11 things to do in Orkney

Orkney, an archipelago off the northeastern coast of Scotland, is a place of mystic history, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, Orkney offers something unique for every visitor. This guide will help you discover the best things to do in Orkney, ensuring your trip is memorable and filled with adventure.

Explore the Heart of Neolithic Orkney

The Heart of Neolithic Orkney is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes some of the most important neolithic sites in Western Europe: Skara Brae, Maeshowe, the Stones of Stenness, and the Ring of Brodgar. Skara Brae gives you a glimpse into prehistoric life with its well-preserved stone houses. Maeshowe is an impressive chambered cairn and passage grave, known for its Viking runic graffiti. The Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar are ancient stone circles that continue to mystify visitors with their origins and purposes.

Visit the Italian Chapel

The Italian Chapel on Lamb Holm island is a symbol of hope and peace created from adversity. Built by Italian prisoners during World War II, this beautiful chapel was constructed using limited materials available to them at the time. The interior features stunning artwork that transforms simple Nissen huts into a spiritual sanctuary worth visiting.

Discover Orkney’s Wildlife

Orkney’s diverse habitats make it an excellent location for wildlife watching. From puffins nesting on cliff faces in spring to seals basking on sandy beaches in summer and autumn, there’s always something to see. Hoy Island offers opportunities to spot mountain hares and even orcas offshore. Birdwatchers will find RSPB reserves like Marwick Head ideal for observing seabird colonies.

Walk Along Scenic Trails

Hiking in Orkney can take you through dramatic coastal scenery, rolling hillsides, and serene lochs. Popular walks include Yesnaby Cliffs for spectacular sea views and geological formations like Yesnaby Castle sea stack; Hoy’s Old Man for those looking for a challenging hike; and Brough of Birsay tide-dependent walkway leading to Pictish ruins against stunning ocean backdrops.

Dive Into History at Scapa Flow

Scapa Flow has played crucial roles throughout history from Viking times to both World Wars as one of Britain’s most important naval bases. Today it’s renowned among divers worldwide for its underwater shipwrecks – remnants from WWI’s German Fleet scuttling themselves in 1919. Non-divers can visit Lyness Naval Museum on Hoy Island to learn about Scapa Flow’s significant maritime history.

Savor Local Flavors

No visit to Orkney would be complete without tasting its local produce – from fresh seafood caught around its shores to prime beef raised on lush pastures. Whisky enthusiasts must visit Highland Park Distillery for a tour and tasting session; it’s one of Scotland’s oldest operational distilleries where traditional methods still craft exquisite single malt whisky today.

Experience Orcadian Culture

Orcadian culture is rich with Norse influence visible in everything from language snippets heard amongst locals to annual festivals like Up Helly Aa celebrating Viking heritage with fire festivals during winter months. Summer brings Saint Magnus Festival – an internationally recognized event featuring classical music performances across various venues including historic churches throughout Orkany islands.

Take A Ferry To Smaller Islands

To truly experience Orkney’s diversity, take ferries across its smaller islands each offering unique landscapes and attractions – Papay (Papa Westray) boasts incredible birdlife; Rousay is laden with archaeological sites likened often as ‘Egypt of the North’ due to its density; while Sanday features beautiful sandy beaches perfect for leisurely walks or picnics by pristine waters.

Things You Wouldn’t Want To Miss In Orkney:

  • The Old Man Of Hoy: An iconic 450-foot sea stack formed from red sandstone that challenges climbers but rewards hikers with awe-inspiring views.
  • Kirkwall Cathedral: Also known as St Magnus Cathedral – this red sandstone structure stands tall in Kirkwall since 1137 showcasing magnificent architecture.
  • The Earl’s Palace: Explore the ruins of this Renaissance masterpiece once belonging to Earl Patrick Stewart notorious for his tyranny over Orcadians during his rule.
  • Barnhouse Settlement: Located close by Standing Stones Of Stenness – another fascinating Neolithic site providing insights into ancient Orcadian life thousands years ago.
  • Tasting Orcadian Whisky: Beyond Highland Park Distillery visits include Scapa Distillery which also provides insight into whisky production coupled with tastings against scenic backdrops overlooking Scapa Flow waters.
  • Nature Reserves: Spend time at one or more RSPB reserves such as Cottascarth where curlews call amidst heather-clad hillsides signaling spring arrival each year amidst tranquil settings far removed from urban cacophony.

In conclusion, whether it’s stepping back into ancient history at Neolithic sites, embracing local culture through music festivals or simply enjoying natural beauty along rugged coastlines – Orkany offers myriad experiences waiting to be discovered making every visit uniquely enriching!

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