Sanday Travel Guide

Discover the cultural and natural attractions, outdoor adventures, hiking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and transportation options in Sanday, Scotland.


Introduction to Sanday

Located in Orkney Islands in Scotland, Sanday is a small but beautiful island with a population of around 500 people. Its best features include miles of pristine white sandy beaches, incredible views of the sea, and a cultural heritage dating back to the Neolithic era. The island is famous for its vibrant festivals, showcasing its unique local culture, including traditional music, dance, and food.

List of Places to Visit in Sanday

Whether you’re looking for indoor or outdoor activities, there are plenty of options to explore on Sanday. Here are the top places to check out:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Sanday Heritage Centre - This center has artifacts that provide a glimpse into the island’s diverse history and cultural heritage.
  • Kettletoft and the Loth Road - These narrow, winding lanes and old Highland crofts are full of history and offer a sense of how the local people lived in the past.
  • The Brough of Sanday - This fortified island village dates back to the Viking era and is now a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Natural Attractions of Sanday: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Whitemill Bay - This picturesque beach offers fantastic views of the coastline and the sea, and there are opportunities for bird watching and fishing.
  • Dovenby Ness - Located in the south of the island, this is a fantastic place to watch seals playing in the water.
  • St. Mary’s Chapel - Surrounded by breathtaking scenery, this beautiful chapel is perched on a clifftop and is a must-see destination.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sanday

For those who enjoy exploring the natural beauty of Sanday, there are several stunning hiking and biking trails to choose from:

  • Cubec Hill Walk - This trail takes you through beautiful scenic countryside, and once you reach the summit, you’ll have an incredible view of the island.
  • Tofts Ness Peninsula - This rugged peninsula has many hidden coves and beautiful beaches, which make for stunning photo opportunities.

Best Things to Do in Sanday: Activities and Tours

  • Sanday Soulka - This annual festival is held for a week in March and offers a mix of music, local food, arts, and crafts.
  • Kayaking and Paddleboarding - Adventurous travelers can explore the picturesque coastline by kayaking or paddleboarding.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sanday

Here’s a suggested itinerary for spending a week in Sanday:

Day Activity
1 Explore Kettletoft and Loth Road
2 Hike the Cubec Hill Trail
3 Visit the Brough of Sanday
4 Visit the Sanday Heritage Center
5 Go fishing and bird watching at Whitemill Bay
6 Go kayaking or paddleboarding
7 Visit the St. Mary’s Chapel

Food and Drink Scene of Sanday

Must-Try Dishes

  • Orkney Beef - This locally reared beef is known for its excellent flavor and tenderness.
  • Orkney Cheddar - This cheese has a distinctive flavor that comes from the rich milk produced by cows that graze on the island’s lush pastures.

Local Beverages

  • Island Hopping Brewery - This small brewery produces excellent craft beers, which are available in local bars and pubs.

Where to Stay in Sanday: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Kettletoft Hotel and Pub - This family-run hotel offers comfortable rooms, a cozy pub, and delicious food.
  • Bayview Guest Houses - These well-maintained guesthouses offer comfortable rooms and friendly service.

What to Buy in Sanday: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Orkney Soap - This handmade soap uses locally sourced ingredients, such as seaweed and heather.
  • Orkney Fudge - This delicious fudge is made from local cream and butter.

Local Culture and Customs of Sanday

The people of Sanday are proud of their local traditions, which include traditional music, dance, and crafts. Visitors can experience the local culture by attending festivals such as the Sanday Soulka.

Best Time to Visit Sanday

The best time to visit Sanday is during the summer months when the weather is warmest and the days are longest. However, travelers can enjoy the island’s beautiful scenery and cultural attractions year-round.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sanday

Do:

  • Respect the local traditions and customs.
  • Explore the natural beauty of the island responsibly.
  • Enjoy the local cuisine and seek out traditional dishes.

Don’t:

  • Litter the island.
  • Damage the local flora and fauna.
  • Disrespect the locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sanday

Sanday is a relatively safe destination, and travelers should not experience any major safety issues. However, visitors should take care when engaging in outdoor activities, such as hiking and watersports.

Health in Sanday

There is a small medical center on the island for minor medical issues. However, for any significant medical emergencies, visitors should seek medical help on the Orkney mainland.

Getting to Sanday: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Sanday

There are no airports on Sanday, and the nearest airport is Kirkwall Airport in Orkney, which has daily flight connections to mainland Scotland.

Bus Stations Near Sanday

The Orkney Islands’ bus service connects to the mainland and serves the major towns and villages on the islands.

Other Options

Ferries run from the mainland, and visitors can take cars and bicycles on the ferry.

How to Get Around Sanday

The island is relatively small and can be explored on foot or bicycle. Car rental is also available for visitors who prefer to explore the island independently.

Where to Go Next from Sanday: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors to Sanday can explore other islands in the Orkney Islands, such as Mainland Orkney, Hoy, and Westray, or head to the Scottish mainland.

Conclusion

Sanday is an excellent destination for travelers who want to explore Scotland’s stunning natural beauty and vibrant local culture. Whether you’re interested in history, hiking, outdoor adventures, or just relaxing on the beach, there’s something to suit everyone on this beautiful island.

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