The best running trails around Graemsay, Hoy And Walls

There are over 10 dedicated running routes around Graemsay, Hoy, and Walls, offering a variety of terrains and distances. These include options ranging from easy loops to more challenging hill runs, catering to different fitness levels.

Yes, the region offers several easy routes suitable for beginners. For example, the NorthLink Ferry – Lanes of Stromness loop from Stromness is an easy 4.1-kilometer (2.5-mile) path. Graemsay also offers a peaceful island circuit that can be adapted for easier runs, featuring coastal grass and quiet single-track roads.

Many routes provide stunning scenery. The Cuilags, Old Man of Hoy and Rackwick running loop on Hoy offers dramatic coastal views and the iconic Old Man of Hoy. You can also explore historical sites like the Ring of Brodgar and Standing Stones of Stenness near some routes, or enjoy the charming Stromness Harbour and Old Town on routes like the Dr John Rae Statue – Lanes of Stromness loop from Stromness.

Yes, many of the running paths in Graemsay, Hoy, and Walls are circular. For instance, the Cuilags, Old Man of Hoy and Rackwick running loop is a challenging circular route on Hoy. Graemsay also features a popular approximately 3.5-mile (5.6 km) circumnavigation of the island, ideal for a peaceful run.

Many trails in the region are dog-friendly, especially those away from livestock. Hoy's vast moorlands and coastal paths, and Graemsay's island circuit, are generally suitable for dogs. However, always keep dogs under close control, especially near farm animals or nesting birds, and adhere to local signage, particularly within nature reserves like RSPB Hoy.

The spring and summer months (May to September) generally offer the most pleasant conditions for running, with longer daylight hours and milder weather. This is also when the islands' rich wildlife, including seabirds, is most active. However, the rugged landscapes can be enjoyed year-round, with winter offering a more dramatic and solitary experience, though requiring appropriate gear for colder, wetter, and windier conditions.

Facilities are limited, especially on Graemsay and in more remote parts of Hoy. In areas like Rackwick and Moaness on Hoy, or in Stromness (which is a starting point for some routes), you may find small shops or cafes. It's advisable to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially for longer runs, and plan your route to coincide with available amenities.

Access to Hoy and Graemsay is primarily via ferry from Stromness. Once on Hoy, there is limited public transport, mainly bus services connecting the main settlements. Graemsay is small enough to navigate on foot from the ferry terminal. For routes starting in Stromness, public transport options within Orkney are available. Always check current ferry timetables and local bus schedules in advance.

Parking is generally available at ferry terminals and in main villages like Stromness, Moaness, and Lyness. For more remote trailheads on Hoy and Walls, informal parking spots may be found, but these can be limited. Always park responsibly, ensuring you do not block access for residents or emergency services.

The terrain is highly varied. On Hoy, you'll encounter heather-covered hills, rugged coastal paths with dramatic cliffs, and peaceful stretches of beach like Rackwick Bay. Graemsay offers a mix of coastal grass, farm tracks, and quiet single-track roads. Walls features robust coastal terrain and historical sites. Expect some routes to be rough and tussocky, providing an engaging surface for trail running.

The running routes in Graemsay, Hoy, and Walls are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Runners frequently praise the stunning natural beauty, the tranquility of the islands, and the diverse landscapes that offer both challenging climbs and serene coastal runs.

Yes, particularly on Hoy and Walls. The region has significant World War I and II historical sites, including gun batteries and military remains, which can be incorporated into routes. An old wartime tramway track near Scad Head on Walls can be part of a steep trail, offering a unique historical dimension to your run.