ORKNEY AND SHETLAND | Pathfinder hiking guide

HIKING GUIDE

Experience island life on foot and at your own pace as you walk the Orkney and Shetland archipelagoes. See rare birdlife and wildflowers, spot orca, dolphins, seals and otters in the water and enjoy the space, freedom and spectacular scenery of Orkney and Shetland on these 28 unforgettable walks.

Featured Orkney walks include:

- Marvel at the high sandstone cliffs and the Old Man of Hoy, an iconic Orcadian landmark and destination for walkers since Victorian times
- Glimpse whales in the water and enjoy spectacular views of the Pentland Firth at Cantick Head
- Discover Rousey’s rich history where ancient structures like Mid Howe Broch mingle with medieval churches
- Walk Yesnaby Cliffs for stunning views of sea stacks and ancient brochs
- Wander out to South Ronaldsay’s Hoxa Head for views over the Sound of Hoxa and Scapa Flow to the islands of Flotta and Hoy

Featured Shetland walks include:

- From Eshaness Lighthouse, walk the tops of the stunning sea-cliffs for unbeatable views of a coastline marked by stacks, arches, caves and inlets (geos)
- See the distinctive Broch of Mousa, the best-preserved Iron Age broch in Europe, and the island’s population of rare birdlife including storm petrels, black guillemots and Arctic terns
- Cross a magnificent tombolo to the ‘tied’ island of St Ninian’s for sandy beaches, grassy clifftops and ancient treasure
- Climb to Ronas Hill, the highest point in Shetland, for glorious 360-degree views extending as far as Fair Isle, Yell and Unst
- Start at Jarlshof, Shetland’s richest archaeological site, to venture out to Sumburgh Head, the southernmost point of the mainland known for its lighthouse and rare birdlife