City Guide for: Rousay, Scotland

Rousay, Scotland Guide

Welcome to Rousay, "The Egypt of the North"! This small, tranquil island, part of the Orkney archipelago, offers a unique blend of stunning natural beauty and a rich, fascinating history. Forget bustling cityscapes; Rousay is about embracing peace, quiet, and a deep connection to the past. Imagine windswept coastlines, dramatic cliffs teeming with seabirds, and rolling green hills dotted with ancient monuments. Rousay is a haven for history buffs and nature lovers alike. Explore Neolithic chambered cairns, Iron Age brochs, and Viking settlements, all within easy reach. Hike along the coastal paths, breathe in the fresh sea air, and discover the island's diverse wildlife. Rousay offers an escape from the everyday, a chance to reconnect with nature and delve into a captivating past.

Food & Cuisine

Rousay offers a taste of authentic Orcadian cuisine, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Expect to find delicious seafood, including freshly caught fish and shellfish. Lamb and beef are also staples, often prepared in traditional ways. While Rousay doesn't have a plethora of restaurants, the Rousay Community Shop offers a selection of local produce and prepared meals. The island's guesthouses and B&Bs often provide evening meals, showcasing the best of Orcadian cooking. For a wider range of dining options, consider taking the ferry back to the Orkney Mainland, where you'll find a variety of restaurants and cafes.

Nightlife

Rousay is not known for its vibrant nightlife. The island offers a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere, ideal for relaxation and stargazing. The Rousay Community Shop sometimes hosts events, and the local guesthouses may offer evening entertainment. For a more lively nightlife scene, you would need to travel to Kirkwall on the Orkney Mainland.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Rousay is during the spring and summer months (May to September). The weather is generally milder, with longer daylight hours, making it ideal for exploring the island's historical sites and enjoying outdoor activities. The seabird colonies are also at their most active during this period. Be prepared for changeable weather, even in summer, and pack accordingly.

Transportation

Rousay is a small island, and the primary mode of transport is by car. You can bring your own car on the ferry from Tingwall on the Orkney Mainland. A local bus service operates on the island, connecting the ferry terminal with various points of interest. However, services are limited, so checking the timetable in advance is essential. Cycling is also a popular way to explore the island, allowing you to enjoy the scenery at your own pace. Walking is ideal for exploring specific sites and coastal paths.

Airport

The nearest airport to Rousay is Kirkwall Airport (KOI) on the Orkney Mainland, approximately 15 miles from Tingwall, where the ferry to Rousay departs. From Kirkwall Airport, you can take a taxi or bus to Tingwall. The ferry journey to Rousay takes around 25 minutes.

Attractions

Midhowe Broch

Midhowe Broch Adjacent to the Midhowe Cairn, discover the impressive remains of Midhowe Broch, an Iron Age defensive tower. Wander through the ruins, imagining the bustling community that once inhabited this fortified structure. Explore the chambers and passageways, and learn about the broch's strategic importance. A fascinating insight into Iron Age life in Scotland.

Blackhammer Cairn

Blackhammer Cairn Uncover the mysteries of Blackhammer Cairn, another remarkable Neolithic chambered tomb on Rousay. Explore the well-preserved remains of this ancient burial site, and contemplate the rituals and beliefs of the people who constructed it. The cairn offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, adding to its allure. A must-see for history enthusiasts.

Saviskaill Bay

Saviskaill Bay Discover the serene beauty of Saviskaill Bay, a picturesque sandy beach on the north coast of Rousay. Enjoy a relaxing stroll along the shore, breathe in the fresh sea air, and admire the stunning coastal views. The bay is a haven for wildlife, so keep an eye out for seabirds and seals. A perfect spot for a peaceful escape.

Rousay Heritage Centre

Rousay Heritage Centre Delve into the captivating history and culture of Rousay at the Rousay Heritage Centre. Discover fascinating exhibits showcasing the island's archaeological treasures, traditional crafts, and unique way of life. Learn about the island's past, from its Neolithic roots to its modern-day community. A great place to start your Rousay adventure.

Taversoe Loch

Taversoe Loch Escape to the tranquility of Taversoe Loch, a picturesque freshwater loch nestled in the heart of Rousay. Enjoy a peaceful walk along its shores, spot local wildlife, or try your hand at fishing. The loch offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and is a haven for nature lovers. A perfect spot for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Midhowe Cairn

Midhowe Cairn Step back in time at Midhowe Cairn, a monumental chambered tomb dating back over 5000 years. Explore the massive structure, marvel at the intricate stonework, and imagine the lives of the Neolithic people who built it. A truly awe-inspiring glimpse into Scotland's ancient past, offering a tangible connection to a bygone era. Don't miss this incredible historical site!

