Top Walks on Orkney

Ring of Brodgar

Distance: 4.5 km/2.7 miles
Ascent: 10 m/33 ft

Although it is a short walk, this should not detract from visiting these historical sites – older than Stonehenge, older than the pyramids of Egypt, and said to be a place symbolic of life and death. The path is grassy underfoot, well-trodden and accessible up to the Ring of Brodgar. Some may wish to visit here at sunset as it is one of the most photographed scenes of Orkney when the sun goes down.

From here, you can head along the road towards Stenness, passing Loch of Harry and Loch of Stenness. The standing stones of Stenness reach a height of 6 m/20 ft and are unmissable. Only four remain standing and are accessed via a gate. The return journey is along the same way you came.

To extend your walk, you can head to Maeshowe, also available as part of a guided tour. A 5000-year-old tomb is contained within the grass-covered cairn known to be one of the best Prehistoric monuments in Britain.

Walkhighlands Description – Ring of Brodgar

Skara Brae

Distance: 19 km/12 miles
Ascent: 320 m/1,050 ft

One of our longer recommended Orkney walking routes takes in impressive sea cliff views, a stop off at the Neolithic village of Skara Brae, and walking on the white sands of Skaill Bay. This route requires the use of public transport, finishing conveniently at a public bus stop. If not part of a Wilderness Scotland trip or on one of our self guided trips, you might want to arrange a taxi in advance.

As you begin, a coastal path heading out of Stromness gives you scenic views of the island of Hoy. On a good day, you will see the island’s high peaks. From here, the path turns into a grassy track—be wary on wet weather days, as this can get rather muddy, so appropriate footwear is recommended. The path takes you along a stunning coastline, and the rocks here date back approximately 400 million years.

The impressive sea stack, Yesnaby Castle, marks the area of Yesnaby. In windy weather, take great care when walking along the cliffs here. Following the path takes you over a stile as you approach an Iron Age defensive tower before making the ascent to Row Head, where a cairn marks the high point. As you descend, head towards the small rocky beach where you can spend a bit of time taking in the sea air.

For those who choose—and this is highly recommended—a visit to Skaill House and Skara Brae is a short walk from the beach.

Walkhighlands Description – Stromness to Bay of Skaill

The Gloup

Distance: 6.5 km/4 miles
Ascent: 170 m/560 ft

The Gloup Circular is a short route taking in an abundance of birdlife and views out to sea, where you may spot whales and other marine species. Starting at Mull Head Car Park, the route takes you first along the coastline to the Gloup, a collapsed sea cave. The impressive rock feature is part of the Mull Head Nature Reserve and covers 0.8 square kilometres/200 acres of heathland, sea cliffs, and grassland, making it ideal for spotting kittiwakes, razorbills, and many other species that choose the sandstone cliffs to nest.

The visitor centre at Mull Head has information on the area’s geology and history and on recent wildlife sightings.

Walkhighlands Description – Mull Head

Vat of Kirbuster

Distance: 13 km/8 miles
Ascent: 180 m/591 ft

A circular walk combining grassy paths, cliff-top trails, and road walking. This walk takes you to where you can view some spectacular sea cliffs, stacks, and rock arches. The Vat of Kirbuster is said to be one of the most impressive rock arches in the Orkney Isles. During nesting season, you can spend time watching colonies of seabirds, such as guillemots and fulmars, on the sea cliffs.

Cast your eyes to the rocky bay areas and look for grey seals. Along this route are also the remains of old chambers, although little is left of the old Iron Age broch as you make your way to Lamb Head – home of an old Pictish settlement.

Walkhighlands Description – The Vat of Kirbuster and Lamb Head