September 8 – 14 Sat - Fri
Group Size: 9
Starting Point: Inverness
Based: Harray
Walking: Easy

Description: Once covered in low scrub the Orkney Islands are now virtually treeless. Wild-flower rich pastures, reflecting an immensely fertile soil, give way to heather moorlands where Arctic Skuas, Hen Harriers, Short-eared Owls (this is their main UK stronghold) and Merlins breed, as do many waders and waterfowl. Lofty sea-cliffs host large seabird colonies, while small uninhabited islands are important pupping grounds for seals. Surrounding waters are populated with cetaceans - Killer Whales are seen every year. All terrestrial mammals have been introduced,  with one - the Orkney Vole - occurring nowhere else on earth. We show you the voles on our private reserve.

Although the breeding season is over all birds remain present,
seabirds having gathered in rafts offshore while post-breeding waders amass on arable fields. Southbound migration has started with every chance of scarce and interesting items turning up. Crossbills, for example, often provide us with the best views of the season – see the photo above taken on Hoy.

This rural richness, together with an archaeological heritage unrivalled anywhere in Europe, gives Orkney a unique charm. Historic sites span 6000 years, ranging from neolithic dwellings and burial chambers, through settlements of the Viking era, to defensive elements of the last century. Gently rolling pastoral-landscapes, subtle sea panoramas, seabird sounds and summer nights without real darkness, have collectively lured visitors - from the distant past to the present - to this peaceful archipelago.

Our travels to and from Orkney take us through Sutherland and Caithness, providing a taste of the flow country and adding more wildlife to the tour checklist.  In addition to Mainland Orkney and the connected islands we also explore Hoy and Stronsay. 

As Orkney is our home base we can justifiably argue that our familiarity and knowledge of this island system is second to none.

Itinerary
Day 1  Saturday:  Morning rendezvous in Inverness followed by travel to Scrabster for the 19:00 ferry to Stromness (1 hour 30 minutes). Evening meal in the ship’s restaurant.

Days 2 - 6  Sunday - Thursday:  Daily excursions with leisurely walks exploring all corners of the islands, including days spent on Stronsay and Hoy.

Day 7  Friday:  Return by morning ferry to Scrabster, crossing the ‘Flow Country’ of Caithness and Sutherland en route to Inverness, where the tour finishes late afternoon with transfers provided to accommodation or transport terminals.

Cost: £920...Includes: Accommodation; all meals plus packed lunches; all travel.

Deposit: £100

Single Room Supplement: £120