Orkney Guide

Travel in Orkney

Two thirds of the Island's population live on Mainland, so the best way to travel around is by car or bike (though bear in mind it is the North of Scotland and surrounded by the North Sea - there is quite a likely chance it will be raining).

A stone circle on the Orkney Islands

Other than that, the way to get to the other third of inhabitants is likely to be either through ferries (most of which are owned by the local council) or through making friends with the local fisherman and persuading them to take you from island to island. The local ferry is probably the recommended route. You can also go by air in what is allegedly the shortest scheduled air trip in the world between Westray and Papa Westray - though scheduled to last two minutes, it can sometimes take as little as one if the wind is in the right direction.

You can also go by air in what is allegedly the shortest scheduled air trip in the world.

Things to see in Orkney

Let's be honest here. If you want the latest in fashion shopping or a happening nightlife, Orkney is probably not the place for you. If, however, you have come for something a little more laid back, Orkney has much to offer.

Not only is there more natural beauty than you can possibly imagine, but Orkney is home to many historic ports and stone circles, which were constructed by many ancient civilisations. For those who love Scuba Diving, the scuttled German fleet at Scapa Flow provides the diver's playground.

Orkney also has Scotland's most northerly whisky distillery, home to the justly famous Highland Park - this quality malt has a distinctive rounded flavour with just a little kick in the aftertaste and is a popular favourite of many whisky lovers. Tours of the distillery are available, which include a free sample of the whisky.

Distilleries are always worth a visit

Finally, the island is the home of the Orcadian Strip the Willow. If you have ever attended a Ceilidh (Scottish country dancing) at a wedding, this will have been the dance you did right at the end, memorable for its high speed and exhausting spinning with all 400 people who happened to be attending the function.

For those who love Scuba Diving, the scuttled German fleet at Scapa Flow provides the diver's playground.

AFerry.co.uk offers the best way to find the cheapest ferry routes to Orkney with its easy to use booking form. Begin your holiday on a ferry and start relaxing straight away!