Is Orkney worth it? (Itinerary included for advice)
Is a Trip to Orkney Worth It? (Itinerary Included)
I’m currently planning a journey through the Scottish Highlands and I’m curious about whether Orkney is worth the detour.
While the idea of exploring Orkney sounds delightful, it does seem to be quite a bit out of the way. So, is it really worth the trip?
Here’s my current itinerary:
- Edinburgh to Fort William, passing through Glasgow
- Fort William to Glenfinnan, then on to Mallaig and Portree (via Armadale)
- Exploring Portree, including the Old Man of Storr and Fairy Pools
- Portree to Inverness, via Kyle of Lochalsh
- Inverness to Oban
- Oban to Mull, then Iona, and back to Oban
- Oban to Edinburgh, again passing through Glasgow
I would greatly appreciate any insights on visiting Orkney or feedback on my itinerary. I’m flexible with my route and the number of days, so any advice would be helpful!
Orkney is definitely worth considering for your itinerary! It’s a unique archipelago rich in history, stunning landscapes, and wildlife. Here are a few points to help you decide:
Historical Significance: Orkney is home to remarkable archaeological sites, such as Skara Brae (a prehistoric village) and the Ring of Brodgar (a Neolithic stone circle), which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. If you enjoy history and archaeology, these sites are must-sees.
Natural Beauty: The scenery is breathtaking, with dramatic cliffs, rolling hills, and beautiful beaches. Places like Hoy and the Old Man of Hoy are spectacular for hiking and photography.
Unique Wildlife: Orkney is excellent for birdwatching, particularly at places like the Brough of Birsay and the wetlands. You might also spot seals and other marine wildlife.
Local Culture: The islands have a unique culture and friendly locals. You can experience traditional music, local crafts, and fresh seafood. Don’t miss the chance to sample Orkney cheese and whiskey!
Easy Access: While Orkney is a bit out of the way, ferries from the mainland (Scrabster or Gills Bay to Stromness, for example) make it fairly accessible. You could allocate a couple of days to explore Orkney if it fits your schedule.
Considering your itinerary, you might want to rearrange or extend your trip slightly. For instance, after Inverness, you could head up to Orkney and then return south via the mainland, allowing you to streamline your route and avoid backtracking.
Ultimately, if you have a keen interest in history, culture, and nature, Orkney could be a highlight of your trip! Just be sure to account for travel time and possibly adjust other parts of your itinerary to fit it in comfortably. Happy travels!