Orkney Guided Walking with Sightseeing

2027 dates available Early Booking Offer

7 nights accommodation

Availability Aug-Sep 2026, Apr-Sep 2027

2 Itineraries available

Full Board

Grades 2 details

262kg CO2 details

Non-members From

£2,129

pp

Members From

£2,099

pp

For group booking of 10 or more please click here
For anyone easily seduced by big skies, sea views, and wide-open spaces, Orkney is always a good idea. Scattered off Scotland’s northeast coast, this wild windswept archipelago offers a far-from-it-all feel just a skip away from the mainland. Discover squawking seabird colonies, staggering scenery, and some of the best-preserved Neolithic ruins in Europe as you island hop between Mainland, Hoy, South Ronaldsay, and Birsay on this seven-night guided walking holiday.

Accommodation

A range of handpicked hotels...
We’ve had a long love affair with Orkney’s family-run Merkister Hotel, not least for its enviable setting on the shores of Harray Loch. It’s just six miles from Skara Brae and has an award-winning restaurant overlooking the loch, serving outstanding Scottish seafood and Aberdeen Angus beef. Rooms are simple but homely and all come with TV and tea and coffee making facilities. You’ll find comfortable public areas with free Wi-Fi, as well as a cosy bar, and handy drying facilities, too. This hotel is dog-friendly so you may meet four legged friends in some of the communal areas.
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Walking grades and options

This Orkney Guided Walking with Sightseeing holiday is graded 2, which means our walks are pretty leisurely and don’t involve any great ascents/descents in a day. Length of walks varies from approx. 4 miles (7km) to 6 miles (10km). Some of the paths however can be rough underfoot and the weather can be pretty blustery, making walking on wild days a little more difficult than the grade would suggest. It is your responsibility to ensure you have the relevant fitness required to join this holiday. Minibus transportation is booked for our specific itinerary transportation needs, and it will very likely not be possible for guests to stay with the minibus, or there may not be shelter or a place to rest if you prefer not to join the walk or take a break during the day. Please be sure you can manage the daily mileage and ascent as noted in the itinerary. The walking day is normally 4 to 6 hours with plenty of sightseeing included too.

It makes a lot of sense to spend time getting some additional exercise before your holiday. We suggest that you try to fit in a number of longer walks. Other exercises such as cycling, jogging and swimming are also excellent for developing increased stamina. Should you have any queries regarding the suitability of this trip for you, please feel free to reach out to our team.


What You’ll Love

  • Exploring the Orcadian archipelago on coastal walks
  • Visiting some of the best prehistoric archaeological sites in Europe
  • Taking in Orkney’s sea cliffs and sandy shores
  • Spotting wildlife including seals and seabirds
  • Staying on the shores of Harray Loch
  • A more personalised experience thanks to small group sizes (maximum 15 people)

What's Included

  • Entrance to Skara Brae, Maes Howe archaeological sites, the Italian Chapel, and the Fossil & Heritage Museum
  • Comfortable en-suite rooms in our partner accommodation(s)
  • Cooked or continental breakfast every morning
  • Daily packed lunches
  • Three-course evening meals, plus tea & coffee
  • Guided walks with an experienced HF Holidays Leader
  • All transport to and from walks where necessary
  • Return flights including hold baggage and airport transfers

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Itinerary

All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. While we make every effort to adhere to the described itinerary, we may take alternative routes or adapt the running order for weather and/or operational reasons.

Island Hopping

Arrive on Orkney and settle in to the Merkister Hotel. Your leader will be in reception at 18:30 to give you a quick introduction to the holiday before dinner.

Please note the running order of your itinerary may change, the leader will confirm the exact running order while introducing the holiday.

 

Our first walk on Orkney follows a clifftop coastal path from Marwick Bay to the Brough of Birsay, overlooking RSPB Marwick Head reserve. If tide times allow, we'll head over to explore the tidal island of Birsay and its remains of Pitish & Norse settlements. If the causeway is covered, wildlife watching on this coastline is superb and there's plenty to discover about the history of the island’s fishing and whaling industries, too. In the afternoon we’ll visit Maes Howe, one of the most treasured Neolithic sites in Europe. This mysterious tomb was built from huge sandstone blocks over 5,000 years ago and aligns perfectly with the winter solstice – testament to an advanced knowledge of astronomy by its architects.

 4 miles (7km) with 510ft (160m) of ascent

One of the most beautiful and rugged of the islands, Hoy is much more akin to the Scottish Highlands than the rolling countryside and crofts of the other islands. Today’s walk takes us to the famous sea stack known as the Old Man of Hoy before returning to Rackwick Bay. 

