Orkney
Natural history, history, archaeology and island crafts and including stays on Westray and Papa Westray
It's quite extraordinary that a group of islands so close to the Scottish mainland could be so totally different in character and atmosphere not only to Scotland itself but to the west coast islands and its northerly neighbour, Shetland, as well.
Orkney is unquestionably unique and it has something for everyone. Our holiday takes in all aspects of the islands from their remarkable archaeological sites such as Skara Brae, which dates back to 3200 BC and was not rediscovered until a storm uncovered it in 1850, to birds and flowers on the delightful island of Papa Westray. We'll walk along cliffs pink with sea thrift and packed with birds and delight in the peaceful atmosphere of St Magnus Cathedral.
Many people visit Orkney for a short stay and are frustrated when they find that there is so much more to the islands than just "Mainland". For this reason we'll stay not only on Burray and in Kirkwall, but will also spend three nights on Papa Westray (or "Papay" as it's known locally), during which time we'll have a day trip to the neighbouring island of Westray. We'll also be including visits to Rousay to see "The Great Ship of Death" as Midhowe has been called, and to South Ronaldsay. All Orkney's famous landmarks such as the Tomb of the Eagles, the Churchill Barriers, the Italian Chapel and Scapa Flow will be included in our itinerary.
Orkney has a rich bird life and we'll be spending some time looking and listening for some of the islands' specialities - the elusive Corncrake which we should be lucky enough to hear on Papa Westray, Hen Harrier, Red-throated Diver and much more. We'll also be in Orkney at the right time of year to see the diminutive Primula Scotica which is found only here and in a small area of Caithness.
The cost of the holiday is based upon travel by road from Inverness up to John o'Groats and the short-crossing ferry to South Ronaldsay. If you prefer to fly to the islands this can be arranged and you will be advised of the additional cost - or you can make your own arrangements to get there and we'll deduct the travel costs.
