Orkney is formed of a collection of islands clustered together off the north of Scotland. They’ve been shaped by millennia of crashing waves and fierce winds, producing dramatic landscapes of rocky outcrops, sandstone cliffs and hills dotted with unique flora and fauna. Rona - Saoirse Ronan’s character in the film - really connects with the elemental wildness and beauty of Orkney’s wildlife and landscape, taking a job with the RSPB as well as drawing inspiration from the seaweed on her local beach to reignite her passion for marine biology.
Bird-watching and wildlife-spotting is a great way to take stock and reconnect with nature and there’s nowhere better than Orkney to give it a go, whether you’re a beginner or a dedicated enthusiast. Watching the hills and cliffs against the backdrop of the churning sea makes it an affirming and rewarding experience. You may even spot a pod of orca or minke whales passing by. There are plenty of nature reserves and habitats on the islands to discover. Explore some epic bird-watching sites to spot seabirds nesting, such as the cliffs of Marwick Head or Noup Head, where you can see gannets making spectacular dives, alongside razorbills, fulmars, shags and kittiwakes. If you’re looking for a memorable sight, venture to Hoy for the chance to see white-tailed eagles, as well as to watch out for rare migrant birds that often get blown in as they flap their way around the world.
You can also see puffins in Orkney from the end of April in nooks and crannies across the islands, or coming and going off the cliffs as they bring sand eels to their young pufflings. Autumn is one of the best times to visit to see wildlife on Orkney, especially if you want to catch a glimpse of grey seal colonies, where they huddle on secluded beaches and protected shores to raise their newborn seal pups through to mid-December. Take care when visiting these beaches and keep your distance so as not to disturb mothers and their suckling pups.
Grabbing the chance to slow down and take in your surroundings might also let you uncover a true hidden gem; the small, purple Scottish primrose (Primula Scotica) that can be found in May and July growing in Yesnaby, Rousay and Papa Westray. If you visit in spring, you’ll be greeted by an abundance of bright wildflowers dotted along clifftops and fields. In the autumn months as the colours change, keep an eye out for mountain hares hiding in the heather on Hoy, when their brown coats turn white for winter.