6 miles (9.5km) with 700ft (210m) of ascent

Today we visit the Orcadian capital, Kirkwall. Enjoy a guided tour of the town to hear tales of Viking settlers and shipwrecks or explore independently. Visit the Kirkwall Museum and St Magnus cathedral, stop by a whisky distillery, or spend time exploring the craft and coffee shops of the town. 

A historical town trail and a coastal walk are on offer today, both together totalling 6 miles (9.5km) with little ascent

A superb coastal trail along the spectacular sea cliffs from Yesnaby to the impressive ancient settlement of Skara Brae – a remarkable feat of ancient engineering predates the pyramids of Egypt and even Stonehenge. We’ll also visit the Ring of Brodgar and the Standing Stones of Stenness, which together with Skara Brae and Maes How, form the Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Total for the two walks: 6 miles (10km) with 500ft (150m) of ascent

Distance: 3 miles (5 km) 

Ascent: 400ft (120m) 

We head for the Broch of Gurness this morning. This circular stone tower on the shores of Eynhallow Sound is an impressive Iron Age archaeological site and one of Scotland’s best-preserved examples of a prehistoric settlement. In the afternoon we’ll hop aboard a coach and journey to Stromness where you can check out the shops and cafes independently or join your leader for a short walk around this picturesque old herring port.

Hear the story of Orkney’s ornate Italian Chapel built from a pair of WWII shelters before a short invigorating coastal walk overlooking Scapa Flow and the islands of Flotta and Hoy.  Visit the World War II batteries at Hoxa Head as well as the Sands o’ Wright beach where we’ll be on the lookout for wildflowers on the shore and dolphins and whales in the water. If the Tapestry Gallery is open, there’s time to look inside and be amazed by the handwoven creations on display. We'll also visit the Fossil & Heritage centre.

4.5 miles (7km) with 310ft (90m) of ascent

A group transfer takes us back to Kirkwall for the flight back to the mainland.

Fully Escorted Tour

Welcome! On our Fully Escorted departures, your HF Holidays leader will meet you at the airport prior to your flight and will travel with you to your hotel ready to start your holiday. 

Please meet your HF Holidays Leader 2 hours 30 minutes before your flight departure Dundee Airport: 

Group Meeting Point - Central Check-in-Hall. Look out for the HF Holidays sign. 

Your HF Holidays Leader will then travel with you to the hotel, helping you settle in and ensuring a smooth and enjoyable start to your holiday.  

Our first walk on Orkney follows a clifftop coastal path from Marwick Bay to the Brough of Birsay, overlooking RSPB Marwick Head reserve. If tide times allow, we'll head over to explore the tidal island of Birsay and its remains of Pitish & Norse settlements. If the causeway is covered, wildlife watching on this coastline is superb and there's plenty to discover about the history of the island’s fishing and whaling industries, too. In the afternoon we’ll visit Maes Howe, one of the most treasured Neolithic sites in Europe. This mysterious tomb was built from huge sandstone blocks over 5,000 years ago and aligns perfectly with the winter solstice – testament to an advanced knowledge of astronomy by its architects.

 4 miles (7km) with 510ft (160m) of ascent

One of the most beautiful and rugged of the islands, Hoy is much more akin to the Scottish Highlands than the rolling countryside and crofts of the other islands. Today’s walk takes us to the famous sea stack known as the Old Man of Hoy before returning to Rackwick Bay. 

6 miles (9.5km) with 700ft (210m) of ascent

Today we visit the Orcadian capital, Kirkwall. Enjoy a guided tour of the town to hear tales of Viking settlers and shipwrecks or explore independently. Visit the Kirkwall Museum and St Magnus cathedral, stop by a whisky distillery, or spend time exploring the craft and coffee shops of the town. 

A historical town trail and a coastal walk are on offer today, both together totalling 6 miles (9.5km) with little ascent

A superb coastal trail along the spectacular sea cliffs from Yesnaby to the impressive ancient settlement of Skara Brae – a remarkable feat of ancient engineering predates the pyramids of Egypt and even Stonehenge. We’ll also visit the Ring of Brodgar and the Standing Stones of Stenness, which together with Skara Brae and Maes How, form the Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Total for the two walks: 6 miles (10km) with 500ft (150m) of ascent

Distance: 3 miles (5 km) 

Ascent: 400ft (120m) 

We head for the Broch of Gurness this morning. This circular stone tower on the shores of Eynhallow Sound is an impressive Iron Age archaeological site and one of Scotland’s best-preserved examples of a prehistoric settlement. In the afternoon we’ll hop aboard a coach and journey to Stromness where you can check out the shops and cafes independently or join your leader for a short walk around this picturesque old herring port.

