STB:
Sleeps: 5 to 7
(2 bedrooms)

KEY

Reaching Rousay is easy - just 20 minutes on one of the local car and passenger ferries from Tingwall on the Mainland of Orkney (there are 6 ferries a day).

The Queen of the Isles and The Egypt of the North are both descriptions used for Rousay, an island where more than anywhere else in Orkney, the past meets the present.

Rousay is a hilly island about 8km in diameter, with fertile land around the coastline, and moorland in the centre. The road runs right round the island, which lies across Eynhallow sound from the Mainland of Orkney.

The island has lots to discover for the visitor, and is a delight to bird watchers and archaeologists as well as those wanting to fish. There are 3 good trout lochs, the Muckle and Peerie Waters near Westness and Wabister Loch in the north west corner.

From the top of Kierfea (235m) and Blotchnie Fiold (250m) there are panoramic views of the islands and walks over the high moorland are likely to give sightings of Hen Harriers, Merlin, Peregrines and red-throated Divers. There is a large moorland RSPB reserve.

The island has been inhabited for over 5,000 years and there are many chambered cairns as well as brochs, Viking sites and medieval ruins to look at. In the 1930s the late Walter Grant of Highland Park and Trumland did a great deal to develop the prehistoric archaeology of Rousay. As a result there are several very well presented monuments to visit today.

Rousay Traveller Guide offers day tours in the comfort of a minibus around the island stopping at the main sites and there is an opportunity to walk along the Westness walk. There is a taxi service available too.

Alternatively, if you want to stay longer on the island, Rousay Traveller Guide offers self catering accommodation in this comfortable stone cottage originally built in 1877. It has recently been modernised and now sleeps up to 7 people.

Bellona Cottage offers an open plan lounge/dining area and kitchen. There is a triple bedroom (double and single bed) and a double bedroom, and a double futon bed in the lounge area. Shower and sauna. Electric heating.

Surrounded by water, the house reflects this with a nautical theme. There is a large garden with magnificent views of the other islands. Also, there are bikes available.

You could try local food while you are in Rousay at the Pier Restaurant.