The best walks and hikes around Loch of Tankerness

Yes, there are over 50 marked hiking routes in the area. These range from easy, short walks suitable for all abilities to more moderate coastal hikes, offering plenty of options for a day of exploration.

The trails around Loch of Tankerness are well-regarded by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the stunning coastal scenery, the rich birdlife, and the mix of landscapes, from the freshwater loch to dramatic sea cliffs.

Absolutely. The area's generally flat terrain makes it great for families. For an easy and rewarding walk, consider the View of Bay of Carness loop from Kirkwall. It's a short, gentle route with lovely bay views that is manageable for little legs.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trails, but it's important to keep them under control, especially near farmland with livestock and on coastal paths with cliff edges. The area is a haven for ground-nesting birds, so please be mindful during nesting season.

The Loch of Tankerness is a paradise for birdwatchers. You can expect to see a variety of wintering wildfowl like whooper swans and greylag geese. The coastal areas are home to fulmars and wading birds. Keep an eye out for otters near the water and wildflowers along the paths.

Yes, there are several excellent circular routes. A great option that combines a nature trail with coastal scenery is the Wideford Burn Nature Trail – Inganess Beach Shipwreck loop from Kirkwall. This moderate loop offers a fantastic variety of sights over its 5.8-mile (9.3 km) distance.

The area is rich in history. You can find the remains of an Iron Age broch on the loch's shore and the impressive Mine Howe subterranean chamber nearby. For a walk that includes a historical point of interest, the Covenanters' Memorial loop from Deerness is a short, easy hike that takes you to a significant monument.

For dramatic cliffs and sea stacks, the Mull Head Coastal Cliffs – The Gloup Sea Cave loop from Deerness is a must. This moderate hike follows the stunning coastline and is a local favourite for its breathtaking views.

While there isn't a single, continuous path that circumnavigates the entire loch, the area is crisscrossed with public rights of way and paths that lead along sections of the shore and connect to the wider trail network. The Loch of Ayre walkway is a lovely nearby option with a boardwalk.

Parking availability depends on your chosen trailhead. Many routes starting from Kirkwall have town parking options. For coastal walks like the Yesnaby Coastal Walk or trails at Rerwick Head, you will typically find small, dedicated car parks or lay-bys near the start of the path.

The landscape is generally low and gently rolling, which makes for pleasant walking. You'll encounter a mix of grassy tracks, coastal paths that can be uneven, and some boardwalks through wetland areas. The variety is a key feature of hiking here.

Yes, there are plenty of easy options. The Orkney Theatre – View of Kirkwall and the Bay loop from Kirkwall is a great choice. At just 2.6 miles (4.2 km), it can be completed in about an hour and offers rewarding views of the town and bay.