INDUSTRY & HISTORY

It would be fair to say that Flotta is perhaps an overlooked island by many visitors to Orkney, being a neighbour of the much larger island of Hoy.

However, the island is well worth a visit, and days can pass quickly exploring Flotta, with its wartime history, and spectacular panoramic views north over Scapa Flow, and south over the Pentland Firth.

Flotta can be reached by ferry from Houton, and from Lyness in Hoy. The island is small enough to be explored on foot or by cycle, or you if prefer to take a car, you can get round a lot quicker.

The island is dominated by the oil terminal, which was built in the 1970s, when North Sea oil was first taken ashore in Orkney — however, there is much more in Flotta to explore.

Flotta was a hive of activity in both World Wars, due to its location at the entrance of the vital naval anchorage of Scapa Flow.

The Flotta Trail takes in an array of wartime sites, including the Naval Cinema and the Port War Signal Station, as well as the moorland of West Hill and the dramatic scenery of Stanger Head.

Flotta is also a great place to walk. The horseshoe shape of the island contains a changing coastal landscape which is easy to explore. There is a museum at Lurdy, which is well worth a visit.

There is plenty of wildlife to see, and many areas where you can enjoy peace and quiet.

For further information about the island, visit the website: www.lurdy.wordpress.com