Island Intro
Orkney’s ‘Island of Bays’, Stronsay, has one of the most diverse and breathtaking coastlines in the North Isles.
Ask an Islander
Louise McQuaid from Fish Mart Cafe and Hostel shares her favourite things about Stronsay, beginning with her favourite areas.
“The best parts of the island are Rothiesholm Beach (known locally as Bu Sands) and the Vat of Kirbuster. The beach is a mile stretch of beautiful sand whereas, in stark contrast, the Vat is on the cliffy shoreline with a stone arch of what was once a sea cave – it’s amazing seeing the power of the sea and waves crashing into the cliffs.”
But it’s not all cliffs and beaches, Stronsay has some delicious culinary experiences as Louise tells us. “The Fish Mart Café has reopened selling simple, wholesome and hearty food with daily specials. Also Maurice A. Williamson’s shop at Olivebank makes amazing freshly-baked meat pies and has the best local sausages going.” So now you know!
Winter in the North Isles can be long, dark and stormy, but Louise tells us why she and her family find contentment and enjoyment in the darkness of a Stronsay in winter. “Winter forces you to slow down and have more family time in the evenings to read, play games, movie nights and just hang out together doing activities. One of last year’s highlights was the arrival of The Screen Machine (a mobile cinema kitted out inside of a lorry).”
Collect your travelogue stamp!
If you have one of our paper travelogues you can collect your stamp using the brass rubbing plate located in the Fish Mart at Whitehall.
Why not download the Scottish Islands Passport app to collect digital stamps!
Getting Here
Orkney Ferries runs a daily service between Stronsay and Kirkwall on Mainland Orkney.
Loganair operates regular flights between Stronsay and Kirkwall airport on Mainland Orkney. Flights may travel via other islands.
Find out more about getting to Mainland Orkney.
Explore More
Want to find out more about Stronsay and explore more of our amazing islands?
Download the free Scottish Islands Passport app to:
- discover your perfect island match,
- find out about the experiences each island has to offer,
- collect passport stamps for the islands you visit,
- find information on accommodation, travel and island amenities.
