A HILLY island off the northeastern coast of Scotland is known for its natural beauty and incredible archaeological significance.
Often referred to as the ‘Egypt of the north’ for this reason, the island forms part of the Orkney archipelago but is visited less frequently than some of it’s larger counterparts.
Rousay is great for bird watching[/caption]
Midhowe Broch dates back to the Iron Age[/caption]
Rousay lies just a couple of miles from Orkney Mainland and is the fifth largest island in the group.
It might have little in common with Egypt in terms of climate and landscape, but its collection of over 150 archaeological sites are what earned it its moniker.
The island has the highest concentration of brochs – roundhouse buildings from the Iron Age – anywhere in Scotland.
Of these Iron Age stone towers, the ruin at Midhowe Broch is most visited, sitting on the coastline and offering impressive views across the water.
But a short walk away from the broch’s sweeping vistas, tucked underground, is Midhowe Chambered Cairn — one of the many awe-inspiring burial sites that inspired Rousay’s nickname.
Rather ominously also called the ‘Great Ship of Death’, Midhowe Chambered Cairn is a 5,000-year-old, 32-metre-long tomb in which the remains of 25 people were found.
It is considered a must-see, with tourists calling it “mega”, “brilliantly displayed” and an “unbelievable place”.
There are a number of other notable burial chambers on Rousey, including Taversoe Tuick, Blackhammer Cairn and the Knowe of Yarso.
The latter features 17 human skulls, while visitors can climb down into both Taversoe Tuick and Blackhammer Cairn as well as peering into them through skylights on the grassy banks.
Midhowe Chambered Cairn is also not actually a ship, although one can be found elsewhere on the island.
A viking cemetery which included two boat burials was discovered at Westness, and further excavations uncovered a Norse drinking hall on the site.
All of these fascinating attractions are free of charge, making exploring the island extremely budget-friendly.
For a personal touch, Rousay Tours offers guided trips around the island and its historical landmarks for £60 per adult and £35 per under-16, but you can also learn about the island’s past for free by visiting the exhibition at the Rousey Heritage Centre.
Rousay can be reached by ferry — Orkney Ferries run a service five times a day from Tingwall and a return ticket only costs £3 without a car (or £13 with one).
Taversoe Tuick is one of the many archaeological wonders on the island[/caption]
Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views from Rousay’s hills[/caption]
Midhowe Chambered Cairn is also known as the ‘Great Ship of Death’[/caption]
The ferry can also be used to go island hopping between Rousay and its neighbours, Egilsay and Wyre.
If you’d prefer to stay put on Rousay and experience the island for longer than a day trip, you’ll need to book in advance as there’s just one place stay.
The Taversoe is the only B&B on the island and offers accommodation with gorgeous sea views.
Rousay also only has one shop plus an additional honesty shop on the pier offering self-service drinks and snacks, so there isn’t much choice when it comes to stocking up for your picnic.
The island is a popular destination for lovers of flora and fauna — it’s a great place for some bird watching and seals can often be spotted off the coast at Saviskaill Bay.
Head down to the shore of the bay to get closer to the animals and some rockpools, or escape to Scockness Beach for more secluded sands.
While the wild Scottish beaches on Rousay might not bear any tangible similarities to Egypt, the island’s natural wonder and unearthed treasures show it’s not a far-fetched comparison.
Seals can be spotted at Saviskaill Bay[/caption]
It is the fifth biggest of the Orkney Islands[/caption]
Five amazing Scottish islands to visit
HERE are a few more islands The Sun loves.
Foula: A remote island in the Shetlands with one of the highest sheer sea cliffs in Britain and which uses a different calendar to the rest of the country.
Cumbrae: Home to the UK’s smallest cathedral, Cumbrae is only 10 minutes from the mainland and considered by some to be Scotland’s “most accessible island”.
Isle of Rum: A diamond-shaped island with just 40 residents known for its population of red deer. In 2024 it was named an International Dark Sky Sanctuary due to being a perfect stargazing spot.
Unst: The island of Unst is home to Skaw Beach — the most northerly sandy beach in the UK.
Eilean Na Moine: This tiny island played a big part in the Harry Potter films. Potterheads may recognise it as the location of Dumbledore’s grave, but you don’t have to be a fan to appreciate the isle’s gorgeous setting in the middle of Loch Eilt.
