Orkney Mainland Private Tour

Traveling through Orkney’s stunning landscapes and ancient sites in just a day sounds ambitious, but this private tour makes it both manageable and deeply rewarding. Led by local guide Paul, who combines a genuine love for the islands’ wildlife, food, and history, this seven-hour journey promises a balanced mix of iconic sights, stories, and flavors. The use of a luxurious electric Mercedes adds a peaceful, eco-conscious touch, ensuring you travel quietly while soaking in the views.

What really makes this tour shine is Paul’s personal touch and expertise. From his background running a food business to his passion for wildlife, every stop feels thoughtfully curated. However, with so many sites crammed into one day, you’ll want to be prepared for a busy schedule. This experience suits travelers who enjoy learning from a lively local guide, appreciate quality attention, and want a taste of Orkney’s highlights without sacrificing comfort.

Key Points
– Expert local guide provides rich stories and insights at every stop
– Comfortable electric vehicle ensures a smooth, eco-friendly ride
– Visits to major sites like Skara Brae, Ring of Brodgar, and Brough of Birsay
– An authentic taste of local food treats and wildlife spotting
– Suitable for those with limited time but wanting a comprehensive taste of Orkney
– Not ideal for travelers looking for a very relaxed pace or extensive free time

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This Orkney Mainland Private Tour is designed for travelers who want a balance of history, nature, and local culture packed into one manageable day. The fact that it’s private means your group gets personalized attention, and the guide’s passion shines through in every story. Paul’s dual roles as a guide and a local food producer mean you’ll get genuine insights into what makes Orkney’s food scene so renowned, alongside its ancient sites.

Another strong point is the sustainable approach—traveling in a silent, all-electric Mercedes Evito, you’ll experience the scenery in peace, with a light footprint. The focus on renewable energy and local food makes this a tour that aligns with eco-conscious travelers’ values.

Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll See and Experience

Stop 1: The Italian Chapel

Your journey begins with a visit to the Italian Chapel, a strikingly ornate structure built by Italian prisoners of war during WWII. The guide will give you a guided tour of this remarkable site, explaining its history and unique architecture. For many, this site offers a poignant glimpse into wartime life and the resilience of those involved. The admission fee of £3.50 is included, making it a straightforward start to the day.

Stop 2: Scapa Flow

Next, you’ll enjoy a panoramic drive around Scapa Flow, the largest natural harbor in the world. Known historically for its naval significance, especially during the world wars, this body of water is rich with stories. The Vikings called it Skalpai Floi, and the landscape still echoes those ancient times. As you ride along, your guide might point out key features and explain why this site remains central to Orkney’s maritime identity. This is also a great chance for wildlife spotting, with seabirds and possibly seals seen from the vehicle.

Stop 3: Standing Stones of Stenness

The tour continues to the Standing Stones of Stenness, a site dating back to 3100 BC. The guide will lead you through the stones, sharing insights into their purpose and the people who erected them. It’s a powerful reminder of the long-standing human presence on the islands. Expect to spend about 30 minutes here, soaking in the ancient atmosphere.

Stop 4: Ring of Brodgar

Just a short walk from Stenness, the Ring of Brodgar is a spectacular Neolithic stone circle. Originally comprising about 60 stones, only 27 remain today, but the scale and symmetry are impressive. The site is also a haven for birdwatching, with curlews, oyster catchers, and skylarks often seen around the stones. Spending about an hour here allows plenty of time for photos, wildlife spotting, and contemplating the mysteries of prehistoric life.

Stop 5: Skara Brae

Arguably the highlight for many, Skara Brae is a well-preserved Neolithic village, almost 5,000 years old. The tour includes a guided walk around the site, plus a mock-up of a typical Neolithic house, which helps bring the ancient settlement to life. The panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean add a dramatic backdrop. At 1 hour 30 minutes, this stop allows for a thorough exploration, and the included admission fee of £12 ensures you won’t miss out on the detailed exhibits.

