Wednesday, March 10, 2010

Visit Orkney For a Culture-Filled Getaway


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When it come to holidays, Scotland has it all covered - whether you're looking to soak up some culture, get out into the countryside or have an enjoyable family break. Orkney is one Scottish destination that has all of these bases covered while offering a whole lot more. This island county might seem remote, but its long, rich history means it has a variety of cultural attractions and sights that are well worth the trip.

In terms of Scottish holiday accommodation, you can rent large houses on the Mainland island that are conveniently close to the two biggest towns, Kirkwall and Stromness, as well as to sights such as Skara Brae, the Churchill Barriers, Maes Howe, Scapa Flow, the Italian Chapel and the ring of Brodgar.

Town life

Kirkwall and Stromness are both fascinating destinations in their own right while also serving as convenient bases from which to explore the rest of Orkney. The capital of Orkney, Kirkwall is also the largest town in the county and boasts a range of excellent attractions and activities.

St Magnus Cathedral is perhaps the most popular of these - this 12th century structure features red sandstone walls, unique stained glass work and the medieval grave markers of founder Earl Rognvald Kolson and his uncle, St Magnus. Elsewhere, the Bishop's Palace, the Orkney Museum, the Earl's Palace and the Orkney Wireless Museum offer other diversions for tourists.

Stromness is more picturesque than Kirkwall and, although smaller, has a wide array of things to see and do. An 18-hole golf course, Stromness Museum, the Pier Arts Centre and a number of historic sites are located in the town, while yearly events such as Stromness Shopping Week and the Orkney Folk Festival offer further reasons to come to this particular part of Scotland.

Out and about

There's a whole lot more to see and do in Orkney - why not go surfing, kayaking, sailing or fishing, or perhaps take in the scenery on a long hike or two?

Alternatively, you might want to see Orkney's abundance of flora and fauna, including whales, porpoises, dolphins, short-eared owls, seals and the famous - but rare - Scottish primrose.

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