The beautiful island of Hoy stands out, literally, from its Orkney neighbours due to its rugged and dramatic sheer cliffs. The famous sea stack of the Old Man of Hoy is an impressive chimney of rock sitting alongside the cliffs, conquered only by the most accomplished climbers.
The northern part of the island has the best of this wonderful coastal character, with cliffs, high hills for walking and some fantastic beaches, such as at Rackwick Bay. Much of this area is a RSPB nature reserve, home to species such as Great Skua and Puffin.
The eastern side of Hoy is gentler and more populated, with its own attractions.
Overlooking the Scapa Flow, the main settlement of Lyness is home to a visitor centre and museum telling the fascinating story of the area in times of war. The Scapa Flow is a natural harbour between the islands, and as such has a long maritime and naval history. The wrecks of the German fleet still lie beneath, scuppered to prevent the ships falling into British hands, as well as the ill fated HMS Royal Oak, torpedoed by a U-boat in 1939.
Radiant Queen Charters 110 Victoria Street, Stromness, Orkney Mainland KW16 3BU
Dive to the shipwrecks of the Scapa Flow. Radiant Queen Charters information
Hackness Martello Tower and Battery Hackness, Hoy KW16 3PQ
Napoleonic-era defensive tower. Hackness Martello Tower and Battery information
Scapa Flow Visitor Centre and Museum Lyness, Hoy KW16 3NU
History of the naval anchorage, wrecks and battles. Scapa Flow Visitor Centre and Museum information
RSPB Hoy Hoy, Hoy
Fantastic scenery and seabirds. RSPB Hoy information
Take the island walks and perhap the boat across to the small islands of Flotta or South Walls
Towns Near Hoy To Visit - straight line distance:
South Ronaldsay Tourist Information (13.33 miles) Orkney Mainland Tourist Information (13.69 miles) John O''Groats Tourist Information (17.52 miles) Thurso Tourist Information (19.88 miles)