Details
The open landscape and good roads make Orkney easy to explore, with a number of the islands joined by causeways, others easily accessible by ferry or local plane. Wildlife flourishes here; seals bask among the rocks and birdwatching is popular. In the summer the roadside verges are covered with wild flowers, including orchids.
The main island (Mainland) boasts a UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE which includes the ancient Standing Stones of Stenness and the Neolithic Ring of Brodgar. The 5,000 year old houses at Skara Brae remain remarkably intact, and the Viking runes at Maeshowe prove that graffiti isn’t just a 20th century invention! In more recent times evocative Scapa Flow contains the melancholy relics of two world wars, and on its banks the beautifully ornate Italian Chapel constructed by Italian Prisoners of War is well worth a visit. We’ll provide plenty of recommendations for what to see and do in all directions – whether driving to the southern tip of the archipelago or hopping across to one of the other islands on a short ferry ride to explore more pre-history or find a sandy beach.
Your hotel
The owners have put tremendous effort into transforming this hotel, located on the outskirts of Kirkwall, into a high quality, comfortable and welcoming place to stay. A genuine feel pervades the hotel, which is traditionally furnished and offers you the chance to find out just how comfortable Orkney chairs really are! With a great reputation as a destination for locals, the restaurant boasts menus packed with local produce: your chance to try lamb with its distinctive flavour due to the seaweed diet of North Ronaldsay sheep, or to sample local seafood including mouth-watering prawns, succulent salmon and delicious stir-fried squid. And you just must pop round to see the neighbours – the world famous Highland Park distillery is right next door.
Pricing
£325 per person for March, April & October, £345 per person for May, June & September, £355 per person for July & August.
Prices based on 2 people sharing a double room ensuite for 3 nights on a bed & breakfast basis. Some suites also available.
The price includes an Historic Scotland Explorer Pass, covering entry to the main historic sites of Orkney, including Skara Brae and Maes Howe.
Ferry travel from the north coast of Scotland to Orkney is included for a car and passengers. The longer evening or overnight sailing from/to Aberdeen can also be arranged at an additional cost, which may suit if you prefer to travel by train to Aberdeen then take the ferry. We can then arrange car hire from Kirkwall.
Before your departure, you will receive personalised holiday information including full directions, recommended routes, and suggestions on places to visit depending on your interests and our local knowledge to help you get the most from your holiday.
All itineraries and room types are presented subject to availability at specific hotels.
