OUR TRIP ITINERARY
*This is the planned itinerary, but it may be subject to change due to weather, emergencies, road closures, or other unforeseen circumstances.
Here’s an idea of what you can expect to see and do day-to-day.
SHETLAND & ORKNEY
Shetland & Orkney - april 2025
Join me on an unforgettable 8-day / 7-night trip to explore the breathtaking Shetland and Orkney Islands.
These northern regions of Scotland offer a sense of wildness and remoteness that is truly special.
I’ve put together an itinerary that captures the very best of these islands, showcasing all the highlights you’d want to experience on your first visit. From breathtaking landscapes to the finest accommodations and dining experiences, every detail has been hand-chosen by me.
My group trips are designed to feel like a journey with friends, with plenty of opportunities for shared experiences as well as free time to explore at your own pace.
Please note, this trip is for ages 18+.
Travel Style:
Comfort
From:
£2995 (PP / Sharing)
Group Size:
12-15 People
Fitness Level:
Easy
Start & Finish:
Aberdeen > Inverness
Duration:
8 Days / 7 Nights
Dates:
8th April - 15th April 2025
This trip is SOLD OUT
Join the waiting list to be notified when future trips launch!
01
Day
Taking the Longest Ferry Journey Within The UK
We’ll kick off our trip with a welcome tea and coffee in Aberdeen before making our way to the NorthLink ferry terminal for our 14-hour overnight voyage to Shetland, the longest ferry journey within the UK!
We’ll tuck into dinner (included) on board before settling into our cosy cabins for a peaceful night’s sleep.
Meals:
Dinner
02
Day
Southern Shetland
We’ll start the day with breakfast (included) on board before we dock into Lerwick harbour and disembark.
Our Shetland adventure begins by exploring Southern Shetland and our first stop will be St. Ninian’s Beach, a sand tombolo and one of Scotland’s most stunning beaches in my opinion. We’ll then visit a spot where there’s a high chance of us seeing seals before stopping for lunch (included).
In the afternoon we’ll explore Jarlshof, an impressive archaeological site that houses the remains of multiple civilisations.
We’ll then head to Sumburgh Head, renowned for its historic lighthouse and dramatic coastal scenery.
Finally, we’ll check into our cosy hotel before enjoying a delicious welcome dinner (included).
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
03
Day
Exploring The UK's Northernmost Inhabited Island
Today is a day of northernmosts and we’ll be heading north, catching two inter-island ferries to Unst, the UK’s northernmost inhabited island!
We’ll start our day by visiting the northernmost castle in the UK, followed by a walk* to a viewpoint to see “Out Stack”, the northernmost point of the UK.
After lunch (included) at the UK’s northernmost cafe, we’ll explore more of Unst, including a replica Viking longship and longhouse and the quirky Bobby’s Bus Shelter.
On the return journey, we’ll make a stop at the UK’s northernmost fish and chip shop, where you’ll have the opportunity to buy your own dinner (non-seafood options are also available).
*The walk to the viewpoint is optional and takes about 30 minutes.
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch
04
Day
Wild Shetland & Lerwick
We’ll begin our day with a walk* at Eshaness, which showcases some of the most breathtaking coastal scenery in Shetland. The striking cliffs, sea stacks, and volcanic rock formations have been shaped by the relentless Atlantic waves.
Next, we’ll travel to Lerwick, Shetland’s largest town, famous for its vibrant harbour, charming waterfront streets, and rich Norse history. It’s also the perfect place for souvenir shopping! You’ll have the afternoon to explore Lerwick at your own pace before we board the late afternoon ferry from Shetland to Orkney.
You’ll have the option to dine in Lerwick before the ferry or enjoy dinner onboard. Upon arriving in Orkney around 11pm, we’ll check into a lovely family-run hotel.
*The walk is around 1-2 hours on flat ground and is optional or can be shortened to a level you feel comfortable with.
Meals:
Breakfast
05
Day
Ancient Orkney
Our first stop today will be a scenic walk* at Yesnaby, a rugged coastal area on the west coast of Orkney Mainland, renowned for its stunning rock formations, including the impressive Yesnaby Castle sea stack.
Next, we’ll explore Skara Brae, a remarkably well-preserved Neolithic settlement and part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO World Heritage site. This ancient site offers a rare and fascinating glimpse into prehistoric life.
We’ll then pause for lunch (included) before visiting two more UNESCO sites: the Ring of Brodgar, one of the largest stone circles in the UK, and the towering Stones of Stenness. Both of these historical sites date back over 5,000 years!
We’ll wrap up the day with dinner at the hotel restaurant (included), known to be one of the best dining spots in Orkney.
*The walk is around 1 hour on flat ground and is optional or can be shortened to a level you feel comfortable with.
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
06
Day
Isle of Hoy
This might be the most exciting day of the trip!
We’ll board an inter-island ferry to the Isle of Hoy, one of the most impressive islands in the Orkney archipelago.
While much of Orkney is flat and primarily used for agriculture, Hoy offers a dramatic contrast with its rugged, mountainous terrain reminiscent of the Scottish Highlands.
We’ll journey along the island’s scenic single-track road, making stops at points of interest with plenty of opportunities for amazing photos.
