The Orkney Islander

FIND THE PERFECT BASE FOR ALL YOUR ORKNEY ADVENTURES

- Photograph­s: K4 Graphics and Sandra Rushbrook.

POINT OF NESS

The Point of Ness Campsite is situated on the scenic shoreline overlookin­g the town of Stromness, with dramatic views of the hills of Hoy. Explore the quaint alleyways and absorb the atmosphere in this 18th century settlement, which boasts an array of shops and cafés, as well as the Stromness Museum and the acclaimed Pier Arts Centre.

This three-star campsite provides an idyllic and peaceful location, just a few minutes’ walk from the town centre and ferry terminal. Suitable for touring caravans, motorhomes and tents, with level hardstandi­ng and grass pitches with electric hook-up available. The utility block was upgraded in 2022, and offers modern toilet and showering facilities with comfortabl­e individual and family cubicles, laundry room and communal lounge with Wi-fi.

BIRSAY

The Birsay Hostel and Campsite are set in the rural northwest corner of Orkney’s Mainland, just outside the village of Birsay. Nearby is spectacula­r coastline, with quiet beaches and several of Orkney’s famous neolithic sites, the dramatic cliffs of Marwick Head, RSPB reserves and the tidal island of the Brough of Birsay.

The three-star campsite offers 28 pitches, and 13 electric hook-up pitches. Tents, caravans and motorhomes can all be accommodat­ed on the firm, grassy, level site. There are toilet and shower blocks on site for campers, along with washing facilities and a drying green.

The hostel offers visitors comfortabl­e, three-star accommodat­ion which comprises five bedrooms sleeping 26 people. The hostel welcomes singles, groups and families, with exclusive room or whole hostel bookings available. All bed linen is provided. There is a well-equipped kitchen, dining area, and washing facilities with drying green available for guest use.

Winter bookings can be made by arrangemen­t for groups.

HOY CENTRE

Open all year round, the Hoy Centre offers excellent four-star hostel accommodat­ion at the north end of the island of Hoy.

Nestled in the spectacula­r scenery of hills and dramatic coastline, the centre is available to singles, families and groups, with bed linen provided. The centre is convenient­ly situated for those arriving from the Moaness foot passenger ferry, and those wishing to use the popular walking route to Rackwick. The centre is fully accessible, with ample free parking. Each room is en suite with four beds, and guests have access to a multi-use hall, with seating for up to 60 people, and a well-equipped kitchen and common room with a TV and Wi-fi.

RACKWICK

The Rackwick Hostel is the perfect location for a remote and peaceful stay in the beautifull­y scenic Rackwick valley in the north of Hoy, much of which is owned by the RSPB. A large variety of birds live and breed here, and it is a great place to see puffins.

Popular with walkers and cyclists, the hostel offers accommodat­ion for up to eight people within two rooms. All bedding is provided, and there is a small kitchen and eating area. With no TV or Wi-fi, you can truly surrender to the beauty of the surroundin­g view and wildlife.

Any of Orkney Islands Council’s campsites and hostels can be booked online: www.orkney.gov.uk Alternativ­ely, you can contact: stromnessc­s@orkney.gov.uk or by telephone on: 01856 873535 during office hours.

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