Hear the story of Orkney’s ornate Italian Chapel built from a pair of WWII shelters before a short invigorating coastal walk overlooking Scapa Flow and the islands of Flotta and Hoy.  Visit the World War II batteries at Hoxa Head as well as the Sands o’ Wright beach where we’ll be on the lookout for wildflowers on the shore and dolphins and whales in the water. If the Tapestry Gallery is open, there’s time to look inside and be amazed by the handwoven creations on display. We'll also visit the Fossil & Heritage centre.

4.5 miles (7km) with 310ft (90m) of ascent

A group transfer takes us back to Kirkwall for the flight back to the mainland.

Daily Walk Options

Grade 2

Easier Walks

Good paths but walks are a bit longer. Some walks, particularly in mountain areas, may have sections over rough or steeper terrain.

Accommodation

The Merkister Hotel - Orkney

We’ve had a long love affair with Orkney’s family-run Merkister Hotel, not least for its enviable setting on the shores of Harray Loch. It’s just six miles from Skara Brae and has an award-winning restaurant overlooking the loch, serving outstanding Scottish seafood and Aberdeen Angus beef. Rooms are simple but homely and all come with TV and tea and coffee making facilities. You’ll find comfortable public areas with free Wi-Fi, as well as a cosy bar, and handy drying facilities, too. This hotel is dog-friendly so you may meet four legged friends in some of the communal areas.

Food & drink

Your stay is full-board. This includes daily breakfasts, packed lunch options, and evening meals. Vegetarian choices and dietary requirements can be catered for (please give advance notice when booking).

Packed lunches

Our packed lunches will be too much food for some and not enough for others; if you feel you might need more food during the walk, please bring a supply of snacks to supplement this – it won’t always be possible to buy these on the route. Your packed lunches will include: a bread sandwich or roll with a choice of filling; some fresh fruit; fruit cake/flapjack or similar, crisps and/or biscuits. For those of you tackling a level 4 or above holiday, we would highly recommend bringing some trail mix or something similar to ensure you've some fuel in reserve should you need it.

Dietary requirements

Our partner hotels can cater for most dietary requirements, but it is important you advise us of any allergies and dietary restrictions you have at the time of booking.

Getting here

Transfers from the airport to the Merkister Hotel are available for those who have booked flights with us. Otherwise, please make your own way from the airport to the hotel (a taxi will take approx. 30 mins).

By air

If you're travelling by air, you should book return flights to Kirkwall (Orkney). There are flights available from Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dundee, Inverness, Aberdeen, and London. See Logan Air. www.loganair.co.uk

 

By ferry

Return ferry travel is available from Scrabster to Stromness or from Aberdeen to Kirkwall, and back from Lerwick to Aberdeen. Ferries are operated by North Link Ferries; www.northlinkferries.co.uk The ferry terminal at Aberdeen is a 5 to 10 minute walk from Aberdeen railway station. There are bus and train routes available to Scrabster from Inverness with City Link www.citylink.co.uk. There are also train services from Inverness to Scrabster with connections from Thurso, ran by Citylink & Rapson’s Coaches.

More Information

Packing list - UK Guided Walking

The UK has a famously unpredictable climate so it's best to be prepared for weather that’s sunny one minute and raining the next.  To make it easier, here’s a list of items you should consider packing.   

Essentials  

  • Suitable footwear such as waterproof walking boots that provide ankle support and good grip  
  • Waterproof and windproof jacket 
  • Comfortable clothing (jeans & waterproof capes are not suitable)  
  • Mid-layer(s) to keep you warm. Fleeces make a good choice
  • Waterproof overtrousers  
  • Gloves and a warm hat  
  • Rucksack with waterproof liner 
  • Flask for hot drinks   
  • Water bottle (at least 1 litre capacity)  
  • Sunscreen  
  • UV sunglasses  

For holidays operating October through to the end of March, please also bring the following on your walks:

  • spare warm clothing
  • spare high energy food
  • head torch and spare batteries
  • please note for the October to March season your waterproof jacket needs to offer a high level of waterproofing and wind resistance, and a hood. Look for a waterproof jacket with sealed/taped seams and a minimum HH (hyrodstatic head - this is the rating given on waterproof jackets) of 10,000mm+

Recommended  

  • Several base layers (long-sleeve or short-sleeve)  
  • Cushioned walking socks to avoid blisters  
  • First aid kit, including plasters and insect repellent and tick remover tool
  • Sit mat   
  • Waterproof pouch for valuables  
  • Rubbish bag (remember to always leave no trace)  
  • Wallet/purse  
  • Camera
  • Walking poles

Joining Instructions (Without Flights) for the Orkney Islands

Travelling independently: We look forward to welcoming you at the Merkister Hotel. A taxi transfer from the airport will take approximately 25 minutes.