Our destination is Rackwick Beach, one of my favourite places in Scotland! Here, we’ll enjoy a packed lunch near the beachside bothy and marvel at the towering cliffs and the powerful forces of nature that shaped this stunning beach.
On our return, we’ll stop at the Scapa Flow Museum to learn more about Orkney’s wartime history at Scapa Flow.
Once back on the Orkney main island, we’ll visit somewhere you can buy a regional speciality for dinner. If you prefer, you’re also welcome to explore dinner options on your own this evening.
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch
07
Day
Stromness & Kirkwall
We’ll start our day with a walking tour from a local guide in the charming port town of Stromness which is known for its narrow winding streets, stone buildings, picturesque waterfront and rich maritime history.
In the afternoon, you’ll have free time to explore Kirkwall, Orkney’s capital and largest town, famous for its medieval St. Magnus Cathedral and historical architecture dating back to the Norse era.
Kirkwall offers a great selection of shops for souvenir hunting and is home to the Highland Park Distillery!
In the evening, we’ll gather for a lovely farewell dinner.
Meals:
Breakfast, Dinner
08
Day
Orkney's War History & Mainland Britain's Northernmost Point
We’ll check out of the hotel and, on our way to the ferry, visit the Churchill Barriers, four causeways built during WWII to protect the naval anchorage at Scapa Flow. We’ll also stop at the Italian Chapel, a beautiful place of worship crafted by Italian prisoners of war.
Next, we’ll catch a ferry back to the Scottish mainland and visit John O’Groats, the northernmost point of mainland Britain, before heading to Inverness where we’ll conclude our trip and say our goodbyes.
Meals:
Breakfast
What’s included:
7 nights’ accommodation in ferry cabins, 3-star and 4-star hotels
All transportation for the trip, starting in Aberdeen and finishing in Inverness
All boat and ferry transfers
A private minibus with an experienced driver
7 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 4 Dinners
Activities as stated in the itinerary
Your friendly Scottish host Ruth
What’s not included:
Flights / Transport to Scotland
Airport Transfers
Visas & Travel Insurance
Drinks & Alcohol
Meals which are not outlined in the itinerary
Additional snacks or activities
Souvenirs
Shetland & Orkney: 8th - 15th april 2025
This trip is SOLD OUT
Join the waiting list to be notified when future trips launch!
Details
Accommodation
FAQ
How do I book?
Press the book now button, fill in your details and pay the full amount or the deposit.
How does the payment plan work?
You can choose to pay the full amount or opt for the payment plan.
With the payment plan, once you've paid your deposit, you've 100% secured your spot. The remaining balances are due on 1st November 2024 and 1st December 2024.
After I book, what happens next?
Do I need travel insurance?
I strongly recommend that you are adequately covered by your own travel insurance policy.
Group Numbers
This trip requires a minimum of 12 participants to proceed. Please wait for confirmation from Ruth that the group has reached 12 participants before booking any travel or flights. If the trip doesn't go ahead due to insufficient bookings, you will receive a full refund.
Cancellation & Refund Policy
Payments made are non-refundable. Once you book a spot, I am required to pay upfront costs to confirm the trip. I understand that unexpected changes can happen, which is why all travellers should have travel insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances that may prevent participation.
In Shetland, we'll be staying at Busta House Hotel, a charming 16th-century former Laird's house turned 3-star hotel. This hotel is known to be one of Shetland's best hotels.
In Orkney, our accommodation will be The Lynnfield Hotel, a lovely 4-star, family-run country house hotel located on the outskirts of Kirkwall and perhaps dangerously close to the Highland Park Distillery!
How physically demanding is the trip?
This trip is accessible to most people in good health. There will be a few walks as listed on the itinerary but these are optional and can also be shortened. A basic level of fitness will help you get the most out of the experiences.
How much luggage can I bring?
The bus has space for each traveller to bring one medium-sized suitcase up to 20 kg (44lb) and one small carry-on bag for personal items (such as a handbag). If you need to bring additional luggage, please let me know in advance.
Can I bring my dog?
Although it would be lovely to welcome dogs, this trip is unfortunately unsuitable for four-legged friends.
Can you cater for dietary requirements?
Most dietary requirements can be catered for. Please share your dietary requirements in the booking form.
How much do I need for non-included meals and alcohol?
For non-included meals, expect to pay in the range of £20 - £30. Alcoholic drinks typically cost around £5 - £10.
What is the Shetland weather like in April?
In April, Shetland's weather is cool and variable, with temperatures around 4°C to 8°C (39°F to 46°F), with frequent overcast skies and occasional rain or drizzle. Windy conditions are common in Shetland due to its exposed location.
What clothes and footwear do I need?
For Shetland in April, you'll need warm layered clothing such as thermal tops, sweaters, and a waterproof jacket and trousers to handle the cool, windy, and often wet weather. Sturdy waterproof footwear, like hiking boots are recommended for the cliff-side walks. I will send out a suggested packing list prior to the trip.
Are any activities weather dependent?
With the right clothing, we should be able to do all activities as planned. However, if there is really terrible weather or we face ferry cancellations, alternative activities will be arranged.