Flotta: A Hidden Gem

Flotta: A Hidden Gem offers the chance to explore a less visited island, where we can escape the crowds and get off the beaten track. It is one of our favourite islands, each time we visit, there is something different to see.

Our island adventure starts with the ferry crossing from Houton, where we will be out on deck keeping an eye out for seabirds and cetaceans.

There are 2 different walks that we do depending on the time of year and to avoid causing disturbance to breeding birds:

Westside Walk – April, May, September & October – approx 6 mile circular walk on rough tracks/roads through heather moorland and farmland. We will have a quick visit to the woodland behind the naval cinema, before setting off along the Westside of the island. We will look out for breeding waders such as Curlews and Snipe, Skylarks, Stonechats, birds of prey and Skuas. Our walk is at a gentle pace so we have time to look for wildlife and admire the views across to Hoy. There is a chance of seeing Harbour Porpoises on this walk, especially in September/October and Penguins are guaranteed all year round! There is also the option to visit the Flotta Heritage Centre, if time permits.

Stanger Head Walk – May, June, July & August – approx 8 miles on roads, rough tracks and a coastal path, taking us through farmland, heath and cliffs. The walk along the coast up to Stanger Head offers good views of seabirds – Razorbills, Guillemots, Black Guillemots, Shags and maybe Puffins. This area has a fantastic variety of wildflowers with views across to Hoy and the Scottish mainland on a clear day. Stanger Head has various wartime buildings, but it is also a fabulous area for seeing some amazing insects including Orkney’s only population of Six-spot burnet moths. We will look out for damselflies in the pools, and various species of butterfly, moth and caterpillar. If time permits, we will visit the Flotta Heritage Centre/Naval Cinema before getting the ferry home.

“Who knew the island of Flotta had so much to offer?!” 

“Wonderful day on Flotta” 

“Wildlife Adventure on Flotta” 

Monday to Friday – meet at Houton 07.40am and return to Houton at 5.15pm

NB The price includes the ferry fare and the walk must be booked at least 48 hours in advance.