If you’ve been dreaming of exploring the rugged beauty and fascinating history of the Orkney Islands, this private tour offers a chance to do so with personalized attention and authentic local insights. While we haven’t taken this specific journey ourselves, the detailed reviews and itinerary reveal a thoughtfully curated experience that promises both highlights and off-the-beaten-path discoveries.
What we love about this tour? First, the flexibility to craft a trip tailored to your interests — whether you want to focus on iconic sites or hidden treasures. Second, the chance to explore at a relaxed pace, avoiding crowds and soaking in the islands’ unique atmosphere. Third, the commitment of the local guides, who are trained and award-winning, ensuring you get genuine knowledge and friendly service.
One possible consideration? The price point, which might seem high at $1,548 for a group of up to 8, but it reflects exclusivity, personalized attention, and the deep local expertise you’ll receive. This experience is best suited for travelers who value bespoke adventures and are eager to discover the authentic, lesser-known sides of Orkney, beyond the typical tour routes.
Good To Know
- Personalized, flexible itineraries tailored to your interests
- Comfortable transportation for small groups up to 8 people
- Exclusive access to hidden gems and UNESCO World Heritage sites
- Local award-winning guides provide authentic insights
- Ideal for travelers seeking a private, relaxed exploration
- Full day of discovery with options to customize visits
An In-Depth Look at the Orkney Private Tour
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What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
The hallmark of this experience is its customizability. Unlike cookie-cutter group excursions, your guide in the minibus will work with you on the day to focus on what interests you most. The guide, who is part of an award-winning team, is dedicated to offering a truly authentic perspective on the islands’ 8,500-year-old archaeological sites, scenic landscapes, and local stories.
The small group size (up to 8 guests) creates an intimate atmosphere, allowing for more personalized attention and flexibility. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just eager to enjoy island scenery without the hustle of larger tours, this experience adapts to your pace and preferences.
What’s Included?
The main draw is the private guided tour with transportation in a comfortable minibus. This vehicle is well-suited for small groups, offering a cozy, relaxed ride across the islands’ sometimes rugged terrain. The tour includes visits to sites of your choosing and guided insights that bring the places alive.
The tour also features custom itineraries, which can be adjusted on the day. This means if a particular site sparks your interest or if weather conditions influence your plans, your guide will adapt accordingly. All this adds up to a richer, more personalized experience than a typical group bus tour.
Pickup and Drop-off Options
You can choose from three convenient pickup locations: Kirkwall, Saint Margaret’s Hope, or Stromness. The same applies for drop-off, giving you flexibility depending on where you’re staying or planning to explore afterward. The ease of pickup and drop-off is especially helpful in reducing transit stress and maximizing your time on the islands.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyDetailed Breakdown of the Itinerary
First Stop: Strategic Pickups
Depending on your location, your guide will collect you from one of the three designated spots. The tour then sets off through the scenic landscapes of Orkney, heading towards sites that match your interests.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
One of the key highlights is the visit to the Heart of Orkney UNESCO World Heritage Site. This area encompasses some of the most significant prehistoric monuments, including stone circles, burial chambers, and ancient villages. The site is over 8,500 years old, making it an extraordinary open-air museum.
Guests typically comment on the profound sense of history, with one reviewer noting the guide’s knowledge in bringing the ancient structures to life. You might find yourself walking among stones that have stood for millennia, contemplating the lives of early settlers and their spiritual practices.
Hidden Gems and Off-the-Beaten-Path Sites
Beyond the UNESCO highlights, this tour’s real charm lies in its discovery of lesser-known sites. Your guide is eager to show you the islands’ hidden corners — secluded beaches, ancient ruins, or quiet coastal villages that most visitors miss. As one reviewer mentioned, the guide “accommodated individual requests”, which means you could spend extra time exploring a scenic coastal walk or visiting a small local museum.
