Shapinsay loop — Orkney Islands

Hiking trails & Routes

Shapinsay loop — Orkney Islands

Moderate

5.0

(1)

hikers

Shapinsay loop — Orkney Islands

03:18

12.4km

120m

Hiking

Embark on the Shapinsay loop, a moderate hiking experience that takes you around the low-lying, fertile island of Shapinsay in the Orkney Islands. This route covers 7.7 miles (12.4 km) with an elevation gain of 396 feet (121 metres), typically taking about 3 hours and 17 minutes to complete. You…

Last updated: April 23, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Ferry Terminal

Get Directions

221 m

View of Dishan Tower (The Douche)

Highlight • Monument

The Dishan Tower, known locally as The Douche was built as a salt-water shower with a dovecote on top.

Tip by

2.03 km

Mill Dam Bird Hide

Highlight • Rest Area

Mill Dam RSPB reserve has a bird hide with a fantastic panoramic view of the wetland, home to many different bird species throughout the year, including Curlew, Redshank, Shoveler and Wigeon.

Tip by

3.93 km

Vasa Point

Highlight • Viewpoint

Vasa Point offers you views across the Firth to the mainland. To the North is the Bay of Furrowend and Little Vasa Water, to the South Vasa Loch both of …

Tip by

11.2 km

View of Elwick Bay from Shapinsay War Memorial

Highlight • Monument

The village war memorial provides a good spot to take a rest and admire the views, especially if you're heading West towards Elwick. The round ornaments by the memorial are a common feature in Shapinsay.

Tip by

12.4 km

End point

Ferry Terminal

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

11.2 km

819 m

338 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

6.72 km