Forget an afternoon in the Natural History Museum, Orkney is a living and breathing museum. There are very few places which allow you to step back in time to 2200BC, and even fewer which can give you a detailed picture of what life was like in those times, but Skara Brae is only one of the fascinating sights that this island offers. And with coastal erosion becoming an increasing concern, it may not be around forever.

As well as the numerous sites of historical interest, there are plenty of activities for the more adventurous. Orkney is listed as one of the world's top dive sites (admittedly a dry suit is neeeded) for sights of vessels sunk during the world wars. There are courses and activities to cater for every taste, from outdoor pursuits to fire making and ancient Orkney crafts.

An Orkney adventure can be achieved on any budget, whether for a comfortable stay in a warm, friendly hotel, or a getting back to basics holiday camping or caravaning. Despite the bleak outlook in the winter months there are still highlights of a visit at any time of the year, notably the winter solstice at Maes Howe or the Kirkwall Ba' on Hogmanay. But there is nothing more beautiful than the view over a deserted beach when the sun sets over the sea on Orkney.

www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk/areaorkn/index.html
www.orkneyjar.com/history/skarabrae/

Google map: tinyurl.com/39jly4h

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The small, picturesque village of St Margaret's Hope is well worth a visit just to experience the food which is conjured nightly in this award winning restaurant. The freshness of the fish is guaranteed as the restaurant changes its menu daily to reflect what has been caught that day, and there is a meat option available for non fish lovers. I would return to Orkney in an instant for no other reason than to dine here again.

www.thecreel.co.uk/
Front Road, St Margaret's Hope
Orkney KW17 2SL
Tel: (01856) 831311

Google map: tinyurl.com/37jrhr6

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