The Orkney Islands are a stunning archipelago situated just off the north coast of Scotland, across the Pentland Firth. Comprising around 70 islands, most of which are uninhabited, Orkney is a haven for abundant wildlife. The largest island, Mainland, is home to the majority of Orkney's population of 9500.
Mainland, the largest island in the Orkney archipelago, boasts two notable towns: Stromness and Kirkwall. The island's primary industries are crab and lobster fishing, which has led to the proliferation of excellent seafood restaurants. Tourism also plays a significant role in the island's economy, with the stunning coastal views attracting many visitors.
To the south of Mainland lies Hoy, the second largest and highest island in the Orkney group. Hoy offers breathtaking coastal views from St John's Head, where cliffs tower 350 meters above the sea. The island's most renowned sight is the Old Man of Hoy, a sea stack rising 140 meters out of the sea. In total, Orkney boasts around ten sea stacks, popular with climbing enthusiasts.
South Ronaldsay, connected to Mainland by the A961 road which crosses the island Burray and two artificial barriers, offers views back to the UK mainland. These barriers, constructed from old ships and concrete blocks, were erected during the Second World War under Winston Churchill's orders to protect Navy ships in Scarpa Flow.
Scarpa Flow, a stretch of water completely enclosed by the Orkney Islands, has been used as a natural harbour since Viking times. It was from here that the British fleet sailed to engage the German fleet at the Battle of Jutland in May 1916. Scarpa Flow is today a popular diving site, with several shipwrecks acting as natural reefs and attracting an array of marine life.
Ferries operate from Kirkwall to the northern islands of Rousay, Westray, Eday, Sanday, Stronsay, Shapinsay and North Ronaldsay. For the other sixty islands, visitors can row themselves! Sanday boasts the best beaches in the Orkneys, with sparkling white sand and azure seas. Flights to several of the northern islands are also available.
The Orkney Islands offer a wide range of activities, from leisurely sunbathing and strolls along the beach to more strenuous pursuits like swimming, snorkeling, sailing, surfing, windsurfing and kite sailing. The locality also boasts a range of pubs, restaurants, nightclubs and shops to explore.