The best walks and hikes around Stromness

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.

Embark on a moderate hike from Stromness, exploring its historic winding streets before transitioning to rugged coastal paths. This 7.2-mile (11.5 km) route offers continuous sea views, including the dramatic peaks of Hoy, as you gain 243 feet (74 metres) in elevation. Expect to spend around 3 hours immersed in the unique landscape, eventually reaching Warebeth Beach, known for its seaweed and seabirds.

When planning your visit, be aware that while many sections use well-surfaced paths, some coastal areas and the inland track from Warebeth can be wet underfoot. The path along the shore may also be rough and slippery, especially after rain. Always wear appropriate footwear to ensure a safe and comfortable experience on the trail.

This route provides a diverse experience, blending the charm of Stromness Harbour and Old Town with the wild beauty of the Orkney coastline. You will discover a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural scenery, making it a notable journey for those exploring the island. The trail offers a peaceful escape with ample opportunities to observe local marine life and birds.

Explore the ancient wonders of Orkney on the Ring of Brodgar and Maeshowe trail, a moderate hike covering 6.9 miles (11.1 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 126 feet (38 metres). You can expect to complete this route in about 2 hours and 50 minutes. As you walk, you will encounter the impressive Ring of Brodgar, a vast stone circle that stands majestically against the backdrop of Loch of Stenness and Loch of Harray, offering a truly immersive historical experience.

Before you go, be aware that accessing Maeshowe Chambered Cairn typically requires a ticket and shuttle service from the visitor center in Stenness village, so plan this part of your visit in advance. Parking is generally available near the main sites, but always check local signage upon arrival. The route follows mostly grassy tracks, which can become soft and muddy, especially after rain, so choose your footwear accordingly.

This trail takes you through the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its colossal standing stones and ancient burial chambers. It connects some of Europe's most significant prehistoric monuments, allowing you to step back in time and witness a landscape rich with thousands of years of human history. The area's unique heritage makes this route a standout experience in the region.