Curator’s statement
Scotland holds a special place in my heart, having lived there for two years and explored its many hidden gems. Every destination in Scotland offers a unique charm. Orkney stands out with its rich history and untouched landscapes. From the Neolithic sites to the stunning wildlife, Orkney feels like stepping into another world. I’m excited to share this magical place with you, and I hope it captivates you as much as it has me.
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Where to stay in Orkney Islands, Scotland
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Things to do in Orkney Islands, Scotland
Scapa Distillery: Visit this historic distillery to sample some of Orkney’s finest single-malt whiskies.
Heart of Neolithic Orkney: A UNESCO World Heritage Site. This collection of ancient monuments, including Skara Brae and the Ring of Brodgar, offers a glimpse into Orkney’s rich prehistoric past.
St Magnus Cathedral: A medieval masterpiece that brings you back to Viking times.
St Magnus Way Route: Walk in the footsteps of history along this scenic pilgrimage route.
Wildlife tours: Explore Orkney’s rich natural beauty with wildlife tours that offer sightings of puffins, seals, dolphins and even whales in their natural habitats.
Diving: Discover Scapa Flow, one of the world’s top wreck diving sites, where divers can explore sunken naval vessels from World War I.
Island-hopping: Go beyond the mainland to Orkney’s outer islands. You can take a ferry or a flight.
Italian Chapel: This beautifully preserved chapel, built by Italian prisoners of war during WWII, is a symbol of hope and creativity. A must-see for visitors to Orkney.
Creative Trail: Follow Orkney’s Creative Trail to immerse yourself in the region’s thriving arts and crafts scene, meeting local artisans and discovering traditional skills along the way.
Places to eat & drink in Orkney Islands, Scotland
Archive Coffee: A cozy spot for a coffee break with great views and a relaxed atmosphere.
The Storehouse: A charming restaurant offering fresh, local produce and hearty meals in a warm setting.
Oot the Back: A dog-friendly outdoor bar offering light snacks and drinks.
Hamnavoe: The go-to for a luxury dining experience, offering a seasonal menu that blends European and Asian flavors with local ingredients.
Beiting & Brew: A great spot for delicious street food, perfect for a quick and tasty meal on the go.
The Forevan: Three-time winner of the Orkney Food Festival’s "Best Evening Meal" award, known for its elegant dishes made with local produce.
Eviedale: Famous for its sourdough bread and Orkney’s first wood-fired pizza oven. A must-visit for bread and pizza lovers.
The Sands Hotel: Renowned for its high-quality meals featuring locally sourced ingredients in both its restaurant and bar.
Need to know
Getting there: Flights to and from Orkney are operated by Loganair. The airline manages routes to Kirkwall from Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness.
You can bring your car while hoping on a ferry. Major cities in Scotland connect the Orkney Islands by public transit.
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Travel Advisor
Naomi Banks
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Orkney Islands, Scotland. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out Rod Carrillo-Lundgren's guide, Edinburgh to Skye: Road Trip Across the Scottish Highlands.