Stromness
Friday, midday
Check into the Stromness Hotel ( doubles from £ 115, www. stromnesshotel. com), an old dame that may be on the faded side of grandeur, but the heritage – it dates to 1901 – and the great location appeal.
1pm
Tuck into Orkney crab and prawn sandwiches at Julia’s Café Bistro ( http:// juliascafe. co. uk), with Orkney Cream lacing homebaked cakes too.
2pm
The Stromness Museum delves into the history of the most picturesque town on Orkney and you can also learn about the rich naval heritage of the massive natural harbour of Scapa Flow too.
4pm
The Pier Arts Centre is awash with the work of Orcadian architects and also features an array of ever- changing exhibitions. The waterfront setting and architecture help make it a work of art in itself.
7pm
The Ferry Inn ( www. ferryinn. com) is a great place to sample local Orkney produce. Their surf and turf comes with a chunky hunk of Orkney Gold beef, a lobster tail and a wedge of hot smoked salmon.
Saturday, 10am
Head north to the incomparable Neolithic village of Skara Brae, a site older than the Egyptian pyramids. Don’t miss adjacent Skaill House, which is included with your entry ticket – one of its highlights is a dinner service used by Captain Cook.
Midday
The café at the Skara Brae visitor centre is excellent, with Orkney Cheddar starring alongside superb homebaking.
2pm
Most people scoot off after visiting the historical sites. Linger a while on the cotton wool white sand beach and take in the setting.
7pm
Local seafood is the highlight at Hamnavoe ( tel: 01856 850606). It is family run and the owners really know their seafood.
Sunday, 9am
Sunday is a quiet day in Stromness so ease along the main street appreciating its sweep of attractive stone buildings, being mindful of the fact the road is also the pavement. ■
Northlink Ferries ( www.northlinkferries.co.uk) connect Aberdeen, Scrabster and Shetland with Orkney. Holiday Autos ( www. holidayautos. com) can arrange car hire. For more information, see www. visitscotland. com