Evie

Overshadowed by the great wind turbine on Burgar Hill, the village of Evie is found at the northern end of mainland Orkney and looks out across Eynhallow Sound towards the island of Rousay. Its main attraction is the spectacular Broch of Gurness. This is the best-preserved broch on an archipelago replete with them, and one that is still surrounded by a remarkable complex of later buildings. The sea has encroached on the site, but the broch itself, dating from around 100 BC, still stands, its walls reaching a height of 12 ft in places, its inner cells still intact. The compact group of homes clustered around the broch have also survived amazingly well, with much of their original and ingenious stone shelving and fireplaces still in place. The best view of the site is from the east, where you can clearly make out the 'main street' leading towards the broch.

Next to the broch is the beautiful Sands of Eavie, a long white sand beach with wild orchids. South-west of Evie is the RSPB Birsay Moors Reserve, home to nesting merlins, hen harriers and red-throated divers.

Visitors will find a wide range of self-catering accommodation, lodges and B&Bs available.  Visit a local Visitor Information Centre for more details including places to eat and transport options.