Midsummer magic in Orkney

Make the most of the long summer days this year by enjoying them in Orkney. With over 18 hours of sunlight in May, June and July these islands, just off the tip of Scotland, hardly get dark. Even when the sun sets it barely dips below the western horizon, making the midsummer sky twinkle and glimmer.

Midsummer has always been an enchanting, spiritual time of the year, and nowhere is this more apparent than Orkney. The 6 metre high Standing Stones of Stenness, dating from around 31000 BC, are visible for miles around and are traditionally associated with ceremonies and festivals. These, and the nearby standing stones of the Ring of Brodgar, are particularly magical in the evening twilight and no, dancing naked Billy Connolly-style is not obligatory!

Orkney is home to some of the most interesting archaeological remains in Europe and has its own UNESCO World heritage Site. The islands fascinating history is brought to life by an experienced local guide when you travel with Scottish experts McKinlay Kidd. Their ‘Orkney Experience’ includes a day with a native Orcadian guide who takes great pleasure in introducing visitors to the history, folklore and wildlife of these enchanting islands.

Having just returned from the islands, Managing Director Robert Kidd commented:

“I was captivated by Orkney the first time we visited some years ago, and I am now delighted to add the Islands to our programme. We have found some lovely hotels and great local tourism partners who will help to ensure our customers have a particularly magical holiday.”

Prices from £289 per person, and includes 3 nights B&B at a hand-picked hotel, ferry transport for a car and passengers from Scrabster, near Thurso, to Stromness and personalised suggestions on places to see and visit, depending on interests. Local flights are also available.

For more information visit Seescotlanddifferently.co.uk.