Whatever it is that attracts you to the Orkney and Shetland Isles, be warned, it can be seriously habit forming!

These northern isles enjoy endless warm summer days. Surrounded by an impressive coastline and with a flora and fauna plus a history like nowhere else, enjoying them from the saddle is irresistible. Our two trips aim to show the uniqueness and diversity of the islands and you will be rewarded with a better understanding of what its like to live life on the edge!

The Orkney Isles trip will be based in the beautiful fishing village of Stromness. From here we can enjoy several excursions to the islands of Hoy, Rousay, Westray and Papa Westray (via the worlds shortest commercial flight!). With vehicular back up we can take each day as it comes; there’s so much to see and no rush to see it as its light practically all day. There are literally dozens of special places of interest from ancient settlements to the most northerly distillery-something for everyone. As for the biking, well, its not too difficult; this is a trip for those after a good helping of natural wonders as we meander down extremely quiet country lanes or across the few tracks on the islands. Wherever you travel in Orkney, the welcome is warm and personal and when the days biking is over you’re assured of a healthy dose of traditional hospitality! The trip includes hotel accommodation and breakfasts, lunches/picnics, ferry fares between the islands, entry to historic sites and places of interest.

Further north, lies the island archipelago of Shetland. With a long history of settlement, most notably by Vikings, the Shetland Isle’s offer yet more ‘must see’ historical sites and breathtaking coastal scenery. With the sun above the horizon for about 19 hours, the northern twilight (which lasts all night!) is known as the ‘simmer dim’ –come and experience it. Our trip covers most of the main areas accessible by bike plus visits to the islands of Yell, Unst, Bressay and Whalsay. Come and ride to the most northerly tip of the Britain at Norwick! Again, the roads are very quiet and the few off-road sections well worth the effort. Accommodation will be hotel and quality guesthouses based in 2 locations and the trip includes breakfasts, lunches/picnic’s, ferry fares between the islands and entry to historic sites and places of interest.

Travel arrangements for both trips are flexible to suit you. We expect most guests will opt to fly to either Kirkwall (Orkney) or Sumburgh/Lerwick for the Shetland’s. However, should you choose to fly to Inverness we can collect you for both trips. This will involve an extremely scenic 3-hour drive to Thurso and a ferry crossing to Stromness for the Orkney’s and another sea crossing from Kirkwall to Lerwick in Shetland. The cost of the ferry fares is included but not any additional costs in accommodation. Should you have any queries please do not hesitate to contact us.