The Orkney Islands have something for everyone. We'll enjoy stunning coastal walking, fascinating history, World Heritage archaeological sites and beautiful scenery on this 7 night walking holiday.
We'll discover fascinating evidence left behind by early settlements. Small communities began to settle in these islands around 4,000 BC and the village of Skara Brae on Mainland is probably the best-preserved Stone Age settlement in Europe. Later, Iron Age inhabitants built fortified towers called Brochs, many of which are still in place. Viking incomers followed, leaving behind a unique language and culture.
We stay in the delightful, unspoiled fishing village of Stromness on Mainland to take advantage of the stunning coastal walking opportunities. Here we have easy access to Hoy and our programme offers both the naturalist and those with a keen interest in history, a full and exciting week filled with visual delights.
We'll walk to the Kitchener Memorial, Wideford Hill burial chamber, and (subject to ferries) the Old Man of Hoy (where we'll be walking at the top of the holiday grade). We should also be able to include walking tours of Kirkwall, Stromness and Birsay, and visits to the Ring of Brodgar, RSPB sites and the Islands of Hoy, Burray and South Ronaldsay.
Meals: Accommodation is half board Accommodation: Stromness Hotel
We stay at the very comfortable three-star Stromness Hotel in the heart of the village, overlooking the picturesque fishing harbour and Scapa Flow. The hotel offers a bar, lounge and restaurant and a variety of locally produced food and drink to be enjoyed after a day's outdoor explorations. (Number of rooms: 42) Travel: Includes return flights from Aberdeen to Kirkwall and transfers between Kirkwall airport and our hotel. Sometimes the flights between Aberdeen and Kirkwall (or vice versa) can be cancelled due to inclement weather; in which case, we will travel by ferry. The cost of local transportation to and from the trailheads is not included on this holiday.
Nearest airport: Kirkwall (16 miles). Nearest ferry harbours: Stromness or Kirkwall. |
