Orkney Islands Area Guides

The heritage of these flat, green islands with red sandstone cliffs along their coasts dates back to the Vikings. Standing stones, prehistoric beaches, and shipwrecks are among the attractions on these islands — though there are also tamer but still beautiful sandy white beaches. Around 70 islands and skerries make up this archipelago set in clear blue water, but the majority of the population lives on the largest island (called Mainland) rather than the smaller isles. The summers are nearly ‘nightless’, and the climate is cool and steady. Orkney’s main economic sectors are renewable energy and agriculture, as well as tourism. The main airport in Orkney serves mainland Scotland, and there are inter-island ferry services connecting all of the inhabited islands. Orkney also has a good selection of homes and schools, with the cost of living remaining lower than the Scottish average, but quality of life remaining high.

Living in Orkney Islands

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