Scapa Tours

Discovering Orkney with Scapa Tours: An In-Depth Review

When it comes to exploring the rugged beauty and ancient mysteries of Orkney, a private tour with Scapa Tours offers a personalized way to see some of the most iconic sights along with hidden gems. Priced at $236.95 per person and lasting around 4.5 hours, this tour is perfect for those who want flexibility, comfort, and a deep dive into the history and landscape of this fascinating part of Scotland. Guides like Donna have garnered praise for their friendly, knowledgeable approach—making the experience not just informative but genuinely enjoyable.

What we love most about this tour is its customizability—the guide is willing to adjust the itinerary based on your interests. Plus, the small-group or private setup ensures a relaxed atmosphere where you can soak in the scenery without feeling rushed or lost in a crowd. Another highlight is the balanced mix of archaeological sites and breathtaking coastal views—you get a glimpse of ancient history and stunning natural beauty all in one.

One thing to consider is that lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to plan ahead if you’re hungry, though the guide can recommend local cafes. Also, a moderate level of physical fitness is advised, especially if you plan to explore walking to Yesnaby Castle or similar sites. This tour suits travelers who crave an authentic, flexible, and educational experience with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and tailor their day.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

If you’re passionate about prehistoric sites and natural landscapes, this tour is an ideal choice. History buffs will appreciate the chance to stand among the Standing Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Nature lovers will love the coastal views at Yesnaby Cliffs, and those interested in Scottish craftsmanship can enjoy a visit to the Scapa Distillery. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer the intimacy of a private guide over a large bus tour, and for those wanting to customize their experience.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Tailors to your interests with flexible stops and timing.
• Rich Historical Sites: Visits to Neolithic monuments and Skara Brae offer a deep sense of ancient life.
• Spectacular Coastal Views: Yesnaby Cliffs and surrounding scenery make for unforgettable photo opportunities.
• Local Craftsmanship: Optional visit to Scapa Distillery introduces you to regional spirits.
• Comfort & Convenience: Private transportation and pick-up/drop-off options simplify logistics.
• Value for Money: All major admission fees for sites like Skara Brae are included, making it a worthwhile investment.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Start: Convenient Pickup and Personalized Approach

Your journey begins at the VisitScotland Kirkwall iCentre. From here, you’ll step into a private vehicle, which means no noisy bus or crowded group—just you and your guide, ready to explore at your pace. The flexibility to start and end where you choose, along with pick-up and drop-off options, makes this tour especially convenient if you’re staying locally or have specific plans afterward.

Ancient Monuments: Standing Stones and Neolithic Villages

The first stops are the Standing Stones of Stenness and the nearby Barnhouse Neolithic village. Standing stones like these, erected roughly 5400 years ago, are among the earliest stone circles in Britain. As you walk around, you’ll notice the simplicity yet profound significance of these massive stones, which still evoke a sense of awe.

Just north of the stones, the Barnhouse Village gives you a window into early life. Unlike Skara Brae, which is more famous, Barnhouse was in use for only a few centuries, between 3115 BC and 2875 BC, offering a more intimate look into a brief but impactful settlement period. Your guide can share insights into what life might have been like for these early inhabitants.

Next, you’ll visit the Ring of Brodgar, the largest stone circle on Orkney and part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built around 2500 BC to 2000 BC, the stones remain standing amid the expansive landscape, creating a powerful visual connection to ancient ceremonial practices. Many visitors find the size and symmetry of this site extraordinary, especially given its age—about 5,000 years older than Stonehenge.

Skara Brae: An Unmatched Window into Prehistory

The highlight for many is the visit to Skara Brae, the best-preserved Neolithic settlement in Western Europe. With your included admission, you can explore 9 houses that reveal how early communities lived—fireplaces, furniture, even storage areas. It’s a remarkable chance to walk through structures that have survived for over 4,000 years, giving you a vivid sense of prehistoric daily life.

Adjacent to Skara Brae is Skaill House, a 17th-century mansion that offers a different slice of history—adding depth to your understanding of Orkney’s layered past. The guide can provide context about how these sites fit into the broader landscape of prehistoric Britain.

