Autumn In Orkney
Autumn is probably the most underrated time to visit Orkney.
It’s a lovely season to experience wildlife, and explore the outdoors in the fresh air now that the busy tourist season is over. If you’re keen to soak up the island’s famous historical sites, this is a great time of year to do it without the summer crowds.
Of course autumn is the season for all things cosy, and I’m looking forward to wrapping up in a warm jumper and watching the waves with a cup of hot chocolate in hand.
Autumn wildlife in Orkney
Autumn is a great time of year to experience some unique wildlife and sights on the islands.
Some of my favourites are:
Seal pups
Grey seals are a common sight around our shores, and their breeding season begins in October – with one third of the world’s grey seal population bringing their pups to shore between Orkney and the Outer Hebrides.
Newborn seal pups make quite the sight with their fluffy white coats, and it’s a busy time as huge numbers of seals gather around our shorelines, with November being the peak of the breeding season.
Always observe from a respectful distance and make sure not to disturb them.
Tip: Wild Orkney Walks offer a seal pup walk, taking you to common spots where you can often see seal pups and sharing plenty of interesting information about their habits.
Mountain hares
The island of Hoy is unique in hosting mountain hares on its hills. These hares start to turn snow white around September, their coats gradually changing until the new year.
Head towards Rackwick and keep a close eye on the rugged land around it for your best bet at spotting one of these unique animals.
Hen harriers and migrating birds
This is the time of year when many of our seabirds are making their journeys south to head for warmer climates for the winter.
Hen harriers swoop down to the moorlands to roost as the day turns to twilight, and RSPB reserves like Cottascarth in the West Mainland are perfect places to watch these incredible birds of prey.
Coastal walks
Autumn is one of my favourite times of year to feel the wildness of the elements and be invigorated by the fresh Orkney breeze.
While the summer brings calm, lazy days, the wind tends to pick up in the autumn months and it’s the perfect time to go out and watch dramatic waves in the sea as they crash against the cliffs and shorelines.
We have no shortage of coastal paths, from Marwick Head in the west to the Mull head in the East Mainland. Wrap up warm, bring a hot drink and soak up the sights – and remember not to stray too far to the edge!
Autumnal colours in the sky
While there are some autumn leaves falling, the most incredible autumn colours are found in Orkney’s skies.
The sunrise expands a fiery glow across the sky, breaking through the clouds and making a spectacular sight to wake up to in the morning.
On a clear night, you can’t beat the sunset on an autumn night, especially when it reflects in the surface of the water, making it doubly impressive.
It’s also the time of year to see the Northern Lights, or Merry Dancers, light up the sky. If you have a good camera, you’ll be able to zoom in and see the brilliant shades of green, red and purple.
And it’s a race to share the best photos of them online if you’re lucky to have stepped outside at the right moment!
Autumn is a magical season in Orkney. It’s the time of year to slow down, take in everything around you and immerse yourself in nature. I hope you make the most of it, however you choose to spend the autumn months!