Orkney’s ancient wonders come alive on this immersive private tour. Set out on a captivating journey that showcases the area’s archaeological marvels. From dramatic coastal cliffs to prehistoric stone circles, uncover the rich heritage of this enchanting Scottish archipelago. With an expert local guide, explore these remarkable sites in just four hours. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a glimpse into Orkney’s past, this tour promises an unforgettable experience.
Key Points
- A private half-day tour from Kirkwall showcasing the historical and archaeological treasures of Orkney, including Yesnaby, Skara Brae, Ring of Brodgar, and Standing Stones of Stenness.
- The tour lasts four hours and includes transportation, entrance fees, and a professional local guide.
- Highlights include dramatic coastal landscapes, a guided tour of the well-preserved Stone Age settlement of Skara Brae, and explorations of significant prehistoric ceremonial sites.
- The tour is priced at $1,303.97 for up to four participants and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- The itinerary covers insights into geological formations, ancient rituals, and Neolithic community life, providing a comprehensive experience of Orkney’s treasures.
Tour Overview
This private half-day tour from Kirkwall showcases the Treasures of Orkney, offering a comprehensive exploration of the island’s renowned historical and archaeological sites.
Lasting four hours, the tour covers key highlights like Yesnaby’s dramatic coastline, the well-preserved Stone Age settlement of Skara Brae, the enigmatic Ring of Brodgar, and the ancient Standing Stones of Stenness.
With transportation, entrance fees, and a professional local guide included, this tour provides an immersive and informative experience.
Advance booking is recommended for the Skara Brae tickets.
The tour is priced at $1,303.97 per group of up to four participants and includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Prefer keeping things personal? Here are more private experiences we've reviewed in Kirkwall
Itinerary Highlights
The tour begins with a pickup from Kirkwall and ventures forth to explore several captivating sites.
Embarking from Kirkwall, the tour explores a captivating array of sites throughout the region.
First, visitors experience the dramatic coastal cliffs and sea stacks of Yesnaby, with a guided tour lasting 30 minutes.
Next, they visit Skara Brae, one of Europe’s best-preserved Stone Age settlements, for another 30-minute guided tour.
The tour then moves on to the Ring of Brodgar, a significant prehistoric ceremonial site, and the Standing Stones of Stenness, steeped in ancient lore, each with a 30-minute guided tour.
The tour culminates with a return to Kirkwall.
Yesnaby: Dramatic Coastal Wonders
Yesnaby’s dramatic coastal cliffs and sea stacks captivate visitors, offering a striking introduction to Orkney’s rugged natural beauty.
With the guide’s expertise, guests explore this remarkable landscape for two hours, learning about its geological formation and wildlife.
The guided tour lasts 30 minutes, during which visitors discover the power of the North Atlantic waves crashing against the craggy headlands.
Dramatic rock formations, sheltered inlets, and birdlife enchant the senses.
Whether marveling at the towering sea stacks or breathing in the salty, invigorating air, travelers depart Yesnaby with a deeper appreciation for Orkney’s untamed coastal splendor.
Skara Brae: Preserved Stone Age Settlement
One of Europe’s best-preserved Stone Age settlements, Skara Brae offers a captivating glimpse into the daily lives of Neolithic Orcadians.
As visitors stroll the ancient village, they’ll:
-
Marvel at the remarkably well-preserved stone houses, complete with beds, dressers, and hearths.
-
Imagine the community’s ancient rituals and traditions at the nearby Stenness Stones.
-
Gain insights into Stone Age technology, from ingenious drainage systems to sophisticated stone tools.
-
Ponder the mysteries surrounding the site’s sudden abandonment, leaving its story forever frozen in time.
Stepping into Skara Brae is like traveling back 5,000 years – an unparalleled archaeological treasure.
More Great Tours NearbyRing of Brodgar: Prehistoric Ceremonial Site
Nestled amid the scenic landscapes of Orkney, the Ring of Brodgar commands attention as one of the most significant prehistoric ceremonial sites in the region.
Part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Heart of Neolithic Orkney, the Ring of Brodgar consists of 27 surviving standing stones, originally numbering around 60.
Dating back to around 2500-2000 BC, the ring is thought to have been used for ceremonial purposes, with the stones aligned to the summer and winter solstices.
Visitors can explore the site on a guided tour, learning about its ancient history and architectural significance.
Standing Stones of Stenness: Ancient Lore and History
Steeped in ancient lore and history, the Standing Stones of Stenness command attention as another captivating prehistoric site within Orkney’s UNESCO World Heritage landscape.
Towering up to 6 meters tall, these monumental stones were erected around 3100 BC, predating even the famous Ring of Brodgar.
As part of the guided tour, visitors can:
-
Marvel at the sheer scale and presence of these magnificent megaliths.
-
Ponder their original purpose, which may have included ceremonial rituals and astronomical alignments.
-
Explore the nearby Barnhouse Settlement, offering a glimpse into Neolithic life.
-
Uncover the intriguing legends and myths surrounding this sacred place.
Tour Experience: Insights From a Local Guide
As visitors explore the ancient Stenness site, a knowledgeable local guide brings the stones to life with insightful commentary.
They learn about the stones’ mysterious origins and significance, uncovering the rich history and cultural importance of this ceremonial center.
The guide’s expertise sheds light on the astronomical alignments and ritual practices associated with the site, captivating guests with tales of the Neolithic inhabitants.
Inclusions and Customer Feedback
The tour includes a professional local guide, transportation, lunch, and entrance fees.
Customers have highly rated this tour, giving it an overall score of 4.6 out of 5 based on 7 reviews. Reviewers praised the knowledgeable and informative guide, with one stating "Daniel from E-Tour Orkney led our tour and did a great job showing us all the must-see sites."
Another noted, "Polite and informative guide; highly recommend booking this tour."
The tour provides:
-
Exploration of Yesnaby’s dramatic coastal cliffs and sea stacks.
-
A guided tour of the Stone Age settlement at Skara Brae.
-
Discovery of the prehistoric ceremonial site at the Ring of Brodgar.
-
Learning about the ancient lore of the Standing Stones of Stenness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?
The maximum group size for this tour is up to 4 participants. The tour is offered as a private experience, allowing a small group to explore the Orkney Isles’ treasures with a local guide.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
There’s no option to extend the tour duration. The tour is a private half-day experience that lasts 4 hours. Extending the duration would require booking a separate tour or making additional arrangements with the tour provider.
Are There Any Additional Costs Not Included in the Price?
The price includes the professional local tour guide, transportation, lunch, and entrance fees. There are no additional costs mentioned in the overview, though visitors may want to budget for personal expenses or optional activities not covered by the tour.
Can the Tour Be Customized for Specific Interests?
The tour can be customized to suit specific interests. Travelers can discuss their preferences with the tour provider and request adjustments to the itinerary or pace of the tour within the four-hour duration.
Are There Any Dietary Accommodations Available for the Lunch?
The tour includes lunch, but dietary accommodations can be arranged with advance notice. Customers should contact the tour provider to discuss any specific dietary needs or preferences prior to the tour.
The Sum Up
The "Treasures of Orkney: Private Half-Day Tour From Kirkwall" offers a captivating exploration of Orkney’s historic wonders. Visitors can discover the dramatic coastal scenery of Yesnaby, the well-preserved Stone Age settlement of Skara Brae, and the enigmatic prehistoric sites of the Ring of Brodgar and Standing Stones of Stenness. With a knowledgeable local guide, transportation, and entrance fees included, this tour provides an immersive glimpse into Orkney’s rich heritage in just four hours.
You can check availability for your dates here: