The Scottish island that was crowned 'prettiest' you need to visit this summer
When it comes to choosing a Scottish island to head to for a staycation, having so many options can be overwhelming. The country is home to around 800 islands in total, and many are inhabited and easily accessible.
If you are stuck on an island in Scotland to head to this summer, a great choice is Westray. One of the Orkney Islands, that has a population of around just 600 people.
What Westray lacks in size, it makes up for in spectacular landscapes. It features dramatic sea cliffs on its west side, as well as a selection of fabulous sandy beaches.
Westray was previously named one of Scotland's five "prettiest" islands by Condé Nast Traveller. Placing first on the experts' roundup, the island was praised for its "bijou sand-smeared bays, vertiginous sea cliffs and flat, serene pastureland".
One of the top beaches on Westray is Grobust, located a short distance from the village of Pierowall. According to the Orkney website, the beach looks especially beautiful in the aftermath of a northerly gale—when blue waves are thrown into the "impeccably clean sandy shore".
Grobust is also located close to the ruins of a Neolithic settlement at the Links of Noltland. An ancient tiny stone figure nicknamed the 'Orkney Venus' or 'Westray Wife' was discovered here in 2009, and can be seen at the Westray Heritage Centre.
Situated in Pierowall, the Westray Heritage Centre is a four-star museum that is home to a fascinating and extensive collection of artefacts, documents, and photographs. These help visitors discover more about the island's long and storied history.
Also located near Pierowall are the dramatic ruins of Noltland Castle. Dating back to the 16th century, the stronghold was constructed by a Master of Mary, Queen of Scots' household who escaped to Westray following her arrest in 1567.
Pierowall is also home to a popular fish and chip shop, with the small family-run Pierowall Fish business running the popular 'JACKS' chippy. Open Wednesdays and Saturdays, the fish and chip shop serves a large selection of fish—plus a range of local chip shop classics—according to season and availability.
Westray's food scene was named another of the island's highlights by Condé Nast Traveller. They experts praised it has having "one of the greatest natural larders in Scotland with Westray beef, scallops and shellfish some of the finest you'll find anywhere".
As well as Pierowall Fish, one of the most popular eateries on Westray is Saintear. The small family-run café and bistro offers pizzas, sweet treats, coffee, and more.
In terms of walking destinations, among the best hikes on Westray is the Noup Head Circular. Taking around two and a half hours to complete, the route offers incredible views of the spectacular and historic Noup Head Lighthouse.
Westray is also a top destination for spotting seabirds, with the Noup Cliffs being a particular hotspot. If they're lucky, visitors will be able to see birds nesting and soaring in the area.
If you are interested in visiting Westray, the island can be reached by either sea or air. There are regular ferries to Westray from Kirkwall, while Loganair operates flights to and from the island.
The full list of Scotland's "prettiest" islands can be found on the .
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