Archaeological finds on the island of Sanday show that the Vikings once inhabited this area. A burial site uncovered during a storm showed numerous artefacts and the excavations at Pool Excavations show that the lower layers of the settlement were of Pictish origin, while the upper layers were Norse. The island of Sanday is the largest of the Orkney Islands and gets its name from the white sandy beaches. Since it is only 15 miles from Kirkwall, the ferry ride does not take very long, but visitors can also fly by helicopter here as well. A new ferry service is also available between John O' Groats and St. Margaret’s Hope, which takes about an hour.
There is very little traffic on Sanday and the roads are in excellent condition making it possible to do your sightseeing on foot or by cycling. The land is relatively flat so neither of these are strenuous activities. If you do bring your own car to Sanday, the roads are narrow and parking is very limited. You also have to be careful where you park your car on the side of the road because if it is in the way of a farmer, he will move it with or without the keys. Some of the popular walks on the island include the Sanday Trail. There are many sections to this trail and you won’t get through all of them in one day. If you really want to take in what Sanday has to offer, you should plan to spend at least a week here.
The beaches are very popular because of the variety of wildlife that you see here, mainly the seals and the many species of seabirds. You may also get to see the otters, but they so tend to be rather shy. The beaches are also great for shell collectors, with the Cowrie and the Faroese Sunset being the most sought after. Sanday is not without its historic sites. Visit the Quoyness chambered cairn where you can see skeletal remains in four of the chambers. An old farm steading at Tressness has an octagonal shape to its roof and the there is an abandoned crofter’s settlement dating back to the 19th century at Otrie. The Viking burial site and the burial cairns at Tofts Ness are also must see locations on any sightseeing itinerary. If you want other activities besides walking when you are on Sanday, there is excellent loch fishing available at Roos Loch, Bea Loch and North Loch, where you don’t need to have a fishing permit. The swimming pool has a regular schedule for times you can take a warm dip. Drop into the Belsair Kettletoft Inn for a drink and some conversation. You will certainly not be bored on your visit to this island. Orkney Ferries: North Isles - These ferries operate between Shapinsay, North Ronaldsay, Papa Westray, Westray, Eday, Sanday and Stronsay.
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With thanks to Mr & Mrs John Houghton for the photographs taken whilst on a recent break to Sanday.
