From the magnificent red sandstone cliffs of Hoy, to the wide white sands of Papay, Sanday and Stronsay – Orkney is a many-faceted jewel in the North. The powerful sense of connection to our ancestors is all around, from the touchingly domestic at Skara Brae, to the inspirational vastness of the Ring of Brodgar, and the mysterious depths of the ancient burial tombs. Birds and wildlife abound, and in Spring and Summer the verges, cliffs and hillsides are carpeted with delicate but determined wild squill, grass of parnassus, thrift, birdsfoot trefoil, eyebright, and the rare primula scotica amongst many others.

Choose walks which link ancient sites, which allow glimpses of wildlife, or which simply offer stunning views – check out these downloadable files. Why not try a range of walks – on Mainland Orkney (the biggest island) and some in the smaller North and South Isles. Use the ‘Coast To Coast’ ticket from Orkney Ferries and Loganair to hop between islands for a fraction of the cost of full fare. Click here for details.

Remember to follow the Countryside Code at all times – see our advice to walkers download.
Have a wonderful time – and don’t forget to drop us a line with your favourite Orkney walking memories – click here to read other visitors messages on our Postcards from the Edge page.