Coastal Beauty and Unique Landmarks: Yesnaby Cliffs and Castle Walks

The tour then takes you to the Yesnaby Cliffs, where the sheer cliffs dramatically drop into the sea. Here, you can enjoy spectacular views and a chance to see sea and bird life—think puffins, gannets, and perhaps even seals.

For the adventurous, a walk to Yesnaby Castle, a delicate sea stack, is optional. Be aware that the terrain can be uneven and potentially slippery, so you’ll want to proceed with caution. These coastal landscapes are perfect for photography or just soaking in the feeling of standing on the edge of the world.

Scorradale Road provides another quick photo stop with panoramic views of Hoy Hills, Stromness, and Scapa Flow. It’s a brief but worthwhile chance to capture the essence of Orkney’s rugged coast.

Cultural Touch: The Italian Chapel and Local Spirits

A short 25-minute drive from Orphir brings you to the Italian Chapel, a unique WWII monument. Built by Italian prisoners of war from scrap materials, this small chapel is a testament to resilience and creativity, and your included ticket means you can walk inside and admire the craftsmanship.

For those interested in local flavors, an optional visit to Scapa Distillery offers a chance to sample regional spirits. While this is an optional add-on, it’s a lovely way to end the day, supporting local artisans and understanding a bit more about Orkney’s contemporary culture.

Practical Details and Comfort

Throughout your tour, bottled water is provided, and emergency weather wear and midge repellent are available if needed. The private transportation ensures a comfortable, stress-free experience, and the small-group or private format heightens the feeling of a personalized adventure.

The Value of a Private, Tailored Tour

Compared to larger bus tours, the private nature of this experience means you can spend as much or as little time at each site as you like. Donna’s reputation as a knowledgeable guide shines through, with reviews highlighting her ability to share engaging stories and insights. The fact that admission fees for Skara Brae are included adds to the value, saving you both time and money.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for history enthusiasts, especially those interested in Neolithic Britain. If you love natural landscapes but want the comfort of a tailored experience, this tour fits the bill. It’s perfect for travellers who prefer a more intimate, flexible approach over crowded group excursions. The optional visits, like the distillery or walking to the sea stack, cater to those who enjoy personalized adventures.

Travelers with moderate mobility will find the itinerary manageable, but those with walking difficulties should communicate with the guide for adjustments. Overall, if you value a blend of prehistoric sites, scenic coastlines, and local culture, this private tour will likely hit the right notes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours 30 minutes, providing a relaxed pace that allows ample time at each site.

Is transportation included?
Yes, private transportation is included, which makes traveling between sites comfortable and convenient.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. The guide is happy to adjust stops based on your preferences or specific sites you wish to see that aren’t listed.

What is the cost per person?
Price is $236.95 per person, which includes admission fees for Skara Brae and the Italian Chapel.

Are meals included?
No, lunch isn’t included but can be arranged at your request. The guide can recommend local cafes where you can expect to spend no more than £38.

What should I wear?
Bring weather-appropriate clothing, including emergency weather gear and midge repellent if you’re visiting during the warmer months.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, but if you have walking difficulties, let the guide know so adjustments can be made.

What kind of guide will I have?
Expect a friendly, knowledgeable guide—like Donna—who will share insights and answer questions throughout the tour.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a personalized, informative, and scenic way to explore Orkney’s most famous sites and beautiful coastlines, this private tour from Scapa Taxis offers excellent value. It provides the perfect balance of prehistoric intrigue, natural beauty, and local culture, all in a comfortable, flexible format. Travel at your own pace, ask questions, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with having a dedicated guide by your side.

Ideal for history buffs, nature lovers, or anyone seeking a more intimate connection with Orkney, this tour ensures you won’t just see the sights—you’ll experience them. Whether you’re visiting for a day or want a deeper understanding of Orkney’s past and present, this trip has the potential to be a highlight of your Scottish adventure.

Note: Always confirm your booking and discuss any special needs or interests with the tour provider to ensure a smooth, memorable experience.