page_title: Rousay
section_title: Geography and natural history
hierarchical_section_title: Rousay / Geography and natural history
caption_attribution_description: English: Cliffs in Saviskaill Bay on the northern side of en:Rousay
context_page_description: Rousay is a small, hilly island about 3 km north of Mainland, the largest island in the Orkney Islands of Scotland. It has been nicknamed "Egypt of the north", due to its archaeological diversity and importance.
  Like its neighbours Egilsay and Wyre, it can be reached by ro-ro ferry MV Eynhallow from Tingwall. This service is operated by Orkney Ferries, and can take up to 95 passengers, and 10 cars. The ferry links the islands of Rousay, Egilsay, and Wyre with each other, and with the mainland of Orkney.
context_section_description: It is separated from mainland Orkney by Eynhallow Sound. 
  One road circles the island, about 14 miles (23 kilometres) long, and most arable land lies in the few hundred yards between it and the coastline. With an area of 4,860 hectares (18.8 square miles), it is the fifth largest of the Orkney Islands.
  Among several freshwater lochs on the island, the biggest is Muckle Water.
  Rousay is a 'Site of Special Scientific Interest' with notable cliff formations and wildflower colonies, and has an RSPB bird reserve. The hilliest Orkney island after Hoy, it offers good views of neighbouring islands from Blotchnifiold 249 metres (817 ft), and Keirfea or Knitchen (both over 229 metres (750 ft)).
  Its natural environment and wildlife includes Rousay's seals and otters. Archaeological remains are present, especially a cluster of sites connected by a footpath near the western shore.
caption: Cliffs in Saviskaill Bay, looking northward to Westray
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