Scotland: Highlights of Orkney and Shetland 543

Sail away to lands steeped in history, wildlife and stunning scenery, far from the jostling crowds to the haunting beauty of the Orkney and Shetland Isles. Many people have landed there before you - some as early as 3000 BC. Most famous of all were the Vikings, but they were not alone and all around you will find historical treasures. Both islands, but particularly Shetland, in summer have virtually no darkness and the beauty of this ‘Simmer Dim’, as it is called locally, has to be seen to be realised. Both Orkney and Shetland have their own identity, Orkney being very green and fertile while Shetland has a more rugged cliff and sea loch scenery. Both however share a colourful history of Picts, Norsemen, ancient antiquities, buried treasure and seafaring legends, bound up with an independent spirit that makes them quite different from the rest of Scotland. Enjoy comfortable stays at the Scalloway Hotel and Kirkwall Hotel, with twin-berth cabins on the Serco NorthLink Ferry featuring en-suite facilities. Both hotels offer delightful dining experiences, ensuring a relaxing and pleasant stay throughout your journey.