Things to Do around Papa Westray Marine Protected Area

The Papa Westray Marine Protected Area is located in the Orkney Islands, Scotland. It encompasses the coastal waters and surrounding land of Papa Westray, protecting significant marine geomorphological features and rich biodiversity. The area is approximately 4 miles (6.5 km) long and 1 mile (1.6 km) wide.

The primary outdoor activity available in Papa Westray Marine Protected Area is hiking. The island's coastal footpath and quiet roads offer opportunities for exploration and creating circular routes.

Yes, a comprehensive guide titled Hiking around Papa Westray Marine Protected Area is available. This guide provides detailed information for exploring the region's trails.

Notable natural features include North Hill, which has Orkney's largest area of maritime heath vegetation. The area also features dramatic cliffs, tranquil lochs, and sandy bays. Fowl Craig's cliffs are a significant bird nesting site.

The area is known for its seabird colonies, including Arctic Terns, Skuas, Guillemots, Razorbills, Shags, and Kittiwakes. Puffins and Black Guillemots, locally known as "tysties," are also present. The rare Scottish Primrose blooms between May and July.

Yes, hikers can encounter nearly 60 archaeological sites. These include Europe's best-preserved early Neolithic settlement complex, the Knap of Howar, and the 12th Century St Boniface Kirk.

The island offers a variety of terrain, from coastal footpaths to heathland on North Hill. Routes can be created using quiet roads, suggesting options for various skill levels. Specific difficulty ratings for individual routes are available on komoot.

More than 30 visitors have explored routes in Papa Westray Marine Protected Area on komoot. The routes have an average rating of 4.75 out of 5 stars based on 8 ratings.

The rare Scottish Primrose, found on North Hill, typically blooms between May and July. This period offers an opportunity to observe this unique flora.

Information regarding the Papa Westray Marine Protected Area can be found on the NatureScot website. The official website is https://www.nature.scot/mpas.

Yes, the general switchboard number for NatureScot, which provides conservation advice for the Papa Westray MPA, is +44 (0)1463 725000.