Sixteen miles off the north coast of Scotland lies the Orkney Islands. About twenty of the seventy are inhabited. The islands are in two groups: the North and South Isles. The latter contain productive farmlands. The North Isles are more rugged. Fishing and, more recently, oil exploration are the main industries in the northern group. The administrative centre, Kirkwall, is situated on the largest island known as Mainland.
The area is famous for its prehistoric sites. Shetland alone has some 5,000 archaeological sites. Four make up a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as Heart of Neolithic Orkney. Another, the Knap of Howar, is an ancient dwelling built in 3700BC. The local stone has weathered well with walls and furniture still intact. Brochs or round towers can be found in many areas too.
During World War II, access channels between the islands were blocked off by causeways. These were constructed by Italian prisoners of war. These men also constructed a highly ornate 'Italian chapel' on the island of Lamb Holm. A decorative facade conceals the fact that the chapel is constructed from Nissan huts. It remains in use and is a major tourist attraction.
Despite their northerly aspect, the region has a pleasant cool, temperate climate. This is due to the Gulf Stream. However the area is subject to strong winds. Fertile soils allow farmers to grow a variety of crops and livestock. Long days are standard and dark nights are unknown. At the right time of year, the aurora borealis often makes an appearance.
The people have a distinctive dialect. The region is of increasing interest to tourists. Other areas of growth include food and beverage production. Beef, beer, fish, cheese and whisky are exported. Modern fishing techniques supply herring, lobsters and crabs. Salmon is farmed on some of the islands.
If you need accommodation in Orkney, you have several choices. There are some very nice hotels as well as comfortable bed and breakfast establishments. There is also the option of self catered accommodation in Orkney. Some of these are located very close to major attractions such as the oldest remaining Neolithic sites. An easy drive will take you to the tallest sea stack in Europe, the Old Man of Hoy, as well as to the ancient village of Skara Brae. The Standing Stones of Stenness are also close by. For avian enthusiasts, expect to see hen harriers, wild pheasant, puffins, corncrakes and others.
Self catered accommodation will ensure you enjoy a special vacation. Most rooms have en suites and heating is underfloor. The air is clean and fresh and the beaches pristine. You will find yourself gazing over farming land, woodlands or the sea. You may like to try trout fishing. There are golf courses nearby and villages with cobbled streets selling handmade goodies such as knitwear, artwork, pottery and tapestry. At the end of your day you might like to concoct a tasty meal from local ingredients.
To get to the various ferries that travel to the islands, you can go by car, coach or train. Ferries operated by the Orkney Islands Council commute between about fourteen islands. The area is well served with flights with convenient connections to other destinations. For a holiday with a difference, visit the Orkney Islands.
The area is famous for its prehistoric sites. Shetland alone has some 5,000 archaeological sites. Four make up a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as Heart of Neolithic Orkney. Another, the Knap of Howar, is an ancient dwelling built in 3700BC. The local stone has weathered well with walls and furniture still intact. Brochs or round towers can be found in many areas too.
During World War II, access channels between the islands were blocked off by causeways. These were constructed by Italian prisoners of war. These men also constructed a highly ornate 'Italian chapel' on the island of Lamb Holm. A decorative facade conceals the fact that the chapel is constructed from Nissan huts. It remains in use and is a major tourist attraction.
Despite their northerly aspect, the region has a pleasant cool, temperate climate. This is due to the Gulf Stream. However the area is subject to strong winds. Fertile soils allow farmers to grow a variety of crops and livestock. Long days are standard and dark nights are unknown. At the right time of year, the aurora borealis often makes an appearance.
The people have a distinctive dialect. The region is of increasing interest to tourists. Other areas of growth include food and beverage production. Beef, beer, fish, cheese and whisky are exported. Modern fishing techniques supply herring, lobsters and crabs. Salmon is farmed on some of the islands.
If you need accommodation in Orkney, you have several choices. There are some very nice hotels as well as comfortable bed and breakfast establishments. There is also the option of self catered accommodation in Orkney. Some of these are located very close to major attractions such as the oldest remaining Neolithic sites. An easy drive will take you to the tallest sea stack in Europe, the Old Man of Hoy, as well as to the ancient village of Skara Brae. The Standing Stones of Stenness are also close by. For avian enthusiasts, expect to see hen harriers, wild pheasant, puffins, corncrakes and others.
Self catered accommodation will ensure you enjoy a special vacation. Most rooms have en suites and heating is underfloor. The air is clean and fresh and the beaches pristine. You will find yourself gazing over farming land, woodlands or the sea. You may like to try trout fishing. There are golf courses nearby and villages with cobbled streets selling handmade goodies such as knitwear, artwork, pottery and tapestry. At the end of your day you might like to concoct a tasty meal from local ingredients.
To get to the various ferries that travel to the islands, you can go by car, coach or train. Ferries operated by the Orkney Islands Council commute between about fourteen islands. The area is well served with flights with convenient connections to other destinations. For a holiday with a difference, visit the Orkney Islands.
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sebay mill offer luxury four & five star accommodation orkney all units are finished to a high standard with double and king size beds, bathrooms and kitchens, site
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