Viewpoints
There are lots of viewpoints in South Ronaldsay. Here we have listed three as starters.
Olad’s Summit: This viewpoint is situated on the A961 about 6km (or just under 43 miles) south of the turning to St Margaret’s Hope [click for map]. It has a car park and a plinth showing the distances and directions of notable places. You get close to a 270-degree view (with hills in the way from east to north). On clear days you can see Cape Wrath.
Ward’s Hill: Just a few metres north of Olad’s Summit (and to the east) you will see a track to Ward’s Hill. At the top is a radio mast, but before that there was a radar station here. A couple of buildings associated with it are still there including an engine house; and a very well-preserved machine-gun position [click for details on Canmore]. Being significantly higher than Olad’s Summit, it allows better views to the east and north.
Hoxa Hill: From here you get good views of the northeast. This includes the southern coast of the west mainland, and across to Flotta and Hoy. Hoxa Hill is part of the Hoxa Head and the Sands of Wright loop walk.
Features
Olav’s Wood
updated: April 9, 2025