South Ronaldsay & Burray loop across the Churchill Barriers from Kirkwall — Orkney

Bike touring routes & trails

South Ronaldsay & Burray loop across the Churchill Barriers from Kirkwall — Orkney

Hard

4.8

(4)

riders

South Ronaldsay & Burray loop across the Churchill Barriers from Kirkwall — Orkney

03:58

65.1km

610m

Cycling

Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.

Last updated: June 6, 2024

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

14.5 km

The Churchill Barriers

Highlight • Cycleway

The Churchill Barriers were built between Mainland & the islands of South Ronaldsay to protect the important navel harbour of Scapa Flow. Block ships were originally used and the sunken remains of some of these are still visible. Nowadays the causeway forms a great road to ride between the islands with nice views and easy access to some stunning beaches.

Tip by

31.0 km

Olad Summit

Highlight • Summit

At 87m it's not the highest point on South Ronaldsay but it does give great views all around from the entrance to Scapa Flow in the west, south towards John O'Groats and mainland Scotland, east across the island and out to sea and north over the Churchill Barriers which link this island to Burray and Mainland. It's on the road but it's quiet so it's a great spot to stop and have a break.

Tip by

64.6 km

Cycle Orkney Bike Shop and Rental

Highlight • Rest Area

A useful place if you're on the Island. They are a main dealer for some top brands so can sell you a new bike, supply upgrades or spares and help with any problems or servicing. They also rent out bikes for a reasonable rate per day and the staff are all knowledgeable local cyclists so if you can't find the route you are looking for on Komoot ask them :-)

Tip by

65.1 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

47.9 km

16.9 km

356 m

114 m

Surfaces

62.5 km