Edge of the North Atlantic: Orkney, Shetland & Faroe Islands

Orkney Islands Expedition

Where Ancient History Meets the Wild North

Scattered between the Scottish mainland and the open waters of the North Atlantic, the Orkney Islands are a remarkable archipelago where dramatic coastlines, abundant wildlife, and over 5,000 years of human history come together. Few places in Europe offer such an extraordinary blend of archaeology, maritime heritage, and untamed natural beauty.

Our Orkney expedition is designed for curious travellers who seek a deeper understanding of place. Traveling in a small group, we explore both the iconic landmarks and the quieter corners of the islands, discovering the stories of the people who have lived here since the Neolithic period and the powerful forces of nature that continue to shape this unique landscape.

Stand among the ancient stones of the Ring of Brodgar, wander through the remarkably preserved Neolithic village of Skara Brae, and visit Maeshowe, where Viking runes carved centuries ago tell stories of explorers who arrived long after the monument was built. Together, these extraordinary sites form the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, one of Europe’s most significant archaeological landscapes and a testament to the ingenuity of its earliest inhabitants.

Beyond its rich history, Orkney is a haven for wildlife. Towering sea cliffs provide nesting grounds for thousands of seabirds, while puffins, guillemots, razorbills, fulmars, and kittiwakes fill the skies during the breeding season. Grey and harbour seals are regularly seen along the shoreline, and the surrounding waters offer opportunities to encounter dolphins, porpoises, and occasionally whales.

The islands’ maritime identity is equally compelling. From the strategic importance of Scapa Flow during both World Wars to the legacy of explorers, fishermen, and island communities, Orkney’s relationship with the sea has shaped its culture for centuries. Local traditions remain vibrant today, reflected in its distinctive crafts, music, and exceptional local produce.

Throughout the journey, our expedition leaders and local experts bring the islands to life through engaging interpretation, revealing the connections between archaeology, wildlife, geology, and the enduring spirit of the people who call Orkney home.

Expedition Highlights

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Heart of Neolithic Orkney.

Visit the prehistoric village of Skara Brae, the Ring of Brodgar, and Maeshowe.

Discover the rich maritime history of Scapa Flow and its wartime legacy.

Observe seabirds, seals, and marine wildlife along Orkney’s spectacular coastline.

Walk dramatic coastal cliffs, sandy beaches, and windswept moorlands.

Visit traditional island communities and experience Orkney’s unique culture and cuisine.

Gain insight from knowledgeable local guides and experienced expedition leaders.

Travel in a small group, allowing for a flexible, immersive, and enriching experience.

Shetland Islands Expedition

Where the Wild North Atlantic Meets Ancient Cultures

At the northern edge of the British Isles, where the North Atlantic meets the North Sea, the Shetland Islands emerge as a rugged archipelago of dramatic cliffs, sweeping moorlands, pristine beaches, and a culture shaped by thousands of years of connection with the sea.

Remote yet welcoming, Shetland offers an extraordinary journey through landscapes carved by nature and stories preserved across generations. Our expedition reveals an island world where ancient archaeology, remarkable wildlife, Viking heritage, and vibrant local traditions come together in one of the North Atlantic’s most captivating destinations.

Traveling in a small group, we explore beyond the familiar routes to discover the true character of Shetland. Walk along spectacular coastlines where towering cliffs provide a sanctuary for immense seabird colonies, explore remote islands surrounded by crystal-clear waters, and uncover the archaeological treasures that reveal Shetland’s fascinating past.

For thousands of years, these islands have been a crossroads between Scotland and Scandinavia. Discover the legacy of the Vikings, whose influence remains visible in Shetland’s language, place names, and annual traditions. Explore ancient settlements such as the remarkably preserved Neolithic village of Jarlshof, where layers of history reveal more than 4,000 years of human habitation—from prehistoric homes and Bronze Age structures to Viking longhouses and medieval farms.

Shetland’s wild landscapes are home to an exceptional diversity of wildlife. The dramatic cliffs of Noss and Hermaness provide nesting sites for thousands of seabirds, including puffins, gannets, guillemots, and skuas. Along the coastline, seals bask on rocky shores, otters move through sheltered bays, and the surrounding waters offer opportunities to encounter dolphins, porpoises, and whales.