By air: If you're travelling by air, you should book return flights to Kirkwall (Orkney). There are flights available from Glasgow, Edinburgh, Inverness, Aberdeen and Manchester. See Logan Air

By ferry: Return ferry travel is available from Scrabster to Stromness or from Aberdeen to Kirkwall, and back from Lerwick to Aberdeen. Ferries are operated by North Link Ferries; www.northlinkferries.co.uk 

Carbon Footprint - 262kg CO2

We see it as our responsibility to minimise our emissions, not just for this year but every year to come. Our work with sustainability experts, ecollective, has enabled us to measure our carbon footprint and create a strategy to reduce the carbon intensity of our product by 5% each year. Our ambition is to be net zero by 2040 – earlier if we can.

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Dates & availability

Orkney Guided Walking with Sightseeing

Members save an additional £30 on this booking and get a range of other exclusive benefits. You can join during booking process. Read more about membership

2026

14 Aug - 21 Aug 2026

7 nights. Trip notes

18 Sep - 25 Sep 2026

7 nights. Trip notes

25 Sep - 2 Oct 2026

7 nights. Trip notes

2027

Early Booking Offer Save £50 Per Person

9 Apr - 16 Apr 2027

7 nights. Trip notes

Twin & double rooms

Non-members

£2,219 £2,169

pp

Members

£2,189 £2,139

pp
Single rooms

Early Booking Offer Save £50 Per Person

7 May - 14 May 2027

7 nights. Trip notes

Twin & double rooms

Non-members

£2,279 £2,229

pp

Members

£2,249 £2,199

pp
Single rooms

Early Booking Offer Save £50 Per Person

14 May - 21 May 2027

7 nights. Trip notes

Twin & double rooms

Non-members

£2,279 £2,229

pp

Members

£2,249 £2,199

pp
Single rooms

£2,559 £2,509

pp

£2,529 £2,479

pp

Early Booking Offer Save £50 Per Person

4 Jun - 11 Jun 2027

7 nights. Trip notes

Twin & double rooms

Non-members

£2,279 £2,229

pp

Members

£2,249 £2,199

pp
Single rooms

Early Booking Offer Save £50 Per Person

23 Jul - 30 Jul 2027

7 nights. Trip notes

Twin & double rooms

Non-members

£2,279 £2,229

pp

Members

£2,249 £2,199

pp
Single rooms

Early Booking Offer Save £50 Per Person

13 Aug - 20 Aug 2027

7 nights. Trip notes

Twin & double rooms

Non-members

£2,279 £2,229

pp

Members

£2,249 £2,199

pp
Single rooms

Early Booking Offer Save £50 Per Person

17 Sep - 24 Sep 2027

7 nights. Trip notes

Twin & double rooms

Non-members

£2,279 £2,229

pp

Members

£2,249 £2,199

pp
Single rooms

Early Booking Offer Save £50 Per Person

24 Sep - 1 Oct 2027

7 nights. Trip notes

Twin & double rooms

Non-members

£2,179 £2,129

pp

Members

£2,149 £2,099

pp
Single rooms
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Flexible choice of guided walks

Experienced volunteer HF Leaders guide every walk at our UK country houses, offering up to three daily options. Making it easy to find a holiday to suit your ability, and with the flexibility to switch grades each walking day.

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If the flights we have organised are cancelled or changed, we’ll do everything we can to find alternative transport, with minimal disruption to your holiday

If we cancel your holiday, we honour all refund requests 

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We know that peace of mind is priceless, so we’ll always go above and beyond to meet – and exceed – expectations

If the flights we have organised are cancelled or changed, we’ll do everything we can to find alternative transport, with minimal disruption to your holiday

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HF Holidays

A British heritage brand with 111 years of experience

Offering a choice of over 260 itineraries in nearly 40 countries

Run as a co-operative with 40,000-plus members

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