Scapa Tours

Explore Scotland’s Neolithic Monuments and Coastal Views with Scapa Tours

The Scapa Tours offer a private, personalized experience in Scotland, focusing on the stunning scenery, ancient monuments, and captivating sea views. Priced at $236.95 per person, this approximately 4.5-hour tour is perfect for those seeking an intimate, flexible exploration of Orkney’s rich history and natural beauty. The tour includes pickup and drop-off, ensuring a convenient start and end to your day, with the possibility of group discounts and a mobile ticket option for easy access.

This tour stands out for its customizable itinerary. If there are specific sites or attractions you’d like to see, the guide is happy to adjust the stops accordingly. This flexibility, combined with admission fees paid for certain sites like Skara Brae, makes it a compelling choice for history buffs and nature lovers alike. While the tour is mainly suited for those with moderate physical fitness and comfortable walking ability, it also offers emergency weather gear and midge repellent if needed.

Key Points

• Private, customizable tour tailored to your interests and needs
• Visits to neolithic sites such as Standing Stones of Stenness and Ring of Brodgar
• Includes Skara Brae, one of the best-preserved prehistoric settlements in Western Europe
• Scenic stops at Yesnaby Cliffs and Scorradale Road for spectacular views
• Italian Chapel built by WW2 Italian Prisoners of War, included in the tour
• Optional visit to Scapa Distillery for local spirits tasting

The Private Tour Experience in Scotland’s Orkney Islands

The Scapa Tours provide a private and flexible journey through some of Orkney’s most iconic sites. With a dedicated guide, visitors enjoy the freedom to explore at their own pace, with admission fees covered for key sites like Skara Brae. This setup ensures a more relaxed, intimate experience compared to group bus tours, making it ideal for those who prefer a personalized approach.

The tour begins at the VisitScotland Kirkwall iCentre, where the guide introduces the day’s plan. As a private activity, only your group participates, enabling a more tailored experience. The pickup and drop-off options can be adjusted to your preferences, and the duration of approximately 4 hours 30 minutes allows ample time for exploration without feeling rushed.

Visiting the Standing Stones of Stenness and Barnhouse Village

Your journey starts with a visit to the Standing Stones of Stenness, erected around 5400 years ago. This early Neolithic stone circle offers a scenic walk and photo opportunities, with free admission. Nearby, you’ll find the small Barnhouse Neolithic village, which was occupied from 3115 BC to 2875 BC. Though compact, this site provides insight into ancient daily life, and the visit lasts about 20 minutes.

Both sites are excellent for history enthusiasts interested in ancient monuments that predate many world-famous sites. The free admission makes this stop especially appealing for visitors wanting a quick yet meaningful connection to Scotland’s prehistoric past.

The Magnificent Ring of Brodgar and UNESCO Heritage Status

Next, the tour moves to the Ring of Brodgar, the largest stone circle in the area and part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built between 2500 BC and 2000 BC, it is believed to be 5000 years older than Stonehenge and the Giza Pyramids, a fact that adds to its awe-inspiring presence. The 30-minute visit allows plenty of time for photos and soaking in this remarkable site, which remains admission-free.

This site’s grandeur and historical significance make it a highlight, especially for those interested in Neolithic architecture and ancient ceremonial sites. Its preservation and UNESCO recognition underscore its importance in global heritage.

Skara Brae and Skaill House: A Deep Dive into Prehistoric Life

The Skara Brae settlement is often considered the tour’s centerpiece. As the best-preserved prehistoric Neolithic settlement in Western Europe, it features nine houses with visible fireplaces, furniture, and living spaces. Visitors get admission included for this site, spending about one hour exploring the dwellings and imagining what daily life was like thousands of years ago.

Adjacent to Skara Brae, visitors can also visit Skaill House, a 17th-century mansion that offers additional historical context. The inclusion of admission to Skaill House enhances the experience, providing a richer understanding of the region’s history and heritage.

