Easy hikes and walks in Hoy And West Mainland

Hoy and West Mainland offer a good selection of easy hiking trails. Our guide features 12 easy routes, providing diverse options for exploring the region's unique landscapes.

You'll encounter a variety of dramatic natural features. On Hoy, expect rugged coastal cliffs, expansive moorland, and serene lochs. The West Mainland offers impressive cliff scenery, sea stacks like the Yesnaby Castle Sea Stack, geos, and gloups (collapsed sea caves). The iconic Old Man of Hoy sea stack is a prominent landmark, visible from some routes.

Yes, there are several easy circular walks. One example is the Isle of Graemsay loop, which offers a pleasant circuit. Another option is the Brough of Bigging Cliffs – Yesnaby Castle Sea Stack loop, providing stunning coastal views.

Many easy trails are suitable for families. Routes like The Ring of Brodgar & Stones of Stenness offer relatively flat paths and engaging historical sites, making them ideal for all ages. The varied terrain and opportunities for wildlife spotting can also keep younger hikers engaged.

Generally, dogs are welcome on many trails, but it's crucial to keep them on a lead, especially in areas with livestock or ground-nesting birds, which are common in Orkney. Always follow local signage and be mindful of wildlife, particularly during nesting seasons.

The West Mainland is rich in history. You can explore the Ring of Brodgar and the Standing Stones of Stenness, both part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO World Heritage Site, via an easy path. The Ring of Brodgar & Stones of Stenness route connects these significant monuments.

Easy hikes in the region vary in length and duration. For example, The Ring of Brodgar & Stones of Stenness is about 3.5 miles (5.6 km) and takes around 1 hour 26 minutes, while the Ness Point Campsite to Stromness trail is 1.9 miles (3.0 km) and can be completed in about 46 minutes.

The spring and summer months (May to September) generally offer the most favorable weather for hiking, with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures. This period is also ideal for spotting seabirds and wildflowers. However, the dramatic landscapes can be enjoyed year-round, with winter offering a wilder, more solitary experience.

Public transport options are available, particularly on the West Mainland, connecting major towns and some popular sites. For Hoy, ferry services are essential for access. It's advisable to check local bus and ferry schedules in advance, as services can be less frequent, especially outside peak season. For detailed transport information, you might consult local council resources like Orkney.gov.uk.

Parking is generally available at popular trailheads and key attractions. For instance, routes around the Neolithic sites on West Mainland often have designated parking areas. On Hoy, parking can be found near ferry terminals and at popular starting points like Rackwick Bay. Always park responsibly and consider local residents.

Hoy is a haven for wildlife, including various seabirds like fulmars, puffins, and great skuas, especially within the RSPB Hoy Nature Reserve. You might also spot mountain hares and, if lucky, white-tailed or golden eagles. The West Mainland also offers opportunities for birdwatching along its coastal paths and near its lochs.

Hoy's easy hikes tend to offer a more rugged and wild character, with dramatic coastal cliffs and a sense of remote moorland, even on easier paths. West Mainland's easy trails often blend stunning coastal scenery with rich historical and archaeological sites, providing a journey through ancient history alongside natural beauty.

The easy trails in Hoy and West Mainland are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 130 reviews. Hikers often praise the stunning coastal views, the historical significance of the sites, and the overall accessibility of the paths.