Survey the spectacular archaeological treasures of the Orkney Islands, whose Neolithic monuments are a UNESCO World Heritage site
Take ferries over to Rousay, Westray and Papa Westray, for an introduction to island life in the extreme north of Britain
Enjoy the special Orcadian flora and fauna, from marine mammals and seabird ‘cities’ to the rare and delightful Scottish primrose
"Andrew and Peter gave us such detailed but wholly accessible information. They invited a dialogue throughout between us all and kept the tone light, amusing and entertaining."
"Marcus was fantastic"
ACE customer on a previous Wild & Ancient Orkney tour
Separated from the Scottish mainland by the stormy Pentland Firth, the Orkney Islands bristle with Neolithic treasures: chambered cairns, ceremonial stone circles and one of Europe’s most remarkable early villages.
This tour encompasses the whole range of the islands’ history, from prehistory at Skara Brae, through the Pictish and Norse periods, to 20th century events associated with Scapa Flow, which has been one of the great natural anchorages of the world since Viking times. Poetry, sagas and music will also feature during our travels, giving added resonance to these magnificent landscapes and seascapes. Much of the tour will be on the ‘Mainland’, but we will also enjoy the opportunity to take small ferries over to Rousay, Westray and Papa Westray, visiting fishing and crofting settlements to meet locals and begin to understand some of the challenges of island life in the extreme north of Britain.
We will also be privileged to survey the unique and special Orcadian wildlife. The waters around the islands are rich in marine life, supporting grey and common seals, cetaceans, and teeming seabird ‘cities’ of fulmars, kittiwakes, puffins and guillemots. Inland, rich moorland and farmland are home to curlews and oystercatchers, as well as majestic birds of prey such as the rare hen harrier and short-eared owl. They are also home to one of the UK’s few endemic plants, the rare and delightful Scottish primrose.
We will stay throughout at the Standing Stones Hotel, boasting stunning views over the Loch of Stenness.
Depending on weather and local factors, some visits may be adjusted nearer the time.
This tour will be led by Andrew Wilson, BA, BD, FSAScot, and Peter Exley, BSc. Andrew is an archaeologist and historian with a particular interest in his native Scotland, and member of the Pictish Arts Society. Peter is a conservationist and naturalist who works for the RSPB and has a strong interest in interpreting man’s influence on our landscapes. Peter will introduce us to Orkney’s remarkable birds, plants and marine life, as well as exploring their ecology and conservation.
8
£2095
ORK1-22
Places are limited.
Please contact the office
for more details.
Included: Accommodation based on sharing a twin or double bedded room, breakfast, dinner with water & coffee, excursions & admissions, gratuities.
Not Included: Return travel, travel insurance, double room for single use supplement £315.
