Rousay Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Island

Facts and practical information

Nestled in the heart of the Orkney Islands, Rousay is a hidden gem that invites travelers to experience the untouched beauty of Scotland. This small island, located off the northeastern coast of Scotland, is a haven for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. With its rugged coastline, rolling green hills, and ancient archaeological sites, Rousay offers a unique and captivating experience for visitors.

One of the main attractions on Rousay is the Midhowe Broch, an ancient stone structure that dates back to the Iron Age. This well-preserved site provides a glimpse into the island's rich history and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Additionally, Rousay is home to a number of burial mounds and standing stones, such as the Blackhammer Cairn and the Taversoe Tuick Chambered Cairn, which provide a fascinating insight into the island's prehistoric past.

For those seeking outdoor adventure, Rousay offers a plethora of opportunities to explore its rugged terrain. The island boasts several walking and hiking trails that wind through its picturesque countryside, offering breathtaking views of the coastline and neighboring islands. Whether you choose to wander along the cliffs or venture inland to discover hidden lochs and waterfalls, Rousay is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

In addition to its natural beauty, Rousay is also home to a vibrant community of artists and crafters. Visitors can visit the island's local galleries and studios to admire and purchase unique artwork and handmade crafts, including pottery, jewelry, and textiles. The island's artistic community adds a touch of creativity and charm to Rousay, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a more authentic and cultural experience.

To complete your visit to Rousay, be sure to indulge in the island's culinary delights. From freshly caught seafood to locally sourced produce, Rousay's restaurants and cafes offer a taste of Scotland's finest cuisine. Whether you choose to dine in a cozy pub or enjoy a picnic on the beach, the island's culinary offerings are sure to delight your taste buds.

Alternative names: Area: 18.76 mi²Elevation: 217 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 59°7'60"N, 3°0'18"W

Location

ScotlandUnited Kingdom

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Rousay Top Attractions

Rousay Attractions - What to See and Explore

Rousay offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Midhowe Chambered Cairn, Blackhammer Chambered Cairn, Midhowe Broch, Trumland. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Archaeological site
Midhowe Chambered Cairn
Midhowe Chambered Cairn is a large Neolithic chambered cairn located on the south shore of the island of Rousay, Orkney, Scotland. The name "Midhowe" comes from the Iron Age broch known as Midhowe Broch, that lies just west of the tomb.
Archaeological site
Blackhammer Chambered Cairn
Blackhammer Chambered Cairn is a Neolithic cairn on Rousay, in Orkney, Scotland. It is a scheduled monument in the care of Historic Environment Scotland. It is thought to date from around 3000 BC.
Archaeological site
Midhowe Broch
Midhowe Broch is an iron-age broch located on the west coast of the island of Rousay in the Orkney Islands, in Scotland.

Day trips

Rousay – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Rousay, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Skara Brae (Stromness), Ring of Brodgar (Stenness), Yesnaby (Hoy and West Mainland National Scenic Area).

13 milesSW
Europe's most complete neolithic village
Skara Brae, Stromness
Nestled on the windswept shores of Sandwick in Orkney, Scotland, lies Skara Brae, one of the most remarkable prehistoric sites in Europe. This Neolithic settlement, which dates back to approximately 3180 BCE, provides a unique window into the lives of our ancestors...
12 milesSW
Neolithic stone circle and circular ditch
Ring of Brodgar, Stenness
Nestled in the heart of the Neolithic landscape of Orkney, Scotland, the Ring of Brodgar is a prehistoric marvel that continues to captivate visitors from around the world. This ancient stone circle, located near the town of Stenness, is a monumental testament to the...
14 milesSW
Protected area
Yesnaby, Hoy and West Mainland National Scenic Area
Yesnaby is an area in Sandwick, on the west coast of Orkney Mainland, Scotland, south of Skara Brae. It is renowned for its spectacular Old Red Sandstone coastal cliff scenery which includes sea stacks, blowholes, geos and frequently boiling seas.
12 milesSW
Prehistoric monument in a wild landscape
Stones of Stenness, Stenness
The Standing Stones of Stenness is a Neolithic monument five miles northeast of Stromness on the mainland of Orkney, Scotland. This may be the oldest henge site in the British Isles.
17 milesS
Unique Catholic chapel built by POWs
Italian Chapel, Lamb Holm
The Italian Chapel is a highly ornate Catholic chapel on Lamb Holm in the Orkney Islands. It was built during World War II by Italian prisoners of war, who were housed on the previously uninhabited island while they constructed the Churchill Barriers to the east of Scapa Flow.