Stop 6: Brough of Birsay

Depending on the tidal times, your guide will take you to the Brough of Birsay, accessible only at low tide via a causeway. This island hosts a Pictish and Viking settlement from the 7th-13th centuries, blending history with stunning coastal scenery. Expect about 1 hour here, with views over the coastline and a chance to learn about Orkney’s early inhabitants.

Stop 7: Scenic Drive & Local Lunch Break

The final part of your day involves traveling between sites in the electric vehicle, giving you the chance to relax while taking in the picturesque scenery. You’ll have 2 hours to grab a quick lunch at a local eatery—priced around £10-£20—and enjoy some downtime. Paul is happy to recommend spots and answer questions, making this a flexible, casual break.

Why This Tour Is Excellent Value

While the price of $322.56 per person might seem steep at first glance, it includes all site entrance fees at Skara Brae and the Italian Chapel. The private nature means you won’t be part of a large busload, and the personalized attention from Paul adds significant value—his knowledge about wildlife, local stories, and modern Orkney industries enriches the experience.

Traveling in a luxury electric vehicle enhances comfort, especially considering the potentially long drives between sites. The environmental benefits also resonate with eco-conscious travelers, adding a feel-good element to your sightseeing.

Authentic Experiences & Insights from Reviewers

One reviewer praised Paul’s personable and engaging manner, noting that “we learned so much at each site.” His passion for wildlife means you might find yourself spotting curlews or oyster catchers while exploring the stone circles or the coastline. Guests also appreciated the local food treats included in the tour, which offer a taste of Orkney’s thriving food industry—a highlight for those interested in authentic, local flavors.

Another reviewer specifically loved the addition of St. Magnus Cathedral stories, which shows Paul’s ability to weave personal anecdotes into the historical narrative. The attention to detail and the passion for local culture make this tour stand out.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for history buffs, nature lovers, and those keen to understand local culture and industry. It’s suited for travelers who prefer small, private groups or personalized guides, and who want a comprehensive day without the hassle of planning logistics. Those with limited time in Orkney will appreciate how much ground you cover, but be prepared for a busy schedule.

The Sum Up

This Orkney Mainland Private Tour offers a well-rounded, engaging experience that balances ancient sites, natural beauty, and local flavor. Led by a passionate guide who is genuinely invested in sharing his knowledge, it’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking authenticity and comfort in equal measure. The use of eco-friendly transport, the inclusion of key historic sites, and the opportunity to taste local treats all add up to a memorable day.

While it may be a bit intensive, especially if you prefer a more leisurely pace, the tour’s depth and personal touch compensate for that. It’s a great option for curious adventurers who want an authentic, well-informed introduction to Orkney.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all age groups?
Yes, most travelers can participate, as the sites are accessible and the pace manageable. However, younger children should be prepared for a full day of sightseeing and walking.

What is included in the tour price?
All site entrance fees at Skara Brae and the Italian Chapel are included. The tour also provides a private guide and transportation in an electric Mercedes vehicle.

Can I buy lunch during the tour?
Lunch is not included, but you’ll have time to stop at a local eatery, with typical prices around £10-£20. Paul can recommend good spots.

Are the site visits guided?
Yes, every stop has a guided component, particularly at important sites like Skara Brae and Brough of Birsay, with insights from Paul.

How long are the drives between sites?
The tour spends about 2 hours traveling between key sites, comfortably seated in the electric vehicle while enjoying the scenery.

What is the cancellation policy?
The tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed. If canceled due to minimum booking requirements not being met, a full refund or alternative date will be offered.

Are there any accessibility considerations?
Most travelers can participate, but specific site access might vary, especially at Brough of Birsay, depending on tidal conditions.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book about 141 days ahead, reflecting its popularity among visitors wanting a comprehensive and intimate experience.

If you’re visiting Orkney and want a day packed with history, wildlife, and local flavors, this private tour offers a comfortable, insightful, and eco-conscious way to see the best of the islands with a local expert.