There are plenty of coastal walks to enjoy in Orkney but the route at Roseness is a real gem, and you'll more than likely have it all to yourself.

A small car park at Upper Cornquoy in the east end of the parish of Holm is the starting point for exploring the area. You can head south along the coast to Roseness itself, or north towards the looming cliffs at Stembister. Our walking route will help keep you right if you choose Roseness, where en-route you'll find plenty of wildflowers in the summer, along with a dramatic gloup and the remains of a Neolithic cairn.

The headland of Roseness itself is dominated by a tall, square, stone tower topped with a double wooden cross. It was built in the late 1860s, probably as a navigation aid. It was succeeded by the nearby lighthouse of more modern design.

Roseness is a place to embrace the elements during the autumn or winter, when an easterly breeze is whipping up the North Sea, or during the spring and summer when the coastal heath comes alive and wildlife abounds.

Remember, if you're walking near the coast in Orkney, always take extra care and never get too close to the edge.