The best cycling routes around Flotta
4.1
(10)
86
riders
4
rides
Touring cycling around Flotta offers routes through an island landscape characterized by its strategic location within Scapa Flow. Cyclists can experience diverse coastal vistas, with views of Hoy, the Orkney Mainland, Burray, and South Ronaldsay. The terrain includes gentle undulations, with ascents and descents that provide varied cycling experiences. Coastal stretches feature smooth gravel tracks, and areas with spruce trees provide natural havens.
Best touring cycling routes around Flotta
- The most popular touring cycling route is EuroVelo 12 - North…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
4.3
(6)
56
riders
51.2km
03:07
460m
460m
Cycle the difficult 31.8-mile EuroVelo 12 segment in Orkney, gaining 1499 feet, passing the Churchill Barriers and Highland Park Distillery.
3.0
(1)
18
riders
68.7km
04:11
630m
630m
Cycle the difficult 42.7-mile North Sea Cycle Route: Orkney, gaining 2053 feet with dramatic coastal views and historical sites.
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4.0
(2)
2
riders
36.5km
02:27
370m
370m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
7
riders
49.5km
03:01
420m
420m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Flotta
Tips from the Community
Numerous otpions for a tour or just quick tasting in a well-maintained setting
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It is interesting to discover the traces of WW2 and the old buildings of the battery.
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Churchill had 4 dams built here and his own ships sunk so that the Germans would not get their hands on them
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A beautiful place with a goosebumps story
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In the often storm-tossed seas of the Atlantic lies the Scapa Flow off the Orkney Islands, which belong to Scotland. A very special stretch of water measuring more than 300 square kilometers, a kind of natural harbor off the two main islands of the Orkneys. But what makes it so unique is underwater. A ship graveyard that is probably one of the most spectacular diving spots in Europe, if not the world. The story of its creation tells of a forgotten chapter of the First World War. According to the town's official website, the name Scapa Flow comes from the Norse word Skalpaflói, which means “The Bay of the Long Isthmus”. Accordingly, the place was first used by the British Admiralty around 1800 as a strategic natural harbor in the Napoleonic Wars. At a depth of up to 40 meters, merchant ships were allowed to anchor here before they set off for the Baltic North Sea ports. But Scapa Flow would not finally take its place in the history books until 1919. During the First World War, the British fleet moved its base to the difficult-to-access Scapa Flow. Old defenses on land were also put back into operation at this time. After Germany had to admit its defeat in the war in 1918, the ships of the German Navy with their crew on board were held there as prisoners of war. And so on June 21, 1919, one of the greatest ship accidents in world history occurred. The word “misfortune” is misleading, because it was actually an ordered tragedy. The commander of the German navy in the Scapa Flow, Admiral Ludwig von Reuter, believed at this point that the peace negotiations with the victorious powers had failed. In order to prevent “his” ships from finally falling into the hands of the enemy, he had them sunk without further ado on his orders. That day, 52 German warships found their watery grave in the waters of Scapa Flow. To date, this is the largest sinking ever recorded.
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This is a beautiful spot overlooking Widewall Bay toward Hoxa Head. There are the remains of an anti-aircraft battery to explore, as well as Herston Head, which involves a 10-minute push or walk around the western edge of this headland, where you can enjoy excellent views toward Hoy.
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Here you can enjoy great views over the well-known Churchill Barriers. The barriers were built in 1945 and act as a causeway connecting the Orkney mainland with the isles of Lamb Holm, Glimps Holm, Burray and South Ronaldsay.
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Burwick Pier is located on the southernmost tip of South Ronaldsay island. It's the Orkney landing point for passengers and cyclists on the John O'Groats Ferry. Ferries run daily, and you can find the times on the site... jogferry.co.uk/Ferry.aspx
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of cycling routes can I find in Flotta?
Flotta offers a diverse range of touring cycling routes, from easy loops to more challenging paths. You can find routes that traverse coastal areas, provide expansive views across Scapa Flow, and feature gentle island undulations. For example, the St Margaret's Hope Bay – Sands of Wright Beach loop from St Margaret's Hope is an easy option, while the EuroVelo 12 - North Sea Cycle Route presents a more difficult challenge.
Are there any historical sites or landmarks to see while cycling in Flotta?
Yes, Flotta is rich in history, particularly from its role in both World Wars. Cyclists can explore remains of a Second World War cinema and the imposing Port War Signal Station at Stanger Head. You can also visit highlights like the Balfour Coast Battery and a Shipwreck in Weddell Sound. The island's industrial heritage is also visible, with the Flotta Oil Terminal and the disused airstrip offering unique points of interest.
What are the typical durations for touring cycling routes in Flotta?
The duration of touring cycling routes in Flotta varies significantly depending on the route's length and difficulty. Shorter, easier loops like the St Margaret's Hope Bay – Sands of Wright Beach loop from St Margaret's Hope can be completed in about 35 minutes. Longer, more challenging routes such as North Sea Cycle Route: Orkney can take over 4 hours to complete.
What are the best viewpoints or natural features to look out for?
Flotta offers expansive views of the surrounding Orkney islands, including Hoy, the Orkney Mainland, Burray, and South Ronaldsay. Coastal areas like Scat Wick provide picturesque stretches, and you can enjoy views across to the bay of Longhope. The Olad Summit is a notable viewpoint. Keep an eye out for the spruce trees and numerous white rabbits, which add to the island's unique natural charm.
Is Flotta suitable for family-friendly cycling?
Yes, Flotta has options suitable for families. The island's terrain includes gentle undulations, and there are easier loops available. The 14.6km 'Flotta Heritage Cycle' is designed to be accessible and allows for an immersive experience of the island's natural and historical features, making it a good choice for a family outing.
Are there any circular cycling routes in Flotta?
Yes, Flotta offers circular cycling routes that allow you to explore the island without retracing your steps. An example is the St Margaret's Hope Bay – Sands of Wright Beach loop from St Margaret's Hope, which is an easy coastal path.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Flotta?
While specific recommendations for Flotta are not detailed, generally, the warmer, drier months from late spring to early autumn (May to September) are ideal for cycling in Orkney. This period typically offers more favorable weather conditions and longer daylight hours for exploring the island's routes and attractions.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Flotta?
The touring cycling routes in Flotta are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 stars from over 10 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse coastal vistas, the unique blend of natural beauty with significant wartime and industrial heritage, and the immersive experience of the island's terrain.
Can I bring my dog on the cycling routes in Flotta?
While there are no specific restrictions mentioned for dogs on Flotta's cycling routes, it's always advisable to keep dogs on a lead, especially in areas with livestock or wildlife, such as the numerous white rabbits found on the island. Please ensure you clean up after your pet to maintain the island's natural environment.
Are there any facilities like cafes or pubs on Flotta?
Flotta is a small island, and while the ferry waiting room offers displays on the island's social history, specific cafes or pubs directly along the cycling routes are limited. It's recommended to carry your own refreshments, especially for longer rides. For more extensive facilities, you would typically need to visit the larger Orkney Mainland.
How can I get to Flotta with my bike, and is there parking available?
Access to Flotta is primarily via ferry. You can bring your bike on the ferry to the island. Once on Flotta, parking for vehicles is generally available at the ferry terminal. Given the island's size, cycling is the primary mode of transport for exploration, and routes are easily accessible from the ferry landing.
Are there any routes that combine historical sites with scenic views?
Absolutely. The Hoxa Head Battery, Herston Taing & Olad's Summit route is an excellent example. It's a moderate path that includes significant historical sites like Hoxa Head Battery, offering varied coastal scenery and leading to the Olad Summit for panoramic views.
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