By far one of my favourite solo trips with a short two and a half day trip to the Orkney Islands, a quick hop from Scotland’s north coast. Because my background lies in history and culture, I was fascinated by the extensive prehistoric sites. Like the Shetland Islands, Orkney has a very strong Norse culture.
One of the most popular sites in Orkney is Skara Brae, a 3,500 year old site. It’s considered one of the oldest civilisations in the western world, since it was both permanent and agricultural. The community vanished in 2,200 BCE. It was only unearthed in the late 19th century when a storm swept the sand away from the shore.
The Orkney Island archipelago is comprised of 70 or so islands, only 16 of which are inhabited. With an airport on the mainland, or main island, the island chain is super accessible from Edinburgh or Glasgow.
Prehistory on Orkney Islands
In addition to Skara Brae, there are some fascinating sites in Orkney. I personally love both the Ring of Brodgar (featured image) and the Stones of Stenness. However, there’s another site that is well worth visiting. The Ness of Brodgar site is only open for six weeks each summer. It is an ongoing archaeological site well worth visiting. There are sites on Rousay, Westray, and several other islands. To get to there, there are both ferry and flight options!
Food and wine
As a food and wine lover, I’m happy to report that there are some fantastic places to enjoy a luxurious and curated meal in Orkney. I bet you didn’t expect a paragraph on this!
This island chain, only 50 miles south of Greenland, is rich in seafood. Many local restaurants rely on local fisherman for daily products like Arctic char, Atlantic salmon, and more. And if you’re a whisky lover, the world’s most northernly whisky distillery is in Kirkwall. Highland Park is famous for its smooth aged whisky. However, do not discount the Scapa distillery which is a powerfully peaty whisky. My contacts in Orkney can ensure that a bottle of either is waiting at your room when you arrive. I can also arrange private tours of either distillery. While there aren’t any Virtuoso properties, there are a few secluded bed and breakfasts that will cater to your every whim.
Outer Hebrides || Inner Hebrides || Shetland Islands
