North Orkney Exploration

OVERVIEW

Travel across Orkney’s largest Island on an exploratory journey that uncovers landmarks made by ancient man and wild nature. Your panoramic drive takes you along Mainland island’s west coast, passing through gently rolling countryside with the Northern Isles dotting the horizon in the distance. Passing dramatic Eynnhallow Sound, a stretch of water where the Atlantic meets the North Sea, you’ll pause for spectacular vistas and photo ops as the flat-topped tidal island known as the Brough of Birsay comes into view. Next, you'll visit the Heart of Neolithic Orkney – a UNESCO World Heritage site recognized for some ancient archaeological thrills of its own. Your visit to one of them, the Standing Stones of Stenness, will leave you wondering who raised these tall Neolithic slabs 5,000 years ago, and how they did it. The return drive to Kirkwall traces the north shore of Scapa Flow; your guide will share stories of the ancient Vikings and 20th-century Germans who have made this one of the world’s best-known stretches of water.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Visit the 5,000-year-old Standing Stones of Stenness and imagine how they came to be.
• Travel into the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a UNESCO-listed region rich with archeological treasures.
• Drive through rolling Mainland Island scenery to catch breathtaking photo ops at Brough of Birsay.
• Drive along the coast of Scapa Flow, whose calm waters have tumultuous tales to tell.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Wear warm, weather-appropriate clothing; bring a light raincoat or umbrella.
• Flat, sturdy walking shoes are recommended.
• Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen as needed.