Golden beaches and five thousand year-old cultural sites should be enough to get you to visit this beautiful, enchanting collection of Scottish islands.
Each island off the north coast of Scotland has its own unique identity, but what they all share is a deep, rich history and a warm, welcoming culture. On Orkney, you’ll find not only some of the best sights in Scotland, but also the best produce. The quaint Orkney holiday cottages dotted around little fishing villages evoke images of a unique Orcadian lifestyle, amongst a culture of wonderful craft work and superb local food. Self-catering accommodation in Orkney serves as a great base for an island adventure.
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The largest island, known as ‘the mainland’, is home to most of the total 20,000 population but the main north islands of Shapinsay, Gairsay, Stronsay, Wyre, Rousay, Egilsay, Eday, Sanday, Westray, Papa Westray and North Ronaldsay and the south islands of Graemsay, Hoy, South Walls, Burray, Flotta and South Ronaldsay are also populated. A few other small islands also have permanent or seasonal residents.