Westness Heritage Walk

Westness Heritage Walk Embark on the Westness Heritage Walk, a scenic trail that takes you through some of Rousay's most important historical sites. Discover ancient cairns, Iron Age brochs, and stunning coastal scenery. The walk offers a unique opportunity to explore the island's rich heritage while enjoying its natural beauty. A must-do for history buffs and nature enthusiasts alike.

Knowe of Yarso Chambered Cairn

Knowe of Yarso Chambered Cairn Venture to the Knowe of Yarso, a fascinating chambered cairn offering panoramic views of Rousay. Explore the well-preserved remains of this Neolithic tomb, and learn about its significance in the island's rich history. The elevated location provides breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscape, making it a truly memorable experience.

Day Trips

Brough of Birsay

The Brough of Birsay is a tidal island with Pictish and Norse settlements. At low tide, you can walk across the causeway to explore the ruins of a Norse church, a Pictish symbol stone, and the remains of Viking-era houses. The island offers stunning coastal views and a glimpse into Orkney's early history. Be sure to check the tide times before you go!

Travel Time

Approximately 2-2.5 hours (ferry from Rousay to Tingwall, then drive to Birsay)

Activities
  • Explore the ruins on the Brough of Birsay
  • Walk across the causeway (at low tide)
  • Enjoy coastal views
  • Learn about Pictish and Norse history

Maeshowe & Ring of Brodgar

Witness the grandeur of Orkney's Neolithic monuments. Maeshowe is a chambered cairn, a masterpiece of prehistoric engineering, aligned with the winter solstice. The Ring of Brodgar, a magnificent stone circle, stands nearby, evoking a sense of mystery and ancient ritual. These sites offer a powerful connection to Orkney's distant past.

Travel Time

Approximately 1.5-2 hours (ferry from Rousay to Tingwall, then drive to Maeshowe/Ring of Brodgar)

Activities
  • Visit Maeshowe chambered cairn
  • Explore the Ring of Brodgar stone circle
  • Learn about Neolithic Orkney
  • Enjoy the surrounding landscape

Kirkwall

Kirkwall, the capital of Orkney, is a vibrant town steeped in history. Explore the magnificent St. Magnus Cathedral, a stunning example of Norse architecture. Wander through the charming streets, browse local shops, and delve into Orkney's past at the Orkney Museum. Don't miss the Earl's and Bishop's Palaces, offering a glimpse into the lives of Orkney's rulers. Kirkwall provides a perfect blend of historical intrigue and modern amenities.

Travel Time

Approximately 1-1.5 hours (ferry from Rousay to Tingwall, then drive to Kirkwall)

Activities
  • Visit St. Magnus Cathedral
  • Explore the Earl's and Bishop's Palaces
  • Browse local shops and cafes
  • Visit the Orkney Museum
  • Walk along the Kirkwall Harbour

Stromness

Stromness, a picturesque harbor town on the west coast of Orkney, boasts a rich maritime history. Its narrow, winding streets are lined with charming stone buildings, many dating back centuries. Explore the Stromness Museum, which showcases the town's seafaring past and natural history. Enjoy stunning coastal views and perhaps spot some local wildlife. Stromness offers a tranquil escape with a strong sense of place.

Travel Time

Approximately 1.5-2 hours (ferry from Rousay to Tingwall, then drive to Stromness)

Activities
  • Visit the Stromness Museum
  • Walk along the harbor front
  • Explore the narrow streets and shops
  • Enjoy coastal walks and views
  • Visit the Pier Arts Centre

Skara Brae & Skaill House

Step back in time at Skara Brae, a remarkably well-preserved Neolithic village dating back over 5,000 years. Explore the ancient houses and imagine life in prehistoric Orkney. Adjacent to Skara Brae is Skaill House, a historic mansion with a fascinating collection of artifacts and stories. This combination offers a unique insight into Orkney's rich archaeological heritage.

Travel Time

Approximately 1.5-2 hours (ferry from Rousay to Tingwall, then drive to Skara Brae)

Activities
  • Explore Skara Brae Neolithic Village
  • Visit Skaill House
  • Walk along Skaill Bay
  • Learn about Orkney's prehistory