Hoy Island

Travel Guide

Old Man of Hoy showing rugged coastline
Ward Hill featuring mountains and a coastal town
St. John\'s Head featuring rugged coastline
Old Man of Hoy which includes rugged coastline
St. John\'s Head showing rocky coastline

A prime hiking and bird-watching destination, Orkney’s second-largest island is home to some of the archipelago’s most spectacular scenery.

Hoy Island takes its name from the Norse word for “high island,” a reference to its red sandstone cliffs, which can reach heights of over 1,000 feet (300 meters). Its northern and western reaches are home to mountainous moorlands and glacial valleys, and contrast with the lowland landscape that characterizes Orkney’s other islands. Hike along rugged sea cliffs, survey the island’s large population of seabirds and visit intriguing prehistoric sites.

No visit to Hoy would be complete without a trip to see its most well-known landmark, the Old Man of HoyOpens in a new window. This 450-foot (137-meter) high rock stack is one of the tallest in Britain. Hike along the scenic 3-mile (4.8-kilometer) path leading to the stack, which offers gorgeous views of Rackwick Bay and the chance to spot a variety of seabirds.

Continue along the trail from the Old Man of Hoy to St. John's HeadOpens in a new window, a vertical sea cliff that is among Britain’s highest. The cliff is best viewed in early evening, when the setting sun highlights its beautiful red and yellow colors.

Orkney’s highest summit, Ward HillOpens in a new window, offers yet another rewarding hike. From the hill peak, enjoy views over virtually the entire Orkney archipelago. Look for Dwarfie Stane near the beginning of the hill ascent. This compelling rock-cut tomb dates back over 5,000 years.

Travel to Lyness, which is located on the eastern side of Hoy, to explore the Scapa Flow Visitor Centre. Orkney was an important naval base for the British Grand Fleet during both world wars, and the center provides fascinating insight into the island’s military history. The center is set in an old pump house that once supplied oil to tankers moored off Lyness. Inspect war-time photos, the pump house’s well-preserved equipment, and read poignant letters sent home by seaman.

Hoy Island is connected by passenger/bike ferry to StromnessOpens in a new window. A car ferry runs to Lyness from Houton on mainland Orkney. Buses from the ferry docks transport visitors to the island’s main settlements. Discover the striking natural scenery of one of Orkney’s most unique islands.

The Ayre Hotel

The Ayre Hotel

3 out of 5
Ayre Road, Kirkwall, Scotland
The price is RM359 per night from 1 Nov to 2 Nov
RM359
RM431 total
1 Nov - 2 Nov
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star hotel in Kirkwall. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (212 reviews)
"Great service for late check in from the ferry. Really helpful staff. Good room and amenities. Handy to everything"

Reviewed on 10 Oct 2025

The Ayre Hotel
Pentland

Pentland

3 out of 5
Princes Street, Thurso, Scotland
The price is RM395 per night from 1 Nov to 2 Nov
RM395
RM474 total
1 Nov - 2 Nov
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Thurso. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and 24-hour room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our ...
7.8/10 Good! (357 reviews)
"Quick check-in, spotless, comfortable, quiet room. Excellent freshly cooked breakfast with local ingredients. Hotel is handy for shops, bars, eateries, etc. Less than 5 minutes walk to main bus stop to/from Inverness & 5 minutes walk to train station. My go to accomodation in Thurso."

Reviewed on 7 Oct 2025

Pentland
Albert Hotel

Albert Hotel

3 out of 5
Mounthoolie Lane, Kirkwall, Scotland
The price is RM571 per night from 1 Nov to 2 Nov
RM571
RM685 total
1 Nov - 2 Nov
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star hotel in Kirkwall. Enjoy free WiFi, 2 bars/lounges, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (263 reviews)
"Great hotel with good food and pub full of atmosphere"

Reviewed on 8 Oct 2025

Albert Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Short Walk to the Beach - 2 Guests - Free Parking

Short Walk to the Beach - 2 Guests - Free Parking

2 out of 5
Thurso
Stay at this residence in Thurso. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a garden. Popular attractions Thurso Library and North Coast Visitor Centre are located ...
10/10 Exceptional! (3 reviews)
"A home away from home. Very clean, comfortable and well-equipped, close to the centre of Thurso. Will stay here again, but for longer next time."

Reviewed on 13 Jul 2025

Short Walk to the Beach - 2 Guests - Free Parking
Stromness Apartments

Stromness Apartments

3.5 out of 5
Milldam, Cauldhame Road, Orkney, Stromness, Scotland
Stay at this 3.5-star apartment in Stromness. Enjoy free parking, a garden, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Stromness Ferry Terminal and Piers Art ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (25 reviews)
Rural but walk to city
"Fantastic location, farmland but walking distance to town. Home-like."

Reviewed on 21 Sept 2025

Stromness Apartments
Duart At The Sea

Duart At The Sea

3 out of 5
Duart Auckengill, Wick, Scotland
Stay at this 3-star cottage in Wick. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a garden. Popular attractions Caithness Broch Centre and Duncansby Stacks are located ...
Duart At The Sea
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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