Orkney Mainland Private Tour

Orkney Mainland is a captivating archipelago with a rich history spanning over 5,000 years. A private tour led by local expert Paul promises an immersive journey through this incredible landscape. Visitors can expect to explore the iconic Italian Chapel, take in panoramic views of Scapa Flow, and indulge in a local lunch featuring regional cuisine. Aboard an eco-friendly Mercedes Evito, this tour offers a sustainable way to discover Orkney’s diverse wildlife and uncover the secrets of its past. With comfort and expertise at the forefront, this experience promises to be both memorable and enlightening.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Tours In Scotland.

Good To Know

• A full-day private tour of the Orkney Islands showcasing the region’s history, natural beauty, and local food production.
• Led by an expert local guide, Paul, who specializes in wildlife and food manufacturing.
• Highlights include visiting the Italian Chapel and exploring the panoramic Scapa Flow.
• Eco-friendly transportation via an all-electric Mercedes Evito ensures a comfortable and sustainable experience.
• Includes a local lunch featuring regional cuisine and opportunities to learn about Orkney’s 5,000-year history.

Tour Overview

The Orkney Mainland Private Tour offers travelers a chance to explore the rich history and natural beauty of Scotland’s Orkney Islands.

This full-day tour boasts a 5.0-star rating based on 32 reviews, with all travelers recommending the experience.

Led by a local guide, Paul, who’s passionate about wildlife and food manufacturing, the tour provides insight into Orkney’s history spanning over 5,000 years, wildlife spotting, and local food production.

The eco-friendly, all-electric Mercedes Evito ensures a comfortable journey around the islands’ highlights, including the ornate Italian Chapel and the panoramic Scapa Flow, a significant site during both World Wars.

Tour Experience

On this full-day tour, travelers can expect an immersive experience that delves into Orkney’s rich history, diverse wildlife, and local food production.

The tour is led by Paul, a passionate local guide with expertise in these areas.

The itinerary includes:

1. Exploring the Italian Chapel, an ornate chapel built by Italian prisoners of war during World War II.
2. Taking a panoramic route around Scapa Flow, the world’s largest natural harbor with significant historical importance.
3. Visiting additional notable sites to further uncover Orkney’s 5,000-year-old history.
4. Enjoying a local lunch at a typical eatery, providing a chance to sample the region’s culinary offerings.

The tour uses an all-electric Mercedes Evito for maximum comfort and eco-friendliness.

Itinerary Highlights

One of the highlights of the Orkney Mainland Private Tour is the guided visit to the Italian Chapel. Guests will spend around 30 minutes exploring this ornate chapel, which was built by Italian prisoners of war during World War II.

The chapel’s intricate decorations and paintings showcase the prisoners’ ingenuity and determination to create a sacred space amidst the harsh conditions of captivity.

Another notable stop is the panoramic route around Scapa Flow, the world’s largest natural harbor, which played a significant role in both World Wars.

The tour offers visitors a chance to learn about Orkney’s rich history spanning over 5,000 years and experience the island’s wildlife and local food production.

Inclusions and Costs

The Orkney Mainland Private Tour includes several key inclusions, with site entrance fees for Skara Brae (£12/person) and the Italian Chapel (£3.50/person) covered.

Lunch at a local eatery is also provided, typically costing around £10-£20. Gratuities are at the guest’s discretion.

The total tour price starts from $307.83, making it a comprehensive experience that showcases Orkney’s history, wildlife, and local food production.

Key inclusions are:

1. Site entrance fees
2. Lunch at a local eatery
3. Gratuities (optional)
4. Total tour price from $307.83

Meeting and Accessibility

For the Orkney Mainland Private Tour, pickup is available from various points on the Orkney Mainland or a meeting point at the Kirkwall Hotel (KW15 1LE, UK).

The tour starts at a time confirmed with the local provider. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate.

The tour operates daily from January 17, 2023, to October 22, 2025, between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM.

Cancellation Policy

Regarding the cancellation policy, this Orkney Mainland Private Tour is non-refundable. No refund will be provided if you cancel your booking. This policy is in place to ensure the local provider can adequately plan and prepare for the tour.

Consider the following when booking:

1. Cancellations aren’t permitted.
2. No refunds will be issued for any reason.
3. The tour is non-transferable to another date or individual.
4. It’s essential to carefully review the schedule and ensure you can attend on the selected date before confirming your booking.

Exploring Orkney’s History

On the Orkney Mainland Private Tour, visitors can explore over 5,000 years of history.

The tour guide, Paul, a local with a passion for wildlife and food manufacturing, brings Orkney’s past to life. Highlights include a guided tour of the ornate Italian Chapel, built by Italian prisoners of war during World War II.

Travelers also explore Scapa Flow, the world’s largest natural harbor, which played a significant role in both world wars.

With additional stops at notable historic sites, the tour offers a comprehensive insight into Orkney’s rich heritage, from ancient Neolithic settlements to 20th-century military history.

Discovering Local Wildlife and Food

Alongside Orkney’s captivating history, the Mainland Private Tour offers visitors the chance to discover the island’s diverse wildlife and local food production.

Led by Paul, a knowledgeable local guide, the tour showcases the Orkney’s natural wonders. Guests may spot seabirds, seals, and other marine life while exploring the scenic Scapa Flow.

The tour also delves into the island’s thriving food industry, highlighting:

1. Dairy farming and cheese production
2. Seafood harvesting and processing
3. Distilleries crafting renowned Orkney whiskies
4. Bakeries baking traditional Orkney fare

Through this immersive experience, travelers gain a deeper appreciation for the region’s rich natural and culinary heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, guests can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, a local eatery lunch is typically included in the tour price, offering an opportunity to sample the region’s cuisine.

Is There an Option to Customize the Itinerary?

The tour operator typically provides a set itinerary, but they may be willing to customize it upon request. Travelers should inquire about any flexibility in the itinerary when booking the tour.

How Many People Can Be Accommodated in the Tour Van?

The tour van can accommodate up to 6 passengers comfortably. It’s an all-electric Mercedes Evito, providing a comfortable and eco-friendly experience for the private group.

Is Wi-Fi Available During the Tour?

The tour does not mention any availability of Wi-Fi during the tour. As the tour focuses on exploring the natural and historical sites of Orkney Mainland, it’s likely that Wi-Fi access may not be provided or a priority for the tour experience.

Can I Book a Private Tour for My Group?

Yes, private tours can be booked for groups. The tour provider offers a full-day private tour that provides transportation, guides, and access to key sites, allowing for a personalized experience.

The Sum Up

Discover the captivating history, stunning landscapes, and local cuisine of Orkney Mainland on this immersive private tour. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this sustainable excursion offers an unforgettable opportunity to explore the archipelago’s rich heritage and diverse wildlife. From the iconic Italian Chapel to the panoramic views of Scapa Flow, this tour promises an unforgettable and authentic experience in this remarkable corner of Scotland.