Step into the St Magnus Way: A pilgrim’s perspective
If you’re seeking a walk filled with history, breathtaking landscapes, and a deep sense of tranquility, the St Magnus Way is an unforgettable experience. This 58-mile pilgrimage through Orkney’s stunning scenery follows in the footsteps of St Magnus, blending coastal beauty, rich heritage, and moments of peaceful reflection.
Recently, we spoke to a couple who booked our St Magnus Way package, allowing them to experience the journey with ease while we took care of their accommodation, transfers, travel to their start and end points each day, plus their packed lunches! Here’s what they had to say about their journey and why they’d encourage others to follow in their footsteps.
Why walk the St Magnus Way?
Having previously completed St Cuthbert’s Way and the Cumbria Way, they were looking for another long walk to embark on. Friends had spoken highly of Orkney’s beauty, and after some research, the St Magnus Way stood out - not just for its stunning landscapes but also for its compelling story. The idea of walking in the path of a Viking saint was intriguing, and the opportunity to experience Orkney’s history firsthand made the decision an easy one.
Unforgettable moments along the way
Every long-distance walk has its standout moments, and for this couple, Orkney delivered in abundance. One of their most memorable experiences was swimming on Egilsay, where they found themselves sharing the waters with seals.
“ “The coastline from Gurness to Birsay was simply breathtaking,” they shared. “The sheer tranquility of it all - it’s an experience that stays with you.””
And then there were the puffins. Spotting these charismatic seabirds at Birsay added a truly special touch to the journey. But perhaps the most rewarding moment of all was reaching the St Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall, the final stop on the pilgrimage.
Tips for future pilgrims
When asked what advice they would give to others considering The St Magnus Way, their response was simple: “Do it.” But they also recommended taking time to visit some of Orkney’s other historical sites while here, including the Ring of Brodgar and the Italian Chapel. These sites offer an even deeper appreciation of Orkney’s rich past and cultural heritage.
How Shorelands Orkney made a difference
Walking the St Magnus Way is an incredible experience, but the logistics can be challenging. This is where we made all the difference. “It would have been a real challenge to manage the whole route without your help, given the lack of accommodation and food options on the route” they explained. “Being able to walk with just day bags made everything so much easier.”
We’re thrilled to have been able to help visitors from all over the world to complete the St Magnus Way! More than just practical assistance, we provide a warm welcome and a personal touch - our hospitality means you can just show up and focus on the walk, absorbing the beauty, history, and serenity of Orkney without the stress of logistical concerns.
Ready to do the St Magnus Way?
If you’ve ever dreamed of taking on a pilgrimage or simply want to experience Orkney in a unique and meaningful way, the St Magnus Way is a great choice. With Shorelands Orkney taking care of your transfers, bed and breakfast accommodation, travel, and packed lunches, you can enjoy a seamless, stress-free adventure.
Check out our packages below for more details:
The St Magnus Way package: Our original pilgrim package and everything you need for a great experience!
The St Magnus Way + Best of Orkney combined package: For those who want to see Orkney’s top sights as part of the experience!
We look forward to welcoming you!
