Highlights of Orkney
Excursion package. Available for the "Vikings of the North Sea" and "Through the North Atlantic" voyages. The excursions must be pre-booked. (Depending on availability, you might be able to book it onboard.)
Depart Kirkwall and head into the west of Mainland, Orkney’s largest island. Pass through gentle rolling landscape and into the Neolithic Heartland of Orkney; an area designated as a World Heritage Site due to its wealth of pre-historic archaeology. Passing the Standing Stones of Stenness, stop at the Ring of Brodgar; a huge ceremonial circle of stones dating back almost 5000 years. Enjoy a short stop here to explore the ancient monument and admire the landscape of the islands.
Continue to the pretty fishing village of Stromness. After a briefing and orientation enjoy free time to explore the picturesque harbour in Stromness and stroll along the quirky flag-stoned streets. Visit the beautifully refurbished Pier Arts Centre with exhibitions by both local and international artists, relax with a hot beverage in a café or explore the craft shops selling local knitwear, pottery and artwork.
Return to the coach and continue this circular route following the coastline of Scapa Flow, a famous British Naval Base in both World Wars.
Total duration. 3 hours
Facts about Highlights of Orkney
Activity Level
Easy
Terrain
Soft ground which is uneven in parts at the Ring of Brodgar. Around 2 hours total walking (at discretion of visitor). Good paths at Skara Brae. Some uneven ground.
Wheelchairs
No accessibility for wheelchair users at the Ring of Brodgar due to soft ground. Stromness town has some cobbled pavements. We request that any wheelchair users be accompanied as the guide cannot undertake responsibility for them during the tour
Shopping
Free time in Stromness to browse local craft shops
Total walking distance
300m each way from Ring of Brodgar to car park.
Refreshments
Café is available for visitors in the visitor centre at Skara Brae which sells hot and cold drinks, home baking and light meals. Refreshments are not included in this tour.
Photo opportunities
Photo opportunities throughout the tour.
Clothing
Warm and waterproof clothes and good walking shoes advised
Expeditions with this excursion
Through the North Atlantic
There are few wilder, more magnificent and untouched places than the islands of the North Atlantic! And no ships more suited than Ocean Albatros for such a voyage. On this adventure, we cover wondrous islands in Scotland, the Faroe Islands, and Iceland.
Vikings of the North Sea
Adventure voyage following in the wake of the Vikings from Denmark to Scotland.