Best Vacation Homes in Orkney Islands
Cottage
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Bed & Breakfast
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- View
- Balcony/Terrace
Cottage
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Apartment
- Air Conditioner
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- Balcony/Terrace
Cottage
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Cottage
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- Pet Friendly
- TV
Orkney Islands Luxury Rentals
House
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- Wheelchair Accessible
House
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- Balcony/Terrace
Cottage
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Orkney Islands Pet Friendly Vacation Rentals
Cottage
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- Pet Friendly
- Balcony/Terrace
Cottage
- Parking
- Pet Friendly
- Balcony/Terrace
House
- Parking
- Pet Friendly
- View
Cottage
- Pet Friendly
- Security/Safety
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- Pet Friendly
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Orkney Islands Large Vacation Homes
Villa
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- Balcony/Terrace
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- Pet Friendly
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Why Choose Rent By Owner for your Orkney Islands Vacation Rental Homes?
What makes our Vacation Rentals special?
Verified Listings
Book with confidence knowing every property meets our quality and safety standards.
Unbeatable Value
Enjoy competitive pricing with no hidden fees, providing exceptional value for every stay.
Diverse Options
From cozy cabins to luxurious villas, find a rental that suits your style and needs.
Best Times to Visit Orkney Islands
When should you plan your Vacation Rentals stay?
Choosing the right time to visit this destination can enhance your experience, allowing you to enjoy its unique charm and natural beauty at its best, whether you're seeking vibrant local events or peaceful seaside moments in the region.
Peak Season Highlights
Late Spring to Early Summer (May to June)
During this time, you can experience longer daylight hours and generally favorable weather conditions, making it ideal for exploring the area's natural beauty.
Average Temperature Daytime: 12°C to 15°C - Nighttime: 7°C to 10°C
Mid to Late Summer (July to August)
This peak season offers warmer temperatures and lively local events, attracting travelers seeking to enjoy the region’s outdoor activities and scenic landscapes.
Average Temperature Daytime: 16°C to 19°C - Nighttime: 10°C to 13°C
Off-Season Highlights
Autumn (September to October)
As the crowds thin out, you’ll find a quieter atmosphere with colorful surroundings and fewer tourists, perfect for relaxing stays in the area.
Average Temperature Daytime: 13°C to 16°C - Nighttime: 8°C to 11°C
Winter (November to February)
The cooler months bring a peaceful ambiance and potential for unique winter scenery, offering a different perspective of the region’s natural charm.
Average Temperature Daytime: 6°C to 9°C - Nighttime: 3°C to 5°C
Weekly Weather Forecast for Orkney Islands
How to Book Your Orkney Islands Vacation Rental Home
What's our booking process?
Our platform allows you to browse a curated selection of vacation rentals. Once you find the ideal property, you’ll be redirected to a trusted booking partner to complete your reservation securely.
Booking Steps
01
Search Properties
Use our filters to find the right property that fits your needs.
02
Select a Rental
Click on your preferred listing to view details, amenities, and pricing.
03
Book Online
Follow the link to finalize your reservation directly on the partner’s website.
Explore and book the perfect rental in Orkney Islands
Common Vacation Rentals Amenities
What amenities can you expect?
Our Vacation Rentals are designed to offer all the comforts of home, often with added perks to make your stay unforgettable. Here’s some common amenities to look forward to:
Indoor Features
- Fully-equipped kitchens with modern appliances
- Comfortable living areas with flat-screen TVs
- Free Wi-Fi for staying connected
- Air conditioning and heating for year-round comfort
- In-unit washers and dryers for convenience
- Luxurious bedrooms with premium bedding
- Spa-like bathrooms with soaking tubs or walk-in showers
Outdoor Amenities
- Enjoy private outdoor seating areas where you can relax and take in the scenic beauty of the region.
- Benefit from spacious gardens or yards, perfect for outdoor activities or simply soaking up the peaceful atmosphere.
- Take advantage of outdoor fire pits or BBQ facilities to make the most of alfresco dining.
- Explore nearby walking trails or cycling routes that begin right outside your rental property.
- Avail of secure bike storage to keep your cycling gear safe during your stay.
- Experience stunning views from patios or verandas designed to showcase the area's natural landscapes.
- Access outdoor parking spaces or driveways for convenient arrivals and departures in this scenic destination.
Top Attractions Around Orkney Islands
What attractions are nearby?
While here, you can explore a variety of outdoor activities and historical sites that highlight the rich heritage and natural beauty unique to this destination in the Orkney Islands.
Family Activities
- Scapa Flow Maritime Museum: Discover the region's rich maritime history by exploring this engaging museum, perfect for family members interested in naval heritage.
- Prehistoric Sites Tour: Visit fascinating archaeological sites that showcase the ancient history of the area, offering educational outings suitable for children and adults alike.
- Brilliant Birdwatching Opportunities: Engage in birdwatching at local reserves where your family can observe diverse avian species native to the region’s coastal habitats.
- Wildlife Watching Excursions: Experience guided wildlife excursions focused on spotting native species such as seals and otters in their natural environment, providing memorable outdoor adventures for the whole family.
