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Written by Graham Smith, Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans, Karen Price
28/08/2025
Des Colhoun, Wikimedia Commons
Orkney offers a selection of quality hotels, from charming historic establishments in its main towns to tranquil retreats nestled by lochsides or coastlines, each providing a comfortable and authentic island experience.
1. The Kirkwall Hotel
Type: Hotel
This fine Victorian building sits directly on Kirkwall's waterfront, offering a comfortable and traditional base. Its atmospheric bar and restaurant serve local cuisine, and its central location makes it easy to explore shops, cafes, and local music spots, often leading to relaxed social encounters.
2. The Sands Hotel, Orkney
Type: Hotel
Perched along the shores of Scapa Flow in Burray, this hotel offers beautiful sea views and a peaceful retreat. With its welcoming staff, a bar, and a restaurant, it provides a relaxed setting perfect for unwinding after a day of island exploration.
3. Merkister Hotel
Type: Hotel
Nestled by the serene Harray Loch, this family-run hotel provides an exceptional escape with stunning loch views. Its on-site restaurant highlights local ingredients, including fresh fish, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere for enjoying authentic Orkney flavours.
4. The Storehouse
Type: Hotel with Restaurant
This hotel, a thoughtfully renovated traditional barn in Kirkwall, offers a blend of historic charm and modern comfort. Its innovative and popular restaurant is a highlight, deeply knowledgeable about local produce, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a culinary focus and a unique atmosphere.
At TFA Travel we believe in travel for all. Our mission is to enable people to explore the world as easily as possible without having to pay a travel agent a huge commission.
Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.