Overview
From Burwick harbour head up to Burray and then up to the capital, Kirkwall, to enjoy the historic sites. Discover Neolithic history at Maeshow and then call at Woodwick and Birsay. Enjoy Skaill Bay and Stromness. Soak up the natural beauty of Rackwick before arriving at Longhope.
Burwick
Take the summer ferry from John O’Groats to land at the small Burwick harbour on South Ronaldsay. Go birdwatching on the cliffs, head out on the cycle route and visit the Tomb of the Eagles to discover an amazing collection of artefacts dating back 5000 years.
Burray
Cross the causeway or take the boat to Burray and enjoy the stunning views across Scapa Flow home to the British battle fleet in both world wars, the lovely sandy beach and visit the Orkney Fossil & Heritage Centre to see the boat building history of the island and fossils that go back 380 million years!
Kirkwall
Orkney’s capital, Kirkwall, was founded by Norsemen over 1,000 years ago – take in the Orkney Museum and the historical sites of the 12th century, Magnus Cathedral and the Bishop’s and Earl’s Palaces, and the lively town centre.
Finstown
Midway to Stromness you’ll discover Finstown at the head of the Bay of Firth. Nearby you can explore the Neolithic burial chambers of Maeshowe dating back 3000 years. Then head to Binsgarth Woods – one of the Orkney's few wooded areas.
Woodwick
Woodwick overlooks the island of Gairsay, and close by you can explore the Ring of Brodgar, the Broch of Gurness, and the Ness of Brodgar, a 5000 year old archaeological site.
Birsay
The tidal island of Birsay is home to many Norse, Pictish and medieval remains. Stroll to the clifftops and see the lighthouse looking out across the Atlantic. Don’t forget to look out for the brightly coloured puffins.
Skaill
The sandy beach of the Bay of Skaill is ideal for enjoying the fresh air and building sandcastles. The worn away rock of the Hole o’ Row on the headline makes a great photo. Visit the 17th century mansion, Skaill House and the Neolithic site of Skara Brae.
Stromness
Picturesque Stromness is a stone built town that retains its working heritage – explore the maritime heritage, waterfront and harbour and spend some time in the galleries, craft shops and independent outlets.
Rackwick
Rackwick enjoys a picturesque setting of red sandstone cliffs, steep heather clad hillsides and a sandy beach. Visit the croft museum of the Crow’s Nest and the nearby stone slab of Dwarfie Stane. Or spend sometime in the visitor centre at Lyness or walk to the famous Old Man of Hoy.
Longhope
Longhope hugs the shoreline and is largely huddled around the harbour at South Ness. Take in the Lifeboat Museum and the memorial to the lifeboatmen that lost their lives in 1969. Relax and enjoy the far reaching views.
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