Cycling Routes in Orkney: Mainland Circuits and Island Rides

Exploring Orkney by bike offers an intimate connection with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and unique island culture. With relatively gentle terrain on the Mainland, quiet roads, and free ferry travel for bikes to the isles, Orkney is increasingly popular with cyclists of all abilities. However, the infamous Orkney wind and the prevalence of single-track roads require preparation and awareness. This comprehensive guide details popular routes, bike hire options, island cycling opportunities, and essential safety tips for your Orcadian cycling adventure.

Cycling Conditions in Orkney

Orkney's Mainland offers generally rolling terrain rather than steep hills, making it accessible for most cyclists. Key considerations include:

• Wind: The most significant factor! Prevailing westerly winds can be strong year-round. Plan routes accordingly, aiming for tailwinds on return legs if possible. Check forecasts (like Windy.com) before setting out.
• Roads: While main A-roads are two-lane, many rural routes are single-track roads requiring specific techniques for passing oncoming traffic. Surfaces are mostly tarmac but can be rougher on minor roads.
• Traffic: Generally light outside Kirkwall and Stromness, but be aware of farm vehicles and tourist traffic, especially in summer.
• Hills: While the Mainland is relatively flat, islands like Hoy and Rousay offer more challenging climbs for experienced cyclists.

Popular Mainland Cycling Routes

Explore Orkney's heritage and coastline on these suggested circuits:

• Heart of Neolithic Orkney Loop (approx. 30-35 miles / 50-56 km from Stromness): A must-do route taking in the UNESCO World Heritage sites. Cycle from Stromness via the A965, turning off towards Skara Brae (B9056), then loop around the Loch of Stenness via the Ring of Brodgar and Stones of Stenness before returning. Relatively flat with incredible historical stops. Difficulty: Moderate (due to distance and potential wind).
• East Mainland Coastal Route (approx. 25-30 miles / 40-48 km from Kirkwall): Head east from Kirkwall towards Deerness. This route passes coastal scenery, the Churchill Barriers, and the Italian Chapel. Options exist to loop around Deerness peninsula, visiting the Gloup and Mull Head Nature Reserve. Difficulty: Easy to Moderate.
• West Mainland Coastal Loop (approx. 40-50 miles / 64-80 km from Stromness): A longer route exploring the dramatic Atlantic coast. Head north from Stromness towards Yesnaby cliffs, continue to Skara Brae, then potentially loop up to Brough of Birsay before returning via the Loch of Boardhouse and Dounby. Can be challenging due to wind exposure. Difficulty: Challenging.
• Orkney Loch Route (approx. 35 miles / 56 km): A scenic route focusing on the freshwater lochs of Harray and Stenness, passing Neolithic sites and offering good birdwatching opportunities. Difficulty: Moderate.

Island Hopping by Bike

Orkney Ferries carry bicycles free of charge for foot passengers, making island hopping a fantastic option:

• Shapinsay: A short (25 min) ferry ride from Kirkwall. Offers gentle cycling on quiet roads, perfect for a half-day trip. Visit Balfour Castle grounds (check opening) and enjoy coastal views.
• Hoy: Accessible by ferry from Houton (to Lyness) or Stromness (to Moaness). Offers dramatic scenery but is much hillier than the Mainland. Cycle to Rackwick Bay, visit the Scapa Flow Museum at Lyness, or tackle the climb towards the Old Man of Hoy viewpoint. Requires good fitness or an e-bike.
• Westray: A longer ferry journey (90 mins) opens up this larger island with varied cycling routes, archaeological sites like Noltland Castle, and stunning cliffs at Noup Head.
• Rousay: Known as the 'Egypt of the North' for its archaeology. A short ferry from Tingwall. The main road circuits the island, passing numerous tombs and brochs. Hilly in parts.

Bike Hire and Support

Several options exist for hiring bikes in Orkney:

• Orkney Cycle Hire (Stromness): Offers hybrid bikes, mountain bikes, children's bikes, tag-alongs, and child seats. Provides helmets, locks, pumps, and repair kits. Delivery/collection service available. (Approx. £20/day for adult hybrid).
• Cycle Orkney (Kirkwall): Specialises in road bikes, gravel bikes, and a good range of e-bikes (electric assist), which are excellent for tackling hills or headwinds. Also offers full repair services. (Approx. £45/day for e-bike).

Booking hire bikes, especially e-bikes and during peak season, is highly recommended.

Safety and Practical Tips for Orkney Cycling

• Wind: Be prepared! Check forecasts and consider planning routes to have a tailwind on the return leg. Lower your profile in headwinds.
• Visibility: Wear bright or high-visibility clothing. Use front and rear lights, especially in poor weather or low light (essential during the shorter days outside summer).
• Single-Track Roads: Be highly aware of traffic. Listen for approaching vehicles. Be prepared to stop and pull well off the road (dismount if necessary) at passing places to let cars pass. Do not assume drivers have seen you.
• Route Planning: Use resources like the VisitOrkney cycling guide, OS Maps (Landranger 6 covers most of Orkney), or apps like Komoot or Bikemap.
• What to Carry: Water, snacks, waterproof/windproof layers, basic repair kit (pump, spare inner tube, tyre levers, multi-tool), charged phone, map.
• Helmets: Strongly recommended.

To find relevant videos, search YouTube for "Orkney cycling routes" or "cycling Heart of Neolithic Orkney".

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Orkney good for cycling?

Yes, particularly the Mainland, which is relatively flat with quiet roads outside the main towns. The wind is the main challenge. The islands offer more varied terrain.

Can I take my bike on the Orkney ferries?

Yes, Orkney Ferries carry bikes free of charge for foot passengers on inter-island routes. NorthLink and Pentland Ferries also carry bikes on routes from the Scottish mainland (charges may apply).

Are e-bikes available for hire?

Yes, Cycle Orkney in Kirkwall offers e-bike hire, which is a great option for dealing with wind and hills.

Do I need a special type of bike for Orkney?

A hybrid or touring bike is suitable for most roads. A road bike is fine for tarmac routes. A gravel bike or mountain bike might be better if exploring rougher tracks or some island roads.

How safe is cycling on single-track roads?

It requires constant vigilance and adherence to passing place etiquette. Be visible, listen for traffic, and always be prepared to stop and pull over safely.

Cycling in Orkney is a rewarding way to immerse yourself in the landscape and discover hidden corners at a slower pace. Whether tracing ancient history on the Mainland or tackling island adventures, two wheels offer a fantastic perspective on these enchanting islands. Plan your route, hire the right bike, respect the conditions, and enjoy the ride! Find cycle-friendly Orkney accommodation to base your adventures.