Shetland Coastline
Journey to the Northern Isles
An Exploration of Orkney & Shetland
August 31 - September 9, 2023 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Open
Lerwick Port, Orkney
Jutting from the northern tip of Scotland into the North Sea, Orkney and the Shetland Islands have a unique history set within a dramatic coastal landscape. Scattered island communities are characteristically Nordic with a strong Viking heritage developed over centuries of Scandinavian rule. The extraordinarily rich wildlife of the islands draws naturalists from around the world. Whether your interest is natural history or ancient worlds, this island sojourn is an adventure off the beaten track.
We begin with a gentle exploration of Edinburgh, Scotland’s cultural and political capital. From Edinburgh, we fly to Orkney, making our base in the busy port town of Kirkwall. We spend time exploring this ancient community and tour the island’s famed prehistoric sites. See Stromness and Scapa Bay, overlooking Scapa Flow, a major naval center in both World Wars. A morning at Skara Brae, one of Europe’s oldest villages, highlights the long history of the island.
Shetland
Flying from Orkney to Sumburgh, we continue further north to the Shetland Islands. Our adventures take us as close to the Arctic Circle as many of us will ever get! A day-long boat trip around one of the smaller islands, teeming with bird and sea life, will be a highlight. We’ll gain insight into the importance of the woolen industry at the Sandness Mill, and we’ll explore the charming capital of Lerwick.
Be part of the adventure with Discover Europe this year to the Orkney & Shetland Islands.
If you would like to register for the Journey to the Northern Isles tour, please complete and submit the form located under Reserve Now.
*Once you have submitted the above registration form with your digital signature, a Discover Europe staff member will be in contact as soon as possible to process your deposit and welcome you to the tour.
Skara Brae