Scottish Islands

Orkney and Shetland's history goes back over 5000 years creating the richest legacy of archaeological remains in the British Isles; with stunning coastal scenery and unique flora and fauna, the islands are a spectacular and unspoilt destination for visitors. This definitive guide to the islands gives information on their history and culture, ferries and flights, finding accommodation for all budgets, local crafts and music, prehistoric sites and monuments, nature and wildlife, and outdoor pursuits including fishing, sailing and diving. Take the shortest scheduled flight in the world - Book a bed in a lighthouse or a castle - Find the lochs with the largest trout - Identify the call of the world's smallest seabird - Find the best of the islands' traditional folk music - Recognise the graffiti carved by Viking raiders - Find the best-preserved Stone Age village in Europe - Cruise in a replica of a Viking longship - See whales, seals, dolphins, porpoises and otters - Watch merlins, skuas, puffins, razorbills, gannets, kittiwakes and fulmars.