Ferry to Orkney Islands

On Mainland’s west coast lies the best-preserved prehistoric village in northern Europe, known as Skara Brae. It Dates back 5,000 years and displays the original stone beds, boxes and dressers used by the people who lived there all those years ago.

In the heart of Mainland lies another spectacle of prehistoric architecture; the tomb of Maes Howe. Buried beneath a large grassy mound, a series of tunnels lead you to an enormous central chamber. Vikings broke inside in the 12th Century and carved intricate runic lettering on the walls, boasting about their conquests, which are still visible today.

The beautiful Italian chapel on the island of Lamb Holm is one of the most contemporary attractions. It was built by Italian prisoners of war in the 1940s using nothing more than two old Nissen huts and pieces of scrap metal. It’s a truly remarkable feat and boasts a stunningly decorated interior.

The islands’ exciting wildlife attracts many visitors as well. Around 15% of the world’s seal population live here, so be sure to spend an afternoon admiring these wonderful animals lazing on the shore.

Every year between May and August, the islands are flocked by puffins. You can spend hours watching these fascinating birds clambering along the cliffs and diving into the sea in search of food.

The fastest ferry route to the Orkneys departs from Gills Bay in Caithness, in northern Scotland, arriving in St Margaret’s Hope. There are also frequent crossings from Scrabster and Aberdeen, on the east coast of Scotland, as well as from Lerwick in the Shetland Islands, north of the Orkney archipelago.