The Orkney Islands are a collection of Islands north of mainland Scotland.

Kirkwall is confusingly situated on an island called Mainland. We based ourselves here for our time in the Orkneys doing a side trip to Sanday and Hoy both of which we reached by ferry. I’d suggest a car is essential, although you could ride a bike or walk but all the places of interest are a distance apart. Public transport while available does not provide the access to many of the places of interest.

We arrived a misty cold afternoon and left on one. In between it was windy, sunny, misty and all things between. Our full array of wet weather and warm clothing got a work out.

The Orkneys are best described in pictures and so here goes…

It’s about scenery, stunning coastlines and beaches

It’s also all about a history that stretches back thousands of years.

While there is a story to the stones and Neolithic buildings that litter the Orkney Islands, no one knows what it is and I’m not sure that my imagination is any better than anyone else’s. So rather than suggesting these are places of religious or ceremonial importance or landing places for space ships, I’ll say no more and let you imagine what hallene here 5000 or so years ago.

Skara  Brae perched on  top of one of Mainland’s many beaches is quite amazing. A small community lived here doing what they did 5000 years ago. Again we have little idea of what it was.

Skaill House situated next door to Skara Brae provides a contrast to the ancient history that had remained hidden form the house’ inhabitants until a violent storm in 1850 revealed what lay nearby.

The Orkney Isakbds also has a military history.

 

But it’s really just the scenery and serenity of the Orkneys that makes it so special