The best walks and hikes around Loch of Boardhouse

The hiking terrain around Loch of Boardhouse is diverse, featuring the freshwater loch itself, dramatic coastal areas with cliffs and sea stacks, and unique peatland landscapes. You'll find a mix of paths, from easy walks to moderate hikes, suitable for various ability levels.

Yes, there are several family-friendly hiking options. For instance, the Brough of Birsay Causeway – Earl's Palace Birsay loop from Brough of Birsay is an easy 4.5-mile (7.2 km) path that offers views of the causeway and historical palace, making it suitable for families.

Many trails in the area are dog-friendly, but it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock or nesting birds, which are common in Orkney's natural environments. Always follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.

Beyond the beautiful freshwater Loch of Boardhouse itself, the wider Orkney landscape offers dramatic coastal features like spectacular cliffs, natural arches, and sea stacks, particularly along the western coast. You can also explore historical sites such as the Earl's Palace and the Brough of Birsay, which are part of routes like the Brough of Birsay and Earl's Palace loop.

There are over 15 hiking trails available around Loch of Boardhouse, offering a range of distances and difficulties. These include 12 easy routes and 4 moderate routes, ensuring options for different preferences.

The best time to visit for hiking is generally during the spring and summer months (April to September) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. However, the dramatic coastal scenery can be enjoyed year-round, with winter walks offering a different, often more rugged, experience.

Yes, several routes in the area are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Earl's Palace Birsay – View of the Brough of Birsay loop from Brough of Birsay, which is an easy 4.7 km (2.9 miles) walk.

Hikes in the Loch of Boardhouse area vary in length and duration. You can find shorter, easy walks like the View of the Brough of Birsay – Brough of Birsay Causeway loop at 2.2 km (1.4 miles) taking about 35 minutes, up to moderate trails like the Brough of Birsay and Earl's Palace loop, which is 11 km (6.9 miles) and takes nearly 3 hours.

Public transport options in rural Orkney can be limited. While there might be local bus services connecting to Birsay village, it's advisable to check current schedules and routes in advance if you plan to rely on public transport for accessing specific trailheads. Many visitors opt for personal vehicles.

Parking is generally available at popular starting points for trails, such as near the Brough of Birsay. Specific parking areas can be found for routes like those leading to Marwick Head or the Brough of Birsay walks. It's always good to check local signage for designated parking spots.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 30 reviews. Hikers often praise the stunning coastal views, the historical significance of sites like the Brough of Birsay and Earl's Palace, and the tranquil beauty of the loch and its surrounding natural environment.

While the immediate vicinity of Loch of Boardhouse is quite rural, the nearby village of Birsay offers some amenities. You may find local cafes or tearooms there, such as the Birsay Bay Tearoom, which can be a good stop before or after your hike.

The hikes around Loch of Boardhouse cater to various fitness levels. You'll find a good selection of easy trails, perfect for a leisurely stroll, as well as moderate routes that offer a bit more challenge, often involving longer distances or some elevation gain. There are no difficult-rated trails in this specific guide.