Click thumbnail to enlarge Waukmill Bay is just two minutes drive from Summerdale and is one of the most beautiful beaches in Orkney. When the tide is out take a walk on the clean sand or a paddle in the crystal clear water. The remains of Orphir Round Kirk is Scotland’s only surviving circular medieval church. Thought to have been built by Earl Hakon in the late 11th or early 12th century. Swanbister Bay is another tidal beach in Orphir. A bit more off the beaten track than Waukmill Bay but definitely worth the effort for the stunning views across Scapa Flow and the peace and tranquillity. Kirkwall is the capital of Orkney and there are many things for visitors to see and do. Explore the local shops along the winding street or eat in one of the many local restaurants and pubs. St. Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall was founded in 1137 by the Viking Earl Rognvald in honour of his uncle. It is open to the public daily and is an essential part of any visit to Orkney. Stromness, in the West Mainland, is the first port of call for many visitors travelling by ferry from the Scottish mainland. Take a walk through the long single street and explore the many narrow lanes. Built by Italian prisoners of war during the Second World War the Italian Chapel is open to the public all year. This beautiful building, built from two Nissen huts, is one of the most visited sites in Orkney. Orkney is famed for its long summer days, when the sun barely sets, and for its spectacular sunsets throughout the year. The Brough of Birsay is a tidal island and was the ancient seat of power in Orkney. The Ring of Brodgar is one of many prehistoric sites in Orkney and part of the World Heritage Site “Heart of Neolithic Orkney”. It is situated in the parish of Stenness, about 15 minutes drive from Summerdale.