The islands are also famous for their unique wildlife encounters. The Shetland pony, one of the world’s oldest and most recognizable breeds, remains an enduring symbol of the islands’ rugged environment and resilience. Meanwhile, the changing northern light creates unforgettable conditions for photography, from golden sunsets over empty beaches to mist-covered landscapes that feel untouched by time.

Throughout the expedition, local experts and experienced expedition leaders share insights into Shetland’s geology, wildlife, archaeology, and living culture, bringing depth and meaning to every encounter.

Expedition Highlights

Explore the ancient settlement of Jarlshof, one of Scotland’s most remarkable archaeological sites.

Discover Viking heritage and the enduring influence of Norse culture.

Visit dramatic seabird cliffs, including Noss and Hermaness.

Observe puffins, gannets, guillemots, seals, otters, and marine wildlife.

Search for whales and dolphins in the rich waters surrounding the islands.

Experience remote landscapes, windswept beaches, and rugged coastal trails.

Discover traditional island communities, crafts, music, and local cuisine.

Encounter the iconic Shetland pony in its natural environment.

Travel in a small group with knowledgeable local guides and expedition leaders.

Faroe Islands Expedition

A Remote Archipelago at the Edge of the North Atlantic

Rising dramatically from the ocean between Iceland, Scotland, and Norway, the Faroe Islands are a place where towering cliffs, windswept valleys, and centuries-old traditions exist in perfect harmony with the rhythm of the sea. This remote North Atlantic archipelago offers a rare opportunity to experience a landscape that feels both timeless and untouched.

Our Faroe Islands expedition invites you to discover a destination shaped by powerful natural forces and a resilient island culture. Traveling in a small group, we venture beyond the familiar viewpoints to explore hidden valleys, dramatic coastlines, remote villages, and the remarkable wildlife that thrives in this isolated corner of the world.

Carved by volcanic forces and sculpted by centuries of Atlantic weather, the Faroes are defined by their extraordinary landscapes. Hike along rugged coastal paths with sweeping views over cliffs rising from the ocean, explore deep green valleys surrounded by mountains, and discover waterfalls cascading directly into the sea. Each island reveals a new perspective, from the iconic sea stacks of Drangarnir and Tindhólmur to the breathtaking cliffs of Vestmannabjørgini.

The Faroes are also a haven for seabirds. During the summer months, thousands of birds gather on the dramatic cliffs, including puffins, guillemots, fulmars, and northern fulmars. Boat excursions along the coastline offer a unique perspective of the islands and opportunities to observe the rich marine environment that has sustained Faroese communities for generations.

Beyond the landscapes and wildlife lies a fascinating cultural heritage. The Faroese way of life has always been closely connected to the ocean, from traditional fishing communities and historic villages with turf-roofed houses to ancient Norse influences that remain part of the islands’ identity today. Through encounters with local communities, we discover the traditions, stories, and adaptations that have allowed people to thrive in this remote environment.

With some of the cleanest air in Europe and ever-changing light shaped by the North Atlantic weather, the Faroe Islands offer an extraordinary experience for photographers, hikers, nature enthusiasts, and travellers seeking a deeper connection with the natural world.

Expedition Highlights

Explore dramatic sea cliffs, hidden valleys, and remote coastal landscapes.

Hike some of the Faroes’ most spectacular trails with unforgettable ocean views.

Discover traditional villages and the unique culture of the Faroese people.

Experience the islands’ rich Viking heritage and maritime traditions.

Observe seabirds including puffins, guillemots, and fulmars.

Explore the coastline by boat and witness the islands from a different perspective.

Capture extraordinary photography in one of the world’s most atmospheric landscapes.

Travel in a small group with experienced expedition leaders and local experts.

At LatitudeX Adventures, we believe exceptional travel should inspire discovery, deepen our understanding of the world, and create memories that endure for a lifetime. Our Edge of the North Atlantic: Orkney, Shetland & Faroe Islands offers a journey into a remote island world where dramatic nature, ancient traditions, and the enduring relationship between people and the sea create an experience unlike anywhere else on Earth.