The Orkney: West Mainland Semi-Private Day Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy the rich Neolithic heritage of this captivating Scottish archipelago. With a maximum of 8 participants, this small-group experience promises an intimate and engaging journey through some of the most significant archaeological sites in the region. From the enigmatic Unstan Chambered Cairn to the remarkably well-preserved Skara Brae, each stop on the itinerary promises to transport guests back in time, providing a deeper understanding of the islands’ ancient past. As the tour winds through the breathtaking coastal scenery, the knowledgeable guides‘ insightful commentary will leave you eager to uncover more about this remarkable destination.
Key Points
- This 4.5-hour tour offers an immersive exploration of Orkney’s Neolithic heritage, including guided visits to Unstan Tomb, Skara Brae, Ring of Brodgar, and more.
- The small-group experience (limited to 8 participants) is led by knowledgeable English-speaking guides and includes entry tickets to historic sites.
- Highlights include dramatic coastal scenery at Yesnaby Cliffs, the 4,500-year-old Ring of Brodgar, and the Standing Stones of Stenness, the oldest stone circle in the UK.
- The tour provides convenient transportation and return options, with a drop-off service available at the cruise ship port upon request.
- Customers highly rate the tour’s value for money, transportation, and the knowledgeable and engaging guides, with an overall rating of 4.9/5 from previous participants.
Tour Overview
The Orkney: West Mainland Semi-Private Day Tour offers an immersive 4.5-hour experience exploring the captivating landscapes and historic sites of Orkney’s West Mainland region.
Priced from $142.70 per person, this small-group tour is limited to just 8 participants and is led by knowledgeable English-speaking guides.
Highlights include guided visits to the Unstan Chambered Cairn, Skara Brae Neolithic village, and the Ring of Brodgar stone circle, as well as photo stops at the Yesnaby Cliffs and Standing Stones of Stenness.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, this tour is a convenient and flexible way to discover Orkney’s UNESCO-listed wonders.
Want to keep it personal? More private experiences we love in Kirkwall
Itinerary Highlights
Guided tours (15 minutes) invite visitors to explore the Unstan Chambered Cairn, a 5,000-year-old Neolithic burial monument.
Afterward, a photo stop (15 minutes) at the Yesnaby Cliffs showcases the dramatic coastal scenery.
The tour then delves into the highlights, including:
- An 85-minute guided tour of Skara Brae, the best-preserved Neolithic village in Northern Europe, dating back 5,000 years.
- A 30-minute guided exploration of the iconic 4,500-year-old Ring of Brodgar stone circle.
- A 15-minute photo stop at the Standing Stones of Stenness, believed to be the oldest stone circle in the UK.
- Scenic views of the historical naval base of Scapa Flow, which played a significant role in both World Wars.
Key Attractions
Boasting a rich Neolithic heritage, Orkney’s key attractions beckon visitors to step back in time.
The best-preserved Neolithic village in Northern Europe, Skara Brae, offers a glimpse into life 5,000 years ago. The iconic Ring of Brodgar, a 4,500-year-old stone circle, stands as an impressive testament to the island’s ancient past.
Nearby, the Standing Stones of Stenness are believed to be the oldest stone circle in the UK.
Beyond these prehistoric marvels, the scenic views of Scapa Flow, the historical naval base during both World Wars, and the dramatic cliffs and stunning coastal scenery provide a captivating backdrop to the tour.
Included Features
With the key attractions explored, the Orkney: West Mainland Semi-Private Day Tour ensures an immersive and seamless experience for visitors.
Travelers can enjoy clear guidance through an in-vehicle sound system, which enhances the commentary and insights shared by knowledgeable guides.
The tour also includes entry tickets to the historic sites, along with guided tours at Unstan Tomb, Skara Brae, and the Ring of Brodgar.
For added convenience, drop-off at the cruise ship port is available upon request.