Adult Activities
- Explore the Neolithic Heart of Orkney: Discover ancient sites like Skara Brae and Maeshowe, where you can immerse yourself in the region’s rich prehistoric history.
- Take a Wildlife Watching Tour: Engage with the local marine and birdlife on guided excursions around the coastline, offering unforgettable encounters with nature.
- Visit Local Heritage Sites: Tour historic castles and museums that showcase the area’s Viking past and maritime heritage for an insightful experience.
- Enjoy Coastal Walks and Cycling: Traverse scenic trails along the rugged shoreline to witness stunning sea views and the untouched landscape that characterizes here.
Other Places to Stay in Orkney Islands
Orkney Islands Travel Tips
How Can You Make the Most of Your Stay?
- Plan your itinerary early: To maximize your time exploring here, consider booking your preferred vacation rentals in advance and creating a flexible schedule that allows you to experience the region's highlights at a relaxed pace.
- Embrace local culture: Take time to engage with the area's history and traditions, which will enrich your stay and provide a deeper connection to this destination's unique heritage.
- Use local transportation options: Navigating around the region is made easier with available local transport, so plan your routes to discover hidden gems beyond the main attractions.
- Respect natural and cultural sites: Preserve the beauty and authenticity of here by following guidelines and practicing responsible tourism during your stay.
Transportation Options
- Ferry Services: Reliable ferries connect the main islands to mainland Scotland and neighboring islands, offering scenic journeys that make exploring this region a memorable experience.
- Bus Transportation: The local bus network provides convenient and affordable travel options within the region, ideal for reaching major towns and sightseeing spots.
- Car Rentals: Renting a car is a popular choice here, giving you the flexibility to explore remote areas and hidden gems at your own pace.
- Cycling Routes: Well-maintained cycling paths provide an eco-friendly way to discover the area's historic sites and natural beauty firsthand.
Local Customs Options
- The Kirking of the Parliament: In this destination, it is customary to attend a kirking service, a traditional Scottish religious blessing held for new parliamentary members, reflecting local respect for history and tradition.
- Local Seafood Dining Etiquette: When enjoying meals here, you should partake in the region’s seafood dishes with appreciation, often accompanied by a toast with locally brewed whisky or ale, highlighting the area's culinary customs.
- Celebrating Midsummer: Participating in the midsummer festivities, including bonfires and community gatherings, is a cherished custom that marks the light-hearted spirit of this destination's local culture.
- Traditional Handfasting Ceremonies: Engaging in or witnessing handfasting ceremonies, an age-old Celtic practice symbolizing union, offers insight into the region’s deep-rooted historical customs and beliefs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orkney Islands?
1. What are the top vacation rentals in Orkney Islands?
There are a lot of options in Orkney Islands. If you plan on staying in the Orkney Islands area, consider making a reservation for a few nights at one of these properties as these have been rated the Top Vacation Rentals in Orkney Islands:
- Old School B&B Super King Exclusive 5 Room private suite
- Loanside Lodge, Self-Catering, Holm, Orkney.
- 1 Bedroom Waterside Cottage in St Margarets Hope OrkneynSleeps 2
- Unique Seaside Cottage in a picturesque village .
- Graemeshall House
- Grainbank Mews
- Congesquoy Barn
- Sherwood Cottage: Traditional 2 bedroom stone cottage in Burray village, Orkney.
- 2 bedroom accommodation in Stromness
- THE STEADING, pet friendly, country holiday cottage in Longhope
2. Which vacation homes in Orkney Islands are best for families?
If you are looking for a family-friendly vacation home in Orkney Islands, check out one of the following properties as all are highly-rated places to stay with excellent review for families or groups staying in Orkney Islands:
3. How many Rentbyowner vacation rentals are available in Orkney Islands?
Currently, the total number of properties listed by Rent By Owner in 2025 is over 202 in the Orkney Islands area, and still counting. By aggregating listings from multiple websites, Rent By Owner offers an immense amount of choice of the best RBO properties in Orkney Islands.
4. What is the cancellation policy for vacation rentals in the Orkney Islands?
The cancellation policy varies by property. You should review the specific listing details or contact the owner directly to understand the terms and any applicable fees or deadlines.
5. How do I confirm my booking for a vacation rental in the Orkney Islands?
Booking confirmation is typically provided once your reservation is completed and payment is processed. Check the listing details for instructions or reach out to the property owner if you need further assistance.
6. Are there any house rules or restrictions I should be aware of when staying here?
Each vacation rental has its own set of house rules, which are usually outlined in the listing. It's advisable to read these carefully before booking or contact the owner with any questions.
7. What amenities are generally available in vacation rentals in this destination?
Most vacation rentals offer amenities such as Wi-Fi, fully equipped kitchens, and laundry facilities. For specific features, consult the individual listing or contact the owner directly.
8. Is there parking available at vacation rentals in the region?
Many properties provide parking options, but availability can vary. Be sure to check the listing details or ask the owner to confirm parking arrangements for your stay.
