The best road cycling routes around Graemsay, Hoy And Walls

There are 13 road cycling routes available in the region. These include 2 easy routes, 10 moderate routes, and 1 difficult route, offering options for various skill levels and preferences.

The region offers a diverse range of terrain. Hoy features dramatic, rugged scenery with steep-sided hills and significant elevation gains, such as Ward Hill reaching 479m. In contrast, Walls and Graemsay provide gentler, more pastoral landscapes with quieter country roads, ideal for a more tranquil cycling experience.

Yes, there are routes suitable for beginners and families. For example, A loop of Loch of Harry & Loch of Stenness from Stromness is an easy 40.4 km route with moderate elevation, offering a pleasant ride. Graemsay and Walls generally offer quieter country roads that are well-suited for less challenging rides.

You can encounter several significant landmarks and natural features. On Hoy, you might see the iconic Old Man of Hoy sea stack and dramatic coastal cliffs. The region also features ancient sites like the Ring of Brodgar and the Standing Stones of Stenness. Graemsay is home to two historic lighthouses and the beautiful Sandside Beach.

Yes, bicycles can be transported free of charge on the inter-island ferries, making island-hopping convenient for cyclists. This allows you to easily access the diverse cycling routes across Graemsay, Hoy, and Walls from Mainland Orkney.

Yes, many routes are designed as loops. For instance, the Hoy & Houton loop on the ferries from Stromness is a popular circular route that takes you through dramatic island landscapes. Other routes like Orkney West Mainland loop from Stromness also offer extensive circular experiences.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 10 reviews. Cyclists often praise the dramatic coastal cliffs, peaceful green interiors, and the variety of routes that cater to different ability levels, from challenging climbs on Hoy to quieter rides on Graemsay and Walls.

While specific parking details for every route vary, general parking is available in key access points like Stromness on Mainland Orkney, which serves as a ferry departure point for Hoy and Graemsay. On the islands themselves, you'll find quieter country roads and small communities where parking might be available near ferry terminals or local amenities.

While the islands are less densely populated, you can find cafes and pubs in the main settlements, particularly on Hoy. It's advisable to check opening times and plan your stops, especially when venturing into more remote areas, as options may be limited.

The best time for road cycling is generally during the warmer, drier months, typically from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During this period, you'll experience longer daylight hours and more favorable weather conditions, though it's always wise to be prepared for changeable weather in Orkney.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, Hoy offers routes with significant elevation gain and dramatic terrain. The Orkney West Mainland loop from Stromness, for example, is a difficult 102.4 km trail with over 800 meters of ascent, exploring extensive landscapes.

Absolutely. Hoy is particularly known for its expansive views from its high hills like Ward Hill and Cuilags, offering panoramic vistas of the dramatic coastline and surrounding islands. Graemsay also provides beautiful coastal views towards Hoy and the Orkney mainland, especially from its coastal paths.

The islands are rich in wildlife. On Hoy, you might spot white-tailed eagles, mountain hares, and various dragonflies in the dramatic interior. Graemsay's tranquility supports undisturbed wildlife, including hen-harriers, curlews, snipe, and seals often seen along the coast.