The best walks and hikes in Hoy And West Mainland

The hike from Rackwick to the Old Man of Hoy offers a memorable journey across the dramatic Orkney Islands coastline. This moderate route covers 5.6 miles (9.0 km) with an elevation gain of 612 feet (187 metres), typically taking around 2 hours and 32 minutes to complete. You will start with a steep climb from Rackwick Bay, then traverse moorland with views of red and grey sandstone cliffs, leading you to the iconic Old Man of Hoy sea stack.

When planning your visit, be prepared for unpredictable coastal weather; sturdy footwear and layered clothing are highly recommended. While the main path is often well-maintained, some sections can be rough, rugged, and potentially boggy, especially after rain. The trail is generally well-trodden and easy to follow once you are on it, though multiple paths exist on the return to Rackwick Bay.

The Old Man of Hoy is the undeniable highlight of this trail, an impressive 137-meter (449-foot) sea stack formed from Old Red Sandstone. It is one of the tallest in the United Kingdom and a famous landmark, attracting climbers and photographers alike. As you hike, keep an eye out for diverse seabirds like fulmars and kittiwakes, and you might even spot peregrine falcons or white-tailed eagles.

Embark on an easy hike through the ancient landscapes of Orkney, connecting two monumental stone circles. This route spans 3.5 miles (5.6 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 74 feet (23 metres), making it accessible for most. You will walk between the serene Lochs of Stenness and Harray, enjoying wide-open views across the historic terrain. The path guides you past the imposing Standing Stones of Stenness and leads to the magnificent Ring of Brodgar, offering a unique glimpse into over 5,000 years of history. Expect a mix of surfaced roads and grassy footpaths, with a wooden walkway near Brodgar. You can complete this journey in about 1 hour and 26 minutes.

For your visit, parking is conveniently available at both the Ring of Brodgar and Stones of Stenness sites, offering flexible starting points. The trail is generally accessible, featuring a combination of surfaced roads and grassy paths. Be mindful that a portion of the route follows the verge of a busy road; exercise caution in this section. The wooden walkway near the Ring of Brodgar car park helps navigate marshy ground, ensuring easier access to the stone circle.

This hike takes you directly through the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Beyond the main stone circles, you will encounter other significant archaeological features, including The Watch Stone and the ongoing Ness of Brodgar excavation site. The route offers a profound connection to prehistoric human activity, set against the backdrop of Orkney's distinctive natural environment.

Hike the Yesnaby Trail, an easy coastal route spanning 2.8 miles (4.5 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 229 feet (70 metres). As you walk, you will discover rugged, warm-colored cliffs made of ancient Old Red Sandstone, showcasing millions of years of geological history. The path leads you past impressive sea stacks, including the unique two-legged Yesnaby Castle, and offers wide views of the whale-shaped Brough of Bigging Cliffs. This easy hike takes approximately 1 hour and 14 minutes, making it a perfect short adventure. Look for seabirds nesting on the cliffs and visible fossilized sand ripples in the rocks.

When planning your visit, be aware that the path can be muddy in places, especially after rain. Wear appropriate footwear to ensure a comfortable walk along the coast. This trail is suitable for most fitness levels due to its easy difficulty and relatively short duration. Consider starting your hike earlier in the day to enjoy the views with fewer people and potentially better light for photography.

The Yesnaby Trail stands out for its dramatic geological features, offering a unique glimpse into the Earth's ancient past through its Old Red Sandstone cliffs. The impressive sea stacks and the distinctive Brough of Bigging Cliffs make this route a memorable experience on the Orkney Islands. It is a prime location for birdwatching, with many seabirds making their home on the cliff faces. This trail provides a concise yet rich encounter with Orkney's wild coastal beauty.

This difficult 13.0-mile (20.8 km) hike on Hoy takes you through some of the Orkney Islands' wildest landscapes, climbing 1965 feet (599 metres) over roughly 6 hours. You will traverse steep, exposed hill ground and rough moorland, often pathless and wet underfoot. The route showcases dramatic coastal scenery, including the iconic red sandstone sea stack, the Old Man of Hoy, and the towering cliffs of St John's Head, the UK's highest vertical sea cliff.

This challenging route is best suited for experienced hillwalkers who possess good navigational skills and proper equipment. The terrain can be steep and exposed, with conditions on Cuilags' summit and around St John's Head often resembling those found at higher altitudes. Be prepared for unpredictable weather that can change rapidly; sturdy footwear and layers of clothing are essential for your safety and comfort.

Beyond the physical challenge, the trail offers a chance to witness the powerful natural forces that shaped these islands. Keep an eye out for seabirds like puffins and guillemots nesting in the cliffs, and you might even spot mountain hares or short-eared owls. The remote hamlet of Rackwick, with its unique character, has long inspired artists and poets, adding a cultural layer to this rugged adventure.