Exploring the Islands
Your journey may include visits to some of the 74 islands that make up the archipelago, depending on your interests and time. The flexible nature of the trip means you could spend longer in areas that captivate you, whether it’s a historic harbor or a scenic viewpoint.
Duration and Pacing
The tour lasts around 7 hours, making it perfect for a full-day adventure. The timing can be checked for availability and adjusted to fit your travel plans. Reviewers appreciated the relaxed pace, which allows for meaningful exploration rather than rushed sightseeing.
Transportation and Comfort
Traveling in a comfortable minibus creates a cozy environment for your group, with ample room for gear, cameras, and personal belongings. The vehicle’s size ensures you’ll have a smooth ride over some of the more uneven island roads, and the quiet, private setting fosters good conversation and reflection.
The Guide’s Role
The local guide is a highlight of this experience. One reviewer noted, “the guide was very nice and accommodated our individual requests,” hinting at a friendly, flexible approach. Guides often share stories, answer questions, and tailor the experience to suit your interests, making this more than just a sightseeing drive.
Flexibility and Customization
Unlike standard tours, this private experience can be tailored on the day. Whether you want to focus on archaeological sites, scenic vistas, or local stories, your guide will adapt accordingly. This flexibility ensures you get maximum value and enjoyment from your time.
Pricing and Value
At $1,548 for a group of up to 8, this tour might seem steep, but it’s important to view it as an investment in a personalized, high-quality experience. For travelers seeking exclusivity, deeper insights, and the freedom to explore at their own pace, the cost translates into added comfort, flexibility, and authenticity.
The inclusions — guided visits, transportation, and a custom itinerary — mean you won’t be rushing from place to place or paying extra for entrance fees or meals. Keep in mind that meals and entrance fees are not included, so budget accordingly if you wish to visit specific attractions or dine during the day.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is ideal for travelers who prioritize personalized exploration over large group tours. It suits those with a curiosity for history, archaeology, and scenic landscapes, and who want to avoid the crowds while discovering the islands’ authentic charm.
Final Thoughts
In summary, this private Orkney tour offers a flexible, intimate, and knowledge-rich way to uncover the archipelago’s treasures. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone eager for a tailored adventure, you’ll appreciate the personalized itinerary, comfortable transportation, and local expertise.
It’s especially appealing if you’re seeking a relaxed pace and the chance to explore hidden corners of Orkney that most visitors never see. The high level of customization and the involvement of an award-winning guide make this experience stand out among other tours. While the cost may be a consideration, the exclusive access, bespoke approach, and authentic insights offer genuine value for those looking to truly connect with the islands.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
If you value private, flexible, and meaningful experiences and are willing to invest in a memorable exploration of Orkney, this tour is worth considering. It’s perfect for couples, small groups of friends, or families who want to create their own adventure in a stunning and historically significant part of Scotland.
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the private and flexible nature of the tour makes it suitable for most age groups, especially since you can tailor stops and pacing to your preferences.
How long is the tour and what’s the start time?
The tour lasts about 7 hours, and availability differs by day. Check with the provider for specific starting times when you book.
What is included in the price?
You get a private guided tour, transportation in a comfortable minibus, and a personalized itinerary. Entrance fees, meals, and drinks are not included.
Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. The guide is very flexible and will adapt the day’s plan based on your interests and requests.
Where can I be picked up and dropped off?
You can choose from Kirkwall, Saint Margaret’s Hope, or Stromness for pickup and drop-off, making it convenient no matter where you’re staying.
Are there any restrictions I should know?
Smoking and consuming food or drinks in the vehicle are not allowed. Bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and water for your comfort.
Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
While designed for groups up to 8, solo travelers can join if they’re comfortable with a small group setting, or they may prefer booking a private tour for full customization.
This private tour of Orkney combines comfort, flexibility, and local expertise to give you an authentic experience of this captivating archipelago. Whether you’re seeking History, scenic beauty, or hidden gems, it promises a memorable day tailored just for you.
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