Excursion Orkney treasures tour at Kirkwall

Cruise line: Silversea
Difficulty:

Depart Kirkwall and head into the west of Mainland, Orkney's largest island. Pass through the gentle rolling landscape and into the Neolithic Heartland of Orkney; an area designated as a World Heritage Site due to its wealth of pre-historic archaeology. Pass the Standing Stones of Stenness and stop at the Ring of Brodgar; a huge ceremonial circle of stones dating back almost 5000 years. Continue to the 5000-year-old village of Skara Brae, beautifully interpreted in the visitor centre. See the remarkable dwellings revealed from beneath the sand dunes by storms only 150 years ago.  

From here it is only a 200m walk to visit Skaill House, Orkney's finest manor. Skaill was built by Bishop George Graham in 1620 on the site of a farmstead thought to date to the Norse period. In its 400-year history all 12 of its Lairds have been related and all have contributed to the history and collection in the house.

Return to the coach and continue this circular route following the coastline of Scapa Flow, a famous British Naval Base in both World Wars.  

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, at times over unpaved, uneven and grassy paths, with a few steps to negotiate to get on and off the coach and numerous steps at the venues. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility. Warm, layered clothing, sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes are recommended. The tour sequence may vary.