With a population of around 20,000, Orkney is perhaps best known for its Neolithic remains and its large number of archaeological sites. It boasts superb fishing and bird life, enchanted views over open country side dominated by the ever changing waters. The sky over Orkney seems to be higher than anywhere else, decorated with rainbows and fascinating sculptures of clouds.

Orcadians have always been in tune with the elements and the changing seasons and light play a big part in the enjoyment of the Islands. In the summer months the long hours of daylight are a great benefit and there are wonderful opportunities to sight seals, otters, dolphins and some of the 94 different species of birds that frequent the Islands. When night falls over Orkney visitors are invited to purple red sunsets, followed by a dome of stars, sometimes even the miraculous Northern Lights. And once the moonlight spreads over silent meadows old Orcadian folk stories seem to come alive...

George Mackay Brown, the great Orcadian poet, said that "The Orkney imagination is haunted by time" and this certainly remains true today.