Highlands And Northern Islands, Scotland
Hoy, Orkney's second-largest island, presents dramatic scenery. It features the Old Man of Hoy sea stack, the imposing Ward Hill, the Scapa Flow Museum, and the picturesque Rackwick Bay.
Access: Ferry from Stromness to Lyness or Hoy (Moaness). Drive, cycle, or use the limited bus service. A full day for exploration.
Beyond Hoy, other islands await discovery, each with distinct attractions and character.
Known as the "Egypt of the North" due to its many archaeological sites. Highlights include Midhowe Broch and Chambered Cairn, and Blackhammer Cairn.
A short ferry ride from Kirkwall. It offers a relaxed day with sights like Balfour Castle (visible) and a nature reserve.
Discover Orkney's diverse beauty, from wild coastal walks to local artistry.
Local boat tours journey around uninhabited islands like Copinsay for puffins and seals.
Explore dramatic cliffs at Yesnaby, Marwick Head, or Mull Head for stunning scenery and seabirds.
Visit local craft workshops to observe artists and purchase unique, island-made items.
Tours and tastings Highland Park or Scapa distilleries (whisky), or local breweries, reveal Orkney's food and drink heritage.
Dedicate a day to explore specific coastal stretches. The scenery, sea stacks, and opportunities for seabird watching abound.
Combine your Orkney trip with other Scottish destinations for a broader experience.
Combine Orkney with a trip to Shetland to the north. Both archipelagos share Norse heritage, island cultures, and dramatic landscapes.
Consider flying to Orkney, exploring, then traveling to Shetland for further discovery before returning to mainland Scotland.
After Orkney, return to the Scottish mainland. Explore the dramatic landscapes of Caithness and Sutherland, or head further south into the central Highlands.
Take a ferry from Orkney to Scrabster, then drive south along the North Coast 500 route for a rugged mainland experience.
From islands to mountains.
Norse and Highland tales.
Varied local traditions.
Further aspects for planning your multi-region Scottish visit.
Plan ferry, flight, and road connections between regions.
Secure lodging in each area you plan to visit.
Distribute days effectively across different destinations.
Flexibility with your own vehicle.
Expert insights and planned routes.
Cost-effective, scenic routes.
