A new eight mile circular walking trail has opened on Flotta, Orkney, Scotland.

The end of the trail at Stanger Head. Pic Scapa Flow Landscape Partnership

The Flotta Trail takes in an array of wartime archaeology including the Naval Cinema and the Port War Signal Station, as well as the moorland of West Hill and the dramatic scenery of Stanger Head.

The trail starts at the pier, runs along the coast and then returns along the island’s lanes.

Funding has been received for the Flotta Trail from Orkney Islands Council, the European Regional Development Fund and the Heritage Lottery Fund. In addition, Talisman Energy match-funded the interpretation panels and path work.

A complementary leaflet, showcasing the range of interest to be found on the island – including the Flotta Trail – has also just been produced by the Flotta Partnership.
This new leaflet is now widely available, including at tourist information offices and the SFLPS office in Stromness.

Measured to the nearest half mile and with a grading scheme for gradients and surface quality there are currently 21 routes available.

1 – Friar’s Crag, Keswick

• Distance of route: 3.2km (2 miles)
• Grid reference: NY 299247
• OS X (Eastings)     329950
• OS Y (Northings)    524750
• Nearest Post Code   CA12 4TB
• Surface: Smoothish – with minimum of dirt on hands for self-propelled
• Gradient: Level, gradients up to 1 in 12
• Parking: Lakeside Car Park
• Toilets: Lakeside Car Park – Key available from National Trust Information Centre (closed in winter)
• Special features: View Point, woodland

This is a circular route linked by good pathways to vehicle parking close to the start. There are no hills but a strong pusher is advisable if tackling the full two mile circuit, especially as wet weather can make certain stretches a bit muddy.

More details can be found here.