South Ronaldsay

Overview

South Ronaldsay is the nearest Orkney Island to Scotland, being just six and a half miles across the Pentland Firth from John O'Groats.

The main town on South Ronaldsay is St. Margaret's Hope, where the visitor will find necessary facilities. The various habitats on South Ronaldsay - such as heathland, beaches, lochs, cliffs and rocks - give rise to a wide variety of birds. Common and Grey Seals can also often be seen as you walk along the coast. The more elusive otter can be seen occasionally at dusk or dawn off the 4 barriers - footprints in the sand giving a clue as to their locations.

Scapa Flow is arguably one of the best diving locations in Europe with the remnants of the scuttled German fleet to explore as well as the sunken 'blockships'. The clean pollution free water allows for clear vision under water enabling divers good views of the wrecks as well as varied marine life. Visitors can also enjoy fishing off the barriers and local boats are available for hire.