Trumland RSPB reserve

Carry on up the track to pass the edge of a woodland. Go through a kissing gate between the stone dyke and fence, passing Trumland Cottage. Once beyond the cottages turn right and pass through the gate (if this path is overgrown you may have to follow a parallel route, keeping left to go through the farm gates instead). Once into the open field, turn left to head northwest along the line of the fence for around 20 metres before heading diagonally across the field. As the obvious track fades out, look for a white-topped post – the first of a number which will guide you around the route.

Carry on diagonally across the field to the obvious metal gate. The terrain becomes more distinctly ‘hill ground’ from this point on, with heather replacing grass, but the route also becomes clearer – for a time. Watch for hen harriers, which often hunt in the margins between moorland and rough grazing, while merlin and short-eared owl are also found patrolling the reserve.

Head right after the gate, traversing gently uphill. Keep left at the junction, following the sign for the Long Trail.

Keep following the white-topped posts, forking right to take a zig-zagging route to the gentle saddle between the modest summits of Blotchie Fiold and Knitchen Hill. To your right is the Loch of Knitchen. Watch for the distinctive outline of red-throated divers cruising the waters of the small loch - and other hill lochans in Rousay - during the breeding season (though don’t be tempted to wander any closer).

Keep climbing gently northwest-wards following the white-topped posts until you reach the modest cairn at the summit of Blotchnie Fiold (3.5km). Enjoy the fabulous views west into the heart of the island, with the lochs of Muckle Water and Peedie Water, Eynhallow Sound and the Atlantic beyond.

From here the route heads generally eastwards, retracing your steps initially, across the broad ridge towards Knitchen Hill (4.9km) passing a number of small, sparkling ‘dubs’, or tiny lochans, enroute. The path is faint, but watch for the marker posts. The summit of Knitchen Hill is a fabulous spot to take in views eastwards across Orkney’s inner north isles. To the north the distinctive summit of Kierfea Hill stands over the township of Sourin, with Faraclett Head (another fine walk) behind.

Descend southeast, keeping one eye on the marker posts, with the other reserved for great skuas. This is their territory, and it’s one they’re quick to defend (a fully-extended walking pole rested upwards on the shoulder is usually enough to discourage any unpleasantness.)

After a time, the faint hill path joins a more distinct peat track (5.8km) which heads left, diagonally downwards in a south-easterly direction, emerging onto the island’s main road (6.3km). Turn right here to head west, back towards the pier and the start of the walk.

Visit the Scottish Outdoor Access Code website for more information and advice on how to enjoy the outdoors responsibly.