Between The Isles

Follow our captivating island-hopping tour through the best of Neolithic Orkney

- BETH MCHUGH

Stage 1: Mainland

The perfect base for an island adventure, the highlight of the mainland is undeniably Skara Brae. This settlement is around 5,000 years old – older than the pyramids of Giza. The houses retain original built-in furniture, including dressers, hearths and box-beds. Artefacts found include tools, pottery and jewellery, but no weapons, suggesting a harmonious existence. These rare reflections of Neolithic daily life make for an exhilarating first stop.

Stage 2: Hoy