Orkney

Very dark, cold, wet, windy and isolated in the winter. A lot of tourism in the summer, this being an ever increasing thing. Housing costs on the increase. Things cost more, as it's remote. A small community so a lot less privacy than elsewhere. Nice to visit in the summer, but can be a challenge to live here.

From Galway (Ireland) to Galloway (Scotland) to Orkney islands and on to Oslo (Scandinavia) Who's better now. Italian or Slavic/Kevin roooossee. Dem flag match by colour and mentality stamina. Might have to watch " forged in fire" again. I'm Danish

The Orkney Islands I was introduced to by Pauline were amazing. We didn't have good weather but Pauline's enthusiasm and stories kept us entertained and informed. She is the very best guide in Scotland.

Almost the most northern part of uk!! If not for the wind, one can easily cycle around the island as it is relatively flat, with hardly any trees due to the wind! The island is inhibited by many seabirds, including the cute puffins which live in certain part! To me, it is their colourful beaks that attract my attention. They are tiny birds of maybe 6 inches in my estimate. The island is well own for the Neolithic archeological finds! I am glad I made the last minute swap from the hot Madrid 37 degrees to the winter like Orkney Islands of 13 degrees end of June 2023! Another interesting discovery are the sheep in North Ronaldsay, north of Orkney that feed entirely on seaweed!! I am glad to be able to buy some of the hats, scarfs and gloves made from this special wool on my last day!

Quark Expeditions includes in its "Arctic Saga: Exploring Spitsbergen via the Faroes & Jan Mayen" a visit to the Orkney Islands not long after embarking from Aberdeen, Scotland. As it was late April 2024, we knew to look for diverse wildlife, most notably birds, including puffins and other breeding seabirds, including Guillemots, Razorbills, Fulmars, Kittiwakes and Gannets. We were not disappointed.

Have you read the story about Neolithic excavations on the Orkney Islands in the Smithsonian Magazine, January/February 2025? If you're visiting this location after reading it, like this post, and let me know in the comments what connections or inspirations brought you here!

ts place was great i eliminated the washington twins and i took the constant on a boat lol

Great landscape, rich history, welcoming people and nice 🥃