The best hikes from bus stations around Loch of Stenness
4.4
(123)
674
hikers
6
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Loch of Stenness provide access to a unique brackish loch environment, central to the Heart of Neolithic Orkney World Heritage Site. The landscape features easily accessible lochside paths, ancient stone circles, and well-maintained grassy tracks, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Hikers can explore diverse flora and views across the water, with routes often incorporating short road sections. The area is characterized by its distinctive ecosystem, supporting varied wildlife and providing varied…
Last updated: July 12, 2026
4.6
(5)
63
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(11)
48
hikers
11.5km
03:00
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.5
(8)
16
hikers
7.48km
02:01
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
5.96km
01:39
110m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
22
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
„Orkney – this is an archipelago between the North Sea and the Atlantic, about 10 miles north of the Scottish mainland. Treeless pasture and farmland, green almost everywhere, crisscrossed by blue fjords, framed by sharp-edged cliffs and steep coasts. 29 of the 77 islands are inhabited. The first settlers came in the Neolithic period. They too were farmers. They left no written records, but tools, dwellings, ceremonial sites and graves in abundance, such as are not found elsewhere in Europe. The most famous Neolithic monument of Orkney is the Ring of Brodgar, a stone circle as old as the Egyptian pyramids.“ This is how it is stated on the ARD media library website for the TV series »Treasures of the World – Heritage of Humanity«. The film contribution matching the highlight (unfortunately only in German) can be found at the following link =>> https://www.ardmediathek.de/video/schaetze-der-welt/die-jungsteinzeitlichen-monumente-auf-den-orkney-inseln-gb-folge-247/3sat/Y3JpZDovL3N3ci5kZS82OTIwMDQ0
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Sheltered bench ideal for watching sunsets
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"Orkney is an archipelago between the North Sea and the Atlantic, about 10 miles north of the Scottish mainland. Treeless pastures and farmland, green almost everywhere, crisscrossed by blue fjords, framed by sharp-edged cliffs and steep coastlines. 29 of the 77 islands are inhabited. The first settlers arrived in the Neolithic period. They, too, were farmers. They left no written records, but they did leave behind tools, dwellings, ceremonial sites, and graves in abundance unmatched anywhere else in Europe. Orkney's most famous Neolithic monument is the Ring of Brodgar, a stone circle as old as the Egyptian pyramids." This is what it says on the ARD Mediathek website. The film contribution corresponding to the highlight (in German) can be found under the following link =>> https://www.ardmediathek.de/video/schaetze-der-welt/die-jungsteinzeitlichen-monumente-auf-den-orkney-inseln-gb-folge-247/3sat/Y3JpZDovL3N3ci5kZS82OTIwMDQ0
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John Rae was a Scottish Arctic explorer and physician.
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From Stromness to Scarborough on the mainland. It took about 2.5 hours. Boarding was uncomplicated. The staff were always friendly and helpful.
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Stromness is a picturesque place. I particularly liked the cobbled streets and the individual houses that extend from the harbor. The statue is small.
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Very interesting excavation from the Stone Age. Great visitor center. With a cafe. Vegetarian food, clean restrooms. Be sure to book in advance!
5
0
Great historic house, you feel transported back to the past centuries
5
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many bus station hiking trails are available around Loch of Stenness?
There are 6 bus-accessible hiking trails around Loch of Stenness, offering a range of easy to moderate experiences. These routes allow you to explore the region's unique landscapes and ancient sites conveniently.
What kind of terrain can I expect on bus-accessible hikes around Loch of Stenness?
The terrain around Loch of Stenness primarily features well-maintained grassy tracks, with occasional short sections on roads. You can expect relatively flat paths along the lochside, with some routes offering gentle elevation gains for panoramic views of the Neolithic Heart of Orkney.
Are there any easy, family-friendly bus station hikes in the area?
Yes, several easy routes are suitable for families. For instance, the Skara Brae Neolithic Village – Skaill House loop from Skaill House is a short, easy walk. Another option is the Barnhouse Neolithic Settlement – Standing Stones of Stenness loop from Maes Howe, which is also easy and takes you past significant historical sites.
What historical sites can I visit on bus-accessible hikes around Loch of Stenness?
Many bus-accessible routes lead to or pass by significant historical sites. You can explore the Standing Stones of Stenness, the Barnhouse Neolithic Settlement, and the Unstan Cairn. The Barnhouse Neolithic Settlement – Standing Stones of Stenness loop from Maes Howe is a great option for seeing multiple sites.
Are there any circular bus station hiking routes?
Yes, several routes are circular, allowing you to return to your starting point easily. The Barnhouse Neolithic Settlement – Standing Stones of Stenness loop from Maes Howe is a circular hike that takes you through ancient landscapes. Another circular option is the Dr John Rae Statue – Stromness Harbour and Old Town loop from Stromness.
What natural features or wildlife can I expect to see on these trails?
The Loch of Stenness is a brackish lagoon, supporting diverse wildlife. Hikers can often spot various wildfowl, and the Brig o' Waithe is particularly noted for otter and seal watching. The lochside paths offer tranquil views across the water, and in summer, wildflowers line many routes.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the bus station trails around Loch of Stenness?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.66 stars. Reviewers often praise the unique blend of ancient history and natural beauty, the accessibility of the trails from public transport, and the opportunities for wildlife spotting along the loch.
Are there any moderate difficulty bus station hikes for more experienced walkers?
Yes, for those seeking a bit more challenge, there are moderate routes available. The Stromness and The Holms to Warebeth hike offers a longer distance and some elevation gain. Another moderate option is the Dr John Rae Statue – Stromness Harbour and Old Town loop from Stromness.
What are some notable viewpoints accessible from bus station trails?
Many trails offer excellent viewpoints. Elevated vantage points from hills above Stenness provide panoramic views of the entire Neolithic Heart of Orkney, encompassing both the Loch of Stenness and the freshwater Loch of Harray, with the Hills of Hoy visible in the distance.
Is there a good time of year to hike the bus-accessible trails around Loch of Stenness?
The Loch of Stenness offers unique experiences year-round. Summer brings a profusion of wildflowers and longer daylight hours, while winter is an important time for spotting various wildfowl. Always check local weather conditions before heading out, as Orkney weather can be changeable.
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