While tips and food/drink aren’t included, this day tour offers an exceptional value for money, with a 4.3/5 rating on this metric from previous participants.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyCustomer Feedback
Travelers reviewing the Orkney: West Mainland Semi-Private Day Tour have overwhelmingly praised the experience, awarding it an impressive 4.9/5 overall rating based on 30 reviews.
Customers particularly highlighted the tour’s transportation, giving it a 4.8/5 rating. While the value for money was rated slightly lower at 4.3/5, reviews praised the knowledgeable guides, breathtaking scenery, and memorable experiences.
The tour’s inclusion of entry tickets, site guiding, and drop-off at cruise ship ports when required were also noted as major benefits.
Unstan Chambered Cairn
The Unstan Chambered Cairn, a 5,000-year-old Neolithic tomb, marks the starting point of the Orkney: West Mainland Semi-Private Day Tour.
Visitors are guided through this ancient monument, learning about its rich history and significance. The experience evokes a sense of wonder and connection to the past:
-
Visitors descend into the tomb’s passage, marveling at the intricate stone construction.
-
The guide explains how the tomb was used for ceremonial burials, offering a glimpse into Neolithic rituals.
-
Guests step inside the central burial chamber, surrounded by the immense age and mystique of the site.
-
The tour concludes with an appreciation for the enduring legacy of this remarkable Neolithic landmark.
Yesnaby Cliffs
From the Unstan Chambered Cairn, the tour continues to the dramatic Yesnaby Cliffs – a stunning natural wonder along Orkney’s west coast.
Towering sea cliffs plunge into the churning waves below, offering breathtaking views of the rugged landscape. The group stops for 15 minutes to marvel at the sheer rock faces, carved by centuries of relentless wind and water.
Visitors can see the unique geology and wildlife that thrive in this harsh, coastal environment. The photo stop allows time to capture the sweeping vistas before moving on to the next destination, the well-preserved Neolithic village of Skara Brae.
Return Options
At the conclusion of the tour, visitors have two convenient return options. Guests can either return to the Kirkwall Travel Centre or opt for drop-off at the cruise ship port. This flexibility ensures a seamless end to the day’s adventure.
The return options offer:
- A hassle-free journey back to the starting point.
- Direct transfer to the cruise ship for those arriving by sea.
- Elimination of the need to coordinate separate transportation.
- A stress-free conclusion to an immersive Orkney experience.
These thoughtful return arrangements complement the tour’s overall exceptional organization and customer service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Purchase Souvenirs at the Sites Visited?
While the tour itinerary does not explicitly mention souvenir purchasing opportunities, visitors can typically find local artisanal products and keepsakes for sale at the major historical sites like Skara Brae and the Ring of Brodgar.
Is the Tour Wheelchair/Disability Accessible?
The tour is partially accessible for wheelchair users and those with disabilities. The Unstan Tomb and Ring of Brodgar have paved paths, but Skara Brae’s rugged terrain may pose challenges. Visitors should contact the tour operator for specific accessibility details.
Can I Extend the Tour Duration if Needed?
Customers can extend the tour duration if needed, but they should check with the tour provider beforehand. Additional fees may apply, and the extension is subject to availability of the guide and transportation.
Are Any Dietary Requirements Accommodated?
The tour does not explicitly mention accommodating dietary requirements. As it is a semi-private tour, travelers would need to inform the operator of any special dietary needs in advance to see if they can be catered for.
What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Reschedule?
The tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for a full refund if the customer needs to reschedule. This provides flexibility and peace of mind for those who may need to change their plans.
Recap
The Orkney: West Mainland Semi-Private Day Tour offers a captivating journey through Orkney’s rich Neolithic heritage. With guided visits to significant sites, breathtaking coastal views, and knowledgeable commentary, this small-group experience provides an insightful exploration of the region’s ancient past. Included entry tickets and convenient drop-off options make it a comprehensive and hassle-free way to discover the remarkable cultural treasures of Orkney’s West Mainland.
You can check if your dates are available here: