland Firth, you will arrive in Orkney’s historic capital of Kirkwall, perfectly placed for exploring the islands and their remarkable history.

 

A full-day guided tour introduces you to Orkney’s world-famous archaeological treasures, including the ancient village of Skara Brae, the mysterious Standing Stones of Stenness and the iconic Ring of Brodgar. You will also visit Skaill House, the Churchill Barriers, the beautiful Italian Chapel and historic Scapa Flow.

 

Back on the mainland, discover the magnificent Castle of Mey, the former beloved residence of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, dramatically positioned overlooking the Pentland Firth.

 

With plenty of time to enjoy Kirkwall itself, this holiday perfectly combines scenic touring, fascinating history and memorable island experiences.

 

Your Hotels

Your Hotel – Ayre Hotel, Orkney

Situated close to Kirkwall harbour, the Ayre Hotel offers a comfortable and convenient base for exploring Orkney’s many attractions and historic sites.

 

Your Hotel – Pentland Hotel, Thurso

Located in the centre of Thurso overlooking the Orkney Islands, the Pentland Hotel provides a welcoming Highland base close to Scotland’s spectacular northern coastline.

 

Your Holiday Includes

Travel and Accommodation

  • Convenient Door to Door pick-up from your home

  • Elite coach travel throughout

  • 2 nights’ half board at overnight hotel in Winnock

  • 2 nights’ half board at overnight hotel in Thurso

  • 3 nights’ half board at Ayre Hotel, Orkney

  • All bedrooms with en-suite facilities

  • Friendly and experienced driver

 

Included Visits and Experiences

  • Return ferry crossing from Gills Bay to St Margaret’s Hope

  • Full-day step-on guided tour of Orkney

  • Entrance to Skara Brae

  • Visit to the Standing Stones of Stenness

  • Visit to the Ring of Brodgar

  • Entrance to Skaill House

  • Visit to the Churchill Barriers

  • Visit to the Italian Chapel

  • Visit to Scapa Flow

  • Admission to Castle of Mey

  • Scenic Highland touring

Day 1

You will be collected from your home and travel north into Scotland with suitable comfort stops along the way before arriving at your overnight hotel for dinner and your overnight stay.

During Your Stay

During your stay, excursions will include a return ferry crossing to Orkney together with a full-day guided tour of the islands.

Highlights include the ancient village of Skara Brae, the Standing Stones of Stenness, the Ring of Brodgar, Skaill House, the Churchill Barriers, the Italian Chapel and historic Scapa Flow.

You will also visit the magnificent Castle of Mey and enjoy time in Kirkwall, where you can explore the town’s harbour, shops and historic attractions at leisure.

Final Day

After breakfast, we begin our comfortable journey home.

Suitable stops will be made along the way before returning you safely to your front door with fond memories of your Scottish island adventure.

Please Note

We always aim to operate the holiday as described. Occasionally changes may be necessary due to local or operational factors. Any adjustments will always be made with your comfort and enjoyment in mind.

About the Destination

Orkney is one of Scotland’s most remarkable island groups, where ancient history, Viking heritage and breathtaking landscapes combine to create an unforgettable destination.

 

Set amidst the dramatic waters of the North Atlantic, the islands are home to prehistoric monuments older than Stonehenge, spectacular coastlines rich in wildlife and charming harbours steeped in maritime history. Combined with the rugged beauty of Caithness and the Scottish Highlands, this holiday offers some of the most striking scenery in the British Isles.

 

About the Experience

This immersive touring holiday combines scenic ferry crossings, expert-guided sightseeing and fascinating heritage attractions at a relaxed and enjoyable pace.

 

Whether exploring ancient Neolithic sites, admiring dramatic coastal scenery or enjoying time in the historic town of Kirkwall, every day offers a wonderful opportunity to discover the unique character and history of Orkney.

 

Your Hotel – Ayre Hotel, Orkney

The Ayre Hotel enjoys an excellent location close to Kirkwall harbour and offers comfortable accommodation in the heart of Orkney’s main town.

 

Hotel Features

  • Restaurant and bar

  • Harbour location

  • Television

  • Tea and coffee facilities

  • Hairdryer

  • Comfortable en-suite bedrooms

 

Your Hotel – Pentland Hotel, Thurso

Situated in the heart of Thurso, the Pentland Hotel offers traditional Highland hospitality and an ideal location for exploring Scotland’s far north.

 

Hotel Features

  • Restaurant and lounge bar

  • Free Wi-Fi

  • Tea and coffee facilities

  • Television

  • Telephone

  • Hairdryer

  • Comfortable en-suite bedrooms

  • Please note: the hotel does not have a lift

 

 

 

 

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