The Spectacular Yesnaby Cliffs and Sea Edge Views

A drive to Yesnaby Cliffs offers breathtaking coastal scenery and opportunities to observe local sea and bird life. This stop lasts around an hour, giving just enough time to enjoy the imposing sea stacks and the rugged landscape. If feeling adventurous, a walk to Yesnaby Castle, a delicate sea stack, is possible, but the uneven ground and potential slipperiness advise caution.

This scenic pause is perfect for photography and appreciating Orkney’s natural landscapes. The site’s unique edge-of-the-world feeling makes it a memorable highlight of the tour.

Scorradale Road and Panoramic Views of Hoy and Scapa Flow

The Scorradale Road provides a quick 10-minute stop for scenic photo opportunities. From here, you can view the Hoy hills and the broad expanse of Scapa Flow, a vital historic harbor. This viewpoint captures the vastness and beauty of the Orkney landscape, ideal for a few memorable photos.

Though brief, this stop enhances the overall experience by emphasizing the region’s dramatic natural beauty and strategic importance through the historic Scapa Flow.

The Italian Chapel and Its Wartime Legacy

A 25-minute drive takes you to the Italian Chapel, a remarkable WW2 site built entirely from scrap materials by Italian Prisoners of War. This chapel symbolizes resilience and craftsmanship, standing as a poignant reminder of the wartime history in Orkney. The admission is included in the tour, and visitors can spend about 20 minutes exploring the chapel and its story.

This site offers a touching insight into WW2 history and the collaborative spirit that led to the chapel’s creation, making it a meaningful stop for history enthusiasts.

Optional Visit to Scapa Distillery for Local Spirits

An optional extension to the tour is a visit to Scapa Distillery, where guests can explore the shop and sample local spirits, including Scotch whisky. This extra 30-minute activity provides a taste of Scandinavian craftsmanship and offers a chance to purchase souvenirs. It’s a relaxing way to end the tour, especially for those interested in local food and drink.

Access to the distillery is free, allowing guests to enjoy the experience without additional cost, making it a flexible and flavorful addition.

Practical Details: Logistics, Pricing, and Accessibility

This private tour starts at the VisitScotland Kirkwall iCentre and can be tailored to suit your needs, including pickup and drop-off points. The cost is $236.95 per person, with admission fees covered for sites like Skara Brae, and the tour operates seven days a week from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

The tour is suitable for individuals with moderate physical fitness, and walks are generally manageable, though the Yesnaby Castle walk requires caution due to uneven terrain. The tour includes bottled water, emergency weather gear, and midge repellent if necessary. Travel is in private transportation, ensuring comfort and flexibility.

Summing Up: A Personalised Journey Through Orkney’s Past and Present

Scapa Tours provide a personalized exploration of Orkney, combining prehistoric sites, spectacular coastal scenery, and WW2 history. The flexibility of the tour, with the ability to customize stops and the included admission fees, makes it a valuable option for those interested in history and nature without the large crowds of group tours.

While it requires a moderate physical effort for walking and some uneven terrain, the guided commentary and tailor-made itinerary ensure a rich, engaging experience. The high ratings and positive reviews emphasize knowledgeable guidance and good value, especially for private, custom trips.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
The tour is designed for those with moderate physical fitness. If walking is a concern, it’s best to inform the guide so the itinerary can be adjusted.

Can I choose specific sites to visit?
Yes, the tour is tailored to your wants, needs, and wishes. If there are sites you want to include, the guide is happy to accommodate.

What is the price per person?
The cost is $236.95 per person, which covers admission fees for key sites like Skara Brae and Skaill House.

How long is the tour?
The approximate duration is 4 hours 30 minutes, including travel and exploration time.

Is food included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included. If desired, the guide can recommend local cafes or restaurants, typically costing no more than £38.

What should I bring?
It’s advisable to bring weather-appropriate clothing, midge repellent if needed, and comfortable walking shoes.

Is transportation included?
Yes, private transportation is part of the tour, providing a comfortable and flexible way to explore.

Can the tour be canceled?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What is the start point?
The tour begins at the VisitScotland Kirkwall iCentre on W Castle Street, Kirkwall.

Are children allowed?
The tour details do not specify age restrictions, but the moderate physical fitness requirement suggests it’s suitable for most age groups with walking ability.