Whichever way you approach Orkney, you'll be impressed by its rugged grandeur, lush pastures and wealth of coastal views. Spend a holiday in our islands and enjoy the peace and quiet of green, rolling hills, majestic sea-cliffs and clean, fresh air.

South Ronaldsay is the nearest Orkney Island to Scotland. Lying only six and a half miles north of John O'Groats, it is separated from the British Mainland by the waters of the Pentland Firth. The main town, St Margaret's Hope, is situated at the head of a picturesque sheltered bay. It is probably named after Margaret of Antioch. a third century Middle East saint, whose cult was popular throughout Europe in the Middle Ages.

Burray was called "Borgarey" by the vikings -the name means "broch island". It lies north

South Ronaldsay and has several sandy beaches. Burray is a favourite centre for all kinds of water sport including canoeing. diving, sailing, swimming and water ski-ing.You'll find a facilities - wide range of on both islands cafes, restaurants, hotels, garages and shops - which cater for the varied needs of visitors and locals always have time to talk and help you make your holiday more enjoyable. It's not surprising that many visitors return again and again to these beautiful islands.

Sea Angling

Some of the best sea angling waters in the world lie near to Burray and South Ronaldsay. Record breaking fish, particularly halibut and common skate, have been caught and local boats can be hired on a daily basis.

There is excellent shore fishing for the younger angler and enthusiast from the shores and rocks. Fertile ground is also provided along the sides of both No. 1 and No.2 causeways which were recently featured on the television programme, "Hooked on Scotland".

Diving

Scapa Flow is the best dive site in the northern hemisphere for here lie the remnants of the German High Seas Fleet. Scuttled on 21st June, 1919, seven warships ranging from battleships to light cruisers remain from the original seventy-four. Many block-ships sunk prior to the building of the Churchill Causeways provide shallow dives.

Marine life, including some rare sponges, enhances the variety of dives and the poflution-clear water gives underwater vision up to seventy feet - ideal for photography. Burray is one of the major dive centres in Orkney.