Hidden Gem Walk

The Hidden Gem Walk follows a path along the coast of Scapa Flow, before turning inland through farmland and includes a visit to a small pocket of woodland, something that we consider to be a “Hidden Gem”.

Spring – This is the time when we listen for the sounds of nature waking up  – Skylarks singing, Curlews bubbling and Eiders oohing. As we walk we will look for Brown Hares boxing in the fields, and the yellow Spring flowers starting to bloom.

Summer – All of our breeding birds will be back so there is the chance to see lots of different species in a short space of time – Oystercatchers, Redshanks, Meadow Pipits, Swallows, Black Guillemots and maybe a raptor if we are lucky. There will be colour aplenty from the wildflowers along the coastal path and the verges, which will host a wonderful variety of insects (butterflies, moths, caterpillars, bees, etc).

Autumn – With autumn, we will be on the look out for winter thrushes (Redwings, Fieldfares, etc) feeding on the berries and geese migrating overhead. There could be some late colour from the flowers, and the opportunity to forage Brambles. If we are very lucky, we might see some autumn colour in the woodland before the wind blows the leaves off.

Winter – In the winter, we look forward to the arrival of the birds who overwinter here, making the journey from the far North. These include Great Northern Divers, Long-tailed ducks (my favourite), Goldeneyes and Turnstones. We may also be lucky and spot seals in Scapa Flow – both Harbour and Grey can be seen on this walk.

This is an easy walk on paths and quiet roads, approx. 2-3 miles in length.

“We spent a delightful fall afternoon with her, rambling along cliff paths and country trails, and through a magical sycamore grove”

“An excellent insight into the nature of Orkney”

It is possible to use the local bus service for this walk. Please mention this at